The Jaswant Garh War Memorial, situated near the Sela Pass in the Tawang district, holds the Honour and Sacrifice made by India Soldiers in the 1962 Indo-China War. Named after Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a brave soldier of the 4th Garhwal Rifles, the memorial has immortalized Rawat’s efforts in combating the Chinese forces at the pass. The monument also has an underground space, a bunker, defended by Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat and two other men against many enemies. His performative decisions and perseverance contributed to halting the Chinese troops’ progress and gave his fellows a reason to keep fighting. This must-visit place is located at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, and a unique fact is that the camouflage pattern is depicted on a temple-like structure of the memorial.
Nearby Attractions To Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Various attractions are near the war memorial, which you can explore on your trip. Here are some of them in detail.
1. Sela Pass
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Sela Pass is a mountain pass 13,700 feet above sea level and situated in the eastern Himalayas in India. It connects Tawang, a Buddhist town, and the rest of India. For bird-watching and wildlife enthusiasts, it can be said that the area presents a paradise. This is a historical site that is significant in India’s military history. The Buddhists regard it as an important religious shrine. Sela Pass is situated within the Western Arunachal on the highway that links Bomdila and Tawang, where it is associated with Bumla, the border between India and China, and the famous Buddhist hill station of Tawang. The area surrounding it is marked by 101 lakes considered holy in Tibetan Buddhism, with Sela Lake being the largest.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh 790101
Distance from Jaswant Garh War Memorial: 20 km
Must Read: Waterfalls In Arunachal Pradesh
2. Madhuri Lake
Image Credit: Sushanthunt for Wikimedia Commons
Madhuri Lake is a beauty for nature lovers or for those who want to find a little piece and quiet place. This beautiful and calm water was created from a flood by an earthquake back in 1950 and is somewhat distinct from the other popular lakes found in Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang’s Madhuri Lake is in the middle of hills with valleys and snow-clad peaks that provide photogenic, like taking beautiful shots of the surroundings. Earlier, it was known as Sangestar Lake, but later, when the Indian film ‘Koyla’ with the latter, the lake was renamed Madhuri Lake. Madhuri Lake is being managed or maintained by the Indian Army.
Location: Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh
Distance from Jaswant Garh War Memorial: 84 km
3. Ziro Valley
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Ziro Valley is located in Arunachal Pradesh and is 1,500 meters above sea level. It is elaborate, with a thick population of pine and bamboo trees. About 300 species of birds and 170 species of butterflies are found dispersed around the valley and hills of this city. This valley has drawn tourists because of paddy terrains, pine trees, bamboo shoots, Apatani people, and fish breeding centres. The valley is also an outdoor music hub and annually hosts the renowned Ziro Music Festival, where more than 40 bands perform.
Location: NH13, Bamin, Arunachal Pradesh 791120
Distance from Jaswant Garh War Memorial: 485 km
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4. Urgelling Gompa
Image Credit: Giridhar Appaji Nag Y for Wikimedia Commons
Built in the 14th century, Urgelling Gompa is a special place where the 6th Dalai Lama was born. It’s nestled about 3 kilometres from the hustle and bustle of Tawang town. It’s a secret garden of peace if you want to escape life’s hassles; Urgelling Gompa is the place to visit. This cosy monastery is a big deal for Buddhist followers and attracts many tourists. The calm atmosphere here is like a treat for your soul. It’s the perfect place to unwind and have a fantastic day amidst nature’s tranquillity.
Location: Urgelling, Arunachal Pradesh 790104
Distance from Jaswant Garh War Memorial: 53 km
Things To Do At Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Some things you can do at Jaswant Garh War Memorial are given below:
Honouring A War Hero
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Jaswant Singh Rawat is remembered today as one of India’s bravest and honourable fighters. He was selected to fight in the Battle of Nuranang, where he displayed extreme courage in fighting the opponents. Jaswant single-handedly defended his post for 72 hours to prevent the advancing Chinese army from getting through. To this day, the monument that is situated at the site proves recognition of his bravery. There is a sculpted statue and painting of Jaswant at the memorial in bronze colour. For instance, when you enter the monument, you will realize that most of his belongings, including his army uniform and weapons, are exhibited there. One can also get more information on the history of the Sino-Indian War at this monument. It also reproduces army shelters and dining rooms of the said period. There is also an area for the fallen Chinese soldiers because they also lost men here.
Suggested Read: Bird Sanctuary In Arunachal Pradesh
Admire The Scenic Views
Image Credit: Beauty Of Arunachal for Facebook
Arunachal Pradesh mainly translates as ‘The land of the rising sun’ or ‘The land of the dawn-lit mountains,’ so the first thing you will behold when you get there is the mountain ranges and valleys. Its borders are part of the majestic Himalayan mountains, so one can be sure that the place is rather beautiful. The location chosen for extending the Jaswant Garh War Memorial lies just below the Sela Pass’s actual range, which is a lovely place to look at. You will develop a sort of affection for views of the hills and mountains surrounding the place. It also gives one some fresh air and relief from crowded city centres or stations.
Best Time To Visit And How To Reach Jaswant Garh War Memorial
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Due to the geographical location, which is a few hundred kilometres from the Himalayas, the climate in Arunachal Pradesh is almost always excellent. You will enjoy it most, especially during the cold winter season as well as the flowering season of spring. The period of the highest tourist traffic would then fall in October (winter season) and April (spring season). But you have to know that because it lies at a higher altitude, it means that no matter the time of the year, expect it to be colder. At JaswantGarh War Memorial, there is a shop where one can purchase other warm wear life jackets, caps, gloves and scarves for humans to fight the cold weather.
However, reaching out to Tawang is not that easy. You can rent a car or motorbike from Tezpur, which is located in the state of Assam. From there, you must drive through the border of Bhalukpong, which requires you to produce a special document called the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for tourist vehicles. You can obtain the permit from the government offices of other large Indian cities such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Tezpur.
Further Read: Valleys In Arunachal Pradesh
Take an adventurous tour of Tawang to witness its alluring geographical front and vibrant culture. Ensure you visit the Jaswant Garh War Memorial, a shrine to the brave Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who fought bravely for India. It’s time to plan your trip to Tawang and get ready to explore this historical and gorgeous corner of the world!
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Cover Image Credit: Sirish Tummala for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About JaswantGarh War Memorial
What should one expect to see or do in Jaswant Garh War Memorial?
Guests should get the requisite travel permissions for Arunachal Pradesh, mainly if they are in a foreign country. They should also be adequately dressed for the high-altitude climate and take water and some food with them as facilities might be scarce in the area.
What is the cost of visiting Jaswant Garh War Memorial, that is, is there an entrance fee?
Jaswant Garh War Memorial does not charge any entrance fees to let people in. However, visitors can have to pay small amounts for photography or maybe a guided tour if the place offers those services.
Is there any restriction that one has to abide by when visiting Jaswant Garh War Memorial?
Tourism is to be conducted in an orderly manner. Every person is prohibited from engaging in any act considered a funeral desecration. Sometimes it is permissible to take photos in some of the zones. Still, it may be better to consult with the authorities or the guides about the possibility of doing it and any limitations.
What is the traffic/condition of the road to Jaswant Garh War Memorial?
The approach route to Jaswant Garh War Memorial from Tawang town is comparatively beautiful but sometimes the road is lonely with sharp turns. Getting a local driver or using your car is advised because roads may be impassable during poor weather conditions.
What are some unknown facts about Jaswant Garh War Memorial?
In fact from the instance where rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat was killed, people of nearby villages claimed that his spirit is still protecting the area. This story has also played an essential role in the spiritual responses of visitors towards the memorial.
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