Madhuri Lake, officially known as Sangestar Tso, is a picturesque lake in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. It lies between Tawang and the Bum La Pass at about 3,708 metres above sea level. The lake owes its formation to an earthquake, which caused boulders and trees to fall. Madhuri Lake is one of the state’s most popular attractions, making for a beautiful and unique picnic spot. Moreover, you can also explore the surrounding wilderness. A permit is required to be allowed entry to this region.
All About The Gorgeous Madhuri Lake
Image Credit: Vikramjit Kakati for Wikimedia Commons
Sangestar Tsao is known as Madhuri Lake, a beautiful lake in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district. It was formerly called Shonga-tser Lake. It is located on the way from Tawang to the Bum La Pass not too far from the Indo-Chinese border. The lake is approximately 3,708 metres above sea level and was created due to an earthquake. An earthquake caused boulders, trees and rocks to fall, leading to Madhuri Lake’s formation. Interestingly, this lake was featured in one of the songs from the movie Koyla featuring Madhuri Dixit, and since then, it has been known as Madhuri Lake. The lake, with its crystal clear water, is surrounded by imposing Himalayan mountains and tall trees, making for breathtaking scenery.
Owing to its beauty, it is a popular spot for picnics, and the surrounding wilderness and rugged terrain often attract adventure seekers who spend hours exploring the area. Several exciting trekking trails lead up to the lake, and there are camping spots nearby. Furthermore, the region is perfect for bird watching. This lake is also significant to Hindus and Tibetan Buddhists and, therefore, witnesses an influx of visitors to offer prayers. There are a few monasteries in the vicinity. Given the region’s proximity to Bum La Pass, which happens to be a border trading point between China and India, visitors are required to obtain a special permit, either from Tawang’s Indian Army cantonment or from Tawang District’s Office of the Deputy Commissioner.
Must Read: Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh
Things To See Close To Madhuri Lake
The following are 5 attractions for you to visit near Madhuri Lake:
1. Bum La Pass
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The Bum La Pass is a border pass that connects Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district to Tsona County in Tibet, which is under China. This pass serves as a trading point between India and China and is known for its magnificent views of snow-clad mountains. The pass has been covered in snow for nearly the entire year and is slightly tricky to get to owing to the undulating terrain. It would be best to have a special permit to visit Bum La Pass, but it is worth it.
Location: Tsona County, Tibet, China & Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Distance from Madhuri Lake: 25.2 km
2. Sela Pass
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Another breathtaking pass near Madhuri Lake, Sela Pass, lies about three and a half hours away between the state’s Tawang and West Kameng districts. The pass is situated at an altitude of about 4,170 metres above sea level and is also one of the highest motorable mountain passes in India, making it perfect for adventurous souls. Sela Pass overlooks magnificent snow-covered mountains, valleys, and frozen lakes. Moreover, it is also sacred for Tibetan Buddhists.
Location: Arunachal Pradesh, India
Distance from Madhuri Lake: 104.6 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Tawang
3. Tawang Monastery
Image Credit: Trideep Dutta Photography for Wikimedia Commons
One of the main attractions in Tawang, the Tawang Monastery is a Buddhist monastery and the largest one in the country. Known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse in Tibet, it lies near the Bhutanese and Chinese borders. It was founded in the late 17th century and is three storeys high. The monastery’s premises feature numerous residential buildings and a library which houses essential scriptures. It provides stellar views of majestic mountains and lush green valleys.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India 790104
Distance from Madhuri Lake: 36.2 km
4. Nuranang Falls
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The Nuranang Falls are a must-visit attraction in Tawang, not more than two hours away from Madhuri Lake. This panoramic waterfall cascades from a height of about 100 metres, originating from near Sela Pass, and eventually meets the Tawang River. Due to its natural beauty, especially the dense vegetation, the Nuranang Falls is a great place to take pictures.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Distance from Madhuri Lake: 62.4 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh
5. Panga Teng Tso Lake
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Another one of Tawang’s gorgeous lakes, the Panga Teng Tso Lake, is renowned for its jaw-dropping landscape. Its pristine waters are surrounded by snow-covered mountains, clouds that hover a little low, and vegetation. Owing to its peaceful ambience, it is a great place to spend some quiet time. While the winter brings about a lot of snow, the summer season brings about colourful flowers.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Distance from Madhuri Lake: 20 km
Best Time To Visit Tawang In Arunachal Pradesh
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When visiting Tawang, the peak tourist season is during the summer, from April to June, since the temperatures usually don’t rise above 25 degrees Celsius. This time of year is quite pleasant, with almost no rainfall, and the natural beauty is stunning. Many festivals like Buddha Mahotsava are also celebrated during this period, so visiting in the summertime would give you a chance to experience local customs and traditions.
March and the period from September to October are also excellent times to visit and are relatively quiet since they are usually considered shoulder seasons for tourism. It is slightly more relaxed during this time, but the landscape is just as breathtaking and suitable for exploring. The least popular time to visit Tawang is from July to August because of the heavy monsoon season or from November to February because of the extreme cold and snowfall. During these periods, the weather conditions make it very difficult to be outdoors. Heavy snowfall during the winter can lead to roads closing, which means you cannot reach Tawang.
Further Read: Go Karting In India
If you are a nature lover and want to spend some time in tranquillity away from your busy city life, visiting Madhuri Lake would be the perfect option. It is stunning, and the landscape around it is one that you will remember for ages. Madhuri Lake and Tawang are also ideal for a holiday with friends or family since there is plenty to do here. Your trip to Arunachal Pradesh will be unforgettable, so go online now and book your tickets!
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Cover Image Credit: Sushanthunt for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Madhuri Lake
Can visitors experience uneasiness owing to the altitude in Tawang?
Since Tawang is situated at an altitude of over 3,000 metres above the sea, some people might experience a little bit of sickness when travelling here. Some people might experience uneasiness in the stomach or even headaches. It is advisable to remain hydrated and travel on neither an empty nor a heavy stomach. Moreover, if you are prone to altitude sickness, you can also take preventive medicine.
Which countries does Tawang share its borders with?
The Tawang district is in the west Kameng district, which adjoins the south and east. Tawang shares its borders with Bhutan in the southwest and Tibet in the north.
What kind of clothes should one pack for Tawang?
What you pack would depend on when you plan on visiting Tawang. If you’re going during spring or summer, pack lightweight clothes with a jacket or sweater. Make sure to keep comfortable walking shoes. On the other hand, for a trip during the winter, pack warm clothes, scarves, hats and even windbreaker jackets.
How comfortable is Tawang for women travelling alone?
Tawang is generally comfortable when it comes to travelling, even for solo female travellers, but it is best that you remain vigilant and careful.
Are foreign tourists allowed entry to Tawang?
Yes, foreigners can travel to Tawang, but they would need to get a Protected Area Permit for the same.
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