Northeast India was once the country's best-kept secret, waiting to be discovered in its far-flung corner. But it's finally getting its due as a travel destination. Travellers are discovering the region's charm.

Sure, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, tops the list as the best place to visit in Northeast India. But two gems are steadily stealing the spotlight: Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the serene mountain town of Tawang.

The former is famous for its one-horned rhinos and the latter for stunning monasteries, lakes, and high mountain passes. Together, they create the perfect mix of adventure and spirituality.

If you’re dreaming of a trip that blends breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, Kaziranga to Tawang is a must. 

Wondering how to make the most of both these incredible places without rushing through either? This Tawang & Kaziranga travel guide explores just that. Dive in, then!

Day 1-2: Arrive in Guwahati and Journey to Kaziranga

Kick off your journey from Kaziranga to Tawang with an arrival in Guwahati, the gateway to northeast India.

If you land in the morning, you can grab breakfast at one of the city’s cafés before starting the journey.

The route from Guwahati to Kaziranga is about five hours by road. On the way, you’ll notice green tea gardens, small towns, and rivers flowing in the middle of the countryside.

Make sure to take a short halt at Assam’s iconic tea gardens. Rows of tea plants stretching to the horizon make for amazing views, especially around sunset.

Once you reach Kaziranga, check into your hotel or lodge. Most places offer cosy rooms, wooden houses, and even mud huts with comfortable beds. You can spend the evening enjoying a traditional dance performance by local communities. It’s a wonderful way to learn about the life and culture of this region.

Day 3: Safari Adventures in Kaziranga National Park

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! The best time for an elephant safari is at dawn when animals are most active. So, wake up early and head to the park entrance for an elephant safari.

Riding through misty grasslands, you'll have amazing views of rhinos grazing quietly. Later in the day, switch gears for a jeep safari to cover deeper areas of Kaziranga National Park. The organised safari takes you across varied terrain, increasing your chances of spotting tigers, wild buffalo, and swamp deer.

Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture the wonderful scenes of life in the middle of nature.

After lunch, take a relaxed walk through the orchid park, one of the largest in the country. You’ll see hundreds of orchid species in full bloom, along with bamboo groves and traditional huts. Spend your evening enjoying the sunset over the wetlands and savouring the Assamese cuisine at your hotel.

Day 4: Journey to Tawang via Bhalukpong and Bomdila

The next leg of your Kaziranga to Tawang journey is to Arunachal Pradesh. You’ll leave Kaziranga after breakfast and head toward Tawang. The route passes through Bhalukpong, the official entrance to the state for Indian nationals. Keep your permits ready.

From Bhalukpong, the road climbs into the Himalayas, with forests, valleys, and rivers along the way. A short halt at Bomdila is recommended. The town is known for its gompa, temple, and monks. The buildings here have a charm that reflects both religion and history.

Depending on your pace, you can plan an overnight stay in Bomdila or continue further. Either way, the trip keeps offering wonderful views that make the ride worthwhile.

Day 5: Sela Pass, Jaswantgarh War Memorial, and Arrival in Tawang

The route to Tawang takes you across the famous Sela Pass, located at 13,700 feet above sea level. The pass is surrounded by snow and offers amazing views of the Himalayas. Right next to it is the serene Sela Lake, a spot where travellers often stop to spend a few quiet moments.

Just beyond lies Jaswantgarh War Memorial, established to honour Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a hero of the 1962 war with China. This temple-like memorial site honours a soldier who fought bravely against the Chinese army in the past. It’s both a temple of worship and a place of reflection on India’s military history.

Afterwards, continue your ride through winding mountain roads toward Tawang, your final destination for the day. Check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest well in your bed—you’re in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh now.

Day 6: Explore Tawang Monastery and Local Sightseeing

Morning brings you to the main attraction, the Tawang Monastery.

Established in the 17th century, this Buddhist monastery is the largest in India. It’s a place of meditation, worship, and learning. Watching the monks chant inside the gompa gives you a sense of timeless peace.

After soaking in the peace of the monastery, set off for local sightseeing. Stop by Urgelling Gompa, the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, and explore traditional villages to glimpse houses adorned with prayer flags.

Don’t forget to check out the craft centres where children learn to paint and carve.

Day 7: Bum La Pass and Trekking Adventures

If you love high-altitude beauty, a day trip to Bum La Pass is a must.

This pass lies on the route to Tibet and is filled with snow for much of the year. At over 15,000 feet above sea level, the pass offers amazing views of snow-covered peaks and valleys. Only Indian nationals are allowed to go here, and the army organises the ride.

If you’re up for it, try some trekking around Tawang for a closer connection with the natural beauty of Arunachal Pradesh. The crisp mountain air, the sound of distant chants from monasteries, and the fluttering of prayer flags create a wonderful sense of peace. By the evening, return to town and relax in your hotel.

Day 8: Head Back to Assam

It’s time to wrap up your Kaziranga to Tawang adventure. You’ll leave Tawang in the morning, cross the Sela Pass again, and begin your journey back to Assam.

Depending on your itinerary, you can either stop for an overnight stay in Bomdila or continue directly to Guwahati. Along the route, you’ll pass through valleys, rivers, and more tea gardens, making the return feel just as scenic as the beginning.

Consider an overnight stay in Guwahati if your flight is the next day. This gives you a chance to buy souvenirs and enjoy one last Assamese meal.

Tips to Ensure You Have a Smooth Journey

When you’re planning a trip that combines Kaziranga and Tawang, preparation is half the adventure. The terrain changes, the altitude rises, and the weather has a mind of its own. Here are four practical tips that will help you travel without hiccups.

1. Organise Your Permits Ahead

You'll require two main permits. Getting them ahead is wise. The first is the Inner Line Permit (ILP), which all Indian nationals from outside the state need to enter Arunachal Pradesh.

The ILP is a document issued by the state government to regulate movement and protect indigenous communities. You can apply for this permit online for ₹100. You just need a recent photo and a valid ID, such as an Aadhaar Card or a Voter ID.  

The second is the Bum La Pass permit. This is a separate permit that must be obtained locally in Tawang. You will need a copy of your ILP to apply for this permit at the Deputy Commissioner's office. The permit is required because the pass is located on a sensitive border with China.

2. Prepare your Luggage for Unpredictable Weather

From the plains of Assam to the snowy passes of Tawang, the weather shifts quickly.

One morning can feel warm and sunny, while the evening brings chilly winds. Pack layers-light clothes for the tea gardens in Assam and heavy jackets for Sela Pass or Bum La Pass. A raincoat or umbrella is handy too, as showers can arrive without warning.

3. Plan Your Route and Time Wisely

Distances in this region may look short on a map, but mountain roads often take longer than expected. Always add extra hours to your journey.

Plan short halts for rest and food, and avoid late-night travel in hilly areas. Starting early in the day ensures you reach your hotel or town before dark, with enough time to relax and enjoy the amazing views.

Ready to Answer the Call of the Monasteries and the Wild?

Tawang and Kaziranga together offer a glimpse of the world at its most raw and beautiful. You’ll go from spotting rhinos on an elephant safari in Kaziranga National Park to watching monks chant in the Tawang monastery, surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas.

So, pack your bags, keep your permits handy, and begin your Kaziranga to Tawang adventure for a journey through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and into the very soul of India. The rhinos, monks, and mountain peaks are waiting!