With its centuries-old great fortress monastery against the dramatic setting of the snow-clad peaks, Tawang is accessible by car in a thrilling drive through mesmeric alpine country. The sinuous road to Tawang passes through the dragon gates on the awesome height of the great Sela Pass (13,714 feet).

Jaswantgarh located here is a memorial to the brave soldier who single handedly tried to impede the approaching Chinese from the pass during the 1962 indo-Chinese war. The stupa-like Tawang War Memorial also salutes the heroes of the war.

There is a strong Tibetan presence in Tawang. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze. Monks in their

soft robes slip silently through the market square attending to their daily chores.

A stunning and eye-catching 8 m high gilded stature of Buddha dominates the sanctum. The great rotating prayer wheels.. the priceless tangkhas.. the drone of the monks in prayers.. sputtering butter lamps are an evocative vision..

The craft center in Tawang sells beautiful masks, hand-woven carpets, tangkhas, jewellery in silver, turquoise, coral and amber. Chubas – the local dress and delightfully affordable mementos.