Tawang: permit, road and best season
Tawang is in the far west of Arunachal Pradesh and is reached by road over Sela Pass. The drive is long, a permit is needed before you enter the state, and the season decides whether the road is open.
Updated 31 October 2026
The route
The usual road is Guwahati or Tezpur, Bhalukpong, Bomdila, Dirang, Sela Pass, Jang and Tawang. The Tawang district website gives the drive as 14 to 16 hours and advises an overnight halt at Bomdila or Dirang rather than going through in one day.
Permit
- Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). It can be applied for on the official eILP portal, or collected at the Arunachal Pradesh Facilitation Centres in New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and Tezpur.
- Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP), issued through the Ministry of Home Affairs or the designated state home department offices.
- See our permits guide for the other North East states.
Best season
- March to June: described by the district as the ideal window, with pleasant weather.
- September to November: crisp air and good visibility.
- December to February: heavy snowfall; temperatures at the high passes can reach -10°C.
- July and August: monsoon. Heavy rain and landslides can block the road, and the district advises against travel then.
Altitude
Sela Pass is at about 13,750 ft. The district advises spending at least 24 hours at lower altitude before visiting Sela Pass or Bumla Pass. Allow a spare day in your plan for weather.
Sources
Road and permit rules change. We confirm the current position for your dates when you book.
Common questions
Do I need a permit for Tawang?
Yes. Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit, which can be applied for online on the official eILP portal. Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit.
How long is the drive to Tawang from Guwahati?
The Tawang district website gives 14 to 16 hours by road via Bhalukpong, Bomdila, Dirang and Sela Pass, and advises an overnight halt at Bomdila or Dirang.
What is the best time to visit Tawang?
March to June is described as the ideal window, and September to November brings clear views. Winter brings heavy snow and July to August brings landslides.
Is Tawang open in winter?
Yes, but December to February brings heavy snowfall and temperatures down to about -10°C at the high passes, so roads can be slow or closed for a time.
How high is Sela Pass?
About 13,750 ft. The district advises at least 24 hours at lower altitude before going to Sela Pass or Bumla Pass.