Perched at a breathtaking altitude of around 13,700 feet (4,170 meters), Sela Pass is one of the most stunning and high-altitude mountain passes in Arunachal Pradesh, connecting Tawang to the rest of India via Bomdila and Dirang. This majestic Himalayan pass, wrapped in snow for most of the year, is a traveller’s dream, with frozen lakes, fluttering prayer flags, and sweeping mountain vistas that seem straight out of a postcard.
Location: Between Dirang and Tawang, West Kameng District, Arunachal Pradesh
Altitude: 13,700 ft (4,170 m)
Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December
Temperature Range: -10°C to 10°C
Popular For: Snow landscapes, photography, high-altitude lakes, adventure drives
A Scenic Wonder in the Eastern Himalayas
As you drive towards Tawang, the road begins to wind steeply upward, and suddenly the scenery transforms into a surreal, snow-clad world — welcome to Sela Pass. The air gets thinner, prayer flags flutter wildly against the cold wind, and the silence is broken only by the occasional roar of an army truck or the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
This stretch is not just a route; it’s a breathtaking Himalayan experience that every mountain lover should witness at least once.
One of the most mesmerising highlights of Sela Pass is the Sela Lake, also called Paradise Lake. This turquoise-blue glacial lake lies right next to the pass and freezes completely during the winter months, turning into a shimmering sheet of ice surrounded by white peaks.
The lake holds great spiritual significance for local Buddhist communities. According to legend, there are 101 sacred lakes scattered around this region, all believed to be blessed by Buddhist monks.
The name Sela is derived from a touching story of love and sacrifice. As local folklore goes, during a fierce Indo-China war, a brave Monpa woman named Sela helped an Indian soldier by bringing him food and water. When he was martyred in battle, she couldn’t bear the grief and sacrificed her life near the pass. In her memory, this area, including the lake, was named Sela Pass.
Even today, travellers and soldiers passing through the area pause for a moment of silence to honour her courage.
The drive from Dirang to Tawang via Sela Pass is one of the most scenic routes in the Eastern Himalayas. The entire stretch offers mesmerising views of snow-capped peaks, winding valleys, and misty forests.
However, the weather here changes rapidly; fog, snow, or sudden rain are common even in summer. During winter (December–March), the road is often blanketed in snow, making it a thrilling adventure for travellers.
The Indian Army maintains the roads year-round, ensuring the route stays open even under harsh weather conditions.
Photography: Capture breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and prayer flags.
Meditation & Reflection: The serene environment makes it a perfect spot for peaceful moments.
Snow Experience: Play in the snow during winter; you may even witness fresh snowfall.
Stop at Sela Lake: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake or sip a hot cup of tea at nearby stalls.
Spot Himalayan Wildlife: If you’re lucky, you may spot yaks, Himalayan blue sheep, or exotic birds.
Small tea stalls and army canteens near the pass offer hot tea, Maggi noodles, and snacks.
The oxygen level is low due to high altitude; travellers with breathing issues should move slowly and stay hydrated.
Carry warm clothes, gloves, and waterproof shoes, even in summer, as the temperature can drop suddenly.
Photography permits are not required for tourists, but always respect the army restrictions near certain areas.
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport, Tezpur (330 km) or Guwahati Airport (450 km)
From either airport, hire a taxi or join a guided tour to reach Bomdila → Dirang → Sela Pass → Tawang.
Nearest Railway Station: Tezpur or Rangapara North (around 300 km)
Sela Pass lies on the NH-13 (Tawang–Bomdila Highway).
Tezpur to Sela Pass distance: 320 km
Dirang to Sela Pass: 80 km
Tawang to Sela Pass: 78 km
Driving through the winding roads surrounded by snow and mist is an unforgettable experience, truly one of the most scenic road journeys in India.
Jaswant Garh War Memorial (15 km) – Dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a war hero of the 1962 Indo-China War.
Nuranang Falls (Jung Falls) – A magnificent 100-meter waterfall located 40 km from Sela Pass.
Dirang Valley – A serene stopover with apple orchards, monasteries, and hot springs.
Tawang Monastery – The largest monastery in India, located about 78 km from the pass.
Altitude Sickness: Rest at Dirang before crossing the pass to acclimatise.
Fuel: The Last petrol station before Tawang is in Dirang; refuel there.
Permit: You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh (available online or from state offices in Guwahati, Tezpur, etc.).
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