Sela pass, the lake and Jaswantgarh
Since the Sela Tunnel opened in March 2024, traffic between Dirang and Tawang can bypass the high pass, cutting about an hour and keeping the route open in winter. In good weather, though, we take the old road over Sela at about 4,170 m. At the top, a gateway hung with prayer flags marks the pass, and below it lies a sacred lake, often frozen until spring. Yaks graze the slopes in summer.
Descending towards Tawang, we stop at Jaswantgarh, a memorial to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who held a position here against Chinese forces in November 1962 and is still honoured by the Army as if on duty. Soldiers at the memorial often serve visitors tea, and the story is told with pride.
Further down, Nuranang, also called Jang falls, plunges about 100 m through forest close to the road. The total stop time is about two hours, which we build into the driving day. At the pass, move slowly and keep the stop short, as you are well above the altitude where headaches begin.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How high is Sela Pass?
Sela Pass is at about 4,170 m, or around 13,700 ft, on the road between Dirang and Tawang. The Sela Tunnel, opened in March 2024, now bypasses the pass at a lower level and keeps the route open in winter. In good weather the old pass road is still used for sightseeing.
Is the Sela Tunnel open to tourists?
Yes. The Sela Tunnel carries all traffic between Dirang and Tawang, including tourist vehicles, and saves about an hour on the journey. It is the main winter route. The old road over the pass remains a fair-weather sightseeing option. Check current status before you travel.
What is Jaswantgarh?
Jaswantgarh is a war memorial on the Tawang road honouring Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat of the Garhwal Rifles, who fought here during the 1962 India–China war. The Army maintains it as a shrine and often serves tea to visitors. It is a moving and popular stop.
Also in Tawang
More hours to plan around
