Nature · Sela Pass, Arunachal
Morning at Sela lake and the pass
Stand at 4,170 m beside a sacred lake, with prayer flags snapping and ridges all around. A short, cold, beautiful stop that most people remember longest from the Tawang road.
Photo: Dhrubazaanphotography · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsLeave Tawang or Dirang early. The road climbs steadily through fir forest and then open slopes with grazing yaks before reaching the pass. In clear weather the lake appears suddenly on the right, flat and dark, with snow patches on the slopes above. The pass gateway stands just beyond, and a café run by local operators serves tea and noodles to warm cold hands.
Walk slowly. At this height, even a few steps uphill leave you breathless. A short path leads along the lake shore; follow it for ten or fifteen minutes and you will see small cairns and prayer flags left by Monpa travellers. Many local people consider the lakes here sacred, so keep voices low, do not wash or throw anything into the water, and walk clockwise around any chorten.
If you have a reserved taxi, continue to Nuranang Falls on the Tawang side and return through the tunnel, or drive back over the top if the weather holds. In winter the lake is frozen and the landscape white; sun on snow is harsh, so wear dark glasses. Children and older travellers should limit time at the top and descend if they feel unwell.
Good for
Also in Sela Pass
More days here
Photo: Sdasamdabad · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Nuranang Falls near Jang
A curtain waterfall about 100 m high on the Tawang side of Sela, fed by snowmelt from the pass. An easy walk from the r…
Photo: Kunal Dalui · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Commons
First snow day at Sela in winter
For many travellers from the plains, Sela is where they touch snow for the first time. Expect deep drifts, a frozen lak…
Questions
Before you book
How long should I stay at Sela Pass?
Thirty to sixty minutes is enough for most people. The altitude of about 4,170 m means you should not linger for hours, especially if you came from the plains within the last two days. Walk slowly, drink water and leave if you develop a headache.
Is Sela lake frozen in winter?
Yes, usually from about December to March, depending on the year. The frozen lake and snow-covered slopes draw many winter visitors. From April to November the water is open. Check current status before you travel, since snowfall can close the road over the pass.
Can I visit Sela Pass by shared Sumo?
Shared Sumos between Dirang and Tawang pass through, and drivers sometimes stop briefly at the top. For a proper visit with time at the lake, hire a reserved taxi from Tawang for about ₹3,500–5,000 per vehicle for a half day.