Arunachal Pradesh is located in the eastern part of the Himalayas, so there are many high mountain passes in this northeastern state. In this article, we will explore the top 12 mountain passes of Arunachal Pradesh.
But before that, you need to understand two things:
- ‘La’ In Tibetan, ‘La’ means mountain pass.
- Tibet – Tibet was once a separate country but is now occupied by China. There is a long border between India and Tibet, and Arunachal Pradesh shares a long border with Tibet.
Table of Contents
1. Bum La Pass
Bum La Pass is a high mountain pass located at 15,200 feet. It is one of the famous passes in Arunachal Pradesh, situated near the border between India and Tibet. The pass is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-covered mountains and wide-open landscapes that make it feel like you’re on top of the world.
It also has historical significance; in 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama fled Tibet and entered India via this route.
Visiting Bum La Pass gives you a chance to see the border between India and China up close. The area is heavily guarded by Indian soldiers, and seeing them at work in such harsh, cold conditions is truly inspiring. The pass is more than just a beautiful spot; it’s a reminder of the important role it plays in the region’s history and security. Standing at Bum La, surrounded by towering peaks and the silence of the mountains, is an unforgettable experience.
There is a camp check post at the pass. Whenever tourists visit this place, a soldier from the Indian Army tells the story of the India-China war and many other fascinating details, which will definitely give you goosebumps.
Best Time to Visit Bum La Pass:
- March to October: Considered the best time to visit Bum La Pass. Since it is a high-altitude location, you can access all places during this period.
- March to April: During these months, you can see plenty of snow in Bum La, offering opportunities to play in the snow.
- November to February: Due to the high altitude, Bum La Pass will be covered with snow. It may be difficult to reach the final point, and the road might be closed in some cases due to heavy snowfall.
- July to September: This is considered the rainy season in Arunachal Pradesh, but you can still visit Bum La Pass.
2. Se La Pass
Se La Pass is a high mountain pass at 13,700 feet above sea level. It connects the town of Tawang with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh. The road to Se La Pass is full of amazing views, with snow-covered mountains, winding roads, and quiet, beautiful landscapes. One of the main attractions here is Se La Lake, also called Paradise Lake, which stays frozen in the winter, making the area look like a magical snowy land.
Se La Pass is important not only for its beauty but also for the local people and the Indian Army. It’s a key route that helps with travel and communication in the region. The pass also has spiritual importance, as locals believe it is protected by the spirits of their ancestors. Visitors to Se La Pass often feel calm and close to nature, making it a special and unforgettable place to visit.
Best Time to Visit Sela Pass:
To reach Tawang or Bum La Pass, you must cross Sela Pass. A newly built tunnel, the Sela Tunnel, now makes reaching Tawang accessible year-round. March to October is considered the best time to visit Sela Pass.
3. Bom Di La
Bomdila is a lovely town in Arunachal Pradesh. At about 8,000 feet above sea level. The town is also known for its beautiful monasteries, like the Bomdila Monastery, where you can learn about local Buddhist traditions. It’s a peaceful place where you can relax and enjoy nature.
In Bomdila, you can also experience local culture. The town celebrates various festivals with traditional dances, delicious local food, and handmade crafts. The Bomdila Viewpoint is a great spot to see amazing views of the mountains and the landscape around. Whether you love adventure or just want to explore new places, Bomdila offers something special for everyone.
Best time to visit Bomdila:
To reach Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, and Tawang, you have to cross Bomdila. The best time to visit Bomdila is from March to October. During the other months, the temperature will be very low.
4. Kumjawng Pass
Kumjawng Pass is another mountain pass in Arunachal Pradesh that connects the state to Myanmar. Situated at an altitude of 2,929 meters i.e. 9609 feet above sea level, it is located in the Dibang Valley district. A prominent location in the Dibang Valley is Anini, which is well-known in the region.
5. Gorichen Pass
Gorichen Pass, at an altitude of 22,500 feet, is known for its breathtaking views. The journey to Gorichen Pass is an adventure in itself, with winding roads and rugged terrain that make the experience both thrilling and rewarding. The area is relatively untouched by mass tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy a sense of peace and isolation amid some of the most stunning scenery in the region.
Besides its natural beauty, Gorichen Pass is also rich in cultural and historical significance. The pass serves as a crucial point for the local tribes, and its remote location has made it a key site for border security and historical trade routes. For trekkers and adventure enthusiasts, reaching Gorichen Pass is a major accomplishment, offering not just a visual feast but also a deep sense of achievement.
Best time to visit Gorichen Pass in between April to June and September to November.
6. Diphu La (Dipher Pass)
Diphu Pass is also known as Dipher Pass. This pass is strategically important for India as it is situated at the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar. Although the Dipher Pass belongs to India, China claims the region, making it a disputed territory. The pass lies along the McMahon Line. Despite the geopolitical tensions between India and China, the pass remains one of the important trade routes between India and Myanmar. Very few tourists visit this area, but it offers spectacular natural beauty.
7. Dihang Pass
Dihang Pass is a hidden gem in the Eastern Himalayas that offers breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. Located at an elevation of around 13,000 feet, this pass serves as a crucial link between India and China. The journey to Dihang Pass takes travelers through lush green forests, rolling hills, and dramatic landscapes, showcasing the diverse beauty of the region.
The area is home to various tribal communities who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries. The combination of scenic splendor and cultural richness makes Dihang Pass a fascinating destination for anyone looking to explore the lesser-known corners of India.
8. Pangsau Pass
Pangsau Pass is a high mountain pass located in Arunachal Pradesh, near the border with Myanmar. The altitude of this pass is 1,800 meters, or 5,900 feet, above sea level. The pass is a crucial route for travelers moving between India and Myanmar, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, with lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Pangsau Pass also has historical significance. During World War II, it was part of the famous Ledo Road, which was built to supply Allied forces in China. Today, the pass is not just a key transport link but also a popular spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Its remote location and scenic beauty make it a unique destination for those looking to experience the natural charm of this region of India.
9. Yonggyap pass
Yonggyap Pass is a high mountain pass in Arunachal Pradesh. It is very high up, at about 4,700 meters (15,400 feet) above sea level. The famous Stilwell Road, built during World War II by American and Chinese forces to connect India and China through Burma (now Myanmar), includes Yonggyap Pass. Today, Yonggyap Pass is mainly used for trade between India and China. It is also an important area for border security, with troops from both countries stationed there.
In Winter, Yonggyap pass is closed due to heavy snowfall making it inaccessible by road.
Mechuka is a popular spot for tourists and trekkers who come to experience the scenic beauty and adventure of the high-altitude terrain.
10. Tulung La
Tulung La is a mountain pass on the border with China in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. The altitude of this pass is approximately 17,250 feet. This pass divides two rivers: the Tsona Chu in Tibet and the Tawang Chu in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Here, “Chu” means river.
In 1975, during the Indo-Sino war, this pass played a significant role. It remains one of the most important strategic locations. However, due to its high altitude and rugged terrain, this region is relatively remote and considered a challenging area.
11. Mayodia Pass
Mayodia Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of 8711 feet or 2,655 meter. This pass connected 2 main region of Arunachal Pradesh i.e. Along and Roing. Mayodia Pass is approximately 56 kilometers away from Roing. The pass is known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mayodia Pass is also a popular spot for travelers and adventure enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty and serene environment. The area around the pass is often covered in snow during the winter months, making it a picturesque destination.
Best Time to Visit Mayodia Pass:
- October to January: During winter, the pass is covered in snow. If you love snow, this is the best time to visit.
- February to April: The weather is pleasant with no snow on the road but plenty of greenery. This is an ideal time to visit if you prefer avoiding snow.
- May to September: Tourists can visit during this season, but heavy rains might occasionally close the roads.
12. Chankan Pass
Chankan Pass is situated in the Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh at an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,874 feet). This pass establishes a connection between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, linking Roing in Arunachal Pradesh with Tezu in Assam.
