When you travel as a family, it’s not just about reaching a destination — it’s about collecting memories along the way. Our recent trip through Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang route was exactly that — a blend of beauty, calm, and those small mountain moments that stay with you forever. It was me, my wife, and our 5-year-old son — his first real mountain adventure. From the moment we started, the journey felt hassle-free and beautiful, something I’d been hoping for.
Jamiri – The Perfect Start
Our journey began at Jamiri, a small and quiet village that set the tone for the trip ahead. Fresh air, pine-scented mornings, and smiling faces everywhere — it felt like the mountains were welcoming us. We stayed in a cozy homestay surrounded by fields and forests.
Jamiri isn’t as popular as other stops, but it’s perfect if you want to experience authentic local life before heading deeper into Arunachal. Our son loved walking around the village and waving at everyone he met — and they all waved back!
Sangti Valley – A Place Straight from a Postcard
The next day, we reached Sangti Valley, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a postcard. Green fields, a calm river, and the sound of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. We stayed at Homestay, where we were welcomed like family.
The simplicity of the place, the home-cooked food, and the warmth of the locals made it one of our favorite parts of the trip. Our little one loved running through the open meadows and spotting birds along the riverside. Seeing him so happy in the middle of nature made the entire trip worth it.
Tawang – The Heart of Arunachal
After Sangti came the much-awaited Tawang. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and Buddhist monasteries, Tawang truly feels like another world. The Tawang Monastery stood out — calm, spiritual, and humbling. Even our son stood quietly for a while, maybe sensing the peace of the place.
We also explored local cafes and tried the famous pork dishes and a wholesome Assamese thali — simple yet delicious. The chilly evenings, warm soup, and starry skies made Tawang truly magical.
Bumla Pass & Madhuri Lake – A Day of Magic
The drive to Bumla Pass was one of the most memorable parts of the trip. The road climbs high, crossing frozen lakes and winding turns until you reach the Indo-China border. Standing there, surrounded by snow and the Indian Army, was an emotional experience.
On the way back, we stopped at Madhuri Lake — or Shonga-tser Lake as locals call it. The still water, fallen tree trunks, and backdrop of mountains made it feel like a dream. It’s one of those places where you just sit quietly and take it all in.
Bomdila – The Last Stop Before Heading Home
Our final stop was Bomdila, a small town wrapped in mist and prayer flags. It was a good place to rest before returning home. We explored a few local monasteries and shops here, though if I plan this route again, I’d love to stay in Shergaon instead — I’ve heard it’s quieter and has that authentic village charm we enjoy.
Jang Waterfall – Nature’s Power
Before leaving Tawang, we made sure to stop at the stunning Jang Waterfall (Nuranang Waterfall). The sheer force and beauty of the water took our breath away. We clicked a few family pictures there — moments I’ll always treasure.
Travel Lessons & Tips
If you’re planning a similar trip with family or kids, here are a few things I’d suggest:
- Stay hydrated with electrolytes during long hill drives — it really helps.
- Plan your stays well — Tawang and Bomdila are popular, but Shergaon offers a quieter, more local experience.
- Carry enough warm clothes — the weather can change anytime.
- Keep some snacks handy for kids — mountain drives can be long.
Written by: Baishali Chakraborty
Translated by: Izifiso
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