SELA LAKE, A Stunning picturesque Lake in Sela Pass & lot more :

  SELA LAKE, A Stunning picturesque Lake in Sela Pass & lot more :

Synopsis : 

Sela Lake, nestled near the breathtaking Sela Pass in Tawang  District, Arunachal Pradesh in India  is a glacial lake that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. This stunning lake is located  at an altitude of approximately 13,700 feet (4,170 meters) above sea level, this picturesque lake is often referred to as "Paradise Lake" due to its stunning surroundings and tranquil ambiance.

Location and Altitude : 

Sela Lake is situated near Sela Pass, a crucial Mountain pass connecting Tawang with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh. The lake's location amidst the Eastern Himalayas ensures breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush landscapes and is a must see place.

Tourism Potential : 

Sela Lake is a major tourist attraction in Tawang, drawing nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. The lake's pristine environment, set against rugged mountains, creates a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Huge rush of tourists and travelers is wotnessed over here from all over the country and abroad. While specific tourism rush figures aren't available, Sela Lake is a popular stop for travelers visiting Tawang. The best time to visit is from April to October when weather conditions are relatively favorable and quite perfect for enjoyment and relaxation.

History and Significance : 

Sela Lake, nestled near the Sela Pass in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, holds profound cultural and spiritual significance . According to local legend, the lake is believed to be a sacred site where the 17th-century saint, Merak Lama, meditated. The lake is part of a group of 101 sacred lakes, considered holy by Buddhists. Its name "Sela" is derived from the Sela Pass, which has been a crucial trade and pilgrim route connecting Tawang with the rest of India. The lake's serene environment and stunning surroundings have made it a revered spot for locals and a captivating destination for travelers 

Sela Lake holds cultural and spiritual significance for Buddhists, with the lake and surrounding 101 lakes considered to be sacred and the area also has strategic importance due to its proximity to the India-China border .

Best Time to Visit : 

The ideal time to visit Sela Lake is between April and October when roads are relatively clear and weather is pleasant. Winters starting here from  November to March can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and poor connectivity.

Tourist Accommodation : 

As far as accommodation for visitors is concerned, there are limited options due to its  to its high altitude and remote location. However, nearby towns like Dirang and Tawang offer plenty of stay options in its nearby vicinity.Tawang has plenty of options for a comfortable stay, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some top recommendations worth consideration : 

Luxury Options: Vivanta Arunachal Pradesh Tawang offers stunning views and top-notch amenities for visitors.

Budget-Friendly: Hotel Zax Star, Tashi Ga Tsel Motel, and Gyalpo Homestay provide cozy rooms and warm hospitality.

Homestays: Tawang Homestay, Dondrub Homestay and Resort, and Tseten Homestay offer a local experience with home-cooked meals.

Some popular areas to stay include near Tawang Monastery, a convenient for also exploring the town's cultural attractions, Old Market, an  Ideal for immersing yourself in local life and shopping.

Nearby Tourist Places to Visit :

Sela Lake's serene beauty, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, makes it a must-visit and you can also explore  Tawang's rich culture, monasteries, and scenic valleys for an unforgettable experience. There are several places where tourists and travelers can easily visit during their trip to this place which include :

*Tawang Monastery* : A significant Buddhist site and one of the largest monasteries in India 

 *Tawang War Memorial*: Commemorates the 1962 Indo-China war.

*Bum La Pass*: A scenic border pass with stunning views (subject to permits).

*Dirang Valley*: it offers budget hotels, homestays, and mid-range stays are available, with river views and scenic landscapes and is quite fascinating to visit.

*Nuranang Falls*: A beautiful waterfall near Tawang.

 *Tawang*: Guesthouses, hotels, and premium lodges cater to different budgets, offering access to cultural sites and natural wonders.

How to Reach : 

There are several modes of transportation to reach here and some of them are summarised as below : 

1. From Guwahati : It is about 12-14 hours by road via Bhalukpong and Tawang (460 km).

2. From Tezpur :  This takes about 10-12 hours by road via Bomdila and Tawang (315 km) to reach here.

3. *From Tawang Town*: Once can also reach here in 2-3 hours by road via Sela Pass (42 km).

 Attractions & activities : 

The journey to Sela Lake is an adventure, with scenic views and winding mountain roads. The best time to visit is April to October when weather conditions are favorable 

Sela Lake's serene beauty and surroundings offer plenty of attractions and activities which include scenic views consisting of breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes, photography, one can capture stunning landscapes, wildlife, and local culture & Trekking, adventure lovers can explore   nearby trails, ideal for adventure seekers. There are prayer flags comprising of spot colourful flags adding to the lake's spiritual ambiance and it is as well a perfect picnic spot for relaxation and enjoying nature.

One can also take in the  tranquil views and soak in the spiritual vibe and also visit nearby monasteries and learn about local culture as well.

Ending : 

Sela Lake, nestled in the majestic Himalayas in Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh in India, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored & this lake This glacial lake's pristine beauty, set amidst snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes, makes it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Sela Lake's untouched environment, spiritual significance, and breathtaking views set it apart. The lake is part of a sacred group of 101 lakes, holding deep cultural and Buddhist significance.

Sela Lake's untouched natural beauty, set amidst the majestic Himalayas, is a sight to behold & during winters, the lake often freezes, transforming into a winter wonderland with snow-capped peaks and frozen shores. The surrounding landscape, dotted with prayer flags and rugged terrain, adds to the lake's serene ambiance. With minimal habitation and pristine environment, Sela Lake offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers .

It is important to note that visiting Sela Lake in winter can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures and the lake and surrounding roads may be covered in snow, making travel difficult. However, if you're prepared for the cold, it's a great time to experience the lake's serene beauty, with the frozen landscape creating a stunning picturesque winter wonderland.

Courtesy :

Team Panaromicspots

To Discover more tour and travel content, please visit our website, link given below :

tinyurl.com/4byk4323