New Delhi: Perched at 13,650 feet near Sela Pass in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh’s Sela Lake turns into a dramatic frozen spectacle during winter.
The high-altitude glacial lake, also known as Paradise Lake, becomes a vast white sheet surrounded by snowbound mountains. Revered as one of the 101 sacred lakes in Tibetan Buddhism, Sela Lake reflects spiritual importance with raw Himalayan beauty, making its seasonal transformation especially striking for travellers seeking rare winter landscapes, cultural experiences, silence, altitude, and unforgettable mountain solitude.
Situated on the vital route connecting Tezpur to Tawang, the frozen lake marks a symbolic gateway into Arunachal’s Buddhist heartland. Prayer flags, legends, and war history surround the area, while shifting weather and extreme altitude heighten its mystique. For visitors, Sela Lake offers a rare convergence of faith, folklore, ecology, and stark Himalayan drama during harsh winters each year annually. Here’s all you need to know about Sela Lake.
Cultural significance of Sela Lake
1. One of 101 sacred lakes
Sela Lake is considered one of the 101 sacred lakes in Tibetan Buddhism and holds deep spiritual importance for the local Monpa tribe, one of Arunachal Pradesh’s prominent indigenous communities. The lake is believed to embody purity and devotion, making it a revered pilgrimage site.
2. Legend behind name of Sela Lake
According to local folklore, the lake is named after a tribal girl called Sela. She is believed to have sacrificed her life after helping Indian Army soldier Jaswant Singh Rawat during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Her story remains a powerful symbol of courage and sacrifice in the region.
3. Gateway to Buddhist heartland
Sela Lake serves as a cultural and spiritual gateway to the Buddhist-dominated Tawang region. The nearby Sela Pass gate is adorned with colourful prayer flags and traditional Buddhist motifs, reflecting the area’s deep-rooted religious identity.
Explore natural beauty and biodiversity of Sela Lake
1. Glacial landscape of Eastern Himalayas
Sela Lake is a natural high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by rugged Himalayan terrain. During winter, the frozen surface and snow-laden surroundings create a surreal and almost otherworldly landscape.
2. Flora of the region
The area supports diverse vegetation typical of the Eastern Himalayas, including rhododendron groves, alpine meadows, and oak forests, which add seasonal colour and ecological richness.
3. Wildlife sightings
Travellers may encounter wildlife such as Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and barking deer. The region is also home to exotic bird species like Himalayan monals and blood pheasants, making it appealing for nature enthusiasts.
4. Scenic trekking routes
Short treks around Sela Pass and nearby valleys provide panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and winding mountain roads. Popular nearby areas include Tawang and Dirang Valley.
Essential travel information
1. Inner Line Permit requirement
An Inner Line Permit is mandatory for entry into Arunachal Pradesh, as the state falls under restricted travel regulations. Visitors must secure permission in advance.
2. Road travel preparation
Travellers driving to Sela Lake should ensure their vehicles are equipped for high-altitude conditions and carry extra fuel, as petrol stations are limited along the route.
3. Limited facilities
Facilities near the lake remain minimal. Carry sufficient snacks, drinking water, and basic supplies for the journey.
4. Medical readiness
Medical facilities are located far from Sela Lake. Carrying a basic medical kit is strongly advised.
5. Weather uncertainty
Weather conditions near Sela Pass can change rapidly, especially during winter. Checking forecasts before travel is essential.
Top attractions near Sela Lake
1. Sela Pass (13,700 ft)
Known for year-round snow, dramatic Himalayan views, and the recently constructed Sela Tunnel.
2. Jaswant Garh War Memorial
A memorial honouring Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, located between Sela Pass and Nuranang.
3. Nuranang Falls
Nuranang Falls is also known as Jang Falls that is a spectacular waterfall plunging from nearly 100 metres.
4. Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Tso)
The Sangetsar Tso, formerly called Shonga-tser Lake and popularly known as the Madhuri Lake, is located on the way from Tawang to Bum La Pass in Tawang district. It is a picturesque high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
5. Pangateng Tso Lake (PT Tso)
It is a tranquil alpine lake set amid pine forests that attracts explorers for its beauty and calmness.
6. Bap Teng Kang Waterfall (BTK)
It is a 100-foot-high, scenic cascade located about 80-85 km from Tawang near Yumkhang village. Renowned for its crystal-clear water, it is a popular, tranquil picnic spot in a dense forest setting, often visited between April and June or post-monsoon.
7. Bum La Pass
Located at over 16,500 ft near Tawang, it is a high-altitude Indo-China border pass and a historic site from the 1962 war. The pass offers panoramic Himalayan views, and is accessible only by authorised local taxis with a valid permit (ILP/PAP).
Tips for visiting Sela Lake
1. Weather conditions
Expect freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall during the winter months, particularly from December to February.
2. Clothing essentials
Heavy woollen clothing and layered wear are necessary due to strong winds and low temperatures.
3. Best travel months
March to June offers clearer skies and milder conditions, while October to November provides scenic post-monsoon views.
4. Altitude awareness
The high altitude may cause discomfort. Travellers should remain alert to symptoms of altitude sickness.
5. Safety caution
Walking on frozen ice is discouraged, as the surface may crack under pressure.
How to reach Sela Lake
- Nearest railway station: Bomdila Railway Station, about 100 kilometres away.
- Nearest bus stand: Bomdila Bus Stand, located roughly 103 kilometres from the lake. Sela Lake lies around 30 kilometres from Tawang town via Tawang-Gangtok Road (NH 13), with an approximate travel time of one hour.
- Nearest airport: Tezpur Airport, approximately 247 kilometres away.
Frozen Sela Lake captures the raw grandeur of Arunachal Pradesh, where sacred beliefs, wartime history, and Himalayan wilderness converge, offering travellers an unforgettable winter experience.
