Mountain Pass · Arunachal Pradesh
Sela Pass
4,170 m mountain pass on the road to Tawang, with a sacred lake and snow for much of the year.
Quick facts
- Best season
- April – June and September – November; snow December – March
- Duration
- 30–60 minutes stop on the Dirang–Tawang drive
- Altitude
- ≈4,170 m
- Nearest town
- Jang / Dirang (Tawang & West Kameng)
- Permit
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian visitors; Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners. Verify before travel.
About Sela Pass
Sela Pass, at about 4,170 m (13,700 ft), is the dramatic gateway to Tawang. The road from Dirang climbs through forests of fir and rhododendron into a bare, often snow-covered landscape, crossing the pass beneath a colourful gateway decorated with prayer flags. Just beyond lies Sela Lake (Paradise Lake), which freezes solid in winter and is surrounded by smaller glacial tarns.
Sela is sacred to Tibetan Buddhists, who believe there are around 101 holy lakes in the area. It is also closely associated with the 1962 war: the nearby Jaswant Garh memorial honours rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, and local legend links the pass's name to Sela, a Monpa girl who helped him. Army cafés near the pass serve hot tea, momos and instant noodles to chilled travellers.
Since March 2024 the Sela Tunnel has provided an all-weather route beneath the pass, at around 3,000 m. Most tourists still drive over the top in clear weather for the views, snow and lake — we decide on the day depending on conditions.
How to reach Sela Pass
On the Dirang–Tawang road, about 75 km from Tawang and 50 km from Dirang. Allow time for weather and army convoys.
Tours that include Sela Pass
Things to do
Places near Sela Pass
MonasteryTawang MonasteryIndia's largest monastery, founded in 1680–81, on a ridge above the Tawang valley at about 3,000 m.
WaterfallNuranang FallsPowerful 100 m waterfall near Jang on the Sela–Tawang road, also called Bong Bong falls.
ValleyDirangRiverside Monpa valley with an old dzong, hot springs, yak research centre and orchards.
Sela Pass FAQs
How high is Sela Pass?
About 4,170 m (13,700 ft) above sea level.
Is Sela Pass open in winter?
Heavy snow can close the pass road temporarily, but the Sela Tunnel (opened 2024) keeps the route to Tawang open in most weather.
Can I get altitude sickness at Sela Pass?
It is possible. Stops are short, but avoid exertion, stay hydrated, and descend if you feel unwell.
Facts checked against: en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org · arunachaltourism.com. Conditions change — verify timings and permits before travel.