The Guwahati - Tawang - Bum La Cycling Expedition begins from Bhalukpong on the Assam - Arunachal border and takes you through a tour of the western regions of Arunachal Pradesh. The first few days consist of gradual altitude gain through lush tropical and alpine forests along the Kameng river, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra. After crossing three passes - Nechiphu, Bomdila and the icy and treacherous Se La at 4200 m, you enter the Tawang region, home to the nomadic Monpa tribes with their unique culture and one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in India, populated with red pandas and snow leopards. From Tawang, we ride towards the Indo - China border on icy dirt roads passing dozens of alpine lakes to Bum La at 4600 m. This route also loosely follows the route taken by the Dalai Lama on his escape to India from Tibet and is also the site of the 1962 Sino - Indian war. With its blend of history, culture and a landscape that changes from tropical forests to harsh alpine terrain, this is the perfect way to explore the Western Arunachal region.
Are you an avid biker or even a regular cyclist? If yes, then Guwahati - Tawang - Bum La Cycling Expedition is just the adrenaline boost for you. Guwahati - Tawang - Bum La Cycling expedition is an 11-day challenging expedition, consisting of difficult terrains and uphill riding conditions. Factors like high altitude, difficult passes, and hairpin bends make it completely different from cycling in plains. If you are a regular cyclist and have enough stamina to undertake this 11-day strenuous challenge, then give no second thoughts before signing up for this. This is a good alternative for people who have already done the Manali - Khardungla Cycling Expedition, or even those looking to prepare for the same.
Best time to do Guwahati - Tawang Cycling expedition
Pre-monsoon - Late March / Early April
Post monsoon - September, October
The base for the expedition is Guwahati, which is a major city connected daily by multiple flights and trains from Delhi and elsewhere.
There is 4G connectivity for all major networks throughout the Guwahati - Tawang Cycling expedition, with some exceptions. Vodafone has the best coverage, followed by Airtel.
See the packing list for cycling expeditions here
The accommodation will be a mix of hotel/guesthouse stays and camping.
