Sela Pass is a breathtaking high-altitude mountain pass located in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh on the route between Tawang and Dirang. Situated at an elevation of around 13,700 feet (4,170 metres) in the Eastern Himalayas, it is one of the most scenic and important passes in India. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and rugged Himalayan landscapes, Sela Pass is famous for the beautiful Sela Lake, which remains frozen during winter. The pass holds great strategic importance due to its proximity to the India–China border and is a popular destination for travellers exploring the Tawang region.
Sela Pass has been an important mountain route connecting the Tawang region with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh for centuries. The pass is named after Sela, a local Monpa woman who, according to legend, helped Indian soldiers during the 1962 Indo-China War. The region witnessed intense battles during the war, as Indian forces defended strategic positions in the difficult Himalayan terrain. The nearby Jaswant Garh War Memorial commemorates the bravery of Indian soldiers who fought in this region. Over the years, Sela Pass has remained a vital route for the Indian Army due to its strategic location near the international border. Today, it is not only a symbol of military importance but also one of Arunachal Pradesh's most spectacular natural landmarks.
April to October — the pass is snowbound and often closed in winter.
On the Tezpur–Tawang road; only accessible by vehicle, with checkpoints en route.
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