A Guide To Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Tawang

Things to do / highlights

Remembering and honoring a war hero

Jaswant Singh Rawat is recognized today as one of India’s bravest and most honorable warriors. He was a rifleman of the 4th Garwhal Rifles battalion during the Sino-Indian War in 1962. It was during the Battle of Nuranang, where he showed utmost bravery against the enemy. Jaswant remained at his post for 72 hours alone while trying to hold back the approaching Chinese army. His bravery is recognized through the monument that stands on that very same place.

The monument itself is designed like a temple, quite fitting for a noble war hero. A bronze statue and portrait of Jaswant are displayed at the monument. As you enter the monument, you will find many of his things displayed, such as his army uniform and weapons. You can also learn more about the Sino-Indian War and its history at this monument. There are even replicas of army bunkers and mess halls of that time. There is also an area for the fallen Chinese soldiers since they lost men here, too.

Admire the scenery

Arunachal Pradesh is known as the “land of dawn-lit mountains”, which is literally what its name means, thus you can expect breathtaking scenery of mountain ranges and valleys when you visit. It borders are part of the majestic Himalayan mountains, so you can be sure that this is a truly picturesque place. The site of the Jaswant Garh War Memorial is just below the terrain of the Sela Pass, which is a beautiful location for sightseeing. You will fall in love with the picturesque view of surrounding hills and mountains. It’s the perfect spot for some lovely pictures. Nature photographers, in particular, will definitely love this place. It’s also a great place to breathe in some fresh air and have some peace from the bustling city.

Travel tips

Best time to visit

Because of its location near the Himalayas, the weather in Arunachal Pradesh is almost always pleasant. You will fully appreciate it during both winter and spring seasons. The peak season would be October and April, which are the winter and spring months, respectively. However, since it’s located on a higher altitude, be prepared for colder temperatures, no matter what the season is. At Jaswant Garh War Memorial, there is a shop, where you can buy warmer clothes like jackets, caps, gloves, and scarves to help you battle the cold.

Tea and snacks are served

There is also a small coffee shop that serves coffee and tea for free. You can also fill your tummies with their delicious snacks at a cheap price. The people who run this little stall are none other than members of the army. It is their little way of honoring their comrade, Jaswant Singh Rawat. The purchases from the coffee shop would help the army maintain and operate the monument, so visitors and tourists are encouraged to support this endeavor.

How to get there

By taxi or private vehicle

Tawang is the nearest town to Jaswant Garh War Memorial, 25 kilometers (15 miles) away. The only way to reach the memorial is to hire a taxi or private vehicle from the main town.

By car or motorbike

However, getting to Tawang is also quite tricky but it isn’t completely impossible. Your best bet would be to hire a car or motorbike from the city of Tezpur in the state of Assam. From there, you will have to drive through the border at Bhalukpong, where you have to show a special permit called the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter as a tourist. You can get the permit from the concerned government offices in other major Indian cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Tezpur. Be prepared for a really long drive though, but rest assured that the beautiful scenery along the way will truly make up for it.

Jaswant Garh War Memorial information

Jaswant Garh War Memorial

Address: Cona County, Shannan, Arunachal Pradesh 790105, India

Department of tourism: Visit Arunachal