Arunachal Pradesh, with its scintillating mountain ranges, magical valleys, and mesmerizing rivers has enchanted the travellers, like a true beauty. There would hardly be any travel enthusiast who wouldn't dream to visit this magical land to enjoy its divine natural beauty. However, the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh is a highly sensitive area as they are mired in issues related to national security.
Though the state lies in India, the neighbouring China claims that most parts of Arunachal Pradesh come under the Tibetan autonomous region. The Bum La pass is at the India–China border in Tawang, which is touted as the 'heaven of the North East.' Known as the crown of Tawang, the Bum La pass, where the snow falls first in India, is renowned for its incredible beauty. However, the visitors are required to secure a special permit to enter the Bum La pass.
The Bum La Pass is located around 5000 meters above the sea level. It is through this pass that Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, had escaped to India. The army soldiers stand guard here braving the freezing cold. The permit to enter through the Bum La pass has to be secured from the office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang and the same has to be stamped at the Indian Army cantonment as well. It would be best to explore the place on a clear day without mist or rain. Besides, it would also be difficult to secure an official permit if the climate is harsh. As the paths and roads are in severe conditions, travelling in an SUV would be the safest way of commute.
The path through which the Dalai Lama entered India to seek refuge has acquired historical significance since then. The Sangestar Tso Lake is breathtakingly beautiful and a trip to the Bum La pass is incomplete without visiting here. There is a heap of shiny pebbles or stones, called the rock of peace. The India–China border personnel meeting point is another interesting location. There are four such meeting points. It is at these Border Personnel Meetings that the Indian Army and the People's Liberation Army of China hold meetings and discussions.
The summer is the most amazing season to visit the Bum La pass. The chances of rain and snow fall are scare then and it offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy the mystic beauty of Bum La in all its glory.