Have you ever wondered what it's like to stand just meters away from the India-China border, at 15,000 feet above sea level, surrounded by snow, silence, and stories?

Welcome to Bum La Pass, a surreal and strategically significant mountain pass located in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. You can visit this pass in your Tawang tour package. 

Imagine this: A crisp wind brushes against your face as you step onto the icy terrain. Towering peaks loom in every direction, their jagged silhouettes glowing under the high-altitude. There's a stillness here that's hard to describe—broken only by the occasional flutter of the Indian flag.

But Bum La is more than just dramatic scenery. It’s a place where history breathes in the cold mountain air. In 1962, this very router saw intense combat during the Indo-China war. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and peace, guarded by Indian soldiers whose warmth matches the bitter cold they endure.

A visit to Bum La isn’t just a journey—it’s a story waiting to unfold.

About Bumla Pass

Bumla Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an elevation of approximately 15,200 feet (4,633 meters) above sea level in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas near the Indo-China border, Bumla Pass is both a site of strategic military importance and a place of serene natural beauty, attracting tourists and patriots alike.

Geographically, Bumla Pass lies about 37 kilometers north of Tawang town and is one of the four officially agreed Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points between the Indian Army and the People’s Liberation Army of China. It connects Tawang in India to Tsona Dzong in Tibet, making it historically and geopolitically significant. The route to Bumla is breathtaking yet challenging, with winding roads that cut through rugged mountain terrain, snow-covered peaks, and pristine lakes such as the Sangestar Tso (also known as Madhuri Lake, after the Bollywood film Koyla was shot there).

Historically, Bumla Pass is most remembered for its role during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. It was through this pass that Chinese troops invaded India, leading to a bloody conflict. The region still carries the echoes of this turbulent past, with war memorials and army bunkers dotting the landscape. Today, however, Bumla stands as a symbol of peace and cooperation, hosting regular meetings between Indian and Chinese military officials to resolve border issues and maintain cordial relations.

Do You Need a Permit to Visit Bumla Pass?

Yes, visiting Bumla Pass requires official permission due to its sensitive location near the Indo-China border. Access is tightly controlled, and only Indian nationals are allowed. 

Following Permits are needed:

1. Inner Line Permit (ILP): This is mandatory for all non-residents entering Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Special Bumla Permit: This is issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang and must be countersigned by the Indian Army.

Foreign nationals, unfortunately, are not allowed to visit Bumla Pass, given its strategic military significance and proximity to the international border.

To secure the necessary permits, travelers need to submit the following documents:

• A government-issued photo ID (such as Aadhar card or driving license)
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Vehicle registration and insurance papers (if you’re driving your own vehicle)

For those traveling with The Dream Riders Group, there's no need to stress about the paperwork. Your permits will be arranged on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey to this iconic Himalayan frontier. With the logistics taken care of, you’re free to immerse yourself in the adventure and beauty of Bumla Pass, while we handle the formalities.

What Makes Bum La Special?

• Historic and Patriotic Significance: Bumla was a key battle site during the 1962 Indo-China war and remains a critical point of border diplomacy today.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Think snow-capped peaks, dramatic valleys, and a view that makes you feel like you’re at the top of the world.
• Army Presence & Pride: The Indian Army warmly welcomes visitors and often shares fascinating stories from the border.
• Rare Access Point to Indo-China Border: Very few places in India offer such close proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• The 1962 Indo-China War Memorial: A silent tribute to the brave soldiers who stood their ground.
• Army Café: Yes, they sometimes offer tea at the top!
• Madhuri Lake: On the way to Bum La—remember that lake from the Bollywood movie Koyla?

Travel Tips for Bumla Pass

• Dress in Layers: Temperatures drop drastically, even in summer. Pack thermals, gloves, woolen socks, and a windproof jacket.
• Start Early: The road closes early due to fog and security restrictions. Most trips start by 6–7 AM from Tawang.
• Acclimatize First: Spend at least one full day in Tawang to adjust to the high altitude.
• Carry Snacks & Water: There are no shops or cafes on the route. Dry fruits, chocolates, and warm water are ideal.
• Fuel Up in Tawang: No fuel stations exist past the town, so tank up before you begin your journey.
• Check Weather & Road Status: Snowfall can shut the pass down unexpectedly. Always verify with your local tour operator or the Indian Army check-post.
• Respect Protocols: Photography is restricted in certain zones. Always follow army instructions and maintain decorum

Conclusion:

If you're looking for a high-altitude Himalayan experience that blends history, nature, patriotism, and adventure, Bumla Pass is absolutely worth the detour. Few places in India let you experience such proximity to an international border, witness frozen lakes, interact with soldiers, and ride through landscapes that seem carved out of a dream.

So pack your woolens, warm up your engines, and don’t forget to add Bumla Pass to your Tawang Motorcycle Tour Package.