Gurudwara Teesri Udasi, Tawang

When we decided to do a road trip from Bangalore to Northeast India, I knew Arunachal Pradesh would surprise us in many ways. But there was one place we hadn’t really planned for, one that felt more like a blessing than a destination — Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang.

I wasn’t expecting to feel what I felt there. It wasn’t on any must-see list I came across, and yet it turned out to be one of the most peaceful and soulful places we visited on our entire journey.

When we reached, there was no one else there, except the army personnel who maintain the place. And honestly, that made the experience even more special. Maybe not many people know about this Gurudwara, like we didn’t until just a day before (while visiting Sungester lake). Or maybe it’s because getting there involves a short uphill walk, and not everyone is up for that, especially when the weather is not that great.

It had also been raining since morning, so that could be another reason people chose not to visit it. But I’m so glad we didn’t skip it. Some places just find you when you’re meant to experience them and this was definitely one of those.

Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang is also known as Tiger Hill Gurudwara, as it is located on Tiger Hill, the name of the mountain. But why is it called Teesri Udasi?

Teesri Udasi Gurudwara Sahib, Tawang

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What is “Teesri Udasi”?

Before I talk about the Gurudwara itself, let me give you a quick background. The word “Udasi” means journey. Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, undertook five major spiritual journeys during his lifetime. These journeys are known as Udasis.

These weren’t simple travels, they were deep spiritual pilgrimages covering vast parts of India and beyond. He covered a distance of around 28,000 km on foot, over a period of 24 years. He travelled across India, South Asia, and even reached parts of the Middle East and Tibet, sharing his message of love, peace, equality, and the oneness of God (Ek Onkar).

During his third Udasi, believed to have taken place between 1514 and 1518, Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited Tibet twice. The first time, in 1514, he travelled to Mansarovar and Mount Kailash, and came back to India through the same route.

Way to Gurudwara Teesri Udasi

But the second time, his path was different. He travelled through Nepal, Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh, and from there, continued towards Lhasa in Tibet.

And it is believed that during this journey, Guru Nanak Dev Ji meditated in a cave right here in Tawang. That very cave has now been turned into a Gurudwara and because it’s associated with his Teesri Udasi, the name stuck.

That’s how this peaceful little place on a hill came to be known as Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang.

Our Journey to Gurudwara Teesri Udasi

We were staying in Tawang and had just started exploring the region. On our very first day of sightseeing, we planned to visit Bumla Pass, PTSO Lake, and Sungester Lake (also known as Madhuri Lake). But since our Bumla permit was scheduled for the next day, we decided to just do the lakes for now.

Here’s a video of how to get the permit for Bumla Pass on YouTube-

After soaking in the views at PTSO Lake, we moved ahead towards Sungester, taking the left turn at the Y-junction. Just about 2.6 km from there, something caught our eye, a small Gurudwara tucked at the base of a hill.

Curious, we stopped to check it out. There was something instantly peaceful about it. But since we were on a tight schedule and had planned the day around the lakes, we skipped the trek up to the main Gurudwara on the hill and continued on to Sungester Lake.

But the story didn’t end there.

While returning from the lake, we passed the same spot again. And this time, something tugged at our hearts. There was this unexplainable pull, like the place was quietly calling us back. We paused. Talked about it. We had just one more day in Tawang, and the next day was fully packed. We were finally visiting Bumla Pass, and from there heading straight to Zemithang.

Still, something inside us knew we had to return.

And so we did.

Here’s a glimpse of our visit to Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang-

The next day, after visiting Bumla, we were driving back on the same route. We took that turn again. This time, we parked the car and walked up the hill to the Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang.

And I can’t explain it in words, the experience was so peaceful, so soulful, it felt like the place had been waiting for us all along.

Sometimes, it’s the unplanned detours that stay with you the longest. For us, visiting Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang became one of the most heart-touching moments of our entire journey in Arunachal Pradesh.

A Simple Structure, A Strong Presence

The Gurudwara is tucked into the rugged cliffs of the mountain, quite literally built into the rock face. From a distance, it almost looks like it’s growing out of the hill itself, camouflaged by nature. But as you get closer, you begin to notice the bright prayer flags, the modest building, and the narrow path leading up to it.

It’s not a grand or elaborate structure. There are no huge golden domes. Yet, it commands your attention. Maybe it’s the setting, surrounded by towering cliffs and silence or maybe it’s the story behind it. Either way, the moment you see it, you feel a sense of awe and reverence.

The stairs to the Gurudwara are narrow and steep but well-built. And as you climb, the world around you starts to fade, it’s just you, the mountain, and a sacred stillness.

A Place Respected Across Faiths

You may already know that Arunachal Pradesh is known for its monasteries, especially the iconic Tawang Monastery, which is the largest in India and the second-largest in the world. But did you know that Guru Nanak Dev Ji is also deeply respected here?

Locals lovingly refer to him as Nanak Lama. In fact, in some traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, Guru Nanak is seen as an incarnation of Guru Rinpoche. He is also known as Guru Padmasambhava, the saint who brought Buddhism to Tibet. It’s rare and beautiful to see a spiritual figure being embraced across different faiths like this.

Inside Gurudwara Teesri Udasi

This deep sense of mutual respect and shared reverence is what makes this Gurudwara even more special. It stands quietly, high up in the mountains, but holds a powerful space in the hearts of the people from this region, regardless of religion.

The Role of the Indian Army

Since this area is very close to the Indo-China border, the presence of the Indian Army is strong throughout this region. In fact, the Gurudwara itself is maintained by the Army personnel stationed here.

They also serve a simple langar (community meal), and even if you’re not there during langar hours, they’ll always offer you tea or prasad with warmth and humility.

Teesri Udasi Gurudwara

We couldn’t help but feel grateful. Not just for the physical upkeep of the Gurudwara, but for their quiet, constant presence in such a remote and extreme terrain. It’s because of their dedication that this piece of history and faith continues to thrive, high up in the mountains.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re planning a trip to Tawang, do make time for this place. Here are a few tips:

• Start early in the day
  The Gurudwara is 25 km from Tawang and 2.6 Km from Y-junction. The weather in high-altitude areas can change quickly. It’s best to start your day early and keep extra time in hand, both in case the weather turns or if you’re planning to visit other places on the same route, like Sungester Lake or Bumla Pass.
• No permit needed
  You don’t need a special permit to visit this Gurudwara, unlike Bumla Pass. But since it’s on the way to Bumla, plan your stop accordingly.
• Located at a High Altitude
  The Gurudwara is situated at around 13,000 feet, so take your time while climbing. The air is thinner, and it’s normal to feel a little breathless. Keep yourself hydrated to prevent AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
• Carry warm clothes
  Even if the sun is out, it can get windy, cloudy and cold, especially at higher altitudes. Layer up and keep a windcheater or warm jacket handy.

• 

  View from Gurudwara Teesri Udasi

• It’s a short uphill walk
  The Gurudwara on the hill is about a 20-30 minute walk from the road. The steps are steep but well-maintained. There are also resting sheds along the route and even a toilet, which makes the climb more manageable, especially for families and older visitors.
• Respect the space
  Though it’s maintained by the Indian Army, this is a sacred place. Cover your head, speak softly, and follow any instructions given on-site.
• Photography is allowed
  You can take photos inside and outside the Gurudwara, but always be mindful if Army personnel are around. Ask if you’re unsure.

There’s a Footwear protocol before entering. Just before reaching the Gurudwara at the top, you’ll find a Joda Ghar (footwear room). Visitors are expected to remove their shoes here and wear the slippers provided. These slippers must be taken off again at the Gurudwara entrance, as a sign of respect.

Most importantly, go with a quiet mind. You don’t have to be religious to feel the peace here.

Final Thoughts

Out of all the places we visited in Arunachal Pradesh, majestic monasteries, misty mountain passes, beautiful valleys — Gurudwara Teesri Udasi in Tawang offered something entirely different.

It gave us stillness.

It reminded me of the strength of simplicity. Of how one man’s journey, centuries ago, still touches lives in the most unexpected corners of the world.

And for that, I’ll always carry this visit close to my heart.

Have you ever visited a place that surprised you with its peace? Tell us in the comments below.

Planning a trip to Tawang? Here’s our detailed Tawang Itinerary, including how to get permits, places to stay, and hidden gems you shouldn’t miss.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Mister Tikku.