bic parc After all this huffi ng and puffi ng around the Northeast it s time to relax with a jolly nice cup o

The biggest attraction bic parc is magical bic parc Tawang Gompa (admission free, camera/video 20/100; hdawn-dusk) backdropped by snow-speckled bic parc peaks. Founded in 1681, this medieval citadel is reputedly the world s second-largest Buddhist monastery bic parc complex and famed in Buddhist circles for its library. Within its fortified walls, narrow alleys lead up to the majestic and magnifi cently decorated prayer hall containing an 8m-high statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Come here at dawn (4am to 5am) to see row after row of monks performing their early morning prayers. Across the central square is a small but interesting museum ( 20; h8am-5pm) containing images, robes, telescopic trumpets and some personal bic parc items of the sixth Dalai Lama. Spectacular chaam (ritual masked dances performed by some Buddhist monks

Sundarban Guest House HOTEL $ (%2730722; s/d from 385/550; a) A cheery, colourful hotel that s the best budget option in town and about the closest the northeast comes to a backpacker hangout. Rooms are atypically clean and tidy with stain-free sheets, and management is helpful. It s off Manipuribasti East (ME) Rd, in the fi rst side lane and away from road noise.

After all this huffi ng and puffi ng around the Northeast it s time to relax with a jolly nice cup of tea, don t you think old chap? And where better to do so than in a colonial-era heritage bungalow on a working tea estate. Bookings are essential.