Tucked away in the far northeastern corner of India, Bula Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass situated at 15,200 feet above sea level. Located on the Indo-China border, about 37 km from Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, this scenic and strategic location draws in adventurers, patriots, and nature lovers alike. But visiting Bula Pass isn’t as simple as driving up to a hill station — there are permits, permissions, and local transportation rules to follow. One of the most common questions among travelers is: What is the cost of visiting Bula Pass?

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bula Pass pricing, including permits, local vehicle rentals, travel tips, and hidden charges.

1. Do You Need a Permit for Bula Pass?
2. Yes, a permit is mandatory to visit Bula Pass. Since it is a restricted area near the India-China border, Indian citizens must obtain a special permit issued by the local authorities. Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit Bula Pass Price under normal circumstances.

Where to Get the Permit:

Tawang DC Office (Deputy Commissioner’s Office)

Indian Army Cantonment in Tawang

Tour operators and hotels in Tawang often assist with the permit process

Documents Required:

A valid Government-issued photo ID (like Aadhaar or PAN)

Passport-sized photographs

Photocopies of the ID for submission

1. Permit Charges (Bula Pass Price for Permits)
2. The good news is that the permit itself is free of cost. However, when arranged through hotels or tour operators, a processing fee or service charge is usually levied.

Typical Permit Arrangement Costs:

Hotel or agent service fee: ₹100 to ₹500

Faster processing or doorstep delivery: ₹200 extra (optional)

So while the permit is technically free, expect to spend around ₹300 to ₹700 per person when arranged through third-party services.

1. Traveling to Bula Pass: Transport Costs
2. Private vehicles from outside Tawang are not allowed beyond a certain point. Tourists must hire local taxis (generally Bolero, Sumo, or Scorpio) that are approved by local associations and familiar with the terrain.

Taxi Fare Breakdown:

Vehicle Type Route (Tawang to Bula + Madhuri Lake) Approx. Price (Round Trip)

Bolero/Sumo Tawang – Bula Pass – Madhuri Lake – Tawang ₹5000 – ₹7000

Scorpio/Xylo Same route, slightly more comfortable ₹6000 – ₹8000

Prices may increase slightly during peak tourist season (March to May and October to November).

Shared Taxi Option:

Some travelers manage to share taxis with other tourists to reduce costs, bringing the price down to around ₹1200–₹1800 per person.

1. What’s Included in the Bula Pass Travel Cost?
2. When you hire a vehicle to visit Bula Pass, it usually includes:

Pick-up and drop from Tawang

Stop at Madhuri Lake (Sangestar Tso)

Visit to P.T. Tso Lake

Waiting charges and army check-point clearance assistance

Experienced local driver familiar with army procedures

Note: Food, water, oxygen cylinders, and woollens are not included. You need to carry these separately.

1. Tips to Save on Bula Pass Trip Costs
2. If you’re looking to cut down your Bula Pass price and still enjoy the experience, here are some practical tips:

Travel in groups: The more people you have, the cheaper the cost per head for hiring a local vehicle.

Negotiate package deals: Many hotels in Tawang offer sightseeing combos (Tawang Monastery + Bula Pass + Madhuri Lake).

Avoid peak season surcharges: Visit in shoulder seasons like late February or early December for better deals.

Book permits in advance: So you don’t have to pay extra for express arrangements.

1. What to Expect at Bula Pass
2. Once you reach Bula Pass, you’ll be greeted by:

Indian Army personnel, who often act as local guides and narrate stories of the 1962 Indo-China war

A war memorial, showcasing India’s defense efforts

Snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear skies (especially in winter)

Photography is restricted in some areas, especially near military posts. Respect all security protocols and army instructions.

1. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
2. While the major Bula Pass prices are straightforward, some hidden or optional expenses can arise:

Winter gear rental: ₹300–₹500 for coats and boots (if you don’t have your own)

Oxygen canisters: ₹400–₹600 per can (optional but recommended at high altitudes)

Snacks and refreshments: ₹100–₹300, depending on how remote the stop is

1. Is Bula Pass Worth the Price?
2. Absolutely. For the relatively modest cost, Bula Pass offers a rare experience:

An up-close look at India’s northernmost frontiers

Interaction with real-life soldiers in action

Stunning Himalayan vistas and snow-covered peaks

Whether you’re a patriot, adventurer, or nature lover — the experience is both humbling and exhilarating.

Final Word

While the Bula Pass price isn’t very high in terms of entry, the logistics involved — from permits to local vehicle hire — do add up. On average, a day trip to Bula Pass from Tawang for a group of four people will cost between ₹1500 to ₹2000 per person, including everything.

Still, the breathtaking views, the sense of national pride, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity make every rupee spent absolutely worth it.