Irresponsible Adventure Ends in Tragedy: Two Drown at Sela lake After Ignoring Clear No-Entry Signs on Frozen Lake Surface
Sela Lake,perched at an impressive altitude of 13,700 feet (4,170 meters) in Arunachal Pradesh, serves as the vital high-altitude link connecting Tawang to the rest of India.
The victims, identified as 26-year-old B Prakash and 24-year-old Madhav M, were part of a seven-member group from Kerala traveling together on vacation. The group had booked a mini bus from Guwahati and were en route to Tawang when they stopped at the scenic Sela Pass for sightseeing — a popular high-altitude attraction known for its breathtaking views, snow-covered landscapes, and the iconic frozen Sela Lake at approximately 13,700 feet above sea level.
According to Tawang Superintendent of Police (SP) DW Thongon, the tragedy unfolded in the afternoon when the tourists ventured onto the frozen Sela Lake. Suddenly, the ice cracked under their weight, plunging two members into the freezing water. The group was walking on the surface, drawn by the allure of the winter wonderland, despite clear warnings against such activities.
Rescue efforts were immediately launched, involving local police, the Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The body of B Prakash was successfully retrieved and is currently at the Jang Community Health Centre for post-mortem examination. However, due to rapidly approaching darkness and challenging high-altitude conditions, the operation to recover Madhav M’s body had to be suspended on Friday evening.
SP Thongon confirmed that the search and rescue mission would resume early Saturday morning at 8 am, with full coordination from the Army, SSB, and SDRF teams. Authorities are working against time in the sub-zero temperatures and harsh terrain typical of Sela Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the region and a key gateway to Tawang.
Sela Pass and its adjacent Sela Lake (also known as Paradise Lake) are among the most visited spots in Tawang, especially during winter when the lake freezes over, creating a mesmerizing snowy spectacle. The area, part of the Eastern Himalayas, features sacred glacial lakes revered in Tibetan Buddhism and attracts adventure seekers and photographers from across India. However, this beauty comes with significant risks, as the ice layer on high-altitude lakes like Sela Lake is often thin and unstable, unable to bear human weight.
This is not the first time tourists have faced dangers at Sela Pass. Previous incidents, including narrow escapes in early 2025 when groups fell through cracking ice, prompted repeated safety warnings from the Tawang district administration. Signboards have been prominently installed at Sela and nearby Shungatser, explicitly prohibiting visitors from stepping onto frozen lakes. An advisory issued as early as December 17, 2025, cautioned tourists about the unstable ice and urged strict adherence to safety guidelines.
SP Thongon emphasized the importance of heeding these advisories: “Signboards have been installed at Sela and Shungatser, clearly warning tourists not to enter the frozen lake. Tourists should strictly follow all advisories for their own safety.” He reiterated that while Sela Pass offers unforgettable experiences, irresponsible actions can lead to fatal consequences in such extreme environments.
The incident highlights the growing need for responsible tourism in Arunachal Pradesh’s high-altitude regions. Visitors are advised to check weather forecasts, road conditions, and official guidelines before traveling to spots like Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, PT Tso, or Shongetser Lake. Packing adequate warm clothing, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and traveling with experienced guides can prevent mishaps.
As search operations continue for the second victim, the thoughts of the local community and authorities are with the bereaved families. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder that the stunning natural beauty of Sela Pass and Sela Lake must be enjoyed with utmost caution and respect for nature’s unpredictable forces.
