Background

Tawang Monastery: A Himalayan Beacon of Spirituality

Discover serenity at Tawang Monastery, India's largest Buddhist sanctuary, nestled in the breathtaking Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh.

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Perched high in the Himalayas, Tawang Monastery is India's largest and one of the world's largest Buddhist monasteries, offering a serene escape amidst stunning mountain views and a deep dive into Buddhist culture.

A brief summary to Bomdila#Tawang# Arunachal Pradesh

  • HVP5+9RM, Tawang, 790104, IN
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Acclimatize to the high altitude before undertaking strenuous activities to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the monastery, and seek permission before taking photographs.
  • Carry sufficient cash as ATMs in Tawang can be unreliable.
  • Obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bomdila, buses to Tawang are available, with a journey time of approximately 6-11 hours. The average bus ticket price ranges from INR 800 to INR 1000. Shared cabs (usually Sumo) are also an option, costing around INR 600 per person.

  • Car

    The road from Bomdila to Tawang is approximately 175-181 km and can be covered in 6-7 hours. The route passes through Sela Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass. Be sure to obtain the necessary permits and check road conditions before traveling.

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Discover more about Bomdila#Tawang# Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang Monastery, also known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, stands as a magnificent testament to Mahayana Buddhism in the remote Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Founded in the 17th century by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, under the guidance of the 5th Dalai Lama, it's the largest monastery in India and the second-largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. Rising at an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), the monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tawang Chu valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and verdant coniferous forests. The name 'Gaden Namgyal Lhatse' translates to 'the divine paradise of complete victory'. The monastery complex is a sprawling structure enclosed by a 925-foot-long compound wall, housing 65 residential buildings. The 'Dukhang' or assembly hall, is the most imposing building, adorned with murals of divinities and saints. A colossal, gilded statue of Lord Buddha dominates the northern side, flanked by his attendants. The library preserves valuable old scriptures, including Kangyur and Tengyur. Tawang Monastery is not just a religious center but also a socio-cultural institute with tremendous influence on the daily lives of the local Monpa people. The annual Torgya Festival is a major event, attracting devotees and tourists alike. The monastery has a printing press for producing religious books using locally made paper and wooden blocks. Visitors can witness the monks' daily rituals and prayers, experiencing the serene atmosphere perfect for meditation and contemplation. Beyond the monastery, Tawang offers other attractions such as the Tawang War Memorial, Sela Pass, and local markets. A visit to Tawang Monastery provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Buddhist culture and experience the tranquility of the Himalayas.

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