Tawang Monastery: The Largest Monastery in India
Known as an important seat of Mahayana Buddhism, Tawang Monastery is located in Arunachal Pradesh and is famous for being the largest monastery in India. It oversees 17 Gompas and was established by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso with the permission of the 5th Dalai Lama in 1860–61. Besides spiritual significance, tourists come here to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Tawang-Chu valley.
More than 450 monks reside at Tawang Monastery. It is also called Gaden Namgyal Lhatse by Buddhists. Perched at an altitude of 3,300 m, it is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries outside Lhasa.
Following are the main attractions of Tawang Monastery:
The Assembly Hall: Also called the 'Dukhang,' this is the most majestic building of the monastery. It houses the 'Labrang' (the Abbot's establishment) and the temple. The walls feature exquisite paintings and murals of saints and monks. The northern wall forms the altar, with a massive and imposing statue of Lord Buddha.
Court of Tawang Monastery: Also called the stone labs court, it is used for outdoor ceremonies and religious dances. Around 60 residential quarters, known as "Aha" (huts), are located on the eastern side.
Centre for Buddhist Cultural Studies: Young monks are educated here in arithmetic, Hindi, English, and traditional monastic subjects.
Exploring Tawang Monastery is a spiritually enriching experience, with its grandeur and serene atmosphere leaving a lasting impression.
Excursions from Tawang Monastery: Nearby attractions include Urgelling Monastery (5 km), P.T. So Lake (23 km), Bumla Pass (37 km), and Bap Teng Kang (80 km).
Shopping in Tawang: Hand-made bags, chadors (wrap-around skirts), shawls, and carpets are popular souvenirs. Prayer wheels and Buddhist statues are also highly sought after.
When to Reach:
The best time to visit Tawang Monastery is between April and October. The Losar Festival, celebrated between February and June, is another excellent time to visit.
How to Reach:
Air: The nearest airport is at Tezpur, Assam, 393 km away.
Rail: The nearest railway station is at Rangapara, Assam, approximately 380 km away.
Road: Buses run from Bomdila to Tawang Monastery on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Alternatively, one can hire a Jeep from Bomdila bus station.
