Tawang Monastery holds the rank of the largest monastery in India and the second largest one in Asia. This monastery is counted as one of the most beautiful attractions of Arunachal Pradesh, also referred to as Galden Namgyal Lhatse. Situated amidst the mighty Himalayan ranges, above the sea level of 10,000 feet above sea level, the monastery offers magnificent views of the Tawang-Chu valley.
Tawang Monastery is not only a religious center for the residents of Tawang but is also home to over 300 monks. This monastery holds 17 gompas in the region. Our Tawang tour packages allow you to plan your vacation in Tawang and explore the monasteries. Contact our tour experts now to plan your holiday in this beautiful state of India.
Here is the detailed information about Tawang Monastery
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Tawang Monastery Architecture
The fortified complex of Tawang Monastery is spread across 135 sq.m. and is encircled by a 610 m long wall. It includes a total of 65 residential structures and ten other buildings. There is also a library (Par-Khang) of the 16th century, which has a valuable collection of old scriptures in around 850 bundles.
The entrance gate of Tawang Monastery is built like a hut with stone walls and ceilings and paintings of Kying-Khores and saints. And the gate on the northern side is around 15 feet long.
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Main Assembly Hall
Tawang monastery complex includes the assembly hall, or Dukhang, which boasts magnificent interiors with beautiful works of art. While the inner walls contain sketches and paintings of Bodhisattvas, the northern wall has an altar where religious ceremonies are organized.
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Three-Tiered Structure
On the left of the altar is a silver silk casket with Thangkas dedicated to Goddess Shri Devi (Palden Lhamo), the main deity of the monastery. This is the main structure inside the 3-storied complex and is north of the central courtyard.
Placed in the back of the monastery, the other important structure is the stone-slab court, where religious ceremonies and dances are organized per the lunar calendar of Monpa.
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Residential Quarters
The following important building is Rhum Khyang, a room for cooking food on special occasions and serving to monks on festival days. The residential quarter of the monks in the monastery complex is called Sha.
Finally, the Centre for Buddhist Cultural Studies is the chief structure of the monastery. This is the learning center for the resident young monks, where they gain traditional monastic education, such as Arithmetic, Hindi, English, etc.
History of Tawang Monastery
Established in 1860-61, Tawang Monastery in Arunachal was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso, the 5th Dalai Lama, as per the wishes of Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism.
Best Time to Visit Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery becomes the venue of two major religious festivals of the Monpas every year – Losar and Torgya. The Losar festival is the celebration of the beginning of the New Year. In each third year of Torgya, the Dungyur festival is also celebrated here.
All the festivals celebrated at the Tawang Monastery are marked by great enthusiasm. And these are undoubtedly the best times to visit Tawang Monastery for an authentic experience.
How to Reach Tawang Monastery
Here are different ways to reach Tawang Monastery -
- By Air: The nearest airport to Tawang Monastery is approximately 324 km away in Tezpur. You can take a bus to the monastery, which takes approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes.
- By Train: Take a train to Rangapara North Junction in Assam. The nearest railway station is 320 km away. It will take around 10 hours to reach Tawang Monastery by bus or taxi.
- By Road: You can take a car bus or ride a bike to Tawang Monastery. The unwinding roads leading to Tawang look beautiful, especially during winter. The bus connectivity is excellent. You can easily find buses from Silchar, Tezpur, Guwahati, Itanahar, and Bhalukpong to Tawang.
Places to Stay Near Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery's stay lets you know more about their culture and customs. Otherwise, you can also choose many hotels near Tawang Monastery for a comfortable stay. Here are our top recommendations
- Hotel Tawang Heights (1.8 km away)
- Yul Pemakhar (0.8 km away)
- Vamoose Bliss (0.5 km away)
- Hotel Menda-La (1 km away)
- Hotel Tawang Holiday (1.5 km away)
Tips for Visiting Tawang Monastery
- The weather during the winter months is freezing, so carry enough warm clothes with you.
- There are many places to stay in Tawang Monastery for an authentic experience.
- Book your tickets to Tawang in advance.
- Respect the local culture and follow any rules they might have on-site.
- Maintain peace inside and in the monastery surroundings.
- Wear sunscreen and keep drinking warm drinks to keep yourself warm from the inside.
Explore Tawang Monastery with Indian Holiday
Plan your trip to Tawang Monastery with our tour package. These packages take you to this majestic monastery and cover other top attractions in Tawang. Enjoy seamless travel with included meals, comfortable stays, guided sightseeing, exciting activities, and hassle-free transfers. Experience the best of Tawang with ease and comfort, ensuring a memorable and enriching vacation.
