5 Must-Visit Monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh

The state of Arunachal Pradesh is India’s easternmost state, known for its rich natural beauty and distinct culture. This state also has some very impressive architecture and structures inspired by its own culture and history, including its monasteries. Arunachal Pradesh is home to the largest monastery in India among many others, and here’s five you must go to should you ever visit this state.

Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India, located in the Tawang valley that is close to the borders of China and Bhutan. It is also the second largest monastery in the world, founded in the 17th century by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso as a seat for Mahayana Buddhism. The building is three stories tall and has a large library dedicated to ancient scriptures.

The Urgelling Monastery is another famous monastery, located near the Tawang-Chu valley and was built around the year 1489 by Urgen Sangpo. This monastery is believed to have been the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso.

Gorsam Chorten is the oldest and largest Buddhist stupa in Arunachal Pradesh, located in the Zemithang Valley. Its structure includes its signature dome, which is whitewashed and painted with intricacy.

Taktsang Gompa is considered one of the holiest monasteries and shrines in the whole state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is established a short distance from Tawang, about half an hour by car, and is believed to have been one of the sites visited by Padmasambhava. There are many stories surrounding his visit to the place, and several marks and signs in the land are believed to have been left by him when he visited.

The Golden Pagoda in Namsai, also known as Kongmu Kham, is a Buddhist temple on the banks of the river Teang. As the name suggests, it is entirely golden in color and is made with stunning architecture of the Burmese style. It is a centre for Theravada Buddhism, which is the oldest school of Buddhism. 

There are also several nunneries in Arunachal, including Brahma-dung-chung Ani Gompa and Gyangong Ani Gompa, both in Tawang.

Monasteries are peaceful, serene places where nature and spiritualism coexist and grow with each other. Such a peace can only be truly understood in person, which is why one must visit them in order to gain a sense of awareness of it. The beauty of the natural environment and these spiritual locations make for an unforgettable learning experience about the history and culture of the state of Arunachal Pradesh.