Tawang Monastery image

Tawang Monastery

Tourist attraction Buddhist temple Monastery

One of the Best Places To Visits in Shyo


Address

HVP5+M3X, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh 790104

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (3.2K reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Thursday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Friday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Saturday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Monday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Tuesday: 7 am to 7 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Tawang (40) monastery (37) Monastery (25) visit (21) monks (16) largest (14) India (11) Buddhist (10) beautiful (9) town (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Abhishek S. 2 years ago on Google
    Highly recommend place to visit in arunachal pradesh. It is the largest monastery in India and second largest in the world. The place is amazing and you will have a different travel experience here. The place is absolutely beautiful.
    30 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Prashant D. 3 months ago on Google • 301 reviews New
    Tawang Monastery stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region, and my visit left me profoundly moved. This Himalayan sanctuary, perched atop the picturesque Tawang valley, offers a spiritual retreat like no other. Approaching the monastery, the awe-inspiring architecture and its serene surroundings create an atmosphere of reverence. The intricate detailing on the exterior and the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze set the stage for a truly immersive experience. Once inside, the monastery's inner sanctum exudes a sense of tranquility and spirituality. The prayer halls, adorned with traditional Buddhist art and scriptures, invite visitors to witness and participate in the monks' rituals, adding a unique cultural dimension to the visit. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from Tawang Monastery are simply breathtaking. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the stunning natural beauty, creates a perfect setting for quiet contemplation and meditation. I found myself captivated by the harmonious blend of the spiritual and the natural. The resident monks are welcoming and open to sharing insights into their way of life. Engaging with them and learning about the monastery's history enriched my visit and deepened my appreciation for the Tibetan Buddhist culture. Practical amenities such as well-maintained pathways, informative signage, and a souvenir shop add to the overall positive experience. The monastery's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage is evident, and the efforts to maintain cleanliness and order are commendable. For those seeking a profound spiritual encounter or simply a moment of serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes, Tawang Monastery is a must-visit destination. It's not just a religious site; it's a cultural treasure that leaves a lasting impression on the heart and soul. My visit to Tawang Monastery was an unforgettable journey into the heart of spirituality and a connection with the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joy R. 6 months ago on Google • 239 reviews
    One of the must visit place in Tawang. The largest monastery in India. The place is full of peace & serenity.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Surajit M. 5 months ago on Google • 143 reviews
    Largest residential monetary in Asia. This place deserves attention. Just requires a parking ticket if you came here by your own vehicles else no entry ticket is required. One you're in here you will be amazed by its size.you can literally walk by the aisle inside the monestry.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Agniva G. 2 months ago on Google • 199 reviews New
    Tawang Monastery, Asia's second-largest, captivates with its grandeur in the Himalayas. Steeped in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, it boasts stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. A pilgrimage site revered by many, it offers a profound spiritual experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Biplab K. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful monestry I've ever been. India's largest monestry and world's second largest. The surrounding is very beautiful. The place is very peaceful and you can get the positive vibes while entering the premise. The Buddha statue is one the largest statues I've ever seen. The main premise is so calm and peaceful. I've been there while the prayers are going on and I literally got goosebumps by listening to the holy prayers chanting by the monks. One of the best places in Tawang and it should be visited to fell it's positivity.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 pusparaj s. 4 months ago on Google • 117 reviews
    Also known as the Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhatse (the celestial paradise of divine site chosen by the horse), the Tawang Monastery is one of the oldest monastery in Asia and is considered as the second largest in Asia. Located at the land of the rising sun, it has around 17 associated Gompas and it is a symbol of spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and architectural beauty. Visited on 24th November 2023 in a chilling winter.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jothi V. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful monasteries I have visited. It is like a village and you are transported back in time. Loved watching cute little monks running around. Don’t miss the view point behind the monastery.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 chetan s. 2 years ago on Google
    Must visit place and easily accessible. One can spend some time to meditate and feel the positive vibes. It's a small town in itself with numerous monks.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ramya G. 2 years ago on Google
    It's Asia's biggest monastery which is located in Tawang. Beautiful place. It's tooo big that we need 2-3 hrs to roam the place. We found 2 puppies inside the monastery 🥰. You can stay and learn more about their culture. No entry tickets or parking charges. When you visit Tawang must visit place.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mommy T. 1 year ago on Google
    Mind blowing fews from the view points, very friendly scholars and priests who explained us about the Monastery. Do not miss paying a visit to the Museum that is attached to the Monastery if you are interested in the culture history and traditions. And another reason to visit this beautiful place is this is the oldest monastery monastery in Asia
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 George John M. 9 months ago on Google
    The Monastery is huge and the largest Buddhist Monastery in India. It was established almost 450 years ago. The atmosphere is serene and the prayer hall huge & impressive. Though the old structure was made of wood, it's been renovated with concrete although the old facade has been maintained. We were lucky to be taken around by a Lama who explained the significance of the Monastery and also explain the artefacts in the Museum. The Museum is worth a visit as it has pictures of the various dignitaries who've visited the place and also some quaint artefacts of yore including those belonging to the one who built the Monastery. There were no tickets for the Monastery per se, but there was an entry fee of Rs. 20/- for the Museum. Definitely worth a visit when in Tawang.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arnab D. 3 months ago on Google • 26 reviews New
    The whole Tawang city can be seen from the monastery. When you enter the monastery it will give a deep peace in your whole body and mind. It actually minimizes stress.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Akshatha R. 1 month ago on Google • 50 reviews New
    A very beautiful monastery nestling amidst tall pine trees, gives a peaceful feeling when you walk by the tall white walls. The monks are friendly and as it was the new year, enjoyed some local food which was distributed by monks.

  • 5/5 Devajyoti B. 8 months ago on Google
    Second largest monastery of India, founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in 1680-81, follower of Tibetan Buddhism (Gelug school of Vajrayana Buddhism). In Tibetan it is known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse meaning the paradise of complete victory. Anyone can come and feel the devine peace of mind in every corner of it. It has a museum and a library also.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ananya G. 2 months ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    It is the largest monastery of India. It's also the second biggest and oldest monastery in Asia. It's a very peaceful place for meditation. Do visit this place with time in your hand because you'll need to walk a lot to reach the monastery. One can even stay at the monastery and learn about monks here. The scenic beauty from here is outstanding as you can see whole tawang from here. The monastery is itself beautiful too!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Varun V. 1 year ago on Google
    Tawang Monastery...🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️ About 2 Kms from the town is the Tawang Monastery. The Monastery is the second biggest and oldest in Asia and is known as the Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhatse i.e., the celestial paradise of divine site chosen by the horse was founded by Merag Lodroe Gyamtso in the year 1680-81. The Dalai Lama gave him a painting of goddess Palden Lhamo to be kept in the monastery. The 8 m high glided statue of Lord Buddha dominates the sanctum. The great rotating prayer wheels, priceless thangkas, the drone of monks in prayer, sputtering butter lamps are an evocative vision. The Tawang Monastery has a residential building for the monks, a library, a museum and school for the basic education. Pierced atop a hill dominating everything around and below it is an enormous yellow-roofed Tawang monastery which was originally a large and fortified complex strategically sited where the caravan routes from Tibet, Bhutan and West Kameng met. The place is also famous with the legend of 7th Century A.D., King Kalawangpo and Khandro Drowa Zangmo, known as rTa nag mandal sgang. Tawang Monastery, located in Tawang city of Tawang district in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest monastery in India. It is situated in the valley of the Tawang Chu, near the small town of the same name in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh, in close proximity to the Chinese and Bhutanese border. Tawang Monastery is known in Tibetan as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, which translates to "the divine paradise of complete victory." It was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in 1680–1681 in accordance with the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. It belongs to the Gelug school of Vajrayana Buddhism and had a religious association with Drepung Monastery of Lhasa, which continued during the period of British rule. The monastery is three stories high. It is enclosed by a 925 feet (282 m) long compound wall. Within the complex there are 65 residential buildings. The library of the monastery has valuable old scriptures, mainly Kangyur and Tengyur. A small town located amidst the eastern Himalayan ranges, Tawang is a town in northeastern India famous for its 400-year-old monastery. This monastery is one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries to be found in India and is an important pilgrim center for the followers of Buddhism. Apart from its religious importance, Tawang is famous for its natural beauty, which attracts and enchants the traveler. I ❤Tawang...✌🏼✌🏼
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arghya 1 year ago on Google
    Largest monastery of India.It is visible from whole of the Tawang.The Lord Buddha sitting on the top of the hill keeps an eye on the town and always his blessings are with the town.Its a very organised and small town but the landscapes are just beautiful.You will always cherish your memories made here.Went here with my friends.Really enjoyed the trip.Its an awesome place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tanmay R. 10 months ago on Google
    The Tawang Monastery is a renowned Buddhist monastery located in the town of Tawang in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in India and holds great religious and cultural importance. Tawang Monastery, also known as Galden Namgyal Lhatse, was founded in the 17th century by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso. The monastery belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, which was founded by Je Tsongkhapa. It is perched on a hilltop at an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The monastery is a complex of various buildings, including prayer halls, residential quarters for monks, libraries, and religious institutions. The main prayer hall, known as the Dukhang, is adorned with elaborate murals, thangka paintings, and statues of Buddhist deities. It is a place of worship and daily rituals performed by the resident monks. Tawang Monastery is also famous for its three-story high statue of Lord Buddha, which is housed within the premises. The statue, known as the Galden Namgyal Lhatse, is a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists alike. The monastery is not only a religious center but also a hub of cultural activities. It hosts various festivals and events, including the Torgya Festival, during which colorful mask dances are performed by the monks. These festivities attract a large number of visitors who come to witness the traditional ceremonies and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural atmosphere. Visiting Tawang Monastery provides an opportunity to experience the rich Buddhist heritage and spirituality of the region. The serene ambiance, architectural beauty, and panoramic views make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Arunachal Pradesh. It's important to note that Tawang is located in a sensitive border area, and visitors need to obtain Inner Line Permits to enter Arunachal Pradesh. These permits can be obtained from the Arunachal Pradesh government offices in major cities or online through the official website. It is advisable to check the current travel guidelines and permit requirements before planning a visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arun G. 1 year ago on Google
    One of best monastery I have visited. Very calm and divine. The place is a small township and lot of Buddhist monks live there. The place has public amenities like health centre and Buddhist culture study centre, etc.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JAY D. 9 months ago on Google
    Tawang Monastery, located in Tawang city of Tawang district in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest monastery in India and second largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. It is situated in the valley of the Tawang River.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jyotirmoy P. 10 months ago on Google
    A must visit place if you are in Arunachal Pradesh. The quiteness, the ambience, the aura of the whole place will leave you with goosebumps. People, the Monks, the Lamas, everyone will make you feel at home.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dipabali N. 11 months ago on Google
    One of the beautiful monasteries visited till date. The colours all around in the backdrop of mountains is sure to make you love that place. Do visit the museum. It has 20 rs per person ticket if you are a history buff or love museums like I do. The monastery premises doesn't need any ticket to enter.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neeti B. 1 year ago on Google
    A peaceful place with lots of positive vibes. For me it holds a different value as this is where I got hold of the Army caption for the Bum La Pass permit. The best part there was no stamp however I was not ready to miss my chance to visit Bum La Pass. Lucky place with great view of Tawang.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harsh 2 years ago on Google
    The place matches the vibe which you get on viewing it's picture. It is quaint and tranquil. Don't be in haste when you visit this place. Try to make a conversation with monks who can give you insights of this place which you might not be able to get from anywhere else.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nikhil K. 11 months ago on Google
    Pretty clean with awesome weather, open to tourists and has all basic amenities for the monks living there. Monks of all ages live here and are very easygoing with outsiders. The view of the mountains from the monastery is a sight to behold.

  • 5/5 piyush a. 9 months ago on Google
    An old photographic scenic beauty. The area is immensely structured with detailing. The murals on the walls are so intricate and aura was mesmerising. The place has a museum which has a ticket of 20rs. It has a school for monks.

  • 4/5 Monil V. 11 months ago on Google
    If possible take a monk or guide who will explain everything about monastery and Buddhism. Also do visit a museum for nominal entry fee of Rs.20. Below the monastery there is Picnic ground, very scenic and calm.

  • 5/5 Debanjana S. 1 year ago on Google
    I always love to visit monastery. The tall Buddha statue was visible from the moment I stepped into Tawang and that kept attracting me. Amazing and peaceful place 😊❤️


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Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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