Tawang second largest monastery in asia . Tourists require Inner Line Permit to visit Tawang which is famous for high mountain pass, monasteries, lakes, forest, waterfalls and much more. Road trip to tawang surrounded by lush green forest and winding roads is mesmerizing. Tawang is a delight for spiritual seekers, nature lovers, and adventure junkies. The birthplace of 6th DalaiLama, Tawang is an important centre for Buddhism. it is connected with outside world via Se La Pass, one of highest motorable roads in the world.
Tawang Monastery, located in the scenic town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, India, holds the distinction of being the second-largest monastery in Asia. Perched at an impressive height of around 10,000 feet in the eastern Himalayas, the monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and valleys. It was established in 1680-81 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, making it one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist monasteries in the region. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and has been a center of spiritual learning and practice for centuries.
The monastery’s architecture is a visual delight, with its expansive complex featuring a grand three-story building, a prayer hall, and residential quarters that house over 450 monks. The highlight of the monastery is the 8-meter-tall statue of Lord Buddha, which stands majestically in the prayer hall, radiating peace and serenity. Tawang Monastery also houses a vast collection of sacred scriptures, ancient thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and manuscripts, making it an important repository of Buddhist culture and heritage.
Beyond its religious significance, Tawang Monastery is a cultural hub that celebrates festivals like the Torgya Festival, which showcases traditional Buddhist rituals, music, and dances. With its serene ambiance and rich history, Tawang Monastery continues to attract visitors from around the world, offering them a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heart of Arunachal Pradesh.
