Tawang Monastery
Intro
Tawang Monastery was built in the 17th century and is the largest monastery in India. The town of Tawang was later built around the monastery.
It was founded by the Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso and as per legend, its location was chosen by a horse. Therefore, being named Tawang Galdan Namgye Lhatse (Literally translated, "the site chosen by the horse is the divine paradise of complete victory").
Tawang Monastery is easy to reach by walk from nearby hotels, or within a few minutes drive from anywhere in Tawang City.
Tawang Monastery is famous for being the largest Buddhist monastery in India and was built in the 17th century.
Tawang Monastery is open all year and can be visited anytime. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant for traveling.
No, it is not possible to stay in Tawang Monastery but there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses within walking distance.
Entrance road of the monastery
Things to see at Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery was built in the 17th century and is the largest monastery in India. The town of Tawang was later built around the monastery.
The main assembly hall
Assembly Hall
The Assembly Hall is located in the most prominent building of the monastery and covers the entire ground floor. It is used for prayer and for large assemblies during festivals.
One of the main things that will grab your attention when you enter is the two-floor-tall statue at the center of the room. All the inner walls are painted with murals of divinities and saints.
Residential quarters of the monastery
Residential Quarters
The outermost rows of buildings in the monastery are filled with residential quarters. Walking around the monastery you will notice that it is built like a fortress to defend against attacks. In olden days, the founders faced constant threats from other sects and the monks were also trained in combat.
Museum
Ancient manuscript at Tawang Monastery. Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Located in Tawang Monastery is a museum displaying ancient artifacts dating back to the birth of the 6th Dalai Lama. Including rare items such as a human skull, elephant tusk, masks, and Tibetan canons.
