The wonder of India lies in the fact that apart from claiming to be secular, India also proves that it is secular. India is a land of not only brilliant Hindu temples but also some thriving and beautiful Buddhist monasteries that dot the hills and mountains of India. Closer to the India-Tibet border, the impressive monasteries are not only tourist destinations but also an abode of peace. These monasteries are also a great place to visit if you are looking for some peace along with a spiritual awakening.
You will especially find many monasteries in Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh and the picturesque city of Ladakh. These monasteries are not only culturally rich but also historically significant to India. Here is a list of 10 most amazing and mind-blowing monasteries in India that should be on the top of your bucket list. «¡Relájese en Tailandia!»
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1. Phuktal Monastery, Zanskar
One of the most challenging and unique monasteries in India is Phutkal Monastery. This magnificent monastery can only be accessed by trekking through the treacherous mountains. However, the challenge is definitely worth it. Once you reach the top, you will find the secluded Phutkal Monastery proudly perched on top which was made from the mouth of a huge cave. This monastery feels like an ancient monument that has so many anecdotes to share and display. It exudes a kind of rustic charm and looks mesmerizing as it overlooks the intimidating snow-capped Himalayas.
A serene, crystal blue river flows below, and you will have to cross the suspension bridge to reach the monastery. The suspension bridge is adorned with colorful prayer flags that set the mood. You will find several monks who simply go about their daily lives, and live as humbly as possible. It is also inspiring to walk alongside pilgrims and monks who come from all over and continue singing Buddhist hymns along the way. Además de las creencias populares, Vietnam también tiene algunas religiones importantes como el budismo, el catolicismo, el protestantismo, el islamismo, Tours a Vietnam desde México
- How to get there : From Padum, 45 km on foot or by mule.
- What to do : Explore the cave, meditate, and attend rituals.
- Activity : Trekking.
- Nearby Attractions : Karsha Monastery, Zanskar River.
- Location : Lungnak Valley, Zanskar, Ladakh.
- Best time to visit : June to September.
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2. Thiksey Monastery
Thiksey Monastery is not only an exceptionally beautiful and impressive monastery, but its atmosphere is also atmospheric. Located in the foothills of the great Himalayas, Thiksey Monastery is the epitome of peace and serenity.
Visiting the monastery feels more like walking in a white wonderland. All buildings are white and arranged in ascending order of importance. This monastery is certainly popular with tourists, and many even say that it is the best monastery in the region. You can feel the radiant aura of this monastery from a mile away as it shines against the beautiful hills. Once you enter this monastery you will be enveloped in an overwhelming sense of tranquility. It feels like all worries have been lifted.
One of the defining features of this monastery is the Maitreya Temple, which houses a 15-meter-tall statue of Buddha. This statue is truly brilliant, and you will feel as if the great Buddha himself is sitting in front of you. «¡Comienza tu viaje a la India!»
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 19 km from Leh by road.
- What to do : Visit the Maitreya temple, observe the panoramic views.
- Activity : Photography.
- Nearby Attractions : Leh Palace, Hemis Monastery.
- Location : Leh, Ladakh.
- Best time to visit : May to September.
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3. Hemis Monastery, Ladakh
The wonderful Hemis Monastery, may not be a visual treat, but it is the largest and richest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. This ancient monastery is full of artifacts, relics and anecdotes that echo through the walls. This charming monastery is located about 50 km from Leh city. You will easily find a collection of ancient statues and sacred thangkas.
Staying at the monastery is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you must experience it at least once. It is liberating to live in the most humble and modest way. The workshops are also insightful, and you will feel calm and calm. Food will also be provided during your stay. Lea también: Descubre el Monasterio Taktshang en Bután
You should come here to witness the Hemis festival. During this time the entire city of Leh comes alive, and wonderful Buddhist chants, masked performances and other cultural programs fill the streets. The entire city of Leh metamorphoses during this time, as it awakens from its deep sleep to celebrate the Hemis festival.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 40 km from Leh by road.
- What to do : Participate in the Hemis Festival, explore the museum.
- Activity : Cultural festivals.
- Nearby Attractions : Thiksey Monastery, Stakna.
- Location : Leh, Ladakh.
- Best time to visit : June to September.
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4. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang Monastery, situated in Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest monastery in India. It is also a highly revered Buddhist monastery, and you will find many pilgrims and tourists flocking to this impressive temple. If you look at the monastery from a distance, it looks as if it is hanging on the side of the cliff. The monastery sits right on the edge, hence why it looks so precarious. You may even feel afraid to visit this hanging monastery. But actually, it’s pretty safe. Tawang Monastery looks like a fort that twists on both sides. The beauty of this monastery lies in its interiors. The main prayer hall is exquisitely decorated so it looks fit for a royal. Lea también: Descubre los mejores atractivos de Nagarkot
If you manage to come here early, you can also catch the monks performing their morning prayers. It is truly a sight to behold as numerous monks newly dressed in red and yellow robes join in and recite the sacred chant. Chants emanate through the walls and fill the room. Everything feels so calm, holy and godly in that moment. It will also allow you to immerse yourself in the full Buddhist experience and you will get some lovely insights.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 448 km from Guwahati by road.
- What to do : Explore the monastery complex, attend the chanting.
- Activity : Cultural visit.
- Nearby attractions : Sangetsar Lake, Bumla Pass.
- Location : Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Best time to visit : March to October.
You will need a special permit to reach this monastery in Arunachal Pradesh.
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5. Tabo: Spiti
The paradise Spiti Valley is home to five major Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Among which, Tabo Monastery is said to be the most popular and frequently visited monastery. The beauty of the Tabo Monastery is not found in its exterior, but in the treasures inside the monastery. Upon entering the monastery, you will witness dimly lit rooms and ancient treasures unfold in front of you. There are so many works of art, sculptures and writings inside the Tabo Monastery, that it feels more like a museum. There is something so calming about this monastery. You will be able to hear all the melodious and peaceful songs.
This monastery is not only a great place to escape from the daily hustle and bustle of life, but it is also full of stories and anecdotes. The statues, sculptures and scriptures found here tell the story about the origin of Buddhism, and give a wonderful insight into the history of this religion.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 365 km from Shimla by road.
- What to do : Explore the wall paintings and caves.
- Activity : Historical exploration.
- Nearby Attractions : Pin Valley, Dhankar Monastery.
- Location : Spiti, Himachal Pradesh.
- Best time to visit : May to October.
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6. Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
What makes the Tsuglagkhang Complex so important is that it is the official residence of the Dalai Lama. While this is not a monastery per se, it is an extremely revered and important place for Buddhists. This place can be called the landmark of the Buddhist religion, and it is a place that should be on the top of your bucket list. Hordes of devotees and pilgrims gather here every day to catch a glimpse of the Holy Dalai Lama.
Visit the wonderful Tsuglagkhang Temple and witness the marvelous three-meter-high golden sculpture of Buddha. After visiting the Tsuglagkhang temple, visit the Kalachakra temple to see the intricate murals painted on the walls. If you really want the full Buddhist experience, spend a whole day here. In the afternoon, the monks will participate in a lively debate at the Namgyal Gompa. To experience something different, you can also follow Buddhist pilgrims on a highly spiritual walk around the complex. Leer también: La mejor forma de llegar a Haridwar
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 5 km from McLeod Ganj by road.
- What to do : Visit the Dalai Lama’s residence, museum.
- Activity : Meditation.
- Nearby Attractions : Bhagsu Waterfall, Bhagsunath Temple.
- Location : Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
- Best time to visit : March to June.
7. Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim
Sikkim can be called the land of monasteries in India as it is home to around 200 monasteries. However, the famous Rumtek Monastery is the largest and most popular monastery in Sikkim. Located in Gangtok, this vibrantly colored monastery was built in the 9th century. It has since managed to survive the test of time, and now welcomes pilgrims, devotees and tourists from all over the world.
The monastery has many workshops, art of living lectures, and sacred songs to make you feel comfortable and at peace. These activities are extremely insightful and will give you a much-needed break from noisy city life. You can also participate in group meditations, which take place during May and June.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 24 km from Gangtok by road.
- What to do : Attend the rituals, explore the gardens.
- Activity : Spiritual visit.
- Nearby Attractions : Enchey Monastery, Lake Tsomgo.
- Location : Gangtok, Sikkim.
- Best time to visit : October to December.
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8. Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh
The impressive Palpung Sherabling monastic seat is built on 30 acres of land that is surrounded by a wonderful and aromatic pine forest. The snow-capped mountains provide the perfect backdrop as the monastery rests peacefully. The location alone makes this monastery worth visiting. There are winding trails that take you through the forests, and you can embark on several rejuvenating hikes and trails.
The monastery itself is flanked by a row of fascinating stupas. A large shining statue of Buddha is kept in the royal prayer, which is also luxuriously decorated. The atmosphere inside the monastery is serene and relaxing, and you can spend plenty of idyllic hours just sitting here and introspecting.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 65 km from Dharamshala by road.
- What to do : Participate in retreats, explore the grounds.
- Activity : Spiritual retreats.
- Nearby Attractions : Baijnath Temple, Bir Billing.
- Location : Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh.
- Best time to visit : March to June.
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9. Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
The peaceful Mindrolling Monastery is located in the charming city of Dehradun. This monastery is one of the main monasteries of the Nyingma school, which is located in Tibet. It is not only a religious place, but also has a huge Buddhist institute, which provides education to many Buddhist children.
The highlight of the monastery is undoubtedly the Great Stupa, which is so beautifully and intricately designed. It measures about 56.4 meters high and 9.1 square meters wide. The designs on the Stupa symbolize the imbalances in the elements and energies. There is so much depth, and you will feel as if the Stupa is trying to weave a story. It is also the largest stupa in the world.
You can walk through the monastery, sit in secluded corners or simply meditate in the landscaped gardens. No matter what you do, you will always feel a sense of peace that surrounds you and makes you feel welcome and warm. You will feel the pace of your mind gradually slow down, as you begin to enjoy your time here. It is a truly refreshing and rejuvenating experience.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 9 km from Dehradun by road.
- What to do : Visit the great stupa, attend the teachings.
- Activity : Meditation.
- Nearby Attractions : Rajaji National Park, Tapkeshwar Temple.
- Location : Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
- Best time to visit : October to April.
10. Namdroling Monastery and Golden Temple, Karnataka
If you don’t want to visit the mountains to see some extensive Buddhist monasteries, you can always visit Namdroling Nyingmapa Tibetan Monastery also known as the «Golden Temple». Located in Karnataka, this charming monastery is true to its name. From the moment you enter Namdrolling Nyingmapa Monastery until the moment you say goodbye, you will be in awe of the elegant beauty within.
The prayer room is dotted with different eyepieces that make the walls jump with joy and it is difficult to take your eyes off the brilliance of this prayer room. The sight of the monks deep in their meditation as the blue walls turn out to be the perfect background is actually quite beautiful.
In the center of the prayer hall, you will find few golden statues of Buddhas which add so much charm to the monastery. The three main statues kept in the ornately decorated prayer hall are also quite large. Adds so much more to the prayer room. There is no way you can visit this monastery without having your jaws drop.
These wonderful Buddhist monasteries are an epitome of peace and tranquility, and will not only make your trip more memorable but will also heal your soul from within. After visiting any of these monasteries, you will feel elated and calmer, and they are truly the jewels of India. So, instead of waiting any longer, pack your bags and head to the realm of serenity and ataraxy.
- How to reach (with kilometers) : 34 km from Mysore by road.
- What to do : Explore the golden temples, meditate.
- Activity : Cultural visit.
- Nearby Attractions : Nisargadhama, Bylakuppe.
- Location : Bylakuppe, Karnataka.
- Best time to visit : October to March.
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