Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is home to some of India’s most peaceful and picturesque monasteries. The state is in the extreme Northeastern part of India. Arunachal Pradesh shares closeness in terms of geography with Tibet and Bhutan; hence, the cultural influence is quite evident. If you want to explore and know about Buddhist Monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh, this is the right place for you. The place also has a connection with Tibet in the past, so there are many significant ancient Buddhist monasteries there which are worth visiting for history lovers.
Buddhism is one of the most important religions practised here and has two branches. The areas near Tibet border, like West Kameng and Tawang, and a few other remote corners, practice Tibetan Buddhism and the people living in the east near the Indo-Burmese border practice the Theravada Buddism.
Top monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh
1. Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery or Galden Namgyal Lhatse holds the prestige of being the largest monastery in the country. It is also the second largest Buddha temple in the world and this is indeed a reason for everyone to make a trip to Tawang. The fifth Dalai Lama had his divine wishes and even contributed to the construction of this beautiful monastery. Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso established the monastery in 1860-1861 AD. The gorgeous architecture and the structure of this vast monastery are visible from a distance. The monastery can house around 700 monks. The 26-feet high statue of Buddha is the largest and is in the Dukhang or the Assembly hall, which also has Thankas and several decorations all over the walls. The entrance gate or the Kakaling is grand with plenty of wall paintings and murals.
The beautiful hilly town of Tawang is surrounded by many ancient monasteries and nunneries, apart from other attractions such as high-altitude lakes and mountain passes.
2. Samten Yongcha Monastery, Mechuka
Older than the Tawang monastery is the Samten Yongcha Monastery in a place called Mechuka. The grand looking monastery was built 400 years ago. It has statues and paintings of Guru Padmasambhava and it has murals that any visitor shall admire. The monastery is located on top of a hill and has an amazing view of the valley of Mechuka and the river of Yargyap Chu ahead of it. The monastery is very old and of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism.
Interesting Read Top 10 offbeat places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh
3. Bomdila Monastery
One more monastery that shall mesmerize any visitor travelling to Arunachal Pradesh is that of Bomdila. This monastery is fairly new, built in 1965. The monastery has monks from the West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh. One shall find similarity in the design of architecture with the Tsona Gontse monastery of Tibet. The monastery has three Gompas comprising of prayer hall, Blue Medicine Buddha, and assembly hall.
4. Urgelling Gompa, Tawang
Another monastery that you must not forget to visit is the Urgelling Monastery. It is in the south of Tawang, and was built in the fifteenth century. However, unfortunately, in the 16th century, vandals had attacked and stolen many things from there. Now, the monastery has Buddhist monks who lead a serene life there.
5. TDL Monastery, Dirang
Located in the charming hill town of Dirang in West Kameng district, Thupsung Dhargye Ling (TDL) Monastery is a relatively new but spiritually significant Buddhist monastery. Established with blessings from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the monastery serves as a centre for learning, meditation, and cultural preservation.
Built in traditional Tibetan style, the monastery’s golden rooftops shimmer under the Himalayan sun, while intricate murals and sculptures tell timeless stories from Buddhist scriptures. Inside, the prayer hall echoes with the rhythmic chants of monks, offering visitors a tranquil spiritual retreat.
Highlights of TDL Monastery:
-
Panoramic views of the Dirang valley
-
Intricate Tibetan architecture and vibrant wall paintings
-
Open to visitors interested in meditation and Buddhist teachings
-
A library and cultural center that promote learning
6. Shillipam Gompa, Rupa
Tucked away in the serene village of Rupa, just a short drive from Dirang, lies the Chillipam Gompa—a hidden gem unknown to many mainstream travellers. Built on a hilltop, this monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding pine forests, rivers, and valleys.
Shillipam Gompa is a perfect blend of isolation and beauty. Unlike more popular monasteries, this one sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection. The monastery also plays a vital role in the spiritual life of the local Monpa community.
What Makes Chillipam Gompa Special:
-
Less crowded, offering a peaceful environment
-
Stunning natural surroundings with panoramic vistas
-
Insight into the local Monpa culture and Buddhist practices
Visiting Chillipam Gompa feels like stepping into a timeless world where nature and spirituality exist in perfect harmony.
7. Golden Pagoda, Namsai
The Golden Pagoda at Thengapani in the Namsai district of Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most revered places here. There are 12 sub-domes, and the main dome is the biggest one in the centre. The gold-painted Pagoda has had the prestige of getting visits from monks across the world. The monks reside in their quarters here, and they conduct regular talks and chants all year round. The main deity in the Pagoda, the Buddha, is one of the most beautiful ones you will ever come across.
6. Thupten Gatsal Ling Gompa, Itanagar
In the capital city of Itanagar is the Thupten Gatsal Ling Gompa monastery. The monastery is a must-visit for the simplistic and yet very traditional design and architecture. The gardens and the serenity of the place are what give the place a charm like no other.
7. Thegtse Sang-ngag Choekhorling Monastery
This is a very significant monastery, located near Tawang and it follows the Nyingma sect of Buddhism. As early as the 1400’s, the monastery came about. The monks here do not have to remain celibate all their life.
While Tawang may be the crown jewel of Arunachal’s monastic circuit, TDL Monastery in Dirang and Shillipam Gompa in Rupa offer something truly unique—peace, beauty, and authenticity. These places aren’t just tourist spots; they are living centres of faith, history, and local culture.
So, the next time you plan a trip to Arunachal Pradesh, take the road less travelled and explore these serene monasteries. You’ll return not just with pictures, but with peace in your heart and stories worth sharing.
Contact us to schedule tours of these monasteries. Explore our package tours in Arunachal Pradesh, which will help reveal the spiritual aspects of Buddhism to you.
