North East India is a treasure trove of adventure, beauty, wonderful experiences, and with ancient roots of Buddhism. The seven little sister states of North East India are well-known for their diversified traditions and culture. Monasteries in North East India are popular Buddhist pilgrim destination spots, all over the country that cater to spiritual and peaceful feelings in your body on every visit. The beautiful monasteries lie on hilltops, encircled by woodlands and lush foliage that offers panoramic views.
North East India is home to several stunning monasteries that not only portray the current situation of North East culture but also impart light on its ancient traditions and rituals. After being unexplored for a long time, this plethora of sacred monasteries is now open to the world for tourists. Here come the most famous monasteries of North East India that you must visit during your trip to the place.
In North East India, the following are the most popular monasteries:
1. Tashiding Monastery, Gangtok
The Tashiding monastery of Sikkim is an exotic old charm that lies on a hilltop between the Ranjit river and Rathong river. This lovely and modest monastery is the holiest monastery in North East India that has a strong belief. Apologetic people can wash off their sins by visiting this monastery.
You can witness the Bhumchu festival, a Tibetan festival that is worth watching and amazing. Witness Buddhist writing over various stone plates, along with snow-covered mountains and eye-catching scenery.
- Best Visiting Time: In winter.
- Opening Time: 7 am to 7 pm.
2. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok
Rumtek monastery, also known as Dharmachakra Centre, is one of the largest and holiest monasteries in North East India. The monastery is an essential educational and spiritual center for learners and is an awesome masterpiece of structure.
Explore a plethora of wonderful historical objects and ancient artifacts that might astonish you. Its vibrant landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and undulated river might cast a spell on you. Ensure to attend the masked dance during Drupchen in May and June, and view Golden Stupa – the monastery’s major attraction.
- Best Visiting Time: September and October.
- Opening Time: 6 am to 6 pm.
3. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling
Ghoom monastery also known as Yiga Choeling monastery serves as the most famous and oldest Buddhist monastery. Experience the monastery’s wonderful attraction, a 15 feet tall Buddha statue that is embedded with precious stones and gold.
The entire monastery is enriched with thangkas, paintings, bells, drums, scrolls, and Buddhist texts that seem to be eye-catching. Visit the monastery and make sure to grab more knowledge about Buddhist culture.
- Best Visiting Time: All around the year.
- Opening Time: 12 am to 12 pm.
4. Phodong Monastery, Sikkim
Explore Phodong monastery which lies at a height of 4500 ft, that is home to around 260 monks and serves as the holiest place. Explore the overwhelming frescos, vibrant murals, and paintings that adorn the walls more beautifully.
Due to an earthquake, the monastery needed to go under modification, but, after a few months, a remodified vihara was opened for tourists. Enjoy the Losoong festival that occurs every year in December which makes you joyful.
- Best Visiting Time: March to May and from October to December.
- Opening Time: 9 am to 5 pm.
5. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang monastery is a 400-year-old monastery that seems adorable to date in North East India. The monastery resembles Buddhist culture and includes a huge library that consists of ancient and Buddhist writings.
Witness monks dancing in the wee hours as it offers you a visual retreat and joy. Ensure to pay great attention to thangkas that are painted with blood extracted from the nose of the fifth Dalai Lama.
- Best Visiting Time: Monsoons and summers.
- Opening Time: 5 pm to 12 am.
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6. Ralong Monastery, Namchi
While visiting Ralong monastery, you can experience the purest form of contentment and joy. Explore the Pang Lhabsol celebration that attracts everyone’s attention and makes you joyous. Ensure to visit the monastery in November as you might become a lucky person that can take part in the cheerful celebration.
Explore monks doing the legendary Kogyed dance all through the occasion, and the monks do this dance just to express their joy. Ensure to visit this wonderful monastery as it is encircled by majestic mountains and lies in the lap of nature.
- Best Visiting Time: April to June.
- Opening Time: 8 am to 5 pm.
7. Pemayangtse Monastery, Gangtok
Pemayangtse monastery serves as one of the most magnificent monasteries to visit in North East India that showcases India’s highest peak – Mount Kanchenjunga. The monastery has served as a residence of Bhutia monks for generations, and all other monasteries in Nyingma are managed under the instructions of this monastery.
Explore ornate decorations, historic paintings, awesome golden roofing, and Lord Padamasambhava’s sculptures. Witness the Cham dance festival which is quite a popular event to visit.
- Best Visiting Time: March and May.
- Opening Time: 9 am to 6 pm.
8. Dubdi Monastery, Sikkim
Dubdi monastery which lies at 7,000 feet above sea level and is engulfed by snow-covered mountains and lush green forests, offers the tourist a great opportunity for people to appreciate the serenity of the location.
The monastery includes a two-story facility along with saint portraits, Buddhist sculptures, and various other divine symbols that might amaze you. A visit to this monastery in North East India offers you a blend of serenity and nature-blessed experiences. Explore the charming nature around the monastery.
- Best Visiting Time: March to May.
- Opening Time: 7 am to 4 pm.
9. Sinon Monastery, Sikkim
Sinon monastery serves as the most famous tourist destination in Western Sikkim and serves as a standing guard. The monastery includes awesome Buddhist architecture that is adorned with vibrant red and various other colors.
Explore the Sinon monastery which serves as a spiritually significant Buddhist pilgrimage site in North East India that captures your heart.
- Best Visiting Time: All around the year.
- Opening Time: 9 am to 5 pm.
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