Top monasteries to visit in India for a soulful and scenic experience<em>ā€‹</em>

Oct 11, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

Located at 10,000 feet above sea level, Tawang Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. It plays a vital role in preserving Buddhist traditions and offers stunning views of the Tawang Valley.

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Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

Rumtek is one of Sikkim's most significant monasteries, known for its magnificent architecture and the sacred Golden Stupa. It is an important centre of the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

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Hemis Monastery, Ladakh

Hemis Monastery, one of the wealthiest in India, is famous for its annual Hemis Festival, where monks perform colourful masked dances. Its ancient murals and thangkas make it a must-visit for culture and history lovers.

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Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh

Often compared to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, Thiksey Monastery is a 12-story structure that houses many beautiful statues and art. The panoramic view of the Indus Valley is breathtaking.

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Namdroling Monastery, Karnataka

Located in Bylakuppe near Mysore, this monastery is part of the largest Tibetan settlement in South India. Its grand golden statues and peaceful ambience make it a popular spiritual destination.

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Key Monastery, Himachal Pradesh

Situated in the Spiti Valley, Key Monastery is over 1,000 years old and is perched on a hilltop. It is a major learning centre for Lamas and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

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Ghoom Monastery, West Bengal

Located near Darjeeling, Ghoom Monastery is famous for its 15-foot statue of the Maitreya Buddha. It is an important spiritual destination for Buddhists in the region.

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Diskit Monastery, Ladakh

Famous for its 32-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha, Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest in the Nubra Valley. Its peaceful surroundings make it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude.

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