Discovering Serenity: 10 Stunning Monasteries In Northeast India

Nidhi Kadere

Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

Known as the largest and holiest Buddhist monastery in Northeast India, Rumtek Monastery dates back to the 9th century. Its stunning ancient artifacts and architectural marvels leave visitors in awe.

Rumtek Monastery | Shutterstock

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

The world’s second largest and India's largest monastery, stands majestically in the Tawang Valley. It's a three storey structure includes 65 residential buildings.

Tawang Monastery | Wikimedia Commons

Pemayangtse Monastery, Sikkim

Set against the backdrop of India’s highest peak, Pemayangtse Monastery offers breathtaking views. Built in the 17th century, it has been the home for Bhutanese monks for centuries.

Pemayangtse Monastery | Shutterstock

Bomdila Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

This monastery in Bomdila is a center for meditation and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The monastery belongs to the Mahayana Buddhism.

Bomdila Monastery | Shutterstock

Enchey Monastery, Sikkim

Enchey Monastery sits atop a hill, surrounded by pine forest. The Cham Dance Festival and Pang Lhabsol Festival are celebrated here. It belongs to the Nyingma order of Vajrayana Buddhism. 

Enchey Monastery | Shutterstock

Phodang Monastery, Sikkim

Perched on an altitude of 4500 ft, Phodang Monastery is one of the six most important monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery was built in the early 18th century by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, the ruler of Sikkim at the time.

Phodang Monastery | Wikimedia Commons

Samdruptse Monastery, Sikkim

It is a well-known landmark in the region, thanks to its imposing statue of Guru Padmasambhava. It was constructed in the 20th century and is located on the Samdruptse hill, which translates to "Wishfulfilling Hill".

Samdruptse Monastery | Shutterstock

Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling

Also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, it is one of the oldest and most popular Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Founded in 1850 by a Mongolian astrologer, this monastery has become a significant landmark in the region.

Ghoom Monastery | Shutterstock

Sanga Choeling Monastery, Sikkim

Perched on a hill, the Sanga Choeling Monastery was established in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsün Chempo. It provides breathtaking views to the trekkers and holds much historical significance in Sikkim.

Sanga Choeling Monastery | Wikimedia Commons

Urgelling Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

The monastery is famous for being the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama. It was established in the 15th century and became a sacred place for Buddhists in 1683.

Urgelling Monastery | Wikimedia Commons

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