Monasteries In North East India – Blast From The Past

Martin Luther King once quoted,“ We are not makers of history. But we are made by history”. One cannot simply disagree with this fact, as it is so true to India. Interested to travel back in time and know about some of them? The North-Eastern states or the seven sisters in India are not only the paradise on earth but also a hub for the most beautiful monasteries. Above all, they significantly showcase their cultural influence by sharing borders with other countries. In this article, let’s look at some of the awe-inspiring monasteries in North East India. Let’s feel proud and happy at the same time.

List Of Monasteries In North East India

These are the 7 most beautiful monasteries that you must visit during your trip to North-East India.

• Tashiding Monastery, Gangtok
• Enchey Monastery, Gangtok
• Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling
• Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok
• Tawang Monastery, Tawang
• Ralong Monastery, Namchi
• Pemayangtse Monastery, Gangtok

Tashiding Monastery, Gangtok

Tashiding Monastery boasts an exemplary history. It is indeed one of the top monasteries in North East India. Head to the place where Guru Padmasambhava shot an arrow to find the right spot for meditation. This magnificent monastery was built in the spot where the arrow found its destination. This age-old monastery welcomes a large number of tourists every year. When you are here, you can simply soak in the serenity of the place and meditate for a while.

Other details

• Opening hours:  7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Entry fee: Free

Enchey Monastery, Gangtok

Take a one-hour drive from Gangtok to explore Enchey Gompa Monastery. This place is considered as one of the must-visit monasteries in North East of India. Locals here believe that the monastery was initially a hut that was built by Lama Duptab Karpo. Later, this place was converted into a monastery in the shape of a Chinese Pagoda. Above all, you can know about the teachings of Buddha and offer your prayers to the saint. Also, it is believed that you will be relieved from all kinds of mental stress if you listen to this prayer.

Other details:

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry fee: Free

Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling

Hit the road from Darjeeling and 8 Km down, you will witness a gigantic and elegant masterpiece constructed by Sherab Gyatso. The highlight of the monastery is the large Maitreya Buddha statue. Standing tall at a height of 15 feet, this statue simply captivates every visitor’s heart and soul. This place is known for its purity among the locals. Get amused by ancient Buddhist culture and traditions here. In conclusion, this place is truly one of the top monasteries in North-East India.

Other details:

• Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry fee: Free

Also read: Best Time to Visit Darjeeling

Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

Your next step is to Rumtek Gompa, the most famous monasteries of North East India. Built during the 9th century, this man-made grandeur is truly a visual treat for the visitors. With beautiful colours and ancient structures, the place truly attracts everyone for its boundless beauty. Also, do not miss witnessing the masked dance performances during the group prayers. This happens every year during the months of May and June. To your surprise, there are guest houses inside the premises of the monastery where you can stay for a night and take in the complete essence of the culture and tradition of Buddhism. You can easily visit this holy monastery by taking a road trip for 30 minutes from Gangtok.

Other details:

• Opening hours: 24 hours
• Entry fee: free

Tawang Monastery, Tawang

How excited are you to visit the 400-year-old monastery adorning the North-Eastern states of India with its grandeur? Tawang Monastery is indeed the largest and the most popular spot among the bunch of monasteries in North East of India. Apart from the monastery, you can also enjoy visiting the museum which is at close proximity to the building. By visiting this museum, you will get a clear idea about the history and glory of the Buddhist era. You will go back to the times of the Indo-China war as you can spot some age-old scriptures, vessels, deities.

Other details:

• Opening time: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry fee: free

Ralong Monastery, Namchi

Find the truest form of joy and happiness while visiting Ralong Monastery, Namchi. Witness the Pang Lhabsol festival at this monastery that grabs everyone’s love and attention. Visit this place during the month of November, and be the lucky one to enjoy this festival. During these festivals, see monks performing the famous Kagyed dance. This dance is a depiction of their happiness on the eve of the festival. You can also enjoy other dance forms like Mahakala dance here. Head to this fine monastery nestled in the arms of nature completely surrounded by emerald mountains.

Other details:

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry fee: Free

Pemayangtse Monastery, Gangtok

Next on the list is Pemayangtse Monastery in Sikkim. It is truly one of the must-visit monasteries in North East India. When you are here, you will be blessed with boundless inner peace. Built in the year 1705, this majestic building is the ides of Lama Lhatsun Campo. Only Bhutias and elite monks are allowed to stay inside the monastery.

Other details:

Opening time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry fee: Free

Do not let out nation’s greatest glory and pride fade away. Visit the beautiful monasteries of North East India and spread positivity throughout the world. Find the solution for your mental illness and escape stress by meditating. Discover the true way of living while exploring these monasteries. Planning an itinerary to Northeast India? Head to the Pickyourtrail website right away. Get packing and enjoy the less explored part of India. Now, you can also connect with us directly via Whatsapp and craft your dream trip at ease.