Against a snowy
Himalayan background, perched at a height of over 10,000 feet, Twang monastery is 400 years old Buddhist monastery brooding in the scenic Twang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The hill town is strategically sandwiched between three nations; China, Tibet and Myanmar. Twang monastery is the second largest monastery in Asia and largest in India. also known as
"Galden Namgyal Lhatse" was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso. Twang monastery is favorite among tourists because it offer a beautiful view of Twang-chu valley. The monastery seems like a fort has a capacity of resident monk is over 700 but only less than 300 monks stays here.
A lush green valley with towering mountains guarding the monasteries enumerates the upsurge of tourists to this solitary settlement. The wooden painted windows decorated with various motifs grace the place with prayer flags flutter aimlessly in the gentle breeze. The roof is yellow coated and walls are painted white. The assembly hall also known as Dukhang has a magnificent 8 meters high gilded image of Buddha. One of the prime attraction of scholars and pilgrims is the library, which stores some rare collection of old scriptures, manuscripts, images and thankas. The scriptures and images depicts Buddha in different form and poses. It is an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhist. The monastery is a prime center for Buddhist cultural studies. Here young monks are given lessons on various subjects such as Arithmetic, English, and Hindi. Also they are taught the traditional Buddhist education. Monastery is simply amazing and with such an ambiance, it is a unique spiritual experience.
Don’t miss the nearby Zimithang to see the colossal Gorsam Stupa, the tatsang monastry and Singsur nunnery.
Visit the Sangeshar lake, en route to Twang monastery. It is simply beautiful.
Don’t forget to but traditional craft and woolen carpet that are famous in Arunachal Pradesh.
Losar and Torgya festivals are famous where lamas from different part of the world comes to Twang and celebrate it. So, if possible visit the place in the month of February-March. Both the festivals are celebrated once in the year.
There are countless lakes in the region. You mustn’t ignore them. Some of amazing lakes are One is Pankang Teng Tso (P.T. Tso ) lake, Banggachang and Sangetser lake.
Invaluable Suggestions
Carry light jackets for summer and heavy woolen clothes for winter.
If you are a foreigner you need special permission to visit Arunachal Pradesh fromt he Home Ministry, which takes 3-4 days. The permit is valid for 10 days.
Monasteries are religious place of Buddhist, so maintain the decorum.
Journey to Twang monastery is tough with steep and hairpin bends. Mountain sickness is common ailment.
Photography in monasteries is strictly prohibited
