10 Famous Monasteries In India

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15 May 2025

Here are 10 famous monasteries in India, known for their spiritual significance, architecture, and cultural heritage:

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1. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh: This 400-year-old monastery is the second-largest in the world and houses over 300 monks

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2. Hemis Monastery, Ladakh: One of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in India, known for the annual Hemis Festival honoring Guru Padmasambhava

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3. Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim: The largest monastery in Sikkim, a key seat of the Karma Kagyu sect, famous for its golden stupa and vibrant festivals

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4. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling: Established in 1850, Ghoom Monastery is famous for its 15-foot-high statue of Maitreyi Buddha

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5. Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh: Often called "Mini Potala" due to its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, known for its 12-story complex and sacred artifacts

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 6. Diskit Monastery, Ladakh: This monastery is famous for its 106-foot tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and offers panoramic views of the Diskit village

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7. Key Monastery, Spiti: A 1,000-year-old monastery perched at 13,668 feet, known for its ancient murals, rare manuscripts, and rugged beauty

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8. Namgyal Monastery, Himachal Pradesh: The personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama, a major center for Tibetan Buddhism and learning 

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9. Phugtal Monastery, Ladakh:  A remote cave monastery accessible only by foot, known for its unique honeycomb-like structure and spiritual retreats

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10. Tabo Monastery, Spiti: This ancient monastery is one of the oldest continuously functioning monasteries in India and is renowned for its stunning murals and paintings 

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