At Which Place is Asia’s oldest Buddhist Monastery Located?

Buddhist monasteries are places of worship, meditation and learning for Buddhist monks and followers. They serve as peaceful retreats, preserving Buddhist traditions and offering a space for spiritual growth. These monasteries are found across the world, often in scenic locations, reflecting Buddhist teachings and culture. In this article, we will know about the location and key facts about Asia’s oldest Buddhist monastery.

Location of Asia’s Oldest Buddhist Monastery

Tawang Monastery is located in Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state in India. It sits in the beautiful Tawang River Valley, near the town of Tawang. The monastery is about 2 kilometers away from Tawang town and is surrounded by mountains on three sides, making it a peaceful and scenic place.

Features of the Tawang Monastery

Tawang Monastery is a large and impressive building with three stories. It is built like a mansion and contains many important structures. The monastery has a big assembly hall, ten functional buildings, and 65 residential quarters for monks. Inside the main temple, there is a large, decorated statue of Buddha sitting in a lotus position. The monastery is rich in art and religious significance.

History of Tawang Monastery

The Tawang Monastery was founded in 1680-1681 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso. He built in at the request of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. The monastery belongs to the Gelug school of Mahayana Buddhism. At one point, it was connected to the famous Drepung Monastery in Lhasa, Tibet.