Arunachal Pradesh has several Buddhist monasteries, some of which are also "Ani Gompas" or nunneries. They all carry a long tradition of Buddhism. These monasteries are very important in terms of tourism of Arunachal Pradesh as well. Most of the monasteries are located at and near Tawang.
Popular Monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh
The names of the monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh are Tawang Monastery, Taktsang Gompa, Urgelling Gompa, Brahma Dung-Chung Ani Gompa, Rigyalling Monastery, Gyangong Ani Gompa, Singsur Ani Gompa, Gorsam Chorten stupa etc. Some of these monasteries have been discussed in brief below:
Tawang Monastery: Tawang Monastery is located in the Tawang city in the valley of the Tawang River. It is the largest monastery of India and the second largest in the world. It is called Gaden Namgyal Lhatse in Tibetan language, which means "celestial paradise in a clear night". It was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in 1680-1681 in accordance with the wishes of the fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. This monastery belongs to the Gelug school of Mahayana Buddhism.
Brama Dung Chung Ani Gompa: Brama Dung Chung Ani Gompa is the oldest one located at a distance of 9 km from Tawang District of the state. This ani gompa provides a beautiful view of its surrounding. It was established in 1595 A.D. by the Karchen Yeshi Gelek Lama from the Tsang province of Tibet. This ani gompa is now home to about 45 nuns.
Gyangong Ani Gompa: This ani gompa in Tawang is home to 50 nuns. It is located on the top of a hillock, which is about 5 km north of Tawang. The ani gompa was founded by Mera Lam Lodre Gyamtso. This ani gompa is controlled by the Tawang Monastery.
Singsur Ani Gompa: Singsur Ani Gompa is located 28 km west of Tawang on the way to Geshila. It is operated by almost 30 nuns or anis. It was built in the year 1960 by the previous Rev.Gonpatse Rimpoche. The old Singsur Ani Gompa still exists amidst the `Shaa` (huts) of the Anies.
Taktsang Gompa: Taktsang Gompa, also known as Tiger"s Deb, is located 45 km away from Tawang. Guru Padmasamvaba is supposed to have visited this ancient monastery during 8th century.
