Taktsang Gompa is a Buddhist monastery in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is one of the region's most famous and revered monasteries and attracts visitors and pilgrims annually. The monastery is perched on a hilltop at 12,000 feet, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and valleys.
Taktsang Gompa, also known as Taktshang Gompa, was built in the 17th century by the great Buddhist master Guru Padmasambhava, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan and Tibet. The monastery is renowned for its beautiful murals, intricate carvings, and sacred texts.
Visitors to Taktsang Gompa can take a scenic trek up the hill to reach the monastery. The tour is considered moderately difficult and takes approximately 2-3 hours, but the stunning views make it well worth the effort. The sanctuary is also accessible by car, with a road leading up to the hilltop.
Nearby places include the Tawang Monastery, approximately 10 km from Taktsang Gompa. Tawang Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India and is also believed to have been founded by Guru Padmasambhava. Visitors to the monastery can witness the daily rituals and prayers performed by the monks and explore the many galleries and temples within the complex.
Another popular attraction near Taktsang Gompa is the beautiful P.T. Tso Lake, approximately 15 km from the monastery. Snow-capped mountains surround the lake and are popular for picnics and boating.
Bap Teng Kang Waterfall, and the Gorsam Chorten Stupa. Visitors to Taktsang Gompa and the surrounding areas can experience the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of Arunachal Pradesh.
Located about 10 kilometres from Taktsang Gompa, Tawang Monastery is the largest Buddhist monastery in India and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It houses a vast collection of ancient scriptures, thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), and statues.
Situated at 4,170 meters, Sela Pass is a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, lakes, and valleys. It is located about 50 kilometres from Taktsang Gompa and is a popular tourist attraction.
Madhuri Lake (Shonga-Tser Lake):
This beautiful lake, also known as Madhuri Lake due to its appearance in a Bollywood movie featuring actress Madhuri Dixit, is located en route to Sela Pass. Stunning landscapes surround it and make for a serene and picturesque spot.
About 21 kilometres from Taktsang Gompa, Jaswant Garh is a war memorial dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, an Indian soldier who displayed extraordinary bravery during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The monument stands as a tribute to his courage.
Also known as Jang Falls, Nuranang Falls is a stunning waterfall near Jang, approximately 40 kilometres from Taktsang Gompa. The cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery create a mesmerizing sight.
If you're an adventure enthusiast, you can plan a trek to Gorichen Peak, the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh. Located near Tawang, this peak offers thrilling trekking opportunities and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Situated at the Indo-China border, Bum La Pass is an important landmark near Tawang. It requires special permits to visit due to its strategic location. Still, if you can arrange the necessary permissions, the pass offers stunning landscapes and a glimpse into the border area.