Famous Buddhist Monasteries in India You Must Visit

Buddhism, the fourth largest religion in the world was founded in the 5th century AD in northeastern India. The religion that preaches the teachings of Gautama Buddha is followed by 230 million and 500 million worldwide. Though it is practiced chiefly in Asia, it is one of the fastest growing religions in the world. Some of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in India are:

Hemis Monastery, Ladakh

Hemis Monastery, Ladakh

Hemis monastery is one of the largest and exquisite monasteries of Ladakh that captivates the soul of every visitor. The Hemis Monastery showcases some of the magnificent mural paintings and artifacts. The Hemis festival that comprises mystic mask dances (chams) performances celebrated here in honor of Lord Padmasambhava is one of the most fascinating events for onlookers.

Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh

Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh

Situated atop a hill, the Thiksey monastery comprises impeccably structured religious edifices made in honor of the Lord Buddha. The 12 storey monastery houses various sculptures, stupas and statues. A visit to the monastery offers great calmness to the mind and peace to the heart. 

Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamsala

Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamsala

Snuggled in the laps of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, the Tsuglagkhang Complex is one of the most famous religious attractions for Buddhist pilgrimage tour in India. It is the residence of His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama. The entire complex embraces great serenity and takes one away from the materialistic world thus offering mental peace.

Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

Rumtek Monastery is acknowledged as the largest and the most colorful monastery out of the 200 monasteries of Sikkim. The monastery is visited by various devotees, who love to catch a glimpse of the Buddhists chanting and ritual services that are carried out here throughout the day.

Namdroling Nyingmapa Tibetan Monastery 

Namdroling Nyingmapa Tibetan Monastery

Namdroling Monastery was founded by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche in the state of Karnataka. The three-storied monastery showcases beautiful golden statues, great religious charm and a seclusion of its own. One can hear the enchanting and hymns of the lamas here in at the monastery that is visited by various Buddhist pilgrims and followers from various parts of the world.

So if you wish to know more of the religion, then leave behind all your blues and get away from the materialistic to the path that takes you to the abode of the Buddha.