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About
Thupsung Dhargyeling Monastery is a modern Buddhist learning and meditation center located in Dirang, in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Inaugurated in 2017 under the guidance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the monastery is a beacon of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhist studies, meditation, and monastic discipline.
Description
A harmonious blend of traditional Tibetan architecture and serene natural surroundings. The prayer hall houses large golden statues of Shakyamuni Buddha, adorned with colorful murals and spiritual symbols.
Dedicated to non-sectarian Buddhist studies.
Hosts monks from different regions.
Offers meditation courses, spiritual retreats, and daily teachings.
Open to scholars, lay practitioners, and visitors seeking peace or learning.
Daily prayer sessions
Buddhist philosophy teachings
Retreats and mindfulness training
Monastic rituals and community events
Address & Location
Address: Thupsung Dhargyeling Monastery, Dirang, West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh – 790101, India
Coordinates: 27.3676° N, 92.2511° E
Visiting Hours
Open Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Public visitors are allowed during daytime hours; teachings and retreats may have separate schedules.
How to Reach the Monastery
By Air (Nearest Airports):
Tezpur Airport (Salonibari) – approx. 190 km
Guwahati International Airport – approx. 330 km
By Train:
Bhalukpong Railway Station – ~100 km (limited services)
Tezpur Railway Station – ~193 km
By Road:
Dirang Bus Stand: Connects to Bomdila and Tezpur.
Bus Routes:
Guwahati → Tezpur → Bomdila → Dirang
Itanagar → Seppa → Bomdila → Dirang
Shared jeeps and taxis operate frequently.
Permit Note: ILP (Inner Line Permit) is required for Indian citizens; apply online at https://www.arunachalilp.com
Nearby Landmarks & Sightseeing
Dirang Dzong – 9th-century fort village
Sangti Valley – famous for black-necked cranes and lush scenery
Hot Water Springs – Natural sulfur springs
Tawang Monastery – ~140 km away; largest monastery in India
Bomdila Monastery – another cultural site en route
Stay Options
Food Facilities
Local eateries offer vegetarian Tibetan and North-Eastern dishes.
Popular dishes: Thukpa, momos, butter tea, local rice dishes.
Retreat participants may be served simple monastery meals.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Woolen shawls, caps, Monpa handicrafts
Prayer flags, mala beads, Tibetan incense
Organic kiwi, apples, and homemade fruit preserves
Traditional Monpa jewelry
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Blossoms, pleasant climate
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, perfect for sightseeing
Avoid: Winter (Dec–Feb) – heavy snow may block roads
Local Festivals
Losar (Tibetan New Year) – Feb/March
Buddha Purnima – Full moon in May
Torgya Festival (in Tawang) – Traditional Buddhist dances
Travel Tips & Etiquette
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering monastery areas.
Maintain silence and seek permission before taking photos.
Monasteries may provide butter lamps or incense for offerings.
Bring warm clothing, especially for early mornings and evenings.
Respect monks' privacy and avoid interrupting teachings or rituals.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dirang → Explore Dirang Dzong
Day 2: Morning at Thupsung Dhargyeling → Sangti Valley → Hot Springs
Day 3: Local market visit → Depart to Bomdila or Tawang
Dirang Monastery is more than a destination, it's a journey inward. Surrounded by majestic mountains and steeped in spiritual purpose, Thupsung Dhargyeling offers a rare opportunity to experience peace, engage in mindful reflection, and immerse in the living traditions of Himalayan Buddhism. Whether you're a pilgrim, an explorer, or simply a traveler looking for calm, a visit to this monastery will leave you with memories of serenity and insights that last a lifetime.
