Gompa Buddhist Temple, also known as Thupten Gatseling Monastery, is a significant spiritual and cultural landmark nestled atop a small hill in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. With its peaceful ambience, stunning Tibetan-style architecture, and panoramic views of the city below, the temple draws devotees, monks, and tourists alike. Whether you're on a pilgrimage or simply seeking a place for quiet contemplation, the Gompa Temple offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual essence and monastic traditions of the region.
About the Temple
Established with blessings from the 14th Dalai Lama
Built in vibrant Tibetan architectural style
Houses a large Buddha statue, sacred scripts, and prayer wheels
A place for meditation, chanting, and monastic rituals
Description
The temple is adorned with a beautiful golden roof and vibrant traditional wall paintings.
A prominent stupa and a large statue of Lord Buddha mark the sanctity of the space.
It is surrounded by a quiet, green atmosphere ideal for spiritual retreat and mindfulness.
Special Features
Elevated hilltop location offering scenic views of Itanagar
Golden roof and colorful murals
Serene environment ideal for spiritual retreats
Presence of Buddhist monks conducting daily rituals
Address and Coordinates
Location: VIP Road, Upper Itanagar, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh 791111, India
Latitude & Longitude: 27.0979° N, 93.6167° E
Temple Timings
Open All Days
Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
May vary on festival or special prayer days
Sevas and Offerings
Daily Prayer Ceremonies
Butter Lamp Offerings
Guided Meditation Sessions
Teachings of Buddhist Philosophy
Travel and Facilities
Easily accessible via local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and shared jeeps
State-run buses available from major cities in Assam
Food Facilities
Tibetan and Indian eateries nearby
Local food such as momos, thukpa, and vegetarian meals available
Stay Facilities
Budget guesthouses to premium hotels in Itanagar
Options like Hotel Donyi Polo Ashok, guest houses, and homestays
Connectivity
Nearby Railway Station
Naharlagun Railway Station (~15 km from temple)
Nearby Airport
Hollongi Airport (Donyi Polo Airport) – 15 km
Alternate: Lilabari Airport (Assam) – 65 km
Nearby Bus Station
ISBT Itanagar – connects to major northeastern cities
How to Reach
Bus Routes
Daily buses from Guwahati, Tezpur, and Banderdewa
Train Routes
Trains from Guwahati to Naharlagun
Taxi or bus from Naharlagun to Itanagar
Airways
Flights to Hollongi Airport from Guwahati and Kolkata
30-minute drive to temple
Nearby Cities
Naharlagun – 15 km
Ziro – 110 km
Banderdewa – 30 km
Guwahati – 360 km
Nearby Attractions
Ita Fort – 14th-century fort with historical significance
Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum – tribal culture and artifacts
Ganga Lake (Gyakar Sinyi) – picnic and boating
Ziro Valley – known for paddy fields and Apatani tribe culture
Tawang Monastery (for extended trip) – one of Asia’s largest monasteries
Festivals Celebrated
Losar Festival (Tibetan New Year)
Buddha Purnima
Lhabab Duchen
Guidelines & Cultural Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering inner sanctum
Dress modestly and speak softly
Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels
Photography is allowed outside; ask permission indoors
Best Time to Visit
October to April – Pleasant climate for sightseeing and festivals
Avoid monsoons (June–September) due to rains and landslides
Shopping and Local Crafts
Ganga Market and Takar Complex for local shopping
Famous for:
Handicrafts
Bamboo & cane products
Prayer flags and Buddhist souvenirs
Traditional tribal clothing and woolens
Local Cuisine to Try
Momos
Thukpa
Zan (millet porridge)
Apong (local rice beer)
Other Useful Tips
ILP (Inner Line Permit) required for Indian citizens: https://arunachalilp.com
Carry identity proof and photographs
Mobile networks (Jio, Airtel, BSNL) available
English and Hindi are commonly understood
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Gompa Temple visit and meditation
Afternoon: Ita Fort + State Museum
Evening: Market walk and local dinner
Day 2:
Day trip to Ganga Lake or drive to Ziro Valley
Optional: Attend prayer session or explore nearby monasteries
The Gompa Buddhist Temple in Itanagar is not just a religious site, but a tranquil sanctuary that brings you closer to nature, culture, and inner peace. Surrounded by lush hills, vibrant traditions, and welcoming locals, it makes for an enriching spiritual and cultural journey. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, this temple and the surrounding attractions offer a truly memorable experience in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh.
