6 oldest monasteries to explore in India

India boasts some of the most ancient gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) in the world. Some of these monasteries are set amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau. These have been important in preserving Tibetan Buddhism and culture.

Let’s have a look at 6 of the oldest monasteries in India.

One of the oldest monasteries in India is the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh. This Tibetan Buddhist monastery was established in the early 11th century and it belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Hemis is noted for its annual Hemis Festival, which is celebrated with grand traditional dances and rituals.

Kibber Monastery, located in the remote Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, was founded in the 11th century. It is one of the highest monasteries in the world, situated at an altitude of over 14,000 feet. Affiliated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, Kibber is known for its ancient scriptures, traditional paintings, and its role in preserving Tibetan Buddhist practices in the high-altitude region.

Another old monastery to explore in India is the Thiksey Monastery. Set atop a hill overlooking the Indus Valley, the monastery was established in the 15th century and is also among the largest gompas in Ladakh. It is affiliated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery features a stunning collection of temples, including the 49-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Diskit Monastery, located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, was founded in the 14th century by the Changzem Tserab Zangpo. This gompa is a key center of the Gelug school and is known for its large statue of Maitreya Buddha, which stands over 100 feet tall. Diskit Monastery serves as an important cultural and spiritual hub in the region.

Sa-Ngor Monastery, situated in the picturesque town of Gangtok in Sikkim, was founded in the 16th century. It is affiliated with the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism and is known for its exquisite Tibetan art and scriptures. The monastery houses a vast collection of rare manuscripts.

Rumtek Monastery, located near Gangtok, was founded in the 16th century by the 9th Karmapa, Wangchuk Dorje. It serves as the seat of the Karmapa Lama in exile and is one of the most important monasteries of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is renowned for its impressive architecture and the collection of sacred relics.