Buddhist Monasteries in India
India is a known buddhist destination. There are number of monasteries and gompas in India that follow and preach Buddhism. Some of them are mentioned below.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves : Located 107 kms away from Aurangabad, Ajanta and Ellora caves are rock cut caves offering panoramic view and Buddhist architecture, caves-paintings and sculptures. Designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the cave temple in India are best example from yore days. Ajanta are primarily Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhist caves, the Ellora cave temples belong to Hindu, Buddhist and Jain religions.
Hemis Monastery : Situated 47 km from Leh, Hemis Monastery lies on the west bank of Indus River. Founded by the first incarnation of Stagsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso, Hemis Monastery in leh is thronged by number of visitors all the year round.
Tawang Monastery : Situated in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang Monasstery lies in the Bomidilla District. Situated at an altitude of approximately 10,000 ft, it is one of the largest buddhist monasteries in India.
Rumtek Monastery: Also known as the Dharmachakra Centre, Rumtek Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery located in the state of Sikkim. It is amongst the cherished pilgrimage site and one of the important buddhist sites eats of Kagyu school of Buddhism outside Tibet.
Tabo Monastery : Perched in the Spiti valley, the monastery was founded by the great scholar, Richen Zangpo. It has number of exquisite ancient murals, some of them dating back to the 11th century.