Arunachal Pradesh Bomdila Monastery
Bomdila is also known as the Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Ling Monastery or the Upper Gompa, situated in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a well known abode to the Buddhist Lamas and monks, who meditate and study in Bomdila, found in the Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is said to be one of the most prominent centres for Lamaistic faith of Mahayana Buddhism. Most believe that it is the replica of the Tsona Gontse Monastery at Tsona in western Tibet. It was established by the Tsona Gontse Rinpoche who was the 12 reincarnation and born in Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. He was responsible for building his beautiful monastery in Bomdila, which is quite colourful, and the scenic beauty of the Himalayas surrounding it, provide deep range of peace to the tourists. Located above 8500 feet above the sea level, the city is the headquarter of the western part of the Kamreng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Tourists from different parts of the country, arrive here for the attractions found amidst the mountain valleys. This is a place where tourists will find the best attractions, a reason which will be one of the best travelling sites for the tourists.
History
Bomdila Monastery was built in the 16th century by the 12 reincarnation of Tsona Gontse Rinpoche. This monastery was a replica of the Tsona Monastery in Tibet. After his demise, the 13th Gontse commenced the construction of the main prayer hall, which was later consecrated in 1977 by 14th Dalai Lama.
Architecture
The Bomdila Monastery consists of a prayer hall, which is the main building of the monastery and is used for the purpose of meditation and peace prayers. Besides, there is a temple where the deity of Buddha is placed and there are other residential quarters for the monks. Inside these halls, the young monks are taught about Buddhism and various tantrayana practices by the senior lamas.
Festival
The Monastery of Bomdila is follower of the Mahayana School of Buddhism and from time to time, throughout the year, there are important festivals held to commemorate the life of Buddhist. Losar is the most important festival which is celebrated in commemoration of the Tibetan New year, which falls in the month of February or March. This festival is continued for about 15 days, marked by prayers and flags are hosted, which is a special piece of this festival. Saka Dawn is another festival, held during the fourth month of the Lunar Calendar, which is held to mark the enlightment of the Buddha. Torgya, Dukpa Tse-Shi Lhabab Duchen Festival, etc are some of the other festivals held in the Bomdila monastery.
Reaching There
Guwahati is the nearest airport to Bomdila monastery, at a distance of 342 kms, which one can also reach from Tezpur in Assam. Tezpur is the nearest railhead to Bomdila. Lots of trains connect these cities to Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh. Also, Road communications are found in large numbers, making it easier for the tourists to arrive here in plenty.
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