Himachal Pradesh Tashigang Gompa
Tashigang monastery is situated on the banks of River Sutlej and Spitti in the Lahol and Spitti district of Himachal Pradesh. Though, the physical location of this monastery in Lahol & Spitti, but the accessibility is easier and frequent from Kinnour district of the state as National Highway No-22 is closer from Kinnour. A diversion near Khab place of Kinnour can take a visitor to this monastery. A trek is also available to reach this monastery from Namgya place. Another famous monastery named Nako is located at a closer distance from Tashigang. This monastery is located near Tashigang village. According to Census of India done in 2011, this village has been allotted a code No. 581800.
History
The history of Tashigang monastery is dates back a long. It is believed that original structure of this monastery was designed and constructed during the reign of Raji of Chamba. Raji of Chamba later converted into Buddhism. During 1621, forefathers of Raji of Chamba elected this place as a place of worship but this was not decided till then as a monastery. Lemchung Kee was the Buddh monk who approached Raji Narain Durga of Chamba to provide some place for worshipping by Buddhists resided in the area. This area was then earmarked to establish the same. Lemchung Kee returned to the place with 78 other monks to establish the monastery. In this process, seven years were crossed and finally during 1697, this monastery was founded. The founder of this monastery was Lemchung Kee and amazingly he fell ill during the construction work. He took his last breath when the Gompa of this monastery was completed.
Description
This monastery is divided into two Gompas. In the new Gompa, there are well maintained and magnificent wall paint work and decoration. Though, carvings are not found in any of the monastery as the sculptures made visible by paintings and nothing by any other means. In this Gompa a collection of books on the history of this monastery is also kept. In the lower portion of this Gompa an idol of Shakyamini Buddha is also preserved for pilgrims. Generally, the new Gompa is closed to the devotees and opened on special occasions only. This condition is not applied to Old Gompa and that is opened to all even for general visits too.
Attractions
Nako Village and Monastery
In the closer vicinity of this monastery, Nako village is also located. In this village Nako monastery is situated which is a famous and attractive monastery of Himachal Pradesh. This village is located at an average altitudinal height of 3662 mtr from MSL (Mean Sea Level).
Hangrang Valley
Hangrang valley is very attractive and full of scenic and picturesque views. From various point in this valley, snow clad mountain peaks of Great Himalaya can be viewed.
How to Reach
This monastery can be accessed through all the means of transportation.
By Air
Shimla is the nearest airport to reach this monastery. Shimla airport is located at 217 kilometers distance from this monastery. From Shimla frequent road transportation facilities are available.
By Rail
Shimla is the nearest railway station. From Shimla national highway 22 is the only and safest way to reach this monastery.
By Road
To access this monastery, one will have to follow national highway No 22 from Shimla. On reaching Kinnour, a trek is also available to reach but this is not available in Lahol & Spitti district where this monastery is actually located. Trekking option is available at Namgya village of Kinnour district.
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