In the beautiful Himalayan town of Dirang, India, an attractive place has attracted people interested in spirituality and those who want to have fun- Thupsung Dhargye Ling. In 2017, his temple and the institution of learning were consecrated by the Dalai Lama, His Holiness. It just shows how deep Tibetan Buddhist history runs mainly in this place. The name “Thupsung Dhargye Ling” was given by the Dalai Lama Fleets and translates to “Flourishing Place of the Buddha’s Speech”. It represents the mission of the institute to keep alive the Buddha’s teachings that will always be there, enlightening and inspiring future generations.
Discovering The Jewel Of Dirang: Thupsung Dhargye Ling
Image Credit: Rohit Sharma for Wikimedia Commons
Dirang is located in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and it can be accessed by air or road. The closest airport is in Tezpur, approximately 150 km from the town. Guwahati is the nearest major city, approximately 300 km away.
Tourists travelling to Dirang can visit several places of interest, including Tawang Monastery, the biggest Tibetan-Buddhist monastery in the world. Numerous other sites are worth visiting near Bomdila, a small town remarkable for its apple gardens and unforgettable landscape.
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The Architecture And Artwork Of Thupsung Dhargye Ling
Image Credit: Rohit Sharma for Wikimedia Commons
Once you get to Thupsung Dhargye Ling, it is almost impossible not to notice its fantastic building. Detailed carvings and colourful prayer flags that sway in the mountain wind adorn the outside of this temple, making it a stunning blend of colours and motion. You will see a magnificent exhibit of Tibetan Buddhist images when you enter. The walls are decorated with colourful thangkas illustrating different stages in the Buddha’s life and the various divinities of the Tibetan pantheon. A grand Buddha statue is the centrepiece of the main shrine, with smaller ones around it, including those representing some bodhisattvas and lamas.
A Hub Of Learning And Culture
Image Credit: Rohit Sharma for Wikimedia Commons
It’s a temple and a hub of Tibetan culture and Buddhist learning at Thupsung Dhargye Ling. Covering aspects of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and Tibetan language, the institute offers a variety of courses and programs targeting laypersons and clergy alike. Among the programs that are very popular is the yearly summer course, during which students from various countries travel, learn more about Buddha’s teachings, and enjoy Tibet’s rich cultural heritage. Besides, visiting lamas offer teachings and empowerment frequently at the institute, a rare privilege for individuals who seek spiritual nourishment.
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The Surrounding Landscape
Thupsung Dhargye Ling is a place full of spirituality. It attracts people like magnets to calm their souls or enjoy quietness, including strong emotions because of something beautiful that the five senses can feel. As one stands before its gates, they look out at a fantastic panorama where the highest mountains covered with white snow rise among green fields. There is a special mention of the adjoining Sangti Valley, characterized by its undulating grasslands and crystal-clear rivers. Here, tourists can enjoy a slow walk through it, marvelling at the spectacular scenes while occasionally spotting the rare red panda or Himalayan griffon vulture.
Accommodation And Dining
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From sumptuous homestays to plush hotels, Dirang provides guests various accommodations in Thupsung Dhargye Ling. Across these places, one may find momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup) or time (steamed bread), among others, as some examples of traditional Tibetan dishes. The institute provides simplistic lodging choices for those interested in attending lectures or meditating if they want a more profound experience within its grounds. These unadorned turquoise colours with deep floral decorations are particularly suitable for religious worship and meditation.
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Consecration By The Dalai Lama
In November 2009, the completed temple was visited by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, where he consecrated the main shrine room and conferred teachings and empowerments to the assembled monks and laypeople. The visit of the Dalai Lama was essential, and decorations and preparations were made to welcome him. Dignitaries from the state government and the local community attended it. Thupsung Dhargye Ling is imbued with unique spiritual energy because the Dalai Lama has been there. This makes it a significant place for Tibetan Buddhists and anyone interested in Tibetan culture and spirituality.
Ongoing Activities And Events
Image Credit: Nichalp for Wikipedia
There has been a lot of activity at Thupsung Dhargye Ling since it was consecrated, with regular prayers, rituals, and teachings conducted in the main shrine room and elsewhere. Throughout the year, the Tibetan Lunar New Year celebration of Losar is one of several events organized by the institute’s monks and staff, during which Thupten Rinpoche, the institute’s spiritual head, conducts ceremonies and teachings. At Thupsung Dhargye Ling, visitors can take part in these occasions by engaging in meditation and prayer sessions. Visitors willing to increase their knowledge about Tibetan Buddhism are allowed by the institute to access its library and study rooms.
The institute’s mesmerizing design, awe-inspiring environmental location, and deep cultural roots establish it as an essential destination for tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh. However, Thupsung Dhargye Ling is not just about its stunning appearance; more importantly, it presents an opportunity to experience the timeless Buddha’s teachings and receive hospitality from Tibetans.
Further Read: Homestays In Arunachal Pradesh
Now that you have a list of things to remember for your next vacation to enjoy at Thupsung Dhargye Ling make sure you plan your trip to Arunachal Pradesh to these fabulous spots accompanied by your loved ones. This experience will be more rewarding as you experience all the fun with them. Don’t miss out on these opportunities and book your tickets now!
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Cover Image Credit: Rohit Sharma for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Thupsung Dhargye Ling
Where is Thupsung Dhargye Ling located?
Thupsung Dhargye Ling is located at Dirang, a Himalayan village in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh state, India.
What are the programs and events that occur at Thupsung Dhargye Ling?
Courses in Buddhist philosophy, meditation and Tibetan language are offered. It also has summer programs that take place every year as well as continuous teaching sessions from other lamas and festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year).
How does the landscape of this place look?
Thupsung Dhargye Ling is found amid the stunning Himalayan landscapes which contain towering snowy mountain-tops as well as verdant valleys. Nearby Sangti Valley has become a well-liked spot for trekking.
What kind of accommodation does Dirang have?
In Dirang, we have various kinds of accommodations, among them being homestays and hotels. Thupsung Dhargye Ling also accommodates people who attend teachings or retreats. Still, the facilities are very ordinary.
What is the way to Thupsung Dhargye Ling?
Dirang is reachable by air (the closest airport being Tezpur), rail (the closest station being Tezpur), and road as well. Different cities have buses and shared taxis for public methods of transport there.
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