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Buddhist monasteries are not just places of worship; they are spiritual retreats that offer tranquillity, wisdom, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether perched on high mountains or nestled in valleys, these sacred sites attract travellers seeking peace and enlightenment. Visiting the monastery allows you to experience the daily life of monks, explore centuries-old traditions, and admire stunning architecture. From Tibet to Thailand, here are the most awe-inspiring Buddhist monasteries around the world.
Top 10 Buddhist Monasteries In The World
These revered monasteries offer spiritual retreats, stunning landscapes, and insights into Buddhist traditions.These are the 10 most unique Buddhist monasteries:
1. Paro Taktsang, Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Paro Taktsang, known as the Buddhist monk monastery of Bhutan, is one of the most iconic monasteries in the world. Clinging to a 3,000-foot cliffside, it offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. Legend says Guru Padmasambhava meditated here, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The hike to the monastery is an enriching experience, passing through dense forests and prayer flags. The serene atmosphere and sacred relics make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
Location: Paro Taktsang, Paro Valley, Bhutan
Timing: 8 AM – 1 PM, 2 PM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (15.1 km)
2. Shaolin Monastery
Photo: Gary Todd / Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its connection to martial arts, the Buddhist monk monastery of Shaolin is a spiritual and historical treasure. Founded in the 5th century, it is the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and Zen Buddhism. Visitors can witness monks practicing incredible martial arts skills and explore ancient pagodas. The monastery also houses relics of Buddhist masters, making it a fascinating place for both spiritual and cultural enrichment.
Location: Dengfeng Blvd., Deng Feng Shi, Zheng Zhou Shi, He Nan Sheng, China
Timing: 7 AM – 6:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Luoyang Airport (72.6 km)
3. Jokhang Monaster
Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons
Jokhang Monastery is the spiritual heart of Tibet, attracting pilgrims from across the region. This UNESCO-listed Buddhist monastery houses a revered statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, believed to have been crafted during Buddha’s lifetime. Pilgrims prostrate around the temple, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The golden rooftop of the monastery offers stunning views of Lhasa’s skyline, making it a must-visit sacred site for travellers seeking Tibetan Buddhism’s essence.
Location: Jokhang Monastery is situated at Barkhor Street, Chengguan District, Lhasa 850000, China
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM
Nearest Airport: Lhasa Gonggar Airport (59.8 km)
4. Wat Rong Khun, White Temple
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is a modern Buddhist monastery with intricate white architecture symbolising purity. Unlike traditional monasteries, it features contemporary artwork blending Buddhist teachings with pop culture elements. Walking through the monastery, visitors pass over a symbolic “Bridge of Rebirth,” leading to enlightenment. The shimmering white structure against blue skies creates a mesmerising spiritual experience for those seeking unique Buddhist sites.
Location: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Timing: 8 AM – 5:00 PM
Nearest Airport: Chiang Rai International Airport (26.3 km)
5. Ganden Monastery
Photo: Maris Burbergs / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on a mountaintop, Ganden Monastery is one of Tibet’s most significant religious centres. Founded by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Buddhism, the monastery is a place of deep meditation and learning. The annual Ganden Thangka Festival draws thousands of pilgrims who witness a giant Buddhist painting unfurled on the hillside. Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, this Buddhist monk monastery is a breathtaking retreat for seekers of wisdom.
Location: Dagzê District, Lhasa, Tibet, China, 850113
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM
Nearest Airport: Lhasa Gonggar Airport (123 km)
6. Haeinsa Temple
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Haeinsa Temple is home to the Tripitaka Koreana, the world’s most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures carved on wooden blocks. This Buddhist monastery is a UNESCO-listed site and a place of deep spiritual significance. Visitors can stay overnight, experiencing the monastic lifestyle through meditation and tea ceremonies. The surrounding Gayasan National Park adds to the monastery’s serene beauty, making it a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking inner harmony.
Location: 122 Haeinsa-gil, Gaya-myeon, Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Timing: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Nearest Airport: Daegu International Airport (62 km)
7. Thiksey Monastery
Photo: Antara Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Thiksey Monastery, resembling Tibet’s Potala Palace, is one of Ladakh’s most magnificent Buddhist monasteries. It houses a stunning 49-foot-tall Maitreya Buddha statue and numerous ancient scriptures. Morning prayers at the monastery are a mesmerising experience, with monks chanting in deep harmony. The panoramic view of the Indus Valley from the rooftop makes it a perfect place for reflection and spiritual awakening.
Location: Thiksey, Ladakh 194201
Timing: 7 AM – 7 PM
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (19.3 km)
8. Tawang Monastery
Photo: Rohit Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
The largest Buddhist monastery in India, Tawang Monastery, is an architectural marvel set against the Himalayan backdrop. Founded in the 17th century, it is home to over 300 monks and an exquisite golden Buddha statue. The library contains rare manuscripts, and the monastery’s vibrant festivals showcase Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Visiting the monastery during Losar (Tibetan New Year) offers a truly immersive cultural and spiritual experience.
Location: Tawang Monastery, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Timing: 7 AM – 7 PM
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (319 km)
9. Shwedagon Pagoda
Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons
Although not a traditional Buddhist monk monastery, Shwedagon Pagoda is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. This massive golden stupa is believed to house relics of four Buddhas. Pilgrims walk around the pagoda, offering flowers and lighting oil lamps. The shimmering gold structure glows beautifully at sunset, creating a mystical atmosphere. A visit to the monastery within the complex provides a deeper understanding of Myanmar’s Buddhist heritage.
Location: Singuttara Hill, Yangon, Myanmar
Timing: 4 AM – 10 PM
Nearest Airport: Yangon International Airport (15 km)
10. Seiganto-ji Temple
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Situated beside Nachi Falls, Seiganto-ji is one of Japan’s most scenic Buddhist monasteries. This temple, part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, offers a serene setting for meditation. The sight of the bright red pagoda with the roaring waterfall in the background is breathtaking. The monastery invites visitors to practice Zen meditation and experience the beauty of nature intertwined with spirituality.
Location: 8 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5301, Japan
Timing: 7 AM – 4:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Nanki-Shirahama Airport (94.2 km)
Buddhist monasteries provide a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and stunning architecture, making them must-visit destinations for travellers seeking peace and enlightenment. Whether you’re exploring Bhutan’s cliffside retreats or admiring Myanmar’s golden stupas, each monastery offers a unique glimpse into Buddhist traditions and breathtaking landscapes. A visit to these sacred sites promises tranquillity and inspiration, leaving you with lasting memories. Book your trip with TripXL and experience the serenity of these remarkable monasteries around the world.
Cover Photo: Norbert Braun / Unsplash
