Urgelling and the hillside nunneries
Urgelling stands among trees and fields a few kilometres below Tawang town. Its significance is far greater than its size: it marks the birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, the sixth Dalai Lama, born here in 1683 and remembered across the Tibetan Buddhist world for his poetry and his unconventional life. A small temple and a stone marking the birthplace draw pilgrims from far afield.
From Urgelling we drive up to one of the ani gompas, nunneries that sit on ridges with wide views over the valley. Life here is simple and disciplined, with prayers, study and work in the kitchen gardens. Nuns are usually welcoming to respectful visitors, and with your guide translating you may share butter tea and hear how they came to the nunnery.
This outing balances the scale of Tawang Monastery with something more intimate. It involves short walks on uneven ground at altitude, so we keep the pace easy. A donation at each gompa is customary, and we suggest an amount in advance.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Where was the sixth Dalai Lama born?
Tsangyang Gyatso, the sixth Dalai Lama, was born in 1683 at Urgelling, near Tawang in present-day Arunachal Pradesh. A small monastery marks the site and attracts Buddhist pilgrims. He is remembered for his love poems and his unusual life before his death in 1706.
Can visitors go to the nunneries in Tawang?
Yes. Several ani gompas, or Buddhist nunneries, around Tawang welcome respectful visitors. Dress modestly, ask before photographing, and make a small donation. Going with a local guide helps with introductions and translation. Some sit on high ridges reached by narrow roads.
How far is Urgelling from Tawang town?
Only a few kilometres, about 15 minutes by car below the town. It is a short, gentle visit that combines well with a nunnery or with Tawang Monastery on the same day. Allow 30 to 45 minutes at Urgelling itself.
Also in Tawang
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