Charang Monastery
Also known as Rangrik Shungma Monastery, Rangrik Tungma Temple, Charang Gompa
Charang Monastery in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, is widely regarded as the region's holiest monastery, home to some of its oldest Buddhist murals.
Photos of Charang Monastery
Charang Monastery at a Glance
| Location | Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh |
|---|---|
| Established | 11th century CE |
| Architecture | Ancient Kinnauri-Tibetan style — built of mud, stone, and wood, distinct in form from typical Spiti/Tibetan gompas |
| Timings | Open daily, dawn to dusk |
| Address | Giyung Lang, Himachal Pradesh 172109 |
History of Charang Monastery
Located about 2 km from Charang village near the Indo-Tibet border, the monastery is named for the goddess Rangrik Tungma, whose small metal horseback image is the oldest object in the temple — almost certainly a pre-Buddhist local deity later absorbed into the Buddhist pantheon at the site. Once a centre of learning as well as worship, it preserves old texts and murals alongside its role as a living devotional site, and remains a mandatory stop on the demanding Kinner Kailash Parikrama trekking circuit. Villagers celebrate the Tibetan festival Dugpa Cheji here in July and September, featuring circular dances and a monk-performed dragon dance.
Festivals Celebrated at Charang Monastery
- Dugpa Cheji (July/September)
- Losar
- Kinner Kailash Parikrama pilgrimage season
How to Reach Charang Monastery
Nearest airport: Shimla. Nearest railhead: Shimla/Kalka. By road: NH-5 to Reckong Peo, then onward toward the remote Charang valley via the Chitkul-Charang-Kanam trek route.
Temples Near Charang Monastery
- Karu Devta Temple, DhumtiHimachal Pradesh · about 17 km in a straight line
- Mathi Temple, ChitkulHimachal Pradesh · about 17 km in a straight line
- Shree Maating Kuldev Ji Temple, RispaHimachal Pradesh · about 21 km in a straight line
- Rakcham TempleHimachal Pradesh · about 22 km in a straight line
- Devta Temple, JangiHimachal Pradesh · about 23 km in a straight line
- Laprang Temple, NesangHimachal Pradesh · about 24 km in a straight line
More Temples in Himachal Pradesh
- Kinner Kailash ShivlingHimachal Pradesh
- Shri Badri Narayan ji Temple, BatseriHimachal Pradesh
- Shri Kasu Raj Ji Temple, RibbaHimachal Pradesh
- Rarang MonasteryHimachal Pradesh
- Kamru Fort (Badri Vishal Temple)Himachal Pradesh
- Ram Temple, TanglingHimachal Pradesh
Frequently Asked Questions about Charang Monastery
Where is Charang Monastery located?
- Charang Monastery is located at Giyung Lang, Himachal Pradesh 172109, in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, India.
What are the timings of Charang Monastery?
- Charang Monastery is generally open Open daily, dawn to dusk. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Charang Monastery built?
- Charang Monastery was established 11th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Charang Monastery?
- Charang Monastery is built in the Ancient Kinnauri-Tibetan style — built of mud, stone, and wood, distinct in form from typical Spiti/Tibetan gompas style.
Which festivals are celebrated at Charang Monastery?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Charang Monastery include Dugpa Cheji (July/September), Losar, Kinner Kailash Parikrama pilgrimage season. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Charang Monastery?
- Nearest airport: Shimla. Nearest railhead: Shimla/Kalka. By road: NH-5 to Reckong Peo, then onward toward the remote Charang valley via the Chitkul-Charang-Kanam trek route.
Why is Charang Monastery significant?
- Charang Monastery in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, is widely regarded as the region's holiest monastery, home to some of its oldest Buddhist murals.