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
- Established
- 11th century CE
- Architecture
- Ancient Kinnauri-Tibetan style — built of mud, stone, and wood, distinct in form from typical Spiti/Tibetan gompas
- Address
- Giyung Lang, Himachal Pradesh 172109
- Timings
- Open daily, dawn to dusk
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.
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.
Is there an entry fee at Charang Monastery?
- Entry to the main shrine of Charang Monastery is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Charang Monastery?
- Charang Monastery follows the traditional dress code observed at Himachal Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.