The Monpa tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, is one of the most culturally rich and spiritually alive communities of Northeast India. Traditionally they follow Buddhism religion and are located in Tawang and West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh.
Religion and Spiritual Practice
The Monpas are closely related to Tibet and follow Mahayana Buddhism. Every house has a small praying room where lamps are lit daily. Monpa monks are known as Lamas, they play an important role in community life – conducting rituals, teaching scriptures, and guiding people through moral and spiritual matters. They have three major festivals Losar (Tibetan New Year), Torgya, and Choskar. Visiting during these festivals will give you a good experience about Monpa culture and lifestyle. Their largest religious site in India is Tawang Monastery. It is also second largest monastery in the world.
Livelihood
Monpas construct their house with stone and wooden floors along with beautifully carved doors and windows. Most of the houses that you will see are centuries old, protecting them from harsh cold and snow fall of the Himalayas. Traditionally the Monpas are skilled weavers, woodworkers and farmers. They cultivate crops barley, buckwheat and maize in the challenging Himalayan Mountain terrains. They also raise domestic animals like cows, yaks, sheep and pigs.
Preserving Heritage in Modern Times
Modernization has an influence everywhere however Monpas have managed to preserve their unique culture and traditions. Their deep respect for nature, community values, and devotion to Buddhism continue to guide their way of life. Young Monpas today embrace modern education and technology while staying rooted in their heritage. They learn and respect both. The Monpas are living example of how modernity and tradition can coexist.
If you want to experience Monpa culture and tradition then the best time to go there is during any one of the major Monpa festival. Their main temple is Tawang Monastery so visit Tawang Monastery as well. Try visiting some villages (like Zemithang) away from famous tourist spots there you experience real culture and lifestyle of Monpa.
Until next time, keep traveling and take care of nature.
Travel the world like me by volunteering, check out this video. Join World-packers today, use my code “SHRUTI” to get additional discount of $10 and travel the world for free. You can use this link to get discount.
Bye, Bye!!!
Pingback: A Letter to You from a Solo Traveler - Shruti's Fairytales