A faithful custodian of Tibetan Buddhist teachings
The glory of Durpin Monastery dates back to the beginning of the 20th century when it was founded by the great Tibetan Buddhist spiritual master, Dudjom Rinpoche, as a place for meditation and learning and also for providing services to society. Over the years, the monastery has been a place where Buddhists gained the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha, and people from all over the world have come to visit, study and seek spiritual fulfilment. Nowadays, the guiding presence of the resident monks and the teachers of the dharma ensures that the Durpin Monastery remains a faithful custodian of the Tibetan Buddhist teachings and traditions through the teaching sessions, retreats and ceremonies which are offered to those who seek spiritual guidance and enlightenment.
The monastery not only acts to protect and enhance the vast patrimony of Tibetan Buddhism by means of its educational cultural activities and its various outreach programs. But also conducts workshops on meditation and mindfulness. Durpin Monastery is a vibrant centre for spiritual learning and exploration, which helps to nurture the connection and belonging among the devotees and the broader community.
Besides, when in Kalimpong, you better not miss out on the vibrant and varied culinary delicacies of the place that are sure to leave you spellbound. Inspired by Nepali, Tibetan and Bengali traditions, Kalimpong's cuisine is a blend of flavours and scents that fascinate the senses. Kalimpong's palatable dishes entice tourists to embark on a voyage of taste and revelation teeming with cultural textures, with every bite being a window to the colourful cultural mosaic of the area. From the light flavours of momos to the thick satisfaction of Thukpa soup, each dish tells a tale of culture and family traditions.
Exploring beyond the monastery
Although the Durpin Monastery is a place to cherish forever, Kalimpong has a lot more to offer you. From scenic viewpoints to cultural landmarks, Kalimpong offers a tapestry of experiences for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Darjeeling Hills. Nature buffs can make their way to Deolo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, where the majestic panorama of the Himalayas with valleys and winding rivers will give them a remarkable view. For a feel of local culture and cuisine, a visit to the markets of 10th Mile and Haat Bazaar is a must, where colourful textiles, traditional handicrafts, and delicious street food are waiting to be explored.