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West Bengal

Tharpa Choling Monastery

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map

January

4.2 - 18.8 °C

February

5.6 - 20.4 °C

March

8.0 - 23.9 °C

April

11.1 - 27.0 °C

May

12.1 - 27.9 °C

June

14.1 - 28.3 °C

July

14.7 - 27.6 °C

August

14.7 - 27.9 °C

September

13.9 - 26.9 °C

October

11.6 - 25.7 °C

November

9.3 - 23.2 °C

December

6.4 - 20.7 °C

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station :

New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP)

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

Through the monastery's serene corridors

Perched atop a hill in Kalimpong, West Bengal, the Tharpa Choling Monastery is a hidden gem that invites you to experience its tranquil atmosphere and ancient wisdom. As soon as you walk through the sacred corridors of this monastery, a sense of peace descends upon you. Founded centuries ago by Tibetan Buddhist monks, this monastery serves as a haven for reflection, meditation, and enlightenment.

Join the monks in their daily practices, which include reciting Buddhist chant mantras and carrying out holy rites. As you become fully enveloped in a state of spiritual balance, you will feel comforted and guided to inner peace and self-discovery by the rhythmic prayers that fill the prayer halls.

Turn the pages of history

It is said that Domo Geshe Rinpoche lived in Kalimpong in 1906 when he came to India for a pilgrimage and to collect medicinal plants from India, Nepal, and Bhutan. The establishment of the monastery in 1912, was requested by Tibetan merchants and Bhutanese dignitaries, making Tharpa Choling Monastery one of the oldest monastic gems in India. After the passing of Domo Geshe Rinpoche Ngawang Kalsang in 1939, the senior monks of Tharpa Choling Monastery appealed to the Tibetan government to take over the administration of the Monastery.

The Tibetan Government decided to appoint abbots from Sera, Drepung, and Gaden to administer the monastery. Tharpa Choling Monastery provides young monks with monastic education in Buddhism, meditation, Tibetan language, and tradition while meeting all their fundamental needs ensuring an environment conducive to their spiritual development. The monastery’s botanical garden is home to a wide range of rare and endangered medicinal plants managed and researched by its clergy. It plays an integral part in traditional Tibetan medicine practices. These lesser-known facts provide a deeper insight into the rich history and cultural significance of Tharpa Choling Monastery.

Of exquisite frescoes and artistry

The Tharpa Choling Monastery is an architectural marvel that reflects the rich cultural legacy of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery's architecture boasts an intriguing combination of Indian, Burmese, and Tibetan styles. As you step inside its main temple, you will be greeted by exquisite frescoes and artworks depicting Buddhist precepts and principles. The monastery is also home to an extraordinary collection of Thangka paintings depicting varied icons and emblems of Buddhism, which are highly treasured due to their historical importance. The colorful idols of the presiding deity further add to the visual appeal of this beautiful gompa. However, the major attraction of the monastery is the museum, which houses many old scriptures and artifacts showing the visit of the Dalai Lama to this monastery. Apart from the monastery building, there are a few other structures inside the compound, including Ge-sar Lhagang or the Chinese temple, Lha Ten, Lu Khwang or the Temple of Naga, Mani Lhagang, and Shrine for Shangmo Dorje Bhuti.

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Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

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Embraced by the beauty of nature

Discover what is beyond the walls of the monastery and enjoy the amazing surroundings. The sight of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams creates a peaceful atmosphere ideal for reflection and meditation. Take a stroll through the monastery gardens, which are a haven of colourful flowers and aromatic herbs that will uplift and calm your senses.

As you take in the serene atmosphere of Tharpa Choling Monastery, permit yourself to live in the present. Let go of your worries and distractions as you enjoy the quiet of this holy place. Tharpa Choling Monastery offers a haven for the soul, whether your goals are spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a brief respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Places to go after

Near Tharpa Choling Monastery, there are several places of interest that visitors can explore. One of them is the Mangal Dham Pranami Temple, a beautiful temple known for its serene environment. Another attraction is the Army Golf Course, a well-maintained golf course offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

For history enthusiasts, the Morgan House, a colonial architectural marvel, is a must-visit. The Samdruptse Monastery and Char Dham temple are other religious sites that offer peace and tranquillity. Additionally, the Lepcha Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the local culture and history. Lastly, the Kalimpong Art Gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts created by talented local artists. Each of these places adds to the rich cultural and natural tapestry of the region around Tharpa Choling Monastery.