Located near Tiger Hill, the Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Tibetan Monastery, is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Darjeeling. Situated around 8 km from the town, it offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
This ancient monastery, which follows the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism, was established in 1850 by the monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, a well-known figure who also served as the head of the monastery.
The monastery is open to visitors every day from 9 am to 6 pm. While entry to the monastery is free, there is a small fee for those who wish to take photographs or videos. To take photos inside the monastery, you need to pay ₹10, and if you want to record videos, the charge is ₹50.
The monastery is well-known for its massive statue of Maitreya Buddha, standing 4.57 meters tall. The statue, painted in gold and believed to be encrusted with precious stones, is the monastery’s main attraction, drawing visitors from all over.
Inside, the monastery is adorned with colorful thangkas, which depict various aspects of Buddhist mythology and teachings.
It is also home to rare Buddhist manuscripts, including Tibetan translations of famous Sanskrit texts like the “Meghdoot” by Kalidasa and “Nagamandala” by Sriharsa.
These precious texts make Ghoom Monastery a significant place for those interested in Buddhist literature and history. The monastery can accommodate up to 60 monks, making it the largest of the three monasteries in Ghum.
Its peaceful and spiritual atmosphere attracts both devotees and tourists looking for tranquility and a deeper connection with Buddhist traditions.
For many visitors, the serene environment of Ghoom Monastery is an ideal place for reflection and meditation.
Those who are spiritually inclined or wish to explore the rich culture of Tibetan Buddhism often include this monastery in their itinerary.
On the fifteenth day of each month, according to the Tibetan calendar, a large number of devotees come here to participate in religious rituals and prayers.
The Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism is practiced at the monastery, making it an important spiritual center for the local community and beyond.
The monastery is open throughout the day from 9 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning, especially if you’re returning from an early morning trip to Tiger Hill.
In the morning, you can experience the monks engaging in their daily prayers, giving you a unique insight into their spiritual practices.
Watching these rituals can be a moving experience and allows visitors to better understand the monastic lifestyle.
Additionally, the early hours are quieter, offering a more peaceful environment to explore the monastery and enjoy its scenic surroundings.
The Ghoom Monastery is easily accessible by road, located just 8 km from Darjeeling. The drive takes about 30 minutes, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the region. New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) is the nearest railway station, and Bagdogra is the closest airport.
