The Ghoom Monastery, also called Yiga Choeling Monastery, is well recognized as one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Poised at an altitude of 7,407 feet, the location is known for providing visitors with a space to act as a peaceful sanctuary amidst the misty hills. This monastery is the pinnacle of exquisite Tibetan construction, with a majestic statue of Maitreya Buddha rising 15 feet above the ground.. It is also known for being home to an extensive collection of ancient scriptures. The Ghuoom monastery is the perfect location for spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts, as well as travelers looking for tranquility.
History and Significance
Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, a devoted Buddhist monk, the Ghoom Monastery follows the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which is also known as the Yellow Hat sect. The monastery has historically played a crucial role in preserving Buddhist teachings, housing several rare manuscripts and sacred texts. Over the years, it has remained an important center for meditation and religious practice, drawing monks, devotees, and tourists alike.
Architectural Beauty of Ghoom Monastery
The architecture of the monastery reflects the essence of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The entrance to the monastery is adorned with intricately painted murals, while the graceful beauty of the prayer wheels draws the attention of visitors as they spin them in hopes of receiving blessings.
Inside, the statue of Maitreya Buddha (the Buddha of the Future) watches over the sanctum, while also radiating an aura of serenity and hope. The interiors of the building also feature various vibrant tangka paintings, colorful flags, and ancient scrolls, which make it a visual delight for art lovers.
Best Time to Visit Ghoom Monastery
The monastery welcomes visitors year-round, with the best visiting hours being in the morning and afternoon. The cool, misty atmosphere of Darjeeling adds to its spiritual charm. For a more immersive experience, time your visit with the morning or evening rituals to witness monks chanting and offering prayers. While planning your itinerary, it's helpful to check the Darjeeling sightseeing cost to ensure a budget-friendly and fulfilling visit.
Seek Blessings and Meditate:
Indulge in the serene ambiance of the Ghoom Monastery, which offers visitors a place to meditate and experience profound peace. Visitors can sit quietly inside the monastery, soak in the positive energy, and reflect on their thoughts.
Admire the Maitreya Buddha Statue
One of the main attractions here is the enormous statue of Maitreya Buddha, which stands 15 feet tall. The state is made up of clay and is beautifully adorned by the monks. It is said to symbolize the future of Buddha, who is believed to bring about enlightenment into the world.
Explore Ancient Manuscripts and Artifacts
The monastery is known for being a sanctuary for several centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist scriptures, including the Kangyur and Tengyur texts. These scriptures contain some of the ancient Buddhist teachings, philosophy, and commentaries.
Spin the Prayer Wheels
Right outside the monastery, various larger prayer wheels can be spun by the visitors. These wheels are intricately designed in a Tibetan style and have Buddhist mantras inscribed on them. In Buddhism, it is believed that spinning these wheels brings about fortune and purifies the negative karma of individuals.
Enjoy the Scenic Views
With its location on top of a hill, the Ghoom monastery allows visitors to soak in the stunning views of the Himalayan range and Darjeeling's picturesque valleys. The serene surroundings make it a great spot for photography.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Ghoom Monastery, you can also explore several nearby attractions:
- Batasia Loop (5 minutes away): A scenic railway loop offering panoramic views of the hills.
- Tiger Hill (15 minutes away): Famous for its breathtaking sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station (10 minutes away): A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can take a toy train ride.
By Road:
Ghoom Monastery is around 7 km from Darjeeling town, easily accessible via taxis or shared jeeps.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), 62 km away. From NJP, you can take a taxi or a shared cab to reach Darjeeling.
By Air:
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport. From there, taxis and buses are available to Darjeeling.
Tips for Visitors
- As this is a religious site, make sure you dress modestly
- Maintain silence inside the monastery to respect the monks and devotees.
- Photography inside the sanctum is often restricted, but you can always ask for permission.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Donations are welcome, as they help in the maintenance of the monastery.
Conclusion
Rather than a spiritual site, Ghoom Monastery holds an important place in the Darjeeling hills as a gateway to spiritual awakening and inner peace. With its rich history, architectural beauty, and tranquil ambiance, the monastery has become one of the major tourist spots in recent years. Whether you are a history buff, a photographer, or a spiritual traveler, this monastery offers an unforgettable experience.
Book your trip with Turopia now and set off on a soul-stirring adventure to one of Darjeeling's most peaceful and picturesque destinations!