Guiders: A Tranquil Monastery in Darjeeling

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Discover tranquility at Guiders Monastery in Darjeeling, a historic Buddhist sanctuary with stunning Tibetan architecture and serene mountain views.

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Guiders

Guiders, also known as Karma Dorjee Chyoling monastery, is a Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling, West Bengal, belonging to the Red Sect of Buddhist Lamas. Originally a branch of the Kagyupa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim, it was transferred to Darjeeling in 1879. The monastery offers a serene environment showcasing Tibetan architecture, Buddha statues, and paintings depicting spirituality and devotion.

A brief summary to Guiders

27XC+92X, Bhutia Busty Rd, Darjeeling, Upper Bhutia Busty, West Bengal, 734101, IN
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs.
Engage with resident monks to learn about their practices and beliefs.
Photography is prohibited inside the monastery.

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Getting There

Walking

From Chowrasta Mall, take CR Das Road downhill next to the CCD. Continue past Step Aside school. The walk to Guiders Monastery is approximately 30-35 minutes. Be prepared for a downhill walk of about 1.5 kilometers.
Public Transport

Shared taxis (mostly jeeps) are available from Chowk Bazaar to Upper Bhutia Busty. Confirm the fare before boarding. From the drop-off point in Bhutia Busty, it's a short walk to the monastery. Shared taxi fares typically range from ₹20-₹50.
Taxi

Hire a private taxi from Club Side Taxi Stand or Chowk Bazaar. Negotiate the fare in advance. A short trip from the town center to Guiders Monastery will cost approximately ₹150-₹300. Note: Parking near the monastery may be limited.

Discover more about Guiders

Nestled in Upper Bhutia Busty, about 1.5km downhill from Chowrasta Mall, Guiders Monastery, also known as Karma Dorjee Chyoling, provides a tranquil escape. This Buddhist monastery, belonging to the Red Sect, was initially established in 1761 by Lama Dorje Rinzing on Observatory Hill. Originally a branch of the Nyingma sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim, it was moved to its current location in Bhutia Busty in 1879. The monastery's history has been marked by misfortune, including destruction during the Gorkha invasion in 1815 and an earthquake in 1934. Each time, it was rebuilt, showcasing a blend of Tibetan and Sikkimese architectural styles. Inside, the main prayer room features a Buddha model in a glass case and photos of the Dalai Lama. Images of Tara Devi and Lakshmiswari, a goddess with a thousand hands and eyes, are also present. A large image depicting Buddha's life story adorns the prayer room. Photography is prohibited inside the monastery. Visitors can explore peaceful courtyards, admire the artwork, and reflect in the calming atmosphere. The monastery is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.