Yiga Choeling Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in Ghoom
Discover serenity at Ghoom Monastery, one of Darjeeling's oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, home to the majestic Maitreya Buddha.
Nestled in the serene hills of Ghoom, near Darjeeling, West Bengal, Yiga Choeling Monastery, also known as Ghoom Monastery, offers a tranquil escape into Tibetan Buddhist culture. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, a Mongolian monk and astrologer, it stands as one of the oldest monasteries in the region. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat sect. The main attraction is the 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha (the Future Buddha), commissioned in 1910-1952. The monastery also houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts, some of which are rare and invaluable. The walls are adorned with intricate murals and thangka paintings depicting Buddhist deities and scenes. Visitors can experience the peaceful ambiance, witness the monks' daily life, and, on clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Photography is permitted inside for a small donation. The monastery is easily accessible from Darjeeling by taxi, jeep, or the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to witness the monks praying and experience a less crowded atmosphere.
- Carry warm clothing as it can get chilly, especially outside the summer months.
- Respect the religious customs and maintain silence inside the monastery.
- Photography is allowed inside the monastery for a small fee, which goes towards the maintenance of the monastery.
A brief summary to Yiga Choeling Monastery
- Ghoom Monastery Rd, Darjeeling, Ghoom, West Bengal, 734102, IN
- +919832424705
- Visit website
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Darjeeling town, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available to Ghoom Monastery. The journey is approximately 8 km and takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. A typical taxi fare will range from ₹300 to ₹500.
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Public Transport
Shared jeeps are a budget-friendly option to reach Ghoom from Darjeeling. These jeeps operate from the Darjeeling taxi stand and charge around ₹50-₹100 per person. The ride can be a bit crowded but offers a local experience.
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Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
Experience a scenic ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The toy train stops at Ghoom station, which is a short walk from the monastery. Ticket prices vary depending on the class, ranging from ₹800 to ₹1700 for a round trip from Darjeeling. Check the DHR schedule in advance as services may be limited.
