Ghoom Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in the Clouds

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Discover serenity at Ghoom Monastery, one of Darjeeling's oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and home to the majestic Maitreya Buddha statue.

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Ghoom Monastery (Samten Choeling)

Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the Darjeeling area. Founded in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, it belongs to the Gelukpa (Yellow Hat) sect and houses a 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha, the 'Future Buddha'. The monastery offers a serene spiritual experience amidst breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

A brief summary to Ghoom Monastery (Samten Choeling)

2762+M49, Hill Cart Rd, Ghoom, West Bengal, IN
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Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

Check the weather before visiting, as Ghoom can be cold even in summer due to its high altitude.
Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the shrine hall as a sign of respect.
Maintain silence inside the monastery.
Photography may be restricted; ask for guidance.
Donations are welcome and help support the monastery.

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Getting There

Walking

From Ghoom railway station, the monastery is within easy walking distance. Head north from the station, and you'll see the monastery on the Hill Cart Road. The walk is short and offers views of the surrounding area.
Public Transport

Shared jeeps and taxis are readily available from Darjeeling to Ghoom. From the main taxi stands in Darjeeling , a shared taxi to Ghoom will cost approximately INR 200 per person. The journey takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) stops at Ghoom, offering a scenic route. From Ghoom station, it's a short walk to the monastery.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from Darjeeling to Ghoom. You can hire a taxi from the taxi stands in Darjeeling. A full taxi for the round trip, including a visit to Tiger Hill and Batasia Loop, will cost approximately INR 1400-2250, depending on the vehicle. A taxi directly from Darjeeling to Ghoom should cost less. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.

Discover more about Ghoom Monastery (Samten Choeling)

Nestled at an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,225 meters), Ghoom Monastery (Yiga Choeling) offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist culture. Established in 1850 by the Mongolian astrologer and monk, Lama Sherab Gyatso, it's one of the oldest of its kind in the Darjeeling region. The monastery's main draw is the 15-foot clay statue of Maitreya Buddha, symbolizing the Buddha of the future. This statue was commissioned by Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche. Inside, you'll also find ancient Buddhist scriptures, including the 108-volume Kangyur, and intricate murals depicting Buddhist teachings. The walls showcase Tibetan-style paintings and art, illustrating stories and events from the Buddha's life. Ghoom Monastery provides a serene ambiance for meditation and reflection. Visitors can witness monks during their daily prayers and, with luck, catch a view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. The monastery is a storehouse of Tibetan translations of Sanskrit works and offers a glimpse into a monk's life. Visitors should dress modestly and maintain silence inside the monastery as a sign of respect. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Donations are welcome and contribute to the monastery's upkeep.