Yiga Choeling Monastery, Darjeeling Travel Guide

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Discover serenity at Yiga Choeling Monastery, one of Darjeeling's oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, with stunning views and a rich spiritual heritage.

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Yiga Choeling Monastery

Yiga Choeling Monastery, also known as Old Ghoom Monastery, is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the Darjeeling area, established in 1850. Belonging to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat sect, it houses a 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha and offers serene mountain views.

A brief summary to Yiga Choeling Monastery

Ghoom Monastery Rd, Darjeeling, Ghoom, West Bengal, 734102, IN
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yiga Choeling Monastery.

Visit early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas.
Dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions.
Photography inside the main shrine may be restricted, and taking photos inside may require permission.

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Explore Yiga Choeling Monastery on the Map

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Getting There

Taxi

From Darjeeling, taxis are readily available to Ghoom Monastery. A taxi ride to Ghoom typically takes 15-20 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 5.5 km. Taxi fares from Darjeeling to Ghoom range from ₹250 to ₹310. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Public Transport

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, offers a scenic route to Ghoom. The train journey from Darjeeling to Ghoom takes about 30 minutes. Ticket prices range from ₹28 to ₹700. From Ghoom station, the monastery is a short 10-12 minute walk.

Discover more about Yiga Choeling Monastery

Nestled in Ghoom, approximately 8 km from Darjeeling, the Yiga Choeling Monastery, also known as Old Ghoom Monastery, stands as a testament to Tibetan Buddhist heritage in the region. Founded in 1850 by the Mongolian monk and astrologer Lama Sherab Gyatso, it is one of the oldest monasteries in the area. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat sect.The monastery's exterior, built by Lama Sherab Gyatso, gives way to an interior adorned with significant Buddhist art and manuscripts. The main attraction is the 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha, also known as Gyalwa Shampa, the Buddha of the Future, crafted from clay brought from Tibet. Images of Buddha deities, lamas, Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara), and Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect, are also present. The monastery also holds a collection of Buddha's manuscripts, including the 108-volume Kangyur – The Tibetan Buddhist Gospel.Facing the monastery, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Kanchenjunga. The monastery provides a serene escape with the sounds of monks chanting and the aroma of incense. Visitors are welcome to explore the spiritual essence of the monastery, engage with the monks, and participate in daily prayers.