Ghoom Monastery is also known as Yiga Choling Monastery, it is a very famous and very old monastery of Darjeeling. Its height is about 7000 feet above sea level and the view of the mountains from here is quite spectacular.

If you choose the right time to visit then your trip can be quite memorable. People who come here spend their time in meditation and worship so that they can get mental peace. There are many places to visit near the monastery, such as Tiger Hill, from where you can see the beautiful view of the sunrise, Batasia Loop, where a toy train also runs, and Peace Pagoda, where people go to find peace and meditate.

History of Ghoom Monastery

Ghoom Monastery was established by Lama Sherab Gyatso in 1850. This monastery is associated with the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. A 15-foot statue of Baghwan Buddha is installed here, which is completely made of clay and gold.

Apart from old Buddhist scriptures, you can also see attractive paintings of Buddhism in the monastery.

Special things about Ghoom Monastery

A Huge statue of Buddha: There is a 15-foot-high statue of Baghwan Buddha here, which shows his peace and compassion.

Buddhist mantras and prayers: Every day the monks meditate and pray in the monastery, due to which the atmosphere feels very calm and positive.

Ancient Buddhist scriptures: Here you will also get to see rare scriptures of Buddhism.

Stunning views: From around the monastery, we can see a very beautiful view of the lush green valley of Darjeeling and Kanchenjunga. Let’s know what is the best time to visit Ghoom Monastery. 

Best Time to Visit Ghoom Monastery

October to December (beginning of winter) – Best time.

Weather: The weather is quite clear during this time and the temperature also remains between 5°C to 15°C.

Why go?: The sky is quite clear during this time and you can get a great view of Kanchenjunga mountain.

Main attraction: You will get a great opportunity to meditate and pray at the monastery.

Viewing the monastery in the cool mist and fog from May onwards will be a different experience.

The Lack of crowd makes this place peaceful.

April to June (beginning of summer) – Pleasant weather and blooming of flowers

Weather: It is slightly cold during this season and the temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C.

Why go? Darjeeling’s flowery beauty is at its peak during this season.

Main attractions:

You can also visit Ghoom Monastery and other places during this season.

Colorful flowers can be seen in the mountains during this season.

You can also go for walking and trekking during this time.

July to September (Monsoon) – Greenery but difficulty in travelling

Weather: There is a lot of rain during this season, and the temperature ranges from 12°C to 18°C.

Why go? Darjeeling is full of greenery during this time, but due to rain, traveling can be difficult.

Main attractions:

You can enjoy the magical view of Ghoom Monastery amidst clouds and mist here.

Due to less crowd, you can see the monastery peacefully.

This time can be very good for those who love nature.

How to reach Ghoom Monastery?

1. Air route: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport which is about 68 km away.

You can reach Ghoom Monastery by taking a taxi or cab from here.

2. Rail route: The railway station here is New Jalpaiguri, and it is 62 km away from Darjeeling.

You can reach Ghoom Monastery from here by train or taxi from Darjeeling.

3. Road route: There is a distance of 8 km between Darjeeling city and Ghoom Monastery, which can be reached by bus, taxi, or train.

Places to visit near Ghoom Monastery

If you go on a trip to Ghoom Monastery, you can enjoy other places around it;

Tiger Hill: This place is also known for the spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga at sunrise.

Batasia Loop: This is the route of the toy train and is also known as a war memorial.

Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda: This is a Buddhist peace stupa, from here you can also see the view of the whole city.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: It was built by UNESCO and you can enjoy your journey from it.

Also Read: Places To Visit In Ayodhya

Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling – A confluence of Buddhist culture and peace

Ghoom Monastery located in Darjeeling is a historical and spiritual place, which attracts people. It is not only important for the religious place but the natural views seen from here make it even more special. If you come to Darjeeling then you must visit Ghoom Monastery, because it is a place that gives you the experience of peace, meditation,  and culture.

Spiritual Importance of Ghoom Monastery

This Ghoom Monastery belongs to the Gokul Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which is known for its discipline and tradition.

The teachings of Lord Buddha are followed here and the monks also meditate and study here on a regular basis.

Anyone who comes here gets a chance to gain the teachings of Buddhism and religious knowledge.

Unique Architecture of Ghoom Monastery

The monastery is built in Tibetan style, which includes their traditional wood and colorful paintings. Various types of paintings can be seen on the walls here, which show the stories and symbols of Buddhism. Everyone here has colorful flags which show purity. There is a huge prayer wheel at the entrance of the monastery, it is believed that people get blessings by turning it.

Experience Meditation and Yoga at Ghoom Monastery

The atmosphere here is very peaceful and makes it a perfect place to meditate.

Many people come here to meditate peacefully and experience a feeling of mental peace.

People visiting the monastery participate in religious rituals by chanting mantras and increasing spiritual energy.

Experience Meditation and Yoga at Ghoom Monastery

The atmosphere here is very peaceful and makes it a perfect place to meditate.

Many people come here to meditate peacefully and experience a feeling of mental peace.

People visiting the monastery participate in religious rituals by chanting mantras and increasing spiritual energy.

Major Buddhist festivals celebrated in the monastery

Lhabab Duchen: This festival is celebrated to commemorate the arrival of Bhagavan Buddha from heaven to earth. On this day different types of worship and programs are held in the monastery.

Losar: This festival is celebrated with great pomp in the monastery and it is celebrated in the New Year, in which the monks perform dance and traditional worship.

Saga Dawa: This festival is celebrated on the occasion of the birth of Lord Buddha, which is celebrated with full devotion and whole heart.

The Natural beauty around Ghoom Monastery

The monastery is surrounded by lush green mountains and tea gardens, making it a beautiful place. One can see a good view from here during sunrise and sunset. The cool breeze and calm atmosphere make this place even more attractive.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Hawa Mahal For Photos

Conclusion

Ghoom Monastery is not just a religious place, you can also experience spiritual peace and spirituality here. If you choose the right time to visit, your trip can be even more memorable.

. If you want to see the best view of the sky and mountains, then you can come between October to December.

. If you want peace and meditation, then you can come between January to March.

. If you want to enjoy flowers and greenery, then you can come between April to June.

. If you want to enjoy the freshness and less crowd in the monsoon, then you can also come from July to September.

(FAQ) Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling