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Lava Monastery or Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery, located in the town of Lava in the district of Darjeeling, West Bengal, is the most significant monastery among the Tibetan Buddhists, along with others. There is a remote place within the monastery at its high altitude, giving an incentive to build this site away from the overcrowded life. This guide provides all the necessary information, including monastery timings and address, which one may require when thinking about how to travel.
Location
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Lava Monastery is located in a small town with the same name, Lava, 32 kilometres away from Kalimpong in the Indian state of West Bengal. The monastery is set amidst thick forests with very clear views of the Kanchenjunga range. Quite appropriately, Lava Town is easy to access from the nearest major city, Siliguri, by air, rail, and road travel; thus, there is no hassle whatsoever to travel to Lava Town.
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport to Lava is Bagdogra Airport, which is situated at a distance of about 105km. One can take a taxi ride to Lava from the airport or rent cars to drive to the town.
By Train: The New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest and most important railway station to Lava, located 100 km away. Lava can be reached by cab or bus at NJP.
By Road: Lava is also very well connected to Siliguri, Kalimpong, and other neighbouring towns. Regular buses, taxis, and private vehicles travel from these places to Lava.
Places to Visit Around Lava Monastery
1. Rishyap View Point
Photo: LesBleusSoumya / Wikimedia Commons
Rishyap, located near the fictitious Lava Lotus Hills, is an exhilarating little hill station with beautiful views of the Himalayas, especially Kanchenjunga. The village is quiet and sunny. Rishyap, located near the fictitious Lava Lotus Hills, is an exhilarating little hill station with beautiful views of the Himalayas, especially Kanchenjunga. The village is quiet and sunny. One can trek to Rishyap to relax and appreciate the scenic view of the surrounding mountains.
Distance From Monastery: About 4 km
Best Time To Visit: Visit in the morning or late afternoon
2. Neora Valley National Park
Photo: Soumyadeep Chatterjee / Wikimedia Commons
A few bouts away from Lava is the Neora Valley National Park, which is one of the best places to visit if you are someone who loves nature and animals. Several unique species live in the park, such as the endangered Red Panda, which is part of the park’s flora and fauna. It is a great location for trekking, wildlife, and avian explorations.
Distance From Monastery: About 6 km
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
3. Rishop Village
Photo: Z. David / Wikimedia Commons
The distance between Rishop Village and Lava Monastery is not that far, and while in Lava, the Rishop Village is an essential area for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Nestled amidst thick forests and with a stunning view of the chilly cream tops of the Himalayas, Rishop is a perfect holiday spot. The best feature about the village is that it is very peaceful and ideal for walks in the green surroundings. There are also a few wild animals and assorted plant life for the tourist to see, which are additional bonuses for this rather great location.
Distance From Monastery: Approximately 6 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tourists visiting Lava can choose from a range of accommodation options, catering to different budgets. From budget-friendly guest houses to moderately priced hotels, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while exploring the monastery and other nearby attractions. Hotel Snow View is a mid-range option that provides modern facilities and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. For a more authentic experience, Tibetan Homestays allow guests to stay with local Tibetan families, offering a deeper connection to the area’s culture and lifestyle.
Where To Eat
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lava is also known for its delectable Tibetan and Nepali cuisine, with a variety of local dishes such as momos and thukpa. Many small cafes and restaurants serve fresh, made-to-order meals. Lava Restaurant is a popular spot for delicious Tibetan and Nepali dishes, including momos and thukpa. For affordable, traditional Tibetan food, visitors can check out Tibetan Dhaba, a small eatery known for its homestyle cooking and reasonable prices.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
The most favourable time to visit Lava Monastery is between March and June and later from September to November. The weather during these months is very amiable, and the visibility is clear, enabling the best views of the mountains. The winter months (December to February) can be chilly, but the visitor is exposed to snow, which is a bonus for those who like winter calmness.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to the Lava Monastery does not usually strain your finances. Travel, food, and accommodation will average between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 per individual, depending on one’s level of lifestyle. It is advisable to carry cash, as many local shops and eateries in Lava may not accept card payments.
Tips To Travelers
- Wear comfortable shoes, as walking may involve walking on uneven paths.
- Carry warm clothing, especially during the winter months.
- Adhere to all rules and regulations (if any) to respect the monastery’s sacred nature.
- Enjoy local cuisine and explore nearby picturesque places.
Lava Monastery is a serene retreat for exploring Tibetan Buddhist culture, spirituality, and the beauty of the Himalayas. Known for its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and peaceful surroundings, it offers a haven for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the monastery’s tranquillity while enjoying stunning views of the mountains. Whether seeking inner peace or an escape into nature, Lava Monastery promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit with TripXL to discover its timeless charm.
Cover Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons
