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Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery, also known as Gadhan Thekchhokling Monastery, is a premier Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Himachal Pradesh, India. Founded in the 1960s, it is an upcoming significant centre for the Tibetan community and serves the twin purposes of worship and ethnic value preservation. Elaborate carvings, detailed murals, and colourful decorations in the monastery evoke a peaceful environment for meditation and other spiritual practices. The main temple houses a colossal Buddha, its serene face watching over the zealous activity of the prayer hall below. Monk and nun residences coexist with a library rich in Tibetan Buddhist texts.
Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery Location
The Buddhist monastery is situated in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery address lies at Gompa Road, near Manali Bus Stand, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131. The monastery is located in a serene area that provides scenic beauty and easy access to notable places in the region. These include the popular Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, and the Old Manali area.
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How To Reach Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: Manali is well-connected by road. Visitors can take a taxi or use local transportation options to reach the monastery from different parts of the city.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is approximately 163 kilometres away. From the station, visitors can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Manali and subsequently the monastery.
By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located about 50 kilometres away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or use local transportation to reach Manali and then the monastery.
Places To Visit Around Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery
While Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery Himachal itself is a significant attraction, the surrounding region offers several other points of interest for travellers:
1. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Monastery
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This place is one of the chief centres of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Monastery is located in the beautiful region of Manali. It is an independent monastery founded by Tibetan lamas with unique features in architecture and exuberant religious art. On the walls, elaborate murals depict Buddhist deities and teachings. At its heart, a shrine is embellished with statues of revered deities. It is a spiritual refuge for monks and a learning centre for its adherents. The monastery engages in various cultural and community activities, from meditation retreats to teaching sessions.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
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2. Ghatotkach Tree Temple
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One of the unique and sacred places in the Manali region is the Ghatotkach Tree Temple, dedicated to Ghatotkach, a character in the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple is particularly famous for its ancient reverend tree, in which the spirit of Ghatotkach lives, according to the belief. Many pilgrims come here to pray and be blessed. The temple is set against a backdrop of lush forests and presents a serene atmosphere for reflection and worship. It’s unique because it combines nature and spirituality to explore the region’s religious and cultural history.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: N/A
3. Baror Parsha Waterfall
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The area around Manali boasts one of its most beautiful natural attractions: the extremely breathtaking Baror Parsha Waterfall. This waterfall drops from rugged cliffs, making scenes truly soothing and rejuvenating. With lush greenery and forested terrain, this waterfall makes for a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. One can spend time picnicking, taking a nature walk, or clicking beautiful snaps in the surrounding area of the waterfall. Both tourists and locals love this place because the sound of the waterfall is perfect for relaxing, making this spot a popular picnic spot.
Timings: Typically from sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: N/A
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Himachal Pradesh For Fresh Mountain Air
4. Chimet Druppai Ghatsal Apo Rinpoche Monastery
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The Chimet Druppai Ghatsal Apo Rinpoche Monastery is an important Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Manali. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, traditional Tibetan architecture adorned with colourful murals and statues, and a central shrine dedicated to Apo Rinpoche, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery holds significance as a spiritual centre for monks and devotees, offering space for meditation, rituals, and religious teachings. Its tranquil setting and cultural & spiritual importance make it a notable destination for those interested in Tibetan Buddhism and Himalayan spirituality.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
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Manali features a long array of accommodation facilities located near the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery, suiting different budgets and tastes. Some recommended places to stay here are Silmog Garden, Serenity Resort & Spa, Hotel Snow White, Hotel River Resort and Hotel Himgiri. To have a good, hassle-free experience, ensure you book way in advance, consider proximity to the local attractions, dining options, and public transport, and check on travel websites or apps for current reviews.
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Where To Eat
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Varieties of dining options are available around the monastery. The food is almost always provided by the local staff in the park and is available in almost every type of accommodation. Some local cafes and guesthouses are RideInn Cafe, Vibes Himachali Cuisine, Zam Zam Mediterranean Restaurant, Pindi Kitchen and Urban Monk Cafe. Chana Madra, Momo, Siddu, and Kadi are some of the local specialities.
Best Time To Visit
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The Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery in Manali is best visited from March to June and September to November. The warm, pleasant weather is ideal for exploring the monastery, while the cooler temperatures and clear skies provide a tranquil environment for spiritual practices and sightseeing. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.
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Other Factors To Consider
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Here are some factors to consider before you take a trip to the monastery.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery in Manali is around ₹4,500 – ₹7,000 for budget travellers and ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 for mid-range travellers. Visitors are usually allowed to explore the monastery without an entry fee. Travel costs include train, bus, taxi, local transport, accommodation, food, and miscellaneous expenses. The total estimated cost for a 2-day trip varies based on personal preferences and travel choices.
Tips For Travellers
- Plan your travel between March and July, check road conditions, hire reliable vehicles, and pack smart.
- Wear warm clothing, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
- Respect local customs and follow monastery rules.
- Ensure travel insurance covers high-altitude travel and carry personal medications.
- Stay connected with mobile signals and inform someone of your travel plans.
- Carry cash and essentials for local expenses.
- Be environmentally conscious by leaving no trace and minimising your impact.
- Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery timings are from 6 AM – 6 PM from Monday to Saturday. It remains closed on Sundays for visitors.
Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery is situated within the surreal landscapes of the Himalayas and offers beautiful views over the valley. The Monastery is a place of soul-searching amidst rich tapestries of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Whether you are a devout follower or looking for peace, it will surely leave you with unforgettable moments. Plan your spiritual retreat with TripXL and discover a journey of self-discovery.
Cover Photo: Nenad Spasojevic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
