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Mirik, a beautiful town in the district of Darjeeling, houses the prime centre of Tibetan Buddhism, the Bokar Monastery or Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery.
The monastery, surrounded by hills with lush green vegetation, is the most visited spot among people seeking knowledge regarding Buddhist culture and spiritual practice. The monastery is renowned for the exquisite religious arts manifested with minute paintings and intricate sculptures of Buddhist deities and teachings.
Location
Photo: Sujay 25 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated approximately 30 km from Darjeeling, the Bokar Monastery is in Mirik. The monastery offers picturesque views of the landscape, surrounded by the picturesque hills of Mirik. This monastery is very well located between the major towns of Darjeeling and Siliguri, making it accessible and a serene destination for visitors. You can get the Bokar Monastery address online or by local means, as it is quite accessible.
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Darjeeling
How To Reach Bokar Monastery
Photo: TruShotz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
By Rail: The major railway station near the Bokar Monastery is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, about 60 kilometres away. Tourists can hire taxis from the railway or local transportation services like buses to reach Mirik and then proceed to the monastery.
By road: It is about 30 km from Darjeeling. One can easily access Mirik through Mirik-Darjeeling Road. In Darjeeling, one can rent cars or hire a taxi to reach the place. The roads are well-maintained, and the monastery is easily approachable.
By Air: The nearest airport to Bokar Monastery is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 50 km away. One can hire a taxi from Bagdogra to reach Mirik and continue to the monastery.
Places To Visit Around Bokar Monastery
Tourists can enjoy such additions to their trip, making their journey full of new ventures:
1. Mirik Lake
Photo: Shubh Ch 1994 / Wikimedia Commons
About 10 km from Bokar Monastery, Mirik Lake is one of the favourite haunts for tourists yearning to feel the serenity amidst natural beauty. With gardens around it fringing the lake and boating facilities, this is ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and serene peace that provides a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, thereby increasing its appeal.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Location: Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
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2. Kashmir Point
Photo: Mr. Debapriya Hore / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
About 12 km from Bokar Monastery, one can find Kashmir Point, a viewpoint admired for its panoramic view of the Mirik region. This viewpoint presents the extent of green, sublime hills and the far-flung peaks of the Himalayas, thus making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. The expansive vistas of verdant valleys and rugged terrain create a tranquil setting for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Location: Near Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
3. Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Sujay 25 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary is around 18 km from Bokar Monastery and is a pure animal lover treasure. Here, one can find a large variety of biodiversity, including the elusive red panda and diversified flora and fauna. Besides having some beautiful ponds from which the sanctuary gets its name, it has a serene nature walk and bird watching. The tranquil environment with lush green vegetation offers an ideal setting for people interested in wildlife and natural beauty.
Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM
Location: Lepchajagat, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
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4. Pashupatinagar Market
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pashupatinagar Market is a busy centre providing the required doses of local culture. On display, one will have all sorts of goods, from traditional handicrafts and colourful textiles to fresh local produce. That makes it an excellent destination for those seeking to experience regional life and procure memorable souvenirs.
Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM
Location: Pashupatinagar, Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
5. Singla Tea Garden
Photo: Animesh Kumar/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Spread across a large area and lined with green tea leaves, Singla Tea Estate is located about 20 km from Mirik. It offers an excellent opportunity for tea aficionados and learners of the process involved in tea making. There are guided tours of the vast green tea gardens, showing the process of tea making in front of visitors, from plucking and processing to the final product. Visitors get to taste different varieties of teas and learn about the history and culture associated with the tea plantations here.
Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM
Location: Singla, Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal
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Where To Stay
Photo: Sujay 25/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Travellers can consider staying in hotels near Bokar Monastery. The list of places near the Bokar Monastery for stays include Mount Queens Hill Resort & Spa, Lakeview Villa, Amaira Resort & Farms, Golden Sunview Homestay, and Birdsong Home.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sujay 25 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Travellers can choose from the varied options available at Nesang’s Gorkha Cafe & Restaurant, Hitaishi Restaurant, Menla Tshokang Restaurant & Homestay, Pradhan Hotel & Restaurant, and Green Hill Restaurant, each offering a unique and satisfying dining experience. These places promise wholesome meals and memorable experiences for all visitors.
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Best Time To Visit Bokar Monastery
Photo: Mrinmoy 7 / Wikimedia Commons
March to June is the best time to visit Bokar Monastery. The climate is mild, and nature is at its best. The hills will bloom with flowers, and the clear sky will have the Himalayas in packed snow. These are the best months for outdoor activities and sightseeing to enjoy the beauty and serenity of Mirik.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Kristian Frisk / Wikimedia Commons
Cost Of The Trip: A trip to the Bokar Monastery is very economical since there is no entry fee or ticket price. However, tourists may need to check their transportation and accommodation budgets.
Tips for the Travellers
- Maintain decorum and silence
- Dress modestly
- Be careful and sensitive to the beliefs and local customs of the people in the monastery.
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At the Bokar Monastery, tourists can escape from their daily ventures and seek a sense of spirituality. This place is ideal for insight into Buddhist heritage and customs. Indeed, the beautiful monastery is perfect for a journey deep inside self-reflection and enlightenment. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to the Bokar Monastery with TripXL now and soak in the relief it offers!
Cover Photo: Sujay 25 / Wikimedia Commons
