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Dorje Drak Monastery is a great spiritual institution with deep roots in Tibetan Buddhism. This holy location has centuries of historical background and cultural value. Rich history is reflected in the architectural splendour of the monastery, which employs vivid colours and complex patterns. You may see monks’ everyday life and religious routines. Valuable artwork, including sculptures and thangkas, is housed at the monastery. Are you prepared to discover this ancient monastery? Come discover the beauties of Dorje Drak Monastery and its ongoing history with us.
Dorje Drak Monastery Location
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Near Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, India, is Dorje Drak Monastery. It’s found near Kasumpti, about 7 kilometres from the Old Bus Stand and 8 kilometres from Shimla Train Station. Kyabje Taklung Tsetrual Rinpoche founded this sanctuary in 1984. He started it after leaving Tibet because of the invasion by China.
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Himachal Pradesh For Fresh Mountain Air
How To Reach Dorje Drak Monastery
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By Air: The nearest airport is the Jubbarhatti Airport, also called the Shimla Airport, which is 24 km away from the monastery. Flights from New Delhi and Chandigarh arrive at it daily. If no flight is available, one should take a taxi or bus from Chandigarh to Shimla.
By Road: There are adequate facilities for public and private buses in Shimla. These run daily from cities such as Jaipur, New Delhi, Chandigarh, and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The monastery is only 7 km away from the Shimla Bus Stand.
By Rail: The tourists may have to take a train to Kalka Railway Station. From there, take the Kalka Shimla Toy train to the Shimla Railway Station. This beautiful route is of 96 km, and it will take approximately 6-7 hours. The monastery is located near Shimla station.
Places In And Around Dorje Drak Monastery
Shimla and its surroundings have a range of attractions for guests. Here are some notable places to explore near Dorje Drak Monastery:
1. Hawa Ghar
Photo: Paul Hamilton / Wikimedia Commons
Hawa Ghar is a popular destination near Dorje Drak Monastery in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Combining comfort with natural beauty, this institution offers a quiet environment for guests. Its classic design integrates with the natural surroundings to make it a perfect place for leisure. Hawa Ghar is visited by many residents as well as visitors looking for the pure mountain air. The site offers beautiful views of the surroundings. Visitors may relax and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Dorje Drak Monastery: 5.8 km
Location: Ridge, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh For Your Next Vacation
2. The Himachal State Museum
Photo: Jazze7 / Wikimedia Commons
The Himachal State Museum is an important site to visit near Dorje Drak monastery. It was set up in 1974, and its building is of colonial architecture. The museum, through several displays, presents the cultural heritage of the state of Himachal Pradesh. People may view the gallery of paintings, Pahari miniature art section, jewellery, and the traditional costumes gallery. Its library also has other books on the history and culture of the state.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Distance From Dorje Drak Monastery: 8.3 km
Location: Museum Road, near Doordarshan Kendra, Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
3. The Army Heritage Museum
Photo: 502hsuya / Wikimedia Commons
The Army Heritage Museum is a must-see destination near Dorje Drak Monastery. It was founded in 2006 to preserve the tradition of the Indian Army. Four branches of the museum are related to military accomplishments and technical progress. There are dedicated sections here for renowned Indian warriors and battles, along with artefacts and photographs. Tudorbethan architecture of Shimla has been incorporated into the construction of the building with the help of local materials.
Timings: 10 AM – 2 PM and 3 PM – 5 PM
Distance From Dorje Drak Monastery: 9.3 km
Location: Annadale Rd, Annadale, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Read: Harvest Festivals Of Himachal Pradesh That Offer A Glimpse Into The Culture
4. Marina Waterfall
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One amazing natural beauty close to Shimla is Marina Waterfall. Renowned for its tie-red cascades, the waterfall produces a fantastic visual spectacle. It leaps from a great height onto the stony ground below. Lush canopies of trees around the waterfall provide a peaceful setting. Nature lovers and photographers often travel to capture its splendour. Marina is a perpetual waterfall that is accessible all year long so that guests may enjoy its beauty in all seasons.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Dorje Drak Monastery: 4.7 km
Location: Mall Rd, Bemloi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
5. Kufri Fun World
Photo: Shahnoor Habib Munmun / Wikimedia Commons
Kufri Fun World is a wonderful place to visit near Dorje Drak Monastery for those seeking adventure. Rising 2,800 metres, it is around 20 kilometres from Shimla. The park offers various attractions suitable for all age groups, including the world’s highest go-kart track. People may have thrilling activities such as bungee ejection and zipping. There are also less vivid examples, like the merry-go-rounds.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Distance From Dorje Drak Monastery: 22.9 km
Location: NH 22, Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Himachal Pradesh
Where To Stay
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Shimla has a spectrum of accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes, such as the Ivory Pine Hotel in Kasumpti Colony, Panthaghati, Hotel Mount View Shimla provides basic amenities for budget-conscious travellers, Shimla Heights – Valley View Retreat boasts stunning views and a peaceful environment and the Sprout by Shimla Hives Nature stresses a relationship with the environment.
Where To Eat
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Shimla and its surroundings have a range of restaurants that suit different tastes such as Negi Ji Da Dhaba for casual North Indian cuisine, Punjabi Dhaba on Shimla-Kangra Road for filling Punjabi food, Tenzin Kitchen in Sarahan offers pleasant surroundings and Tibetan and Indian cuisine. Aamantran, next to Wild Flower Hall, offers families and groups continental and Indian choices and Shiva Restaurant in Sarahan is recognized for its basic but wonderful Indian cuisine.
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Best Time To Visit
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One should visit Dorje Drak Monastery ideally between March and October. The temperature in these months is pleasant and fit for travel. Sightseeing and appreciating the surrounding natural beauty will help you find the best circumstances in spring and fall. May especially stands out because of the Hemis Festival, which draws a lot of followers. Although the monastery welcomes guests all year long, this time offers the finest opportunity for those eager to fully enjoy the calm environment and cultural diversity of the location.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- To respect regional customs and traditions, dress modestly and take off shoes before visiting monastery grounds.
- To maximise your trip, find the visiting hours of the monastery and any unique events or celebrations.
- Bring water, food, and any required meds; facilities on the monastery grounds may be few.
- Before photographing monks or internal areas, get permission; follow any signs prohibiting camera use.
- To learn more about the history, architecture, and spiritual value of the monastery, think about paying for a local tour.
- Donations are valued and assist the upkeep and activities of the monastery; provide what you can.
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Dorje Drak Monastery offers a unique spiritual experience amidst the scenic beauty of Shimla. This calm haven of Tibetan Buddhism allows guests to discover its rich history, magnificent architecture, and active cultural events. Use the peaceful surroundings while you map your path to deepen your knowledge of Buddhist teachings. Almost ready to start this spiritual journey? Book your trip to Shimla with TripXL today for an unforgettable exploration of Dorje Drak Monastery.
Cover Photo: Kandarp / Shutterstock
