Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Durpin Monastery is a Tibetan monastery also called Zang Dhok Palri Phodang. This Kalimpong location, built by Hon. Dudjom Rinpoche in 1972, is significant to Buddhist adherents due to its deep theological importance. The primary prayer chamber is calm and conducive to contemplation. The surrounding gardens and lush trees enhance the tranquillity of this spiritual sanctuary. The monastery serves as a significant storehouse for Tibetan literature and translations as a research centre. In addition to seeking spiritual comfort, tourists visit the hill to take in the stunning views it offers.
Location
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
The monastery’s address is Durpin Hill at Kalimpong in the western part of West Bengal in India. It affords a breathtaking view over the curving plains and the stretches of the Eastern Himalayan mountain chain. The monastery in West Bengal has painted walls with art depicting Buddhist incidences and convent-style architecture of Tibet.
Suggested Read: Best Hill Stations Near West Bengal For A Perfect Vacay
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Major cities like Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Siliguri are all simple to reach by road from Kalimpong. To go to the monastery from Kalimpong, you can take a bus or hire a local cab.
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is roughly 73 km from the monastery, is the nearest train station. From the station, you can get to Kalimpong by bus or taxi.
By Air: The monastery is approximately 79 kilometres from Bagdogra Airport, the closest airport. You can take a bus or taxi from the airport to the monastery West Bengal.
Things To Do
1. Praying And Chanting For Soul-Soothing
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
The air is filled with the peaceful singing of monks, the pleasant scent of incense, and the amazing Buddhist artwork on the monastery. There is a meditation hall next to the main prayer hall, which is a peaceful haven for anyone. You may identify inner peace and mindfulness, which can be hard to find in the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Suggested Read: Haunted Places In Kalimpong To Explore The Eerie Rush
2. Tibetan Buddhist Custodian
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
People from all over the world have visited, studied, and found spiritual fulfilment at the monastery, where Buddhists have acquired the knowledge and compassion of the Buddha over the years through the teaching sessions, retreats, and ceremonies provided to those seeking spiritual guidance and enlightenment.
Places To Visit Near Durpin Monastery
1. Teesta Bazaar
Photo: Shipon Karmakar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The most lively market town worth visiting is Teesta Bazaar, through which the Teesta River flows and tourists who wish to engage in Cultural activities. As most guests come to raft in its rapids, the town’s visitors are both lovers of nature and extreme things that go hand in hand. Tourists can shop for numerous products in the active business area of the city, including original souvenirs of Tibetan origin, as well as local handicrafts.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Distance From The Monastery: 24 km
Suggested Read: Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Deolo Hill
Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons
The Teesta River, the Kanchenjunga range, and the valleys can all be seen from Deolo Hill, Kalimpong’s highest point. The area is well-known for adventure sports like paragliding and horseback riding, and it’s ideal for nature treks and picnics. The setting is a large park on the hill with benches, a well-kept green space, and spots to pause and take in the lovely scenery. To witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets above the Himalayan highlands, visitors can even spend the night at the helipad, which has been transformed into a hotel.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10
Distance From The Monastery: 10 km
3. Pine View Nursery
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons
It is one of the best places for people with an interest in planting many types of plants and flowers since the place boasts different types of cactus and other plants. The species observed show how the plants are built and how the desert environment shapes them. Most impressive is that despite their ability to survive even under the severest of weather conditions, these plants come in every colour, size, and texture, which has shocked most visitors to the region.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20
Distance From The Monastery: 5 km
Suggested Read: Discover The Iconic Bamni Waterfall Amidst The Lush Forest Of Bengal
Where To Stay
Photo: Khadeeja Yasser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
For a comfortable stay near the monastery, Kalimpong, consider Sinclairs Retreat Kalimpong for scenic views and amenities. Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort offers luxurious spa services. Summit Barsana Resort & Spa provides relaxing facilities, while The Elgin Silver Oaks is an elegant heritage option.
Where To Eat
Photo: Surabhi Siddaiah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Traditional Bhutanese cuisine may be found at Za Khang Authentic Bhutanese Restaurant, which is located close to the monastery in Kalimpong. Art Café serves continental and local dishes in a cosy atmosphere. Café Kalimpong is known for its pastries and coffee. Sood’s Garden Retreat has diverse options with scenic views, and Morgan House Restaurant offers multi-cuisine dining in a historic setting.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Mukutmanipur
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Thus, March through May is the ideal time for Durpin Monastery timings. The climate is fine, the skies are comparatively calm during this period, and the visitors are blessed with nice and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The range of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius is considered suitable. The other good time to travel to the monastery is during the autumn season, which is between September, October and November. The conditions vary from 10°C to 20°C, and this is suitable for travellers who prefer less humidity, and the top quality clarity that comes after the monsoons gives breathtaking scenes.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Visiting the monastery in Kalimpong is affordable. Local transport from central Kalimpong costs around ₹300-500 by taxi, as there is no entrance fee, though donations are welcome. Total trip costs range from ₹500-1000, depending on travel and refreshment preferences. Carry cash, as digital payments may not be accepted at smaller establishments near the monastery. Extra cash of ₹200-500 is useful for tea, snacks, and souvenirs from local vendors.
Tips For Travellers
- It can get very cold in Kalimpong during the winter, so make sure to pack thick clothing.
- Shorts, skirts, cut-sleeved shirts, backless clothing and short pants are not permitted inside the monastery.
- Learn new things about Buddhist culture and keep an open mind.
- Inside, take in the uncommon three-dimensional mandala and the murals.
- In order to capture the scenery on the lens, bring a camera with you.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Salt Lake Kolkata For An Unforgettable Experience
A haven of tranquillity and spirituality, Durpin Monastery in Kalimpong offers a unique fusion of natural beauty and cultural legacy. The monastery offers a rewarding experience whether you’re looking for spiritual development or just a respite from the daily grind. Every time spent at the monastery is enlightening, from meditation sessions and studying monastic architecture. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the monastery seamlessly!
Cover Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
