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–The Mirik Monastery, also known as Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery, is an important Tibetan Buddhist monastery. It was founded in 1984 under the great guidance of Tibetan Lama-Thubten Zopa Rinpoche. It is a place for the practice and teaching of Buddhism. Traditional Tibetan architecture of the Monastery includes a spacious hall for prayers with the statue of Buddha, along with images of deities and Bodhisattvas. This monastery also contains a stupa and prayer wheels. The monastery is one of the most significant destinations for a closer look at Tibetan Buddhism and experiencing the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills.
Quick Details About Mirik Monastery
Elevation: 4,905 feet above sea level
Mirik Monastery Timings: 5 AM – 7 PM
Best Time To Visit Mirik Monastery: March to June
How To Reach Mirik Monastery
Photo: Sujay25 / Wikimedia Commons
Mirik Monastery can be conveniently reached via road, air and rail, depending upon a traveller’s location.
By Road: Mirik is well-connected by road, and you can reach the monastery via local taxis or auto-rickshaws from Darjeeling or Siliguri.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), approximately 55 km from Mirik. From there, you can travel by road to Mirik.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 50 km away. From NJP, you can travel to Mirik by road.
Things To Do At Mirik Monastery
You can visit the Mirik Monastery to discover the Tibetan cultural heritage and prosperity. Here are a few activities to enjoy:
1. Meditation
Photo: Sasint / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The monastery is a tranquil retreat for meditation. It features a simple yet elegant structure that offers visitors a feeling of silence and spiritual attachment. There are wide, spacious meditation halls with traditional Buddhist art. Meditation courses are guided by senior monks in mindfulness, breath awareness, and loving-kindness practices. It also helps attain complete silence and solitude. The retreats usually run from some days to a few weeks. Also, the monastery has built a strong community through shared meals and communal rituals.
2. Attend Dharma Talk
Photo: Olgaozik / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Dharma talks at the monastery are spiritual and practical; they enable participants to increase their knowledge of Buddhism and improve their meditation practice. The talks usually occur in a calm atmosphere, in vast halls of meditation or praying rooms, with beautiful traditional art and symbolic representations of Buddhism. Among these themes are key Buddhist teachings: the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, mindfulness, compassion, and the nature of enlightenment. The monastery also preaches practical tips for daily living based on these principles.
3. Participate In Rituals & Ceremonies
Photo: Tianya1223 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The monks of the monastery present Buddhist spiritual practices with the rituals and ceremonies organised within the holy place, providing serenity and tranquillity. The daily routine in the monastery consists of prayers, chanting, and other meditation sessions. This monastery does not miss celebrating Buddhist festivals like Vesak and Losar. Participation in rituals involves active engagement, learning, and supporting each other. Rituals cultivate mindfulness, reverence, and spiritual discipline while expressing devotional respect towards the Buddha and teachings.
Places To Visit Around Mirik Monastery
To discover the hidden beauty, here are a few places to visit around the monastery:
1. Buddha Monastery
Photo: Phong38theKOP / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Buddha monasteries are revered as one of the Buddhist institutes in memory of the great teacher. The monastery features cultural, regional, and sectarian traditions. Some common elements are the main temple or the prayer hall, monastic living quarters, stupa, pagodas, prayer wheels, and flags. Spiritual practices in the Buddha Monastery include meditation, rituals and ceremonies, offerings, and teachings. It also acts as a residence and spiritual centre for monks and nuns who follow a virtuous lifestyle of study, meditation, and community life.
Things To Do: Prayer, meditation
2. Mirik
Photo: Mr. Debapriya Hore / Wikimedia Commons
Mirik, one of the most beautiful hill stations in West Bengal, is known for its delightful scenic beauty and calm atmosphere. The town stands 1,767 metres tall in the eastern Himalayas amidst lush green hills, gardens of green tea plants, and dense forests. One of the main attractions here is the Kanchenjunga Range— the third-highest peak in the world. Key attractions include Sumendu Lake, Mirik Tea Gardens, Buddhist monasteries, the Pine View Point, and the Kasturi Shrine.
Things To Do: Boating, trekking, nature walk
Where To Stay
Photo: Peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Some accommodations for people who wish to visit the monastery include Lake View Villa, Amaira Resort & Farms, Daughter J Homestay, Mount Queens Hill Resort & Spa, and Sourenee Tea Estate & Boutique Resort. Accommodations are available for different budgets. Parking, Wi-Fi, and dining facilities are also provided in some accommodations.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When visiting the monastery in Mirik, there are several dining options in and around the area where you can enjoy local cuisine and other varieties of food. Hotel Sunrise Restaurant, Jagjeet Restaurant, Nesang’s Gurkha Cafe & Restaurant, and The Mirik View Restaurant serve freshly prepared local delicacies. Whether you’re looking for local Tibetan flavours or familiar Indian dishes, there are various options to suit your taste.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Sujay25 / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
There is no entrance fee at the Mirik Monastery West Bengal. Additional expenses may include transportation, food, and refreshments. The estimated cost ranges from ₹8000 to ₹25,000 per day.
Tips For Travellers
- Be a responsible traveller and do not litter in the temple complex.
- Dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees as you enter any place of worship.
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
Mirik’s charming town invites exploration, fostering an appreciation for nature, culture, and spirituality. The Mirik Monastery leaves an indelible mark on visitors, allowing them to reconnect with their inner selves. Every corner of the monastery reflects the region’s rich legacy, from the quiet ambience of gardens to tranquil mountains. Plan your trip with TripXL to discover the charm of West Bengal today!
Cover Photo: PrashansaGurung / Wikimedia Commons
