Monasteries In Kalimpong: Explore The Peaceful Monasteries

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Kalimpong consists of many mountain monasteries that are tranquil and beautiful too. These religious places away from the ordinary have the refreshing scenic beauty of nature with the mountains around them. They are ideal for people who want some peace of mind and some time to think. These holy Monasteries in Kalimpong are meant for followers and tourists, and even for those who want to enjoy a beautiful place, every season of prayers is unique and distinct.

Table of Contents

8 Popular Monasteries In Kalimpong

Discover the spiritual heart of Kalimpong, a journey through its serene monasteries. Some of the most famous monasteries in Kalimpong include:

1. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery

An image of the calming Phodang Monastery, one of the best monasteries in Kalimpong.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Kalimpong stands this calming monastery, which also happens to be one of the prominent places of worship in this town. It is nestled within green vegetation and offers magnificent views of the mountains in the Himalayas range and the Teesta River. The monastery has an appealing design that is embellished with golden statues and colourful murals, which creates a quiet atmosphere, making it great for meditation and introspection. Everyone is invited to enjoy the peace and, in addition, participate in some of the Tibetan ways of Buddhism.

Location: Durpin Dara Hill
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: March – June

2. Tharpa Choling Monastery

A picture of the Tharpa Choling Monastery, situated on a hill with prayer flags.

Photo: Amitabha Gupta Wikimedia Commons

Situated on a hilltop in Kalimpong, Tharpa Choling Monastery is a calm place that offers peace and beautiful scenery. Established in the year 1937, the monastery is one of the significant centres for the teaching of Buddhism in the area. The well-kept indoor courtyards and gardens provide an ideal setting for visitors looking for peace. The expansive prayer hall has many beautiful sculptures of deities from Buddhism, and the sight of the town of Kalimpong and the hills around it is spectacular.

Location: Northern Kalimpong
Best Time To Visit: March to June

3. Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Monastery

A picture of the Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Monastery with colourful prayer flags.

Photo: Andreas Ebner / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Monastery, situated in the centre of Kalimpong, is a pride of Tibetan culture. It is famous for its beautifully constructed traditional buildings and calm surroundings. The painted walls and big prayer wheels within the monastery create a tranquil zone that is coducive to meditation. The picturesque landscape together with the breathtaking view of the mountains around makes this place perfect for anyone who longs for a spiritual retreat within nature’s ambience.

Location: Near Kalimpong town centre
Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Best Offbeat Places Near Kalimpong

4. Mangal Dham

An image of the vibrant Mangal Dham temple, among the top monasteries in Kalimpong.

Photo: Rajesh.pradhan61 / Wikimedia Commons

Mangal Dham as a temple predominantly Hindu includes a Buddhist section, which in turn makes a synthesis of different spiritual practices. Mangal Dham is located in expansive and tranquil surroundings endowed with beautiful gardens and quiet ponds at the tip of Kalimpong. In the premise of the complex is a giant statue of Lord Krishna, while the Buddhist part features some of the statues of Buddha, which makes it an easy and interesting place to visit. This serene environment and vibrant colour combine to appeal to people in search of solace in spirituality.

Location: Outskirts of Kalimpong
Best Time To Visit: March to June

5. Damsang Fort Monastery

An image of the ancient ruins of Damsang Fort with the peaceful monastery perched on top.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

While Damsang Fort can be considered a historical landmark, it also contains a small monastery, which provides comfort to those who wish to take a break spiritually as well as historically. The fort situated on the hill provides a wonderful view of Kalimpong as well as other adjoining valleys. The monastery here is inhabited by a few monks, but the devotion is enormous, and most of the tourists simply stroll around the dismantled structures wondering about the traditions and Buddhism that used to be so rich in the region.

Location: Damsang Fort Hill, Kalimpong
Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Kurumbera Fort

6. Kalimpong Gompa

Image of Kalimpong Gompa with colourful prayer flags waving gently in the breeze.

Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

In the centre of the town of Kalimpong, there is a tiny yet peaceful Kalimpong Gompa Buddhist monastery. Since it is well-positioned and has beautiful views of the town and the hills beyond, it is perfect for meditation and reflection. The vivid Tibetan construction style of the monastery draped in prayer flags gives an insight into the Tibetan Buddhist way of life. It is tranquil and warm, providing refuge to all those who seek it from the chaos of life.

Location: Near Kalimpong Market
Best Time To Visit: March to June

7. Kalimpong Tibetan Buddhist Monastery

picture of the Kalimpong Monastery, among the popular monasteries in Kalimpong.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

This monastery, situated slightly away from the town centre, provides a pleasant atmosphere for pilgrimage and sightseeing activities. Visitors come to the site to admire the exquisitely sculpted images and painted walls that illustrate the history of Tibetan Buddhism. There are also areas provided to the visitors for meditation, contemplation, or simply enjoying the peace. It also has amazing sites such as the tranquil expansive valleys and hills when one wants to take a break and rejuvenate.

Location: Outskirts of Kalimpong
Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kalimpong

8. Sakyamuni Buddha Monastery

An image of the Sakyamuni Buddha Monastery, among the famous monasteries in Kalimpong.

Photo: Siujyuzi / Wikimedia Commons

The Sakyamuni Buddha Monastery is perched on a hill in Kalimpong, which gives a wonderful view of the entire region. This peaceful and quiet monastery is dedicated to the worship of Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha. It has large statues, vibrant wall paintings, and beautiful gardens, which in turn make it a great place for meditation and self-absorption. It is this feeling of calm and peace integrated with stunning views that allows for spiritual development and nature appreciation to take place simultaneously.

Location: Hilltop, Kalimpong
Best Time To Visit: March to June

These important monasteries in Kalimpong are not only a source of spiritual comfort but also serve as a place where a person can interact with the natural environment and seek peace within. Given their tranquil settings as well as cultural diversity, these monasteries are ideal places for contemplation and refreshment. Plan a trip with TripXL and enjoy the magic of these captivating monasteries in West Bengal.

Cover Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sleeping in Kalimpong monasteries possible?

A few monasteries in Kalimpong have guesthouses for their clients, like any hotel, but better to inquire in advance. Many also have spiritual retreats, as one can come and stay for a few days to meditate.

Are there any restrictions on attire for people going to the monasteries in Kalimpong?

Yes, visitors should wear modest clothing when going to the monastery. It is also decent to wear something that covers both the shoulders and the knees, especially while going into the prayer halls.

Are there rules about what to wear or how to act?

Although there are no clear dress rules, visitors are usually expected to present modest and polite attire. One should stay away from loud noises and keep the calm environment.

Are there any organized excursions?

Yes, there are guided excursions in many monasteries of Kalimpong that explain the rich history, architecture, and importance of these sights. This is a great integration with the culture and the Buddhist ways.

Is it permitted to take photos within the monasteries?

Usually, outside the monastery grounds, it is okay to take pictures, while some inside the buildings, prayer halls, for example, may not allow photographs. Do not forget that every place has its peace, and always ask if it is alright to take pictures inside.

Monasteries In Kalimpong: Best Buddhist Monasteries To Visit