The Old Tibetan Monastery Darjeeling (Ghoom Monastery) Perched in the serene environs of Ghoom, an adorable hill station situated about 8kms from Darjeeling, Ghoom Monastery or Yiga Choeling Monastery stands as the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Darjeeling. The age old monastery dates back to the year 1850, and was founded by Lama Sherab Gyatso. Ghoom Monastery is a prominent centre for learning associated with Gelugpa or the ‘Yellow Hat’ sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It attracts monks from various parts of region to this place to pursue learning. The monastery is famous for a giant 15ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha or Lord Maitreya (Future Buddha of the world) housed within the structure. Exquisite murals on the walls of the monastery, ancient scriptures, parchments of religious texts, ancient prayer wheels and the towering 15ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha have bestowed the monastery a spiritual sanctity. This monastery is far more than a religious destination, it’s a remarkable example of ancient architecture and the nucleus of Buddhist culture. At present, the Ghoom Monastery is under the jurisdiction of Geluk sect. Chanting of Buddhist scriptures with a range of conventional instruments every morning rejuvenates the soul and offers peace of mind. The monastery situated at an altitude of 7,407 ft is a commanding view point of nearby mountains, valley, and tea estates. It is also possible to glimpse the mighty Kanchenjunga from the Ghoom Monastery premises. It is favorably located next to the Ghoom Railway Station, and is frequently visited by travelers taking the toy train journey in their return from Darjeeling, owing to its location along the route of the toy train. A visit to the Ghoom Monastery in the morning would be recommended to get the full feel of serenity before it gets crowded with travelers. A trip to Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling is a spiritual experience.
