Yiga Choeling Monastery

Very calm place.
Very nice view.
Big statue of Buddha.

Really enjoyed the peace all around here.
The design of the monastery gives feeling of Bhutan and Nepal. It's a big temple compared to places around.

Should consider this place if you are in Darjeeling.

The Yiga Choeling Monastery, commonly known as the Old Ghoom Monastery, is a significant Buddhist monastery located in Ghoom, near Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. Established in 1850, it is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in the region.

The Old Ghoom Monastery houses a beautiful statue of Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha) and various ancient Buddhist scriptures. The monastery is known for its serene ambiance and traditional architecture, attracting both tourists and devotees. Additionally, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas.

We had our lunch on santa banta dhab a n it was really beautiful place n the service was also good by Anushriya thanks your for your food n service

Old Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and is known for its 15 feet-high statue of the Maitreya Buddha.
Apart from the giant statue of Maitreya Buddha, the monastery also has an extensive collection of invaluable manuscripts that include the 108-volume Kangyur - supposed to have been spoken by the Buddha himself. The interior walls are a fantastic representation of Tibetan art.
Built in 1875
This is very old monastery.
After visiting the the monastery I was feeling so calm, peace full.
It around 8 km from Darjeeling
This is included 7 spot sightseeing in Darjeeling

Nice place to visit for.if you are at darjeeling. One of the oldest monastery I think.moreover You can buy darjeeling Tea and some traditional clothes.so visiting this place will be a nice option as its a peaceful and sacred place.

Monasteries are always beautiful
It is one of the tourist spots in Darjeeling
Lovely ambience
Crowd is always there
I've enjoyed my visit there

The Yiga Choeling or Old Ghoom Monastery, located at an elevation of 8,000 feet, is Darjeeling's oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. This shrine, founded in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, is part of the Yellow Hat sect known as Gelupka, which worships the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreyi Buddha'. In the middle chamber is a 15-foot-tall figure of Maitreyi Buddha made completely of clay transported from Tibet. This statue was erected during the tenure of the monastery's second head, Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche. There are also several rare Buddhist manuscripts on the site. Outside the monastery, visitors are treated to a stunning vista of the towering Kanchenjunga. The resident monks fly prayer flags in the traditional Tibetan manner.

@pajamatraveller

Truly spiritual essence of buddhism culture and heritage, feel the ambience and your soul will get the best pleasure. Situated in Darjeeling and toy trains also pass by blowing whistles. A must visit place.

Yiga Choeling Monastery is the oldest monastery among all the monastery at Darjeeling district. It is otherwise renowned as Old Ghoom Monastery.
It is an misconception amongst tourist that Samten Choeling monastery is the oldest as it seems the tourist guide and the local convince them as the road to the monastery is narrow alley and difficult motorable route and have to access on foot about 1 km up hill.
It’s entrance at the narrow alley beside Guru Sakya Monastery.
It is a beautiful monastery and must visit.
Many old manuscripts are preserved in this monastery are displayed here.
You may have to pay ₹100 for photography inside the monastery in cash to the care taker.

Yiga Choeling Monastery, also known as Rumtek Monastery, is indeed a significant Buddhist monastery located in Gangtok, Sikkim, India. Here's some information about Yiga Choeling (Rumtek) Monastery:

1. History: Yiga Choeling Monastery, or Rumtek Monastery, holds great historical and religious significance. It was originally built in the 16th century in Tibet but was re-established in its current location in Rumtek, near Gangtok, in the 1960s. The monastery is the largest and most important seat of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet.

2. Architecture: The monastery's architecture reflects traditional Tibetan design and is visually stunning. The main building, known as the "Tsuklakhang, " features intricate murals, thangkas (religious paintings), statues, and ornate woodwork. The monastery complex also includes various stupas, temples, and residential quarters for monks.

3. Religious Significance: Yiga Choeling Monastery is the seat of the Karmapa, the head of the Kagyu lineage, and is considered one of the most sacred monasteries in the region. It serves as a center for Buddhist study, meditation, and religious ceremonies. Many important Buddhist rituals and festivals are held at Rumtek Monastery, attracting devotees and tourists from around the world.

4. Golden Stupa: One of the notable attractions within Yiga Choeling Monastery is the Golden Stupa, also called the "Karma Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies. " It houses the sacred relics and remains of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. The stupa is adorned with gold and precious gems, making it an awe-inspiring sight.

5. Festivals: Yiga Choeling Monastery hosts several festivals throughout the year, with the most significant being the "Tse Chu" festival. This festival is celebrated annually to commemorate the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. During the festival, masked dances, rituals, and other religious ceremonies are performed by the monks.

6. Accessibility: Yiga Choeling (Rumtek) Monastery is located approximately 23 kilometers from Gangtok, and it takes around an hour to reach by road. Visitors can hire taxis or join organized tours to visit the monastery. It's advisable to check the visiting hours and any specific entry requirements before planning a visit.

Yiga Choeling Monastery, or Rumtek Monastery, is a must-visit destination for those interested in Buddhism, Tibetan culture, and the spiritual heritage of Sikkim. The monastery's rich history, architectural grandeur, and serene surroundings make it a captivating place to explore and experience the essence of Tibetan Buddhism.

Locally known as ghoom monastery
Old Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and is known for its 15 feet (4.6 m) -high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The external structure of the building was established in 1850 by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was head of the monastery until 1905.
The Samten Choeling monastery lies below the road and is today less visited by local people due to various religious beliefs and confusion.

The monastery, which was built in 1875 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, follows the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Amongst the Buddhist texts available are the Kangyur, the Tibetan Buddhist canon, running into 108 volumes. The monks fly prayer flags in the Tibetan tradition.

It is an very old monastery in Ghoom belongings to the Gelug or the Yellow hat sect of Buddhism. It was established in the year 1850 by lama Sherab gyatsho.
Inthere is a 15 feet tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and a whole lot of other paintings of other religious ditties
Local people visit in the early morning to pray and worship

Edit:

First review written on: 08/04/2018,07: 57 am
One of the less travelled places by the tourists in Darjeeling. But this is indeed a must visit place for anyone who comes to Darjeeling. A beautiful place with a peaceful environment. It is one of the oldest monasteries of this place.

Yiga Choeling Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in the town of Ghoom, which is about 8 kilometers from the city of Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal. The monastery was established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, who was a disciple of the famous Tibetan Buddhist master, Lama Tsongkhapa.

The Yiga Choeling Monastery is also known as the Ghoom Monastery, as it is situated in the Ghoom area of Darjeeling. It is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region and is considered to be an important cultural and religious center for the local community.

The monastery is famous for its beautiful Tibetan architecture, intricate murals, and stunning thangkas. It is home to several valuable artifacts, including a statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is believed to be over 200 years old. The monastery also has a large collection of ancient manuscripts, scriptures, and prayer flags.

One of the most important annual events at the Yiga Choeling Monastery is the celebration of the Tibetan New Year, which is known as Losar. During this festival, the monastery is decorated with colorful prayer flags, and traditional Tibetan music and dance performances are held.

Visitors to the Yiga Choeling Monastery can also participate in meditation and prayer sessions, as well as learn about Tibetan Buddhism and its rich cultural heritage. The monastery welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds and is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural traditions of the Himalayan region.

It was a memorable trip as they provide you the best location to visit in a short period of time

Good monestery it's old and almost near to good transportation even in their gate darjiling railway is crossing, so really good place to watch it, in monastery story available for shopping.

We visited it early morning and sat in the Monastery for 20-30 mintues while watching the monks/lamas doing their prayers. Peaceful and serene. A must visit
Beautiful Monastery & temple in Ghum (Ghoom), both on the inside & outside of the building. Was relatively clean and well maintained and just off the main road & railway.

Excellent place and most importantly no show off like many others in Sikkim. It's right beside sterling hotel ghoom.

Old Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and is known for its 15 feet (4.6 m) -high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The external structure of the building was established in 1850 by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was head of the monastery until 1905.
For the last two decades, the monastery has been going through severe crises in terms of both monks and finance. Till now, the grants-in-aid entitled to the monastery have not been received either from the government nor from any other source. Presently the monastery is meeting its needs through donations and contributions from local devotees.

Known as ghoom Monastery. Its a must visit down from tiger Hill. Look at magnificent Buddha and have a sip of tea. But local stuff at good price lower than those in the great markets

The Ghoom monastery must be the cleanest & calmest place I found in Darjeeling. Beautiful place at hills lap.

Clear views of mountains. Floating clouds all around the monastery just makes it mesmerising.

The buddha murti so handsomely made.

You are not allowed to take photos inside the monastery. But you can still capture photo from outside the restricted zone.

Visiting Timings:  9: 00 AM - 6: 00 PM
Time Required:  1 - 2 hrs

Ghoom Monastery
At a grand elevation of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this shrine is part of the Yellow Hat sect known as Gelupka who worship the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreyi Buddha'. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreyi Buddha is seen in the central hall, made entirely of clay brought from Tibet. This statue was installed during the tenure of the second head of the monastery Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche. One can also find many rare Buddhist manuscripts within the premises. Visitors are treated to a beautiful view of the majestic Kanchenjunga outside the monastery. Prayer flags are flown by the resident monks in typical Tibetan tradition.
Within Yiga Choeling, one can view images of many Buddha deities and lamas such as the Chenrezig, Buddha of compassion, and Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelupka sect. In front of the Maitreya Buddha statue hang two huge oil lamps which keep burning throughout the year. The walls of the monastery are elaborately painted with depictions and art of Tibetan Buddhism, with different images of bodhisattvas. These beautiful paintings are placed in a symmetrical manner, facilitating the ease of understanding the basics of Buddhist philosophy to visitors of the monastery. The hilltop above the monastery holds the Ma Kali temple, where devotees come to offer prayer every full moon day and on the fifteenth of every month of the Tibetan calendar.

Magical elevated 19C Tibetan Buddhist monastery Buddhist temple 15' Buddha statue Sacred texts Yiga Choeling Monastery Darjeeling W Bengal India Asia.

It's a sacred place for Buddhist. Located near Batasia Loop in Darjeeling. There is a huge Budhha Idol inside the monastery. This is also know as Old Ghoom Monastery.

This is one of the older Monastery in West Bengal. Approach road is very narrow, but a good tourist spot

Another good place to visit when you're at Darjeeling. But now its closed for tourist because of Covid.

The word monastery bring a sense of peace in our minds.covered in a curtain of clouds, the cold wind blowing at our face, the sound of the prayer wheels.

Once in a life time all must visit
What a peaceful atmosphere. And the positive vibes
Calm positive peaceful filled with happiness

The happiness after being here is unexplainable
Amazing place
500m from ghoom railway station with short roads
Due to covid it's closed but you can view things from outside

Nice place but presently inside is closed due to Covid situation. This is located beside a busy road and parking facilities is not available.

Serene and quiet place located in Ghum around 7kms from Darjeeling. A quick visit can be refreshing

Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations, awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks (including Khangchendzonga, the world's third-highest mountain), and serene Buddhist monasteries.  This is the perfect place to arrange a mountain trek or mountain biking adventure.
One of the most popular things to do in Darjeeling is taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.  Powered by an antique steam locomotive, the 140-year-old "Toy Train" takes tourists on two-hour fun rides from Darjeeling to Ghum—a journey that's regularly counted as one of the most scenic train rides in the world

Old Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and is known for its 15 feet (4.6 m) -high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The external structure of the building was established in 1850 by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was head of the monastery until 1905.

Yiga Choeling Monastery or Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of the Yiga Choeling Monastery located at Ghoom at an elevation of 8,000 feet, it is around 8 km from Darjeeling town and is the first ever Tibetan Buddhist monastery to be built in the Darjeeling region.

It was established in the year 1850 CE by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was the head of the monastery until 1905 CE. The Monastery belongs to Gelugpa or the Yellow Hat sect. This is the first ever Tibetan Buddhist monastery to be built in the Darjeeling region. During the Chinese occupation of 1959 in Tibet many high ranking monks fled to India and took refuge in this monastery.

Calm and devotional monastery close to Ghoom. Very divine and inspirational. Worth a 15 mins visit while crossing

Old Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect and is known for its 15 feet (4.6 m) -high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The external structure of the building was established in 1850 by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was head of the monastery until 1905.

In 1909, Kyabje Domo Geshe Rinpoche Ngawang Kalsang, popularly called Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche, succeeded Sherab Gyatso as the head. It was he who commissioned the statue of the Maitreya Buddha, and he remained head until 1952.

During the Chinese occupation of 1959 in Tibet many high ranking abbots fled to India and took refuge in the monastery. In 1961, Dhardo Rimpoche became head of the Yiga Choeling monastery Ghoom, Darjeeling. He died in 1990 and three years later, a boy named Tenzin Legshad Wangdi was recognised as his reincarnation.

On 25 April 1996, he was enthroned at Kalimpong Tibetan ITBCI school. The thirteenth in the line of Tulkus, Tenzin Legshad Wangdi, still goes by the name of Dhardo Tulku. He is studying Tibetan Philosophy at Drepung Loseling University in South India.

Under the supervision of Dhardo Rimpoche, the Managing Committee was set up in order to improve the monastery. Some of the initiatives have been successful, others not.

For the last two decades, the monastery has been going through severe crises in terms of both monks and finance. Till now, the grants-in-aid entitled to the monastery have not been received either from the government nor from any other source. Presently the monastery is meeting its needs through donations and contributions from local devotees.

Beautiful place to be. Oldest monastry here in darjeeling.founded in 19th century. Walk towards it from Ghum Station in winters and you will feel blessed. Right next to Sterling so if yu are staying there, great.

It was a small but oldest monestary.it is of different sect from dali monestary which have different means of offering and praying.

A blissful monastry in serene atmosphere of Darjeeling. A must-visit place in the hill station.

This monastery is one of the oldest in Darjeeling. It was established in 1850 by a Mongolian astrologer. It is one of the few monasteries that house the seated version of the Buddha rather than the lotus mudra and is referred to as the Maitreya Buddha or the (second) Coming Buddha.

Its is one of the oldest monastery in Darjeeling built in 1805 by Mongolian astrologer many tour divers don't take tourist to this monastery instead they take them to another monastery by the highway as this monastery is located quite inside from the highway. Do visit to take blessings of maitryea buddha.

Firstly it is a quiet place. However, it is a small monastery if you are comparing it with Rumtek in Gangtok.

Very peaceful and enchanting place. It'll surely detoxify your mind and body of every sure and put an aura of zen around you. A must visit when you're in Darjeeling.

It is the oldest monastery of ghoom. I think most of the traveller don't know about this place, they might think the Dali monastery as groom yoga choeling monastery. It's is about 2km from the main road very peaceful and not crowded

Lovely and friendly monks. Always adored their penchant for education and religious activities.

One of the oldest Monastery in Darjeeling. It is situated in peaceful and beautiful landscape just 15 minutes walk from Ghoom Railway Station. We can see religious God and Goddess paintings believed by Buddhism inside which can give spiritual power to one who prays there with clean heart. From the compound of Monastery on a clear day one can have a scenery of hills all around which is great for nature lovers.

It's very relaxing every time I go there I think as if I am in heaven the smell of the in sense stick makes it more loving

I belong to the region where this Historic Monastery is situated. My review is for travellers from outside. Please don't fall for other monasteries enroute Darjeeling. This historic monastery is situated at the hilltop of Ghoom just Below Sterling Resorts Hotel (not on the NH55). Please keep yourself informed to visit the right place.

Beutiful environemtn and a beutiful place. U can buy small buddha toys here. It is One of the spot on full day sightseeing at Darjeeling which is starting from tiger hill.

Yiga Choeling Monastery
(Old Ghum Monastery), Darjeeling west Bengal India

घूम मठ, यह दार्जिलिंग शहर से लगभग 8 km, व् घूम रेलवे स्टेशन से 10 मिनट की पैदल दूरी पर, लगभग 7,407 फीट की ऊंचाई पर स्थित है. इसे यागा चॉलिंग मठ के नाम से भी जाना जाता है. इस का निर्माण वर्ष 1850 में किया गया था.

यहाँ ध्यान देने वाली बात यह है, कि दार्जीलिंग में एक और मठ है जिसे सैमेन चोलिंग मठ या घूम मठ कहा जाता है, और आमतोर पर टैक्सी वाले घूम मठ के नाम पर आप को यहीं घुमा देते है. इसलिए आप विशेष तोर पर बताएं की पुराने घूम मठ जाना है.

यहाँ महात्मा बुध की 15 ft ऊँची, दार्जीलिंग क्षेत्र की सबसे बड़ी व् सबसे पुरानी प्रतिमा स्थापित की गई है, जो की तिब्बत से भारत लाइ गई थी. प्रतिमा के सामने दो बड़ी ज्योती (oil lamps) सारा साल जलती रहती है.

इतिहास बताता है की 1959 तिब्बत पर चीनी कब्जे के दौरान कई उच्च श्रेणी के मठाधीश भारत में आ गए थे और भारत में शरण ली थी. वेर्ष 1961 में, दार्दो रिंपोछे, यिगा चिंगलिंग मठ घूम, के प्रमुख बने, व् 1990 में उनकी मृत्यु हो गई और तीन साल बाद, तेनजिन लेगशैड वांगड़ी नाम के एक लड़के को उनका पुनर्जन्म बताया गया.

anitarun

It is One of the spot on full day sightseeing at Darjeeling which is starting from tiger hill. After early morning sunrise at Tiger hill next stop is Yoga Chirping Monastery which is popularly known as old Ghoom monastery. It is having a 15 feet statue of Maitreya Buddha. During the Chinese occupation of Tibet many high ranking abbots fled to India and stayed in monastery.

Upscale place and good monastery. 1km walk from Ghoom railway station. We took toy train from Darjeeling station upto Ghoom station and took a walk upto this place. And then taken a shared van back to Darjeeling hotel!

Excellent for people who want to discover Buddhist spirituality in Darjeeling.
Being the oldest monastery in Darjeeling it is perfectly designed originally by a Mongolian astrologer monk.
This old monastery also hosts cremation rituals and has been a cremation ground for many buddhist families for many generations.

Oldest Monastery of Darjeeling area built in 1850. Beautiful murals and Buddha statue. Quite and calm place. Photography chargeable.
Approach lane from main road is broken. Generally taxi drivers of Darjeeling do not bring tourists here so you will have to tell them specifically to take you there.