Durpin Monastery

4.5

Location: 2FQ6+775, E Main Rd, Chandraloke, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301, India.

Estimated Visiting Time: 30 to 40 minutes approximately.

Durpin Monastery, or the Tibetan monastery, is also known as Zang Dhok Palri Phodang and is located atop Durpin Dara Hill. It is one of the largest monasteries in Kalimpong and a renowned monastery of West Bengal. To increase your Knowledge about Buddhism and the Dalai Lama, it can be a peaceful place among all the monasteries of Kalimpong. It is only 5km away from the Kalimpong Bus Station.

Attraction

Nowadays, the central religious center among Buddhist followers is Zong Dog Palri. The typical Buddhist architectural style builds this structure. Sculptured walls, pillars, and ancient paintings are the major attractions of the monastery. Inside the monastery, you can see a gompa house and a main prayer hall decorated with large paintings and a three-dimensional appearance.
At a height of around 1372 m, one can enjoy the sensational views of the snow-covered Kanchenjunga and the ancient Teesta River flowing below.

History

In 1972, Hon. Dudjom Rinpoche was established this religious shrine. His Holiness Dalai Lama consecrated it after six years. It has a lot of spiritual significance that has made it an essential place for followers of the Buddhist community. Keeping the sacred Kangypur inside the monastery holds an important religious significance.
During Dalai Lama’s exile, he has carried 108 volumes. A few rare Buddhist documents are found within the Zang Dhok Palri monastery.

Inside/Outside Views

You will see two 10-foot big cylinders on either side when you enter. These cylinders will make a bell ring at every turn. Like other Buddhist monasteries, this monastery also has a similar row of prayer wheels. A stairway is found here that leads up to the top of Durpin Monastery. From the top of the second floor, along with an open terrace, one can enjoy the breathtaking views of Kalimpong town with a backdrop of Kanchenjunga peak, tea gardens, Peshoke road, and the opinions of Teesta and Reang rivers in Darjeeling.

Opening Hours

Sunday 9 AM–5:00PM

Monday 9AM –5:00PM

Tuesday 9 AM–5:00 PM

Wednesday 9AM–5:00 PM

Thursday 9AM–5:00 PM

Friday 9 AM–5:00 PM

Saturday 9 AM–5:00 PM

[N.B] Durpin Monastery can be visited throughout the whole year.

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entrance fee for all visitors.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Road: The distance between Kalimpong Bus Stand and Durpin Monastery is about 4.8 km. One can easily reach this monastery from this bus station by taking a Cab or any local transport. It takes approximately 16 minutes to get to the monastery from the bus stand.

By Train: Kalimpong doesn’t have a railway station. The nearest railway station to Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri railway station. The distance between the railway station and Durpin Monastery is about 120.9 km. It takes approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes to reach the monastery.

By air: Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport to Kalimpong. You can easily reach Geden Durpin monastery by taking any local transport from the airport.

Tips for Travellers

Avoid wearing shirts, short dresses, and sleeveless dresses inside the monastery. It would help to carry warm clothes during winter because Kalimpong can freeze. March to May and September to November are the best time to visit the monastery. Try to learn about Buddhist culture.