Sakya Monastery

4.6

Location: 11th mile, P.O. Topkhana, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301, India.

Estimated Visiting Time: 1-2 hours

In Kalimpong, India, there is a well-known Tibetan Buddhist monastery called Sakya Monastery. It belongs to the Sakya tradition, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s four primary schools. The monastery is renowned for its extensive cultural history and is home to numerous artifacts, sacred texts, and works of art. If you intend to come, it is a location with both spiritual and historical significance.

Attraction

It is an incredible monastery with a peaceful atmosphere far from the hectic metropolis. Buddhist doctrine can be studied, and visitors can gaze upon a mandala made by the monks. In addition, it provides free education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Daily pujas are performed here, and personal pujas can be performed upon request. Large gatherings are staged on essential occasions to display the rich Tibetan culture. It also includes the sacred Buddhist texts known as Kangyur and Tengyur, initially translated from Pali to Tibetan by well-known Tibetan monks.

History

The Sakya Tsechu Association in Kalimpong stated their sincere desire to construct a monastery when His Holiness the Sakya Trizin generously visited Kalimpong in 1994 with his elder and younger Dungsays. So, at the request of the Sakya Tsechu Association, the late Solpon Sangye-la, the two Dungsays, and others went to explore a potential location. However, the owner refused to sell the land at the time. After a lot of struggle, ups and downs, the Sakya Monastery was finally established, and now it’s a famous place for visitors.

Inside/Outside Views

The inside view of the monastery is fantastic. The architecture reflects the Buddhist culture and tradition. A library also contains different kinds of religious and philosophical books. More than 120 students can study Buddhism, languages, sciences, and English at the monastery’s Sapen School. The outside view is also full of greenery and natural beauty, providing the visitors with positive energy and inner peace.

Opening Hours

Open everyday.

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entry fee.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Near Siliguri, Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the closest sizable airport. Getting to Kalimpong by taxi or shared cab will take about three to four hours.

By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in Siliguri is the closest railway station. You can take a taxi or shared taxi from NJP to Kalimpong.