Ghoom Monastery, also referred to as Samten Choeling Monastery, is among the top Darjeeling tour places to visit. It is situated nearly 8 km from the main town so that Ghoom Monastery can bring peace and history as well as culture to its many visitors in and out of the country who visit the place. Constructed in the year 1850 Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling is the other older Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in the region and plays a vital role in propagating Buddhist education.
Monasteries are discipline-specific and this one belongs to Gelugpa or the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Amongst these structures stands a 15-foot statue of the Maitreya Buddha, which is referred to as the 'Future Buddha' and is the most remarkable among many others present here. This towering statue seated in the lap of the master of the greatest teacher of compassion, Maitreya, speaks of great tranquillity, and looking forward with hope and compassion towards all beings seeking a brighter tomorrow, welcomes you to the abodes, the main prayer hall, of the Maitreya temple.
The Ghoom Monastery Samten Choeling features colorful prayer flags, beautiful Thangka images, and exquisite Tibetan wall paintings that create an inviting and warm atmosphere dedicated to Tibetan culture and arts. Visitors enjoy this quiet and serene environment where they can also hear the binges of monks chanting prayers, which is quite simply, magical. The Convent is also within a picturesque landscape providing the scenic beauty of mountains and valleys making it an ideal place for silent meditation.
When planning to enjoy the sites in Darjeeling, Ghoom Monastery is the best place to go and experience Tibetan Buddhism and its rich culture. The monastery has a collection of unique manuscripts, old and modern writings, and other text materials that explain the religious practices found in the Himalayas. In fact, tourists can see the monks perform day-to-day activities such as rituals, prayers, and meditation, hence experiencing life in the monastery.
The best time during the day to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling is early in the morning when there are fewer people in the monastery. Also, one can be at peace with himself without disturbances. The crisp breeze from the mountains and the prayer wheels spinning are calming and thus help refresh both the body and the soul.
For those who wish to seek even more of the religious side of Darjeeling, the Ghoom Monastery can be easily included in your Darjeeling tour packages. If you want to extend the itinerary beyond the sightseeing to the religious and cultural practices of the region, this is an appropriate site for you. The monastery itself is in good condition, has good access roads, and is located near other famous tourist attractions such as the Batasia Loop and Tiger Hill.
In conclusion, the Ghoom Monastery Samten Choeling is not only a religious establishment but also a retreat that embraces visitors spiritually and culturally. Its tranquillity, historical heritage, and religious Importance render the place a fundamental tourism feature for anyone on a Darjeeling Tourism. Whether it’s peace that you seek, spirituality or just a better glimpse of Tibetan culture, Ghoom Monastery will always remain in one’s memories.