Bokar Monastery Mirik
A serene Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Mirik, offering stunning architecture, panoramic views, and a deeply peaceful spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful ambiance
Bokar Monastery Mirik
Best Time
Peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Mirik, offering stunning architecture, panoramic views, and a deeply peaceful spiritual ambiance.
"A sanctuary of peace and a beacon of Buddhist learning nestled in the serene hills of Mirik."
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastic environment. :dress:
🤫 Maintain Quiet
Keep noise levels low to respect the monks' meditation and prayers. :speaker:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monastic Architecture
Main prayer hall
Admire the stunning traditional Tibetan architecture, a blend of spirituality and natural beauty.
Panoramic Views
Monastery grounds
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mirik town and the serene Sumendu Lake from the monastery's elevated position.
Monastic Chanting
Prayer hall
Experience the mesmerizing unison chanting of mantras, a truly soulful and spiritual experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastic environment. :dress:
🤫 Maintain Quiet
Keep noise levels low to respect the monks' meditation and prayers. :speaker:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos, especially of monks or inside prayer halls. :camera:
🐒 Watch for Monkeys
Be aware of monkeys on the premises; keep food hidden and avoid direct interaction. :monkey_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastic environment. :dress:
🤫 Maintain Quiet
Keep noise levels low to respect the monks' meditation and prayers. :speaker:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos, especially of monks or inside prayer halls. :camera:
🐒 Watch for Monkeys
Be aware of monkeys on the premises; keep food hidden and avoid direct interaction. :monkey_face:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available on-site for visitors. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bokar Monastery is widely praised for its profound peace, stunning traditional Tibetan architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors find the serene atmosphere and mesmerizing chanting to be deeply soulful experiences. While some note slight crowds during prayers or potential midday closures, the overall sentiment is one of tranquility and spiritual enrichment, making it a highly recommended destination.
"Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery, more commonly known as Bokar Monastery, is a sanctuary of peace and a beacon of Buddhist learning nestled in the serene hills of Mirik, West Bengal. It is a truly remarkable place.
Perched at the highest point of Mirik, the monastery offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape, including the tranquil Sumendu Lake. The clean, well-maintained premises and the quiet, spiritual atmosphere make it a perfect destination for those seeking a respite from the clamor of daily life. The air of serenity is palpable, making it an ideal spot for meditation.
This monastery is not just a place of worship; it is a thriving monastic center where nearly 500 monks are devoted to studying, practicing, and sustaining the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha. It is home to a monastic college (Shedra) and hosts regular retreats."
Rupali Khetan
"Beautiful and peaceful monastery. The unison chanting of mantras was truly mesmerizing. Traditional Tibetan architecture adds to the charm. A perfect spot for quiet reflection. Slight crowd during prayers and some midday closures, but overall a soulful experience."
Enayet Shameem
"Beautiful place, very peaceful place, Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a lover of nature, or a cultural enthusiast, Mirik Monastery offers a soulful retreat away from the hustle of everyday life. It’s one of the lesser-known treasures of North Bengal and truly worth a visit."
Keya Biswas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bokar Monastery is approximately 46 km from Siliguri. You can hire a local taxi or take a shared vehicle towards Mirik. The journey offers scenic views of the Darjeeling hills.
Yes, the monastery is about 13 km from Pashupatinathnagar on the Nepal-India border, making it a convenient stop for those traveling between the two countries.
Bokar Monastery is located at the highest point of Mirik. You can take a local taxi or, if you enjoy walking, it's a pleasant uphill stroll from Mirik Lake.
While direct public buses might be limited, shared taxis and local jeeps are common options from Mirik town. Negotiate fares beforehand.
The roads leading to Mirik and the monastery are generally well-maintained, offering a comfortable drive through the picturesque landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Bokar Monastery is free for all visitors, allowing everyone to experience its spiritual ambiance.
The monastery is generally open throughout the day, but it's advisable to check for specific prayer times. Some areas might have midday closures for rest.
You can visit during prayer times, but it's important to be respectful and quiet. The unison chanting can be a mesmerizing experience.
While not always formally advertised, the serene atmosphere lends itself to personal meditation. Inquire with the monastery staff about any scheduled sessions.
No advance booking is required as the entry is free. You can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon usually offers a more peaceful experience with fewer visitors.
Basic facilities are usually available, but it's always a good idea to be prepared.
Photography might be restricted in certain areas, especially inside the main prayer halls or during ceremonies. Always be respectful and ask for permission.
It's a major center for Buddhist learning and practice, home to nearly 500 monks and a monastic college (Shedra), dedicated to preserving Buddhist teachings.
While not a dedicated children's attraction, the peaceful environment and unique architecture can be engaging for older children interested in culture and spirituality.
📸 📸 Photography
The monastery grounds offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and Mirik town. The intricate architecture itself is also a great subject.
Drone usage is generally discouraged in religious sites to maintain peace and respect. Always check local regulations and monastery rules.
A versatile camera with a good lens for both wide-angle shots of the landscape and detailed shots of the architecture would be ideal.
Yes, photography is often restricted inside prayer halls and during religious ceremonies. Be mindful of signs and ask monks if unsure.
Early morning and late afternoon provide soft, beautiful light that enhances the monastery's colors and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potential midday closures and ensure your children are aware of the importance of maintaining a quiet demeanor. The presence of monkeys can be an exciting, albeit cautionary, element for kids. Overall, it's a valuable opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and spiritual practices in a calm setting.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Embrace the opportunity to connect with the spiritual energy of the place. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer the most peaceful and introspective experience. The monastery's role as a center for Buddhist learning also adds a layer of depth for those interested in understanding the philosophy and practices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart of Mirik
+1The monastery's location at the highest point of Mirik offers not only a serene environment but also spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the tranquil Sumendu Lake. This elevated position makes it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating the natural beauty of the region. The clean, well-maintained premises and the palpable air of serenity contribute to its reputation as a sanctuary for peace and mindfulness.
Visitors often describe the experience as deeply soulful, with the unison chanting of mantras being particularly mesmerizing. The traditional Tibetan architecture adds to the charm and spiritual ambiance. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Bokar Monastery offers a unique and enriching experience away from the hustle of everyday life, making it a hidden gem of North Bengal.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette
Photography is a popular activity, with many visitors capturing the stunning architecture and panoramic views. However, it's important to be mindful of restrictions, especially inside prayer halls or during prayer sessions. Always seek permission before photographing monks or sacred artifacts. Some social media content showcases aerial views, but drone usage is generally discouraged in religious sites to maintain peace and respect.
Be aware of the local wildlife; monkeys are often present on the monastery grounds. While they add to the natural charm, it's advisable to keep food hidden and avoid direct interaction. Free parking is available on-site, adding to the convenience for those arriving by car. The monastery's location offers beautiful views of Mirik Lake, and it's a refreshing spot to meditate and absorb the silence.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit