Pullahari Monastery - The quaint Thicksey monastery in Ladakh
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Pullahari Monastery

4.5
·436 reviews·Budhanilkantha, Nepal

A serene Buddhist monastery offering spiritual solace, unique architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy stunning valley views

CrowdLow
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Pullahari Monastery - The quaint Thicksey monastery in Ladakh

Pullahari Monastery

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy stunning valley views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist monastery offering spiritual solace, unique architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

4.5
(436 reviews)

"Wow! What a lovely place with a wonderful view in a deliciously peaceful setting above Kathmandu Valley."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Gate Hours

Gates close at 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid being turned away. :clock10:

Taxi Access

Taxis can reach the monastery, but expect a bumpy ride on partly paved mountain roads. :taxi:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jamgon Kongtrul Relics Stupa

Jamgon Kongtrul Relics Stupa

Inside the temple

Home to the sacred body relic of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, a deeply revered site.

Kathmandu Valley Overlook

Kathmandu Valley Overlook

Marble floor seating area

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley from a unique marble floor setting.

Mahakala Sand Mandala

Mahakala Sand Mandala

Monastery grounds

Witness the intricate and ephemeral beauty of a Mahakala sand mandala, a sacred Buddhist art form.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Ascent

The journey to Pullahari Monastery involves partly paved mountain roads, which can be challenging. While taxis can manage, be prepared for a bumpy ride. Confirm access with the administration beforehand, as gates close at 4 PM.

Respectful Visit Etiquette

Pullahari Monastery is a place of spiritual significance. Dress modestly, be mindful of your surroundings, and respect the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often find a profound sense of calm here.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy stunning valley views
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#Mahakala sand #mandala at #Pullahari #monastery. #Jamgon #Lama #Khenno.
@choyingyolmo
393.9K likes • 6.3M views

Confirm Gate Hours

Gates close at 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid being turned away. :clock10:

Taxi Access

Taxis can reach the monastery, but expect a bumpy ride on partly paved mountain roads. :taxi:

Seek Administration Access

If the gate guard directs you to a phone number, ask the administration directly for access. :phone:

Dress Modestly

Respect the spiritual nature of the site by wearing modest clothing. :dress:

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Gate Hours

Gates close at 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid being turned away. :clock10:

Taxi Access

Taxis can reach the monastery, but expect a bumpy ride on partly paved mountain roads. :taxi:

Seek Administration Access

If the gate guard directs you to a phone number, ask the administration directly for access. :phone:

Dress Modestly

Respect the spiritual nature of the site by wearing modest clothing. :dress:

Enjoy the Serenity

Experience the peaceful vibrations and unique designs, especially the marble floors. :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(436 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pullahari Monastery is lauded for its profound peace, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley. Visitors appreciate the spiritual significance, particularly the relics and sand mandalas, and the unique marble floors. However, the challenging road access and strict closing times require careful planning.

"Beautiful monastery. Access was a bit difficult as the roads going up the mountain are only partly paved, but the taxi driver did manage. Lovely gompa with Jamgon Kongtrul relics stupa."

Nelson C

"I did retreat here 28 years ago.
It has grown and now they are constructing a new temple near by, but the essence is still there.
Here is where the sacred body relic of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche is kept, in the Stupa inside the temple."

MahaMetta L.V. (May)

"Wow! What s lovely place with s wonderful view in s deliciously peaceful setting above Kathmandu valley. So glad I visited!"

Julian Sellares (Sir Alice)

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Stunning valley views
Unique architecture

What People Dislike

Difficult road access
Strict closing time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing Pullahari Monastery involves navigating partly paved mountain roads. Taxis are generally able to make the journey, though the ride can be bumpy.Reddit It's advisable to confirm your travel plans and inquire about the best routes with your taxi driver.

Public transport options directly to Pullahari Monastery are limited due to its mountain location. Hiring a private taxi or arranging a car is the most common and practical way to reach the site.Reddit

The roads leading up to Pullahari Monastery are described as only partly paved, meaning you can expect a somewhat rough and uneven journey.Reddit This is a common characteristic of routes in hilly or mountainous terrain.

While possible for very fit individuals, walking to Pullahari Monastery is a significant undertaking due to the steep mountain ascent and road conditions. Most visitors opt for vehicular transport.Reddit

Drivers should be prepared for winding mountain roads. It's recommended to use GPS navigation and inform your driver that you are heading to Pullahari Monastery, a well-known landmark.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding ticket purchases is not explicitly mentioned in reviews. However, visitors have noted that sometimes a security guard might ask you to call a number for administration access, suggesting a formal entry process might be in place.Reddit

The gates for Pullahari Monastery close at 4 PM, and visitors are expected to be out by this time.Reddit It's crucial to plan your visit to ensure you have ample time to explore before closing.

While specific admission fees aren't detailed, the mention of needing to contact administration for access suggests there might be a fee or a formal registration process.Reddit It's best to inquire upon arrival or beforehand if possible.

Reviews do not specify any particular days the monastery is closed. However, always be mindful of the 4 PM closing time.Reddit It's wise to check for any local holidays or special events that might affect access.

If you encounter a closed gate or are unsure about access, don't be discouraged if a guard asks you to call a number. Instead, try to contact the monastery administration directly for permission or guidance.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the sacred body relic of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche housed in the Stupa, the stunning panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley from the marble floor seating, and the intricate Mahakala sand mandala.TikTokReddit

Yes, Pullahari Monastery offers excellent photography opportunities, from its unique architectural designs and marble floors to the breathtaking valley vistas. The sand mandalas are also visually striking.TikTokReddit

Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as wonderfully peaceful and serene, offering a tranquil escape above the bustling Kathmandu Valley.Reddit The unique designs and spiritual essence contribute to this calm vibe.

As a monastery, it's important to maintain a respectful demeanor. Dress modestly and be mindful of any ongoing religious ceremonies or practices. The presence of relics and mandalas signifies its deep spiritual importance.TikTok

The monastery features niche, unique designs, with particular mention of high-quality marble floors that have been compared to French architecture. The overall aesthetic is both spiritual and artistically impressive.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Reviews do not mention any food facilities or dining options directly within Pullahari Monastery. It's advisable to eat before your visit or carry your own snacks and water.

Bringing your own food is generally acceptable in most tourist sites, provided you clean up after yourself and respect the serene environment. However, there are no specific mentions of picnic areas.

Given its location on a mountain, dining options immediately surrounding the monastery are scarce. You'll likely need to travel back down towards Kathmandu Valley for a wider selection of restaurants.

While not specific to the monastery, exploring Kathmandu Valley will offer opportunities to try traditional Nepali cuisine like Dal Bhat, Momos, and Thukpa.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have a meal before heading to Pullahari Monastery, as there are no dining facilities on-site and the journey can be tiring.

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley are a prime photography subject. Don't miss capturing the unique marble floors, the stupa, and any sand mandalas you might see.TikTokReddit

While not explicitly stated, it's customary in religious sites to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography during prayers or ceremonies. Generally, exterior and architectural shots are welcome.TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views and architectural details. A standard zoom lens will be versatile for most shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions if allowed.

Yes, sand mandalas are visually stunning and a popular subject for photography.TikTok Be mindful of the delicate nature of the artwork and avoid touching or disturbing it.

Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites and in sensitive areas. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the monastery authorities.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pullahari Monastery can be a unique experience for families, offering a glimpse into Buddhist culture and stunning views. While the journey up the mountain roads can be a bit bumpy for younger children,Reddit the peaceful atmosphere and visual appeal of the monastery might captivate older kids. The intricate sand mandalas TikTok can be particularly fascinating for children to observe. Ensure children are dressed modestly and reminded to be respectful of the quiet environment. Pack snacks and water, as dining options are limited.

🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Retreatants

For those seeking spiritual solace, Pullahari Monastery is an ideal destination. It houses the sacred relic of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, making it a site of deep reverence.Reddit The monastery's serene environment, coupled with the opportunity to witness or learn about practices like sand mandala creation,TikTok offers a profound experience for meditation and introspection. Some visitors have even undertaken retreats here, attesting to its tranquil and conducive atmosphere for spiritual growth.

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

Pullahari Monastery presents a fantastic opportunity for photographers and art lovers. The unique architectural designs, especially the striking marble floors, offer compelling visual subjects.Reddit The panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley provide stunning backdrops for landscape photography. Furthermore, the intricate beauty of the Mahakala sand mandalas TikTok is a photographer's delight, capturing ephemeral Buddhist artistry. Remember to be respectful of the site and any ongoing religious activities when taking photos.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Pullahari

Pullahari Monastery holds deep spiritual importance, primarily as the resting place for the sacred body relic of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche. This makes it a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, drawing devotees seeking blessings and spiritual connection.Reddit The presence of such relics imbues the monastery with a profound sense of sanctity and peace.

The monastery is also known for its practice of creating intricate Mahakala sand mandalas.TikTok These ephemeral works of art are not merely decorative; they are complex spiritual tools used in Buddhist rituals to represent the universe and promote healing and well-being. Witnessing their creation or existence is a rare and moving experience, highlighting the monastery's role in preserving and practicing ancient traditions.

Beyond its specific relics and practices, Pullahari offers a sanctuary for meditation and contemplation. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of calm and spiritual upliftment during their visit, making it a place for both religious observance and personal reflection.

Architectural Marvels and Views

Pullahari Monastery is not only a spiritual hub but also an architectural gem. Visitors are struck by its niche and unique designs, setting it apart from other religious sites. A standout feature frequently mentioned is the high-quality marble floor, which has even drawn comparisons to French architecture.Reddit This elegant flooring, combined with the monastery's distinct aesthetic, creates a visually captivating environment.

Adding to its allure is the monastery's strategic location, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.Reddit From its vantage point, visitors can overlook the sprawling cityscape and surrounding hills, providing a serene backdrop to the spiritual experience. The marble floor seating areas are particularly noted as excellent spots to soak in these magnificent vistas.

The combination of unique architectural elements and the stunning natural scenery makes Pullahari Monastery a place that appeals to both the spiritual seeker and the admirer of beauty and design. It's a destination that engages multiple senses and leaves a lasting impression.

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