About Bokar Monastery
Bokar Monastery, also known as Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop near Mirik in Darjeeling District, West Bengal. Belonging to the Karma Kagyu lineage, it was established in 1984 by Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche. The monastery is known for its traditional Tibetan architecture, serene setting overlooking Mirik Lake, and views of the surrounding hills and Kanchenjunga range.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop monastery complex with traditional Tibetan architecture, colorful facades, prayer halls, large Buddha statues, thangkas and murals. The compound includes courtyards and shrines set in a quiet, forested hillside above Mirik town with panoramic views of Mirik Lake and surrounding tea gardens. The atmosphere is calm and contemplative, with monks in residence and areas for prayer and meditation.
Key highlights
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Traditional Tibetan architecture with ornate prayer hall and murals
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Large Buddha statues and thangkas inside the main shrine hall
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Panoramic views of Mirik Lake, tea gardens and Kanchenjunga on clear days
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Peaceful hilltop setting ideal for meditation and photography
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Active Karma Kagyu Buddhist monastery with resident monks
History of Bokar Monastery
Bokar Monastery was established in 1984 by Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche, a prominent master of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded as the Indian seat of the original Bokar Monastery in Tibet and serves as a centre for Buddhist study, practice and retreat in the Darjeeling Himalayan region.
Culture & Context
The monastery is an important centre of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. It serves as a place of worship, meditation, and religious education for the local Buddhist community and visitors, preserving Tibetan Buddhist art, rituals, and architecture in the Mirik region.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 55 km from Mirik. From the airport, take taxi or bus to Mirik. |
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