About Chokling Monastery
Chokling Monastery, officially Pema Ewam Chokgyur Gyurme Ling, is a prominent Nyingma Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Bir Tibetan Colony of Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1966 by the Third Neten Chokling Rinpoche following the Tibetan exile, it serves as the spiritual heart of the settlement. The monastery is renowned for its giant golden Padmasambhava statue, intricate murals, and traditional drubchen ritual dances.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the serene courtyard featuring a large stupa and a towering golden statue of Padmasambhava. The main prayer hall, adorned with ornate white pillars and vibrant Tibetan art, hosts chanting sessions twice daily. Guests may observe monks in prayer, witness traditional masked cham dances during festivals, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of a living monastic complex that includes a three-year retreat center.
Key highlights
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Giant golden statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche)
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Ornately painted white pillars of the main prayer hall
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Large stupa in the central courtyard
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Traditional drubchen ritual ceremonies and masked dances
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Filming location of the movie 'The Cup' (1999)
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Peaceful meditation and prayer sessions
History of Chokling Monastery
Founded in 1966 by the Third Neten Chokling Rinpoche, an emanation of the great tertön Chokgyur Lingpa. The monastery was established after the Tibetan exile, with the Rinpoche purchasing land that became the Bir Tibetan Colony, settling around 300 refugee families. It preserves the Chokling Tersar lineage of the Nyingma school.
Culture & Context
A vital center for Tibetan Buddhist culture in India, preserving ancient rituals, art, and the Chokling Tersar teachings. It played a significant role in the formation of the Bir Tibetan Colony and continues to host international practitioners for drubchen ceremonies.
Route
| By air |
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