Monasteries that you must visit in Bir: Things to do in Bir-Billing

Bir is also home to several Tibetan refugees who reside in the Tibetan colony. Because of that, there is a vast influence of Tibetan Buddhism in Bir. It’s a perfect place to learn and experience the culture of Tibetan Buddhists. Following are the major monasteries in Bir that you can explore.

1. Chokling Monastery

Originally known as Pema Ewan Chogar Gyurme Ling Monastery, it is one of the largest monasteries in Bir. Built in the 1960s, this monastery has temples, stupas and living quarters for monks. You can climb to the top of the monastery and watch the sunset and the views of the mountains.

2. Palpung Sherabling Monastery

This Monastery is around 8 km from Bir and is one of the biggest monasteries in Bir. The temple has a two-storey golden statue of Maitreya who is believed to be the future Buddha. The route to this monastery is breathtaking and scenic which will make your experience more beautiful.

3. Deer Park Institute

This institute offers courses to learn yoga, art and culture, meditation and more. Apart from the temple, they have rooms and dorms for tourists who enroll in their courses. The institute also has an in-door café where you can visit as an outsider until 5 or 6 PM. It is a perfect place to learn and experience Buddhist culture.

You can witness breathtaking sunsets over the mountains from the top of the temple or rooftop of the stay.

4. Tsering jong monastery

Located near the tea gardens of Chowgan, it’s a majestic monastery that has striking architecture. Right at the entrance you will find a beautiful structure with a statue. It’s quite different and unique from the other monasteries.

NOTE: Be careful as there are 5-6 German Shepherds inside the monastery who are not on a leash and are aggressive.

5. Nyingma Monastery

Nyingma Monastery represents the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism- Nyingma. It’s a very peaceful monastery located on Bir colony road.

Conclusion

These monasteries are ideal places to know more about Buddhist culture. You can attend the evening pooja at any monastery. These monasteries close around 5-6 PM.