Weather: 11 - 22°C
Tags: Buddhist Temple, Spiritual, Heritage
Category: Religious Site, Tourist Attraction
Timings:

  • Summers: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Winters: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM - 6:00 PM
    Time Required: 1-2 hours
    Entry Fee: Free
    Also Referred As: Buddha Temple Complex
    Best Time to Visit: April to June

Mindrolling Monastery Overview

Located amidst the serene foothills of the Himalayas in Clement Town, Dehradun, Mindrolling Monastery, also known as the Buddha Temple Complex, is a renowned Buddhist spiritual center. Established in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche, this peaceful retreat attracts thousands of visitors, both domestic and international, every year. The monastery is known for its awe-inspiring architecture and its tranquil surroundings, making it a perfect destination for those seeking spirituality and a connection to Tibetan Buddhism.

Mindrolling Monastery is not only one of the largest Buddhist centers in India but also a vital cultural and educational institution. It houses the Ngagyur Nyingma College, which offers advanced Buddhist studies to over 300 monks. The monastery’s impressive structure includes several shrines, Tibetan art, murals, and the towering Statue of Lord Buddha, which makes it one of the most visited spiritual spots in Dehradun.

History of Mindrolling Monastery

The Mindrolling Monastery was originally founded in 1676 by Rigzin Tendak Lingpa, and later re-established in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche with the help of fellow monks. The temple was built to preserve the teachings and cultural heritage of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, one of the four primary schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Involved in its construction were around 50 skilled artists, who worked tirelessly for three years to create this architectural marvel.

Architecture of Mindrolling Monastery

The monastery is a fine example of Japanese architectural style combined with traditional Tibetan influences. Its most striking feature is the Great Stupa, which stands at an impressive 220 feet tall and is the largest stupa in Asia. The stupa was inaugurated in 2002 and remains a key attraction of the monastery. The structure is spread across five floors and contains statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava. The first three floors are adorned with intricate gold-colored murals, while the upper floors offer a panoramic view of the Dehradun Valley.

Another highlight is the 130-foot tall statue of Lord Buddha located inside the monastery. Surrounded by lush greenery, the monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for meditation and reflection. The garden is well-maintained, and there is a bookstore stocked with a variety of Tibetan books.

Best Time to Visit Mindrolling Monastery

The best time to visit Mindrolling Monastery is during the months of April to June. The pleasant climate during this period, coupled with the peaceful ambiance, makes it an ideal time to explore the monastery. The summer months offer a calm and refreshing experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the monastery grounds.

Things to Do at Mindrolling Monastery

  1. Meditate: Experience a sense of peace and tranquility as you meditate within the monastery's serene grounds.
  2. Photography: Capture the breathtaking architecture, the stunning statue of Lord Buddha, and the panoramic views from the upper floors.
  3. Explore Tibetan Art: Admire the wall paintings inside the monastery that depict the life of Lord Buddha.
  4. Trekking: The monastery is situated in a green, tranquil environment, perfect for a relaxing walk.
  5. Shopping: Visit the monastery’s bookstore and purchase Tibetan books and spiritual souvenirs.

Tips for Visiting Mindrolling Monastery

  1. Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and surrounding landscapes.
  2. Dress Appropriately: As a place of worship, it is recommended to wear respectful attire. Also, wear comfortable footwear as you will be walking on uneven surfaces.
  3. Carry a Shawl: While daytime temperatures may be warm, evenings can be chilly, so carrying a light shawl is a good idea.
  4. Remove Shoes: As a mark of respect, visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the main hall of the monastery.
  5. Respect the Peace: This is a place for spiritual reflection, so maintain a peaceful and quiet demeanor while visiting.

How to Reach Mindrolling Monastery

The Mindrolling Monastery is located on Delhi-Saharanpur Road, just 4 kilometers from the ISBT Dehradun. You can easily reach the monastery by:

  • Auto-rickshaws: Local autos or Vikram are available and are an affordable option.
  • Local Buses: Buses from various parts of the city connect to the monastery.
  • Taxis: Taxis can be hired for a more comfortable journey.

The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, located about 9 km from the monastery, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, about 31 km away.