Bon Monastery
The Bon Monastery, also known as Bon Yung Dung Monastery, is a significant religious site located in the serene village of Kewzing. It is one of the only two monasteries in India that belong to the Bon sect, an ancient Tibetan religion that predates Buddhism. Established in 1980 by the late Yung Du ng Tsultrim, the monastery serves as a vital center for the preservation of Bon culture and teachings. Visitors are often struck by the profound silence that blankets the area, offering a stark contrast to the more commercialized tourist spots. The monastery provides education to young monks, many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds, ensuring that the ancient traditions of chanting, meditation, and rituals are passed down to future generations. The spiritual energy here is palpable, especially during the early morning prayer sessions when the sounds of drums and conchs echo through the valley. It is a place for deep reflection and learning about a unique branch of Himalayan spirituality.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Religious & CulturalEntry Fees:
There is No Entry Fee for visitors.
Donations: However, voluntary donations are encouraged to support the education of the young monks and the maintenance of the monastery. ...There is No Entry Fee for visitors.
Donations: However, voluntary donations are encouraged to support the education of the young monks and the maintenance of the monastery.Timing:
The monastery is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 9:00 AM to witness the morning rituals when the atmosphere is most vibrant. ...The monastery is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 9:00 AM to witness the morning rituals when the atmosphere is most vibrant.Special Events:
The most significant event is the Bon Festival, celebrated with mask dances known as Cham.
Annual Rituals: Special prayer ceremonies are held during the Tibetan New Year (Losar) to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. ...The most significant event is the Bon Festival, celebrated with mask dances known as Cham.
Annual Rituals: Special prayer ceremonies are held during the Tibetan New Year (Losar) to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Entrance Gate with its ornate carvings is perfect for a wide-angle shot.
The Courtyard: Stand in the center of the courtyard to capture the full symmetry of the monastery building against the sky.
Prayer Wheels: The long r...The Main Entrance Gate with its ornate carvings is perfect for a wide-angle shot.
The Courtyard: Stand in the center of the courtyard to capture the full symmetry of the monastery building against the sky.
Prayer Wheels: The long row of rotating prayer wheels offers a great opportunity for depth-of-field photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Visitors can start by attending the Morning Prayer Ceremony to hear the rhythmic chants of the monks.
Explore the Murals: Take a guided walk through the main hall to study the complex iconography of the Bon deities.
Photography: Capture the stunning contrast of the colorful monastery against the green hills of Kewzing.
Interact with Monks: Engage in a conversation with the resident lamas to learn about the history of the Bon sect.
Souvenir Shopping: Buy handmade incense and traditional crafts made by the local community.
Bird Watching: The surrounding woods are home to rare Himalayan birds like the Scarlet Minivet.
Meditation: Spend time in the quiet corners of the courtyard for persona...Visitors can start by attending the Morning Prayer Ceremony to hear the rhythmic chants of the monks.
Explore the Murals: Take a guided walk through the main hall to study the complex iconography of the Bon deities.
Photography: Capture the stunning contrast of the colorful monastery against the green hills of Kewzing.
Interact with Monks: Engage in a conversation with the resident lamas to learn about the history of the Bon sect.
Souvenir Shopping: Buy handmade incense and traditional crafts made by the local community.
Bird Watching: The surrounding woods are home to rare Himalayan birds like the Scarlet Minivet.
Meditation: Spend time in the quiet corners of the courtyard for personal contemplation.
Information
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Why Famous:
Bon Monastery is world-renowned for being the exclusive seat of the Bon faith in Sikkim. This religion is famous for its shamanistic roots and its influence on Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in the use of prayer flags and incense.
Ancient Heritage: It is famous as...Bon Monastery is world-renowned for being the exclusive seat of the Bon faith in Sikkim. This religion is famous for its shamanistic roots and its influence on Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in the use of prayer flags and incense.
Ancient Heritage: It is famous as a living museum of pre-Buddhist Tibetan history, housing rare manuscripts and artifacts that are not found anywhere else in the region. -
Architecture:
The architecture of Bon Monastery is a masterful blend of traditional Tibetan design and modern influences. The main prayer hall is a vibrant structure decorated with intricate murals depicting Bon deities and the Bon Demonical Buddha.
Building Dimensions: The mai...The architecture of Bon Monastery is a masterful blend of traditional Tibetan design and modern influences. The main prayer hall is a vibrant structure decorated with intricate murals depicting Bon deities and the Bon Demonical Buddha.
Building Dimensions: The main temple stands at approximately 40 feet in height, featuring a wide assembly hall that can accommodate over 100 monks for rituals. The exterior is painted in bright shades of red, yellow, and blue, symbolizing different elements of the cosmos. The roof is adorned with traditional gilded finials that glint under the Himalayan sun. Inside, the pillars are hand-carved with motifs of eternal knots and lotus flowers, showcasing the craftsmanship of local artisans. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (75 KM), followed by Bagdogra (130 KM).
By Train: The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) at 125 KM.
By Road: It is well-connected via Siliguri and Gangto...By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (75 KM), followed by Bagdogra (130 KM).
By Train: The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) at 125 KM.
By Road: It is well-connected via Siliguri and Gangtok.
By Local Transport: Taxis are easily available from Ravangla market for a 15-minute drive. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March to May) is ideal for clear views. Autumn (October to November) offers crisp air and golden landscapes. Morning is the best part of the day for spiritual activities. ...Spring (March to May) is ideal for clear views. Autumn (October to November) offers crisp air and golden landscapes. Morning is the best part of the day for spiritual activities. -
Near Tourist Places:
Buddha Park (6 KM), Temi Tea Garden (18 KM), Ralang Monastery (10 KM), Maenam Hill (12 KM), Rayong Viewpoint (9 KM), Borong (17 KM), Namchi (26 KM), Samdruptse (24 KM), Doling Monastery (6 KM), Kewzing Village (1 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The roads can be winding, so carry motion sickness meds.
Packing: Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Cash: Carry enough cash as ATMs in Kewzing are rare; the nearest is ...Health & Safety: The roads can be winding, so carry motion sickness meds.
Packing: Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Cash: Carry enough cash as ATMs in Kewzing are rare; the nearest is in Ravangla.
Connectivity: BSNL and Airtel work best; Wi-Fi is rarely available.
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