Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara
Details: Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara is a magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop overlooking the Kullu valley. It is one of the most important centers for the Drukpa Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The name 'Dechen Choekhor' translates to 'Abode of Great Bliss'. The monastery is a relatively recent but architecturally grand addition to the valley, offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots. It serves as a residential school for young monks and a center for meditation. The main prayer hall is adorned with massive, colorful statues of Buddha and various Bodhisattvas. The walls are covered in intricate Thangka paintings and murals that depict the life of Buddha and various Buddhist deities. The monastery's location provides a panoramic view of the Beas River and the surrounding apple orchards. It is known for its serene atmosphere, where the only sounds are the rhythmic chanting of monks and the tinkling of prayer wheels.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 Hours.Place Type:
Religious & Spiritual.Entry Fees:
No Entry Fee: Entry to the monastery is free for all visitors. However, guests are encouraged to leave a small donation in the charity boxes to support the education and food for the young monks living there. ...No Entry Fee: Entry to the monastery is free for all visitors. However, guests are encouraged to leave a small donation in the charity boxes to support the education and food for the young monks living there.Timing:
Monastic Schedule: Regular Timings are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ideal Visit Time is around 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM to witness the evening prayers and enjoy the sunset colors reflecting off the golden monastery roof. ...Monastic Schedule: Regular Timings are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ideal Visit Time is around 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM to witness the evening prayers and enjoy the sunset colors reflecting off the golden monastery roof.Special Events:
Tibetan New Year (Losar) The monastery comes alive during Losar in February. It features traditional mask dances (Cham), special prayers, and the preparation of ceremonial foods, attracting Buddhist practitioners from across the globe. ...Tibetan New Year (Losar) The monastery comes alive during Losar in February. It features traditional mask dances (Cham), special prayers, and the preparation of ceremonial foods, attracting Buddhist practitioners from across the globe.Best Photo Spots:
Vibrant Exterior Spots: The most iconic photo spot is the main entrance gate with its traditional Tibetan motifs. Another great spot is the monastery balcony, which offers a wide-angle view of the entire Kullu valley and the winding Beas River. ...Vibrant Exterior Spots: The most iconic photo spot is the main entrance gate with its traditional Tibetan motifs. Another great spot is the monastery balcony, which offers a wide-angle view of the entire Kullu valley and the winding Beas River.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Spiritual Immersion:
Spinning Prayer Wheels: Walk clockwise around the monastery spinning the wheels.
Observe Rituals: Watch the morning or evening prayer sessions.
Art Appreciation: Study the detailed murals and Thangkas.
Photography: Capture the vibrant monastery colors against the sky.
Meditation: Join a silent meditation session in the hall.
Interaction: Talk to the monks about their daily life.
Panoramic Viewing: Use the vantage point to see the Bhuntar airport runway from above. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Stunning Tibetan Murals: Famous for its high-quality Thangka paintings and the majestic 31-foot statue of Lord Buddha. It is also renowned as a center for authentic Buddhist teachings and meditation in the heart of the Himalayan valley. ...Stunning Tibetan Murals: Famous for its high-quality Thangka paintings and the majestic 31-foot statue of Lord Buddha. It is also renowned as a center for authentic Buddhist teachings and meditation in the heart of the Himalayan valley. -
Architecture:
Architecture:
Indo-Tibetan Conglomeration: The architecture is a stunning blend of traditional Tibetan monastic design and modern craftsmanship. The Dimensions of the main prayer hall are roughly 40 by 60 feet, featuring high ceilings suppor...Architecture:
Indo-Tibetan Conglomeration: The architecture is a stunning blend of traditional Tibetan monastic design and modern craftsmanship. The Dimensions of the main prayer hall are roughly 40 by 60 feet, featuring high ceilings supported by painted wooden pillars. The exterior is characterized by vibrant red and yellow colors, golden gilded roof ornaments, and intricate wood carvings on the window frames. -
How To Reach:
Hilltop Access:
By Air: 6 KM from Bhuntar Airport.
By Train: Nearest is Joginder Nagar.
By Road: Take the road towards Sarabai from the highway.
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Near Tourist Places:
Bhuntar (6 KM), Kullu (12 KM), Basheshwar Mahadev (8 KM), Bijli Mahadev (20 KM), Kais Monastery (15 KM), Parvati Valley (25 KM), Naggar (30 KM), Tirthan Valley (40 KM), Manikaran (38 KM), Manali (52 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Cultural Etiquette:
Health & Safety: Maintain silence inside the prayer hall.
Packing: Wear modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees).
Accommodation: Stay in Bhuntar for pr...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(28+) of Himachal Pradesh. Has Been Added :-
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