Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 14 km from Kullu Bus Stand, 5 km from Bhuntar and 53 km from Manali, Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery is situated in Sarabai Village. The mother monastery of this Mahaviahara gompa lies in Tibet, the great Druk Choekhorling Gompa of Lhasa. The monastery is said to be built in the 16th Century.

The vision of Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara is to preserve and promote the Tibetan cultures and traditions, and the sublime teachings of Lord Buddha in this part of world where its survival is under increasing pressure. The monastery is located atop the hilltop that offers a commanding view of the Valley of Kullu. Overlooking Himalayan ranges covered with snow make this place a beautiful spot. A little walk uphill and one can even catch a glimpse of the majestic Bijli Mahadev Temple.

Kullu valley is considered to be one of the 24 holy places of Chakrasamvara and it was visited by Guru Padmasambhava and many other great Mahasiddhas. The construction of current structure was started in 2000 and it took nine years to complete the main temple complex. The main temple complex consists of a gigantic statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and statues of Tara and Rinpoche Padmasambhava. The Buddha statue is 31 feet tall and that of Padmasambhava is 21 feet high.