Bokar Monastery - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Mirik Bus Stop): 2 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour

Place Location: Mirik Lake (1 Km)

Transportation Options: Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 1 km from Mirik Lake and 2 km from Mirik Bus Stop, Bokar Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery situated in Mirik. Positioned on the top of a hill, it is one of the biggest monasteries in Mirik and among the top places to visit in Mirik.

Bokar Monastery was founded by Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche in 1984. The monastery belongs to the Kagyud order and was the seat of the Venerable Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche. The original intent was to create a small retreat center, but on the request of disciples and lay people Rinpoche began to accept monks for training and the center was transformed in to monastery. The founder passed away in 2004 and the monastery continues to be guided by his close disciple Venerable Khenpo Lodro Donyo Rinpoche.

Now, the monastery is home to around 500 monks who participate in practicing and sustaining the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha. The monastery also has a monastic college named Shedra. Located at the highest point of this town, the Bokar Monastery stands as a quaint little structure, which can be spotted easily from the lakeside. From the monastery, the view of Mirik is absolutely astonishing. With the gilded statue of the Buddha in its heart, the Bokar Monastery takes pride in being one of the most sought after monasteries for Buddhists in India. Close to the monastery are sunset and sunrise points that can be visited to watch the brilliant sunrays dance over the town of Mirik.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM