Elevated at a height of approximately 8,000 feet Ghoom Monastery is one of the top places to see in Darjeeling. Also known as Yiga Choeling, it was established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso and is known to be the oldest Tibet Monastery of Darjeeling.
It is best known for its 15-feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha which stands tall in the main hall of the Monastery. The place is also amongst the top tourist attractions in Darjeeling due to its massive collection of rare Buddhist manuscripts and records. Another attractive thing about the Monastery is its walls that are painted with depictions of Buddhism wisdom and Tibetan art.
There is also a temple of Ma Kali on the hill top which is regularly visited by people to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Location: Ghoom, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
Entry Fee: No entry fee. INR 10 for carrying camera and INR 50 for taking video shot
Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM (all days)