Dali Monastery Darjeeling​

Dali Monastery is a unique example of white and colorful Tibetan architecture located on the side of the hill road in Darjeeling. If you want to experience spiritual peace and the majesty of the Himalayas together, then this monastery is a must on your Darjeeling travel list.

It is also known locally as Druk Sangag Choling Monastery. Standing leaning on the mountain, this monastery looks from a distance as if a piece of heaven has come down to the earth.

Quick Facts

Best Time to Visit Dali Monastery

The best time to visit Dali Monastery is from March to May and from October to December. At this time, the sky is clear, and the surrounding scenery looks very lively.

Especially in the early morning when the Buddhist monks sit in prayer, a wonderful, peaceful atmosphere is created. The monastery is specially decorated during Tibetan festivals, which is a sight to behold.

How to Reach Dali Monastery

The monastery is not far from Darjeeling Mall Road or Chowk Bazar. You can easily reach Dali Monastery Darjeeling by local taxi or shared jeep. It is located right next to the Hill Cart Road, making commuting very easy.

If you are on the way back from Batasia Loop or Tiger Hill, you can easily get down here and spend some time.

Things To Do in Dali Monastery

1. Prayer Room View: In the main prayer room of the monastery, the huge statue of Buddha and the beautiful ‘frescoes’ or paintings on the walls are fascinating.
2. Rotating Prayer Wheel: There are rows of prayer wheels around the monastery. According to Buddhist belief, rotating them is considered to be a very virtuous act.
3. Visitation of the Tathagata Buddha: There are statues of various incarnations of the Buddha and many preserved artifacts of Tibetan culture.
4. Feel the Calmness: Standing on the balcony of the monastery, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the serene view of the hills gives one a spiritual peace.

Tips for Visiting Dali Monastery

1. Clothing: This is a religious place, so one should enter here in decent clothes. Shoes have to be kept open while entering the monastery.
2. Photography: Although photographs are taken in the outer courtyard of the monastery, it is sometimes forbidden to take pictures inside the main prayer room. It’s best to get permission before taking photos.
3. Maintain Silence: When monks meditate or pray, maintain silence without shouting or speaking loudly.
4. Coffee Shop: There is a small coffee shop and bookshop in the monastery premises, where you can study Tibetan culture..

Frequently Asked Questions About Dali Monastery

1. Is Dali Monastery near Batasia Loop?
   Yes, it is located in the middle of the Batasia Loop and Darjeeling town. You can visit two places at the same time.
   
2. Can tourists see the prayers of Buddhist monks in Dali Monastery?
   Usually, congregational prayer meetings of the monks are held at 5 am and 5 pm. Tourists can sit in the back and enjoy the view.
   
3. What is the best time to visit the Dali Monastery ?
   After sunrise or before sunset the environment of the monastery remains most peaceful and beautiful.
   
4. Are there parking spaces available in Dali Monastery?
   There are few car parking spaces next to the entrance to the monastery, but being on the side of the main road, there can be some congestion.