Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery, Manali Overview

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is a monastery located in Manali which is a well known religious centre, especially for the Buddhists. However, people belonging to any religious belief are welcome to explore and soak in the divine spiritual vibe of the place. The monastery is a small shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha. One will find some decorative murals on the structure that depict Lord Buddha's ideas and values about humanity and life. The monastery monks offer prayers, study and share their knowledge about Buddhism and the importance of tolerance and non-violence. Their presence and the prayers of the devotees or the followers increase the divine vibe ten folds.

The enchanting monastery was constructed in 1960 by Tibetan Refugees and is often visited by Buddhists from Kinnaur, Tibet, Nepal, and Spiti. It serves as an essential point of gathering for the Buddhists. Tourists can also sit and meditate in the tranquil environment of Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa. There is a market near the monastery where tourists can find Tibetan items on sale. Meditation inside the monastery is allowed, and tourists can spend some time here contemplating the meaning of life. Those who are constantly seeking a way to calm down and find peace must head to Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and spend some hours in silence before doing anything else in Manali.

Architecture of Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is a monastery built in the traditional Tibetan architecture having a spacious and extended walkway lined with lush green shrubbery. The sidewalk having beautiful lawns on either side leads to the porch and then the entrance of the monastery. The top portion of the porch and the top part of the building under the pagoda are decorated with beautiful mural work in bright colours.

The serene structure has a pagoda that is coloured a bright shade of yellow that brightens the monastery building with walls painted in a pristine white colour. The structure also has several glass windows with frames decorated in yellow. Inside the monastery is a giant statue of Lord Buddha, some more colourful murals, several tombs and prayer wheels. The murals depict Lord Buddha's philosophy of life that is very important for the followers. The first floor of the building is only used for meditation and can be used by everyone visiting the monastery.

Best Time to Visit

Most visit the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery in the mornings and the evenings as it is the best time to offer prayers and to observe the Buddhist monks and devotees perform their rituals. The tourist season in Manali is from October to February (the winter) and from March to June (summer season). The monastery is open during both the seasons.

Tips

1. Wearing shoes inside the monastery is not allowed.
2. The temple accepts donations for those who want to contribute towards the maintenance.

How To Reach Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is located on Mall road, near Manali Bus Stand. Public transport can be hailed to commute within the city. Rented taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available in Manali. All the taxis come under the Taxi Association and have a pre-decided rate. Tourists must check the rate list and the drop point to compare and decide before taking a ride. If one has a tight budget that can take a local bus ride; some buses regularly ply to and fro.