Zangdok Palri Monastery – Kalimpong, West Bengal

Nestled amidst the serene hills of Kalimpong in West Bengal, Zangdok Palri Monastery stands as a beacon of peace, spirituality, and Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Perched atop Durpin Hill, this sacred site draws pilgrims, spiritual seekers, and tourists alike with its stunning architecture, rare scriptures, and breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, cultural insights, or simply a quiet escape into nature, this monastery offers a truly enriching experience.

Temple About

Zangdok Palri Monastery, also known as Durpin Monastery, is a revered Buddhist monastery named after the celestial paradise of Guru Padmasambhava. It is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist sites in the region.

Temple Description

Established in 1972 under the guidance of the 14th Dalai Lama, this monastery is built in traditional Tibetan architecture and houses rare Kangyur scriptures brought from Tibet. It serves as both a religious and cultural center and is known for its spiritual ambiance and scenic surroundings.

Temple Speciality

Houses rare Tibetan scriptures and relics

Peaceful ambiance ideal for meditation and spiritual retreats

Offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga and Teesta Valley

Important Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage site

Temple Address

Zangdok Palri Monastery, Durpin Hill, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301, India

Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)

27.0572° N, 88.4695° E

Temple Timings

Daily: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Temple Sevas (Services)

Daily Buddhist prayers and chants

Special rituals during festivals

Occasional public teachings and meditation sessions

Traveling Facilities

Local taxis and jeeps available from Kalimpong town

Narrow uphill roads to Durpin Hill

Private vehicles and local guides recommended

Food Facilities

Local restaurants and cafés in Kalimpong offer Tibetan, Indian, and Nepali food

No dedicated food facility at the monastery itself

Stay Facilities

Multiple hotels, lodges, and guesthouses available in Kalimpong

Budget to premium stay options

Peaceful resorts located near Durpin Hill

Nearby Railway Station

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – approx. 75 km

Nearby Airport

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – approx. 80 km

Nearby Bus Station

Kalimpong Bus Stand – approx. 2.5 km from the monastery

Bus Routes to Temple

Buses and shared cabs available from Siliguri and Darjeeling

Local vehicles from Kalimpong town to Durpin Hill

Train Routes to Temple

Reach New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP) via major trains

Take a taxi or jeep to Kalimpong (2–3 hours)

Airways to Temple

Fly to Bagdogra Airport

Hire a taxi to Kalimpong (approx. 3 hours drive)

Nearby Cities to Temple

Siliguri – 65 km

Darjeeling – 50 km

Gangtok – 75 km

Kurseong – 55 km

Nearby Visiting Temples & Other Places

Tharpa Choling Monastery

Mangal Dham Temple

Dr. Graham’s Homes

Cactus Nursery

Durpin Dara Hill Viewpoint

Deolo Hill – Paragliding and scenic beauty

Preferable Visiting Season

March to May (Spring/Summer)

September to November (Clear skies, cool weather)

Shopping – Famous For

Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs

Woolen garments and shawls

Kalimpong cheese and organic pickles

Thangka paintings, prayer flags, and Buddhist items

Local tea and spices

Zangdok Palri Monastery is not just a religious site but a soul-soothing sanctuary for travelers and spiritual seekers. With its sacred relics, breathtaking surroundings, and deep cultural resonance, it offers a unique blend of heritage, devotion, and natural beauty. A visit to this hilltop monastery is sure to leave you enriched and inspired, making it a must-visit destination in the Eastern Himalayas.