Ghum Monastery

Ghum Monastery, built in 1850, is probably the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the region. Another religious institution, the Samten Choling Monastery, is sometimes referred to as the Ghoom monastery by the locals. If you are planning on visiting this ancient landmark, just tell your tour guide or cab driver you want to visit the old Ghum Monastery.

The architecture of this religious institution would remind you of Tibet. The arches and multiple spires on the roof, some archetypal East Asian features, making this monastery look quite fascinating. As you enter the temple, you will be greeted by several images of important Buddhist deities, important spiritual figures, and older Lamas.

Inside the main praying hall, you will find the giant statue of Buddha named as Gyalwa Shampa or Maitreya Buddha. The term Gyalwa Shampa refers to Buddha of who will come to earth in the future. Interestingly, the statue is one of the biggest in the region and was made from the clay brought from Tibet. Two huge oil lamps adorn the prayer hall, each placed on either side of the Buddha, which are kept burning all year round. These lamps and the peaceful ambiance of the praying hall fill your mind and soul with peace, which cannot be defined in words.   
      
Apart from the Buddha statue, Ghum Monastery, Darjeeling has a huge collection of murals and ancient manuscripts, making this place a treasure trove of information. And, the view is simply breathtaking – snow-capped mountains. On a clear day, you can even catch the glimpse of the mighty Kanchenjunga.