The Manali Gompa: A Beautiful Place of Worship

Manali Gompa, also known as Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery located in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. If you want some relief from the scorching heat and enjoy the chilliness of Manali which is one of the coolest places to visit in India in summer, craft an ideal trip with himachal pradesh tour packages. 

The monastery serves as a gathering place for Buddhists from neighboring regions, such as Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh, and Nepal. The monastery was built in 1960 by refugees from Tibet in honor of Lord Buddha, and it remains a significant religious center for Buddhists today.It is famous for its unique Pagoda-style roof and several glass windows with yellow-framed decorations.

Architecture of Manali Gompa

The Manali Gompa, which is a must visit place to visit in Manali, is designed in the traditional Tibetan style. It has a pagoda-style roof with a tiered tower. The gompa’s yellow roof and white walls give it a beautiful charm. The top portion of the building, just below the roof and on the porch, has brilliant bright-colored mural work that further accentuates its beauty.

Inside the monastery, there are beautiful paintings that depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Visitors can also see a giant statue of Lord Buddha, colorful murals, several tombs, and prayer wheels. The murals convey Lord Buddha’s philosophy of life, which is of great importance to his followers. The first floor of the monastery is reserved for meditation and is open to everyone visiting the monastery.

Suggested Read: 10 Top Travel Tips For Manali

Things to do at Manali Gompa

• If you visit the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, you can see wall paintings and colorful murals that explain the teachings of Buddhism. 
• You can spin the prayer wheels, which is just as valuable as reciting holy texts. 
• You can pray to Lord Buddha’s statue and even meditate with the monks to learn about Buddhism and why it emphasizes non-violence.
• The monastery has beautiful lawns with scenic views of the mountains in the background, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. 
• If you want to shop in Manali, there are small shops inside the campus where you can buy traditional Tibetan carpets and handicrafts.
• The Gompa is close to Mall Road, where you can visit and get indulged in shopping, exploring some best local food in Manali or just chilling at the cafes.

Manali Gompa History

This revered Buddhist gompa was built in 1960 by Tibetan refugees. These refugees escaped from Tibet and came to Manali in 1959. Since then, they have settled in Manali and other parts of India.

Manali Gompa Entry Fee – No entry fee required.

Manali Gompa Timings – 6 am to 6pm. Sundays are closed.

Best Time to Visit Manali Gompa

Most visit the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery in the mornings and evenings as it is the best time 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 (the summer season). So the monastery can be visited during both seasons.

Places to Visit Near Manali Gompa

Since the Manali Gompa monastery is situated very close to Mall Road, some of the famous tourist attractions can be visited from here. Do not forget to carry a camera, since these are some of the most photography spots in Manali Let us take a look at them:

1. Hadimba Devi Temple: The Hidimba Devi temple in Manali is located in the snow-covered hills of Manali and is dedicated to the goddess Hidimba Devi. It is built on a rock which is believed to be in the image of goddess Hidimba herself.
2. Manu Temple: Manu Temple is a significant place of worship in India dedicated to King Vaivasta Manu. A visit to this temple on the banks of the Beas River is one of the unique things to do in Manali which is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush green forests.
3. Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Monastery: Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa is a Buddhist monastery located close to the Mall Road of Manali and is also a must see. This temple has a large statue of Lord Buddha. Apart from Its religious significance, tourists are also drawn to its architectural beauty and tranquillity in the environment. 
4. Van Vihar National Park: Van Vihar National Park is a magical place filled with green trees, chirping birds, and fresh air. It’s like a huge playground where you can run, jump, and play all day long. The park is perfect for picnics with your family or friends, surrounded by the beauty of Nature. A visit to this place is a must do thing to do in Himachal Manali in one day.
5. Vashisht Hot Water Springs: This off-beat destination near Manali is a must if you want to get cured of skin diseases. You can bathe in this spring and experience the healing powers it has.

How to Reach Manali Gompa

The Manali Gompa Himachal Pradesh is situated on Mall road, near Manali Bus Stand. To reach the gompa you can use public transport which is easily available. Taxis and auto-rickshaws can also be rented in Manali for local sightseeing.

Hotels near Manali Gompa

Manali being a hot tourist spot, is full of resorts, hotels, homestays and airbnbs in Manali. Some of the best hotels are located near the gompa near the mall road. Let’s check them out:

1. Serenity Resort and Spa by DLS Hostels
2. Hotel Snow View Manali
3. WelcomHotel by ITC
4. Hotel Himgiri
5. Le Grand
6. Piccadily Manali
7. Echor Himalayan Aurum Manali

Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Manali Gompa

• Maintain silence inside the monastery
• Respect rituals and rules of the place
• Avoid eating inside the main place of worship
• Do not litter or damage anything at the property