Salugara Monastery Siliguri
A serene Buddhist monastery featuring a 100-foot stupa, vibrant murals, and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a spiritual retreat near Siliguri.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Salugara Monastery Siliguri
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist monastery featuring a 100-foot stupa, vibrant murals, and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a spiritual retreat near Siliguri.
"A peaceful Buddhist monastery offering a sense of calm and a spiritual detox, with a magnificent 100-foot stupa."
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred space. Avoid shorts and tank tops.
Embrace the Calm :pray:
Speak softly and be mindful of monks and devotees. Silence is golden here.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic 100-Foot Stupa
Central Courtyard
A towering, sacred stupa believed to hold five relics of the Buddha. A spiritual and architectural marvel.
Vibrant Murals and Thangkas
Monastery Interiors
Intricate Buddhist paintings and statues depicting centuries of wisdom and devotion. A feast for the eyes.
Prayer Wheels and Incense
Around the Stupa
Spin the prayer wheels for blessings and inhale the calming scent of incense, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred space. Avoid shorts and tank tops.
Embrace the Calm :pray:
Speak softly and be mindful of monks and devotees. Silence is golden here.
Spin the Prayer Wheels :cyclone:
Participate in this spiritual practice for blessings. Each spin is believed to send prayers out.
Capture the Serenity :camera:
Photography is generally allowed, but be discreet and respectful.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred space. Avoid shorts and tank tops.
Embrace the Calm :pray:
Speak softly and be mindful of monks and devotees. Silence is golden here.
Spin the Prayer Wheels :cyclone:
Participate in this spiritual practice for blessings. Each spin is believed to send prayers out.
Capture the Serenity :camera:
Photography is generally allowed, but be discreet and respectful.
Nearby Attractions :world_map:
Combine your visit with Bengal Safari Park for a full day of exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Salugara Monastery for its profound peace and spiritual ambiance, highlighting the magnificent 100-foot stupa as a central attraction. Many find it a welcome escape from the city's hustle, appreciating the serene environment and the opportunity for quiet reflection. While some note it's a smaller monastery, its authenticity and the welcoming nature of the caretakers are frequently mentioned positives.
"This is about 10km from sevoke mod (junction) and you can get a share auto for INR 20. I reached this place at 245 pm and the gate looked closed, so I enquired and they said it is open. I walked in and there was just another tourist who was busy gossiping on the phone. The main entrance for the monstery was shut, so I walked around the monastery to the top. It's another floor. The door was open, so I went in and sat there, prayed for a bit. Enjoyed the surrounding and went below again. It was about 3pm and a young monk opened the door. I was very grateful that he opened it, or else I would have gone away without getting a chance to enter inside. I think the lord hear me. I went in , bowed down, sought blessings from the lord. The young monk, did play a drum, in a particular fashion. I looked at him in awe. He walked out after some time and I too did. The monstery was quiet and very peaceful. I wish someone was there to explain me the paintings, the things kept. They have a lot of meaning. The monstery had place for young monks to stay and an office as well. The monstery is on the main road and very easy to find. A must go if you are in siliguri"
WinNie
"My journey in Siliguri began with a visit to Salugara Monastery, and it was the perfect start. Also known as the Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa, this peaceful Buddhist monastery offers a sense of calm the moment you step inside.
The highlight is the majestic 100-foot stupa, built by Tibetan Lama Kalu Rinpoche, which holds five sacred relics of Buddhism. You can spin the large prayer wheels, light butter lamps, and simply soak in the serenity around you.
Whether you're spiritual or just seeking a quiet place to reflect, this spot is a must-visit. The peaceful vibe, colorful details, and deep sense of devotion make Salugara Monastery a truly special stop in Siliguri."
Delhi Fun Dos
"Nestled quietly just 6 km from the bustling town center of Siliguri, the Salugara Monastery feels like someone pressed the pause button on life and gifted us a moment of serenity. With fluttering prayer flags, gentle chants, and that unmistakable fragrance of incense wafting through the air — it’s less of a tourist spot and more of a spiritual detox.
Built by followers of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, this monastery is a beloved retreat for monks and mindfulness seekers alike. It belongs to the Ghoom-based Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is a beautiful example of how faith, culture, and peace can co-exist in glorious harmony — even in a town famous for traffic jams and tea gardens.
What Makes It Special?
- The 100-foot Stupa, said to be blessed by the Dalai Lama himself, is the showstopper here. Known as the Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa, it’s believed to contain five kinds of Buddhist relics, making it spiritually potent and architecturally magnificent.
- The interiors of the monastery are equally enchanting — vibrant murals, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and statues that whisper centuries of wisdom without saying a word.
- Surrounded by greenery and a gentle breeze from the Himalayan foothills, it’s perfect for introspection, or for pretending you’re in a Satyajit Ray film montage.
Did You Know?
- This monastery was a product of the post-1959 Tibetan diaspora, which brought with it not just people, but philosophy, compassion, and a profound sense of art and resilience.
- It’s one of the few places in Siliguri where spiritual tourism meets real spiritual practice — not a selfie-museum in disguise.
- The monastery often holds prayer sessions and teachings for locals and visitors, making it more than just a photo op — it’s a window into a living, breathing philosophy.
Reflection
The Salugara Monastery isn’t loud or flashy — it’s wise. A visit here feels like a deep breath in a world of constant scrolls. Whether you’re into Buddhism, bored of malls, or just need to reboot your soul — it’s worth your time, and perhaps even a silent prayer."
Rajdeep Dutta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salugara Monastery is located about 6 km from Siliguri city center. You can easily reach it by taking a taxi or a local auto-rickshaw. It's often mentioned as being behind the Bengal Safari Park, making it a convenient stop if you're visiting that attraction. 
Yes, the monastery is quite accessible from Siliguri. Travelers mention it's a short drive, and local transport options are readily available.
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common and convenient ways to get to the monastery from Siliguri. Some visitors also combine it with trips to nearby attractions like Bengal Safari.
While direct public buses might be limited, local buses heading towards the Salugara area can be an option. However, taxis and autos offer more direct and comfortable access.
Yes, it's located near the Bengal Safari Park, making it easy to combine visits. It's also mentioned as being in the Darjeeling district, though closer to Siliguri.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entry fee to visit Salugara Monastery. It's a place of worship and welcomes visitors to experience its peace and beauty.
While specific official hours aren't always listed, it's best to visit during daylight hours, typically from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to avoid very early mornings or late evenings.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during the day.
The main restriction is to maintain respectful conduct and attire. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and avoid loud noises.
The monastery is usually open on holidays, but it might be more crowded. Weekdays are generally quieter for a more serene experience.
🎫 :compass: Onsite Experience
The most prominent feature is the magnificent 100-foot stupa, known as the Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa, which is believed to contain sacred Buddhist relics.
You can admire the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, observe the monks, and appreciate the vibrant murals and statues inside. It's a place for quiet reflection and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, the monastery offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially the stupa and the colorful interiors. However, always be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, particularly of monks.
It's described as incredibly peaceful, serene, and spiritual. Visitors often feel a sense of calm and equanimity upon arrival.
Yes, it is an active Buddhist monastery where monks reside and practice. Visitors might see them going about their daily routines.
📸 :camera_with_flash: Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the outer areas and of the stupa. However, it's best to be discreet inside the prayer halls and avoid photographing monks without their explicit permission.
The 100-foot stupa is a prime subject. The colorful murals and statues inside the monastery also make for great shots. The surrounding greenery adds to the scenic beauty.
While not explicitly stated, it's highly advisable to avoid using drones at religious sites like monasteries to respect the sanctity of the place and local regulations.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors and atmosphere. Early mornings can also be good for softer light and fewer people.
Absolutely. Always seek permission before taking photos of monks or devotees to ensure you are being respectful of their privacy and religious practices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Encourage children to speak softly and explain the importance of respecting the monks and the sacred space. The open courtyard around the stupa provides some space for them to move around, but always supervise them closely. Visiting nearby Bengal Safari Park can be a good way to balance the trip with more active fun for kids.
+1🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Many solo visitors appreciate the serene environment and the chance to observe the monks' daily routines. The monastery's location, just a short distance from Siliguri, makes it an accessible retreat for a few hours of quiet contemplation or a longer stay if you're looking for a spiritual detox.
📸 Photographers
Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and always prioritize respectful photography. Avoid intrusive shots of monks and be aware of any specific photography restrictions within the prayer halls. The surrounding greenery also adds a beautiful natural element to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Stupa
Visitors often describe the stupa as architecturally magnificent and spiritually potent. The act of circumambulating the stupa, often while spinning prayer wheels, is a common practice for pilgrims seeking blessings and merit. The presence of these relics imbues the stupa with a deep sense of sacredness, making it a powerful symbol of peace and enlightenment within the monastery grounds.
The stupa's construction is a testament to the enduring influence of Tibetan Buddhism in the region, brought about by the post-1959 diaspora. It stands as a beacon of faith and a significant landmark for spiritual tourism in Siliguri, offering a tangible connection to Buddhist philosophy and practice.
Experiencing the Monastery's Ambiance
Beyond the visual splendor of the stupa and the vibrant murals, the spiritual practice is palpable. Visitors can observe monks in prayer and meditation, and many are welcomed to spin the large prayer wheels that encircle the stupa. This participatory element allows visitors to engage with the spiritual traditions of the monastery, fostering a deeper appreciation for its purpose.
Unlike some tourist spots that can feel commercialized, Salugara Monastery is highlighted as a place of genuine spiritual practice. It's not just a photo opportunity but a living, breathing center of Buddhist philosophy and compassion. This authenticity is what draws many visitors seeking a more meaningful travel experience.
Art and Architecture of Devotion
Complementing the murals are numerous statues of Buddha and other Buddhist figures. These statues, often crafted with great care and artistry, add to the sacred ambiance of the prayer halls. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the serene expressions and symbolic postures of these figures, which are central to Buddhist worship and meditation.
The monastery's architecture itself, while perhaps not as grand as some larger Tibetan monasteries, possesses a unique charm. The predominant use of golden hues in its decoration, as mentioned by some visitors, adds to its visual appeal and sense of sanctity. The overall design aims to create a space conducive to prayer, meditation, and spiritual reflection.
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