Lava Monastery

Nourish your body and soul in Lava Monastery

Visiting Lava without seeing the monastery could be a missed opportunity. The Lava Monastery, also known as Lava Jamgyong Kongtrul Monastery, is located near the local market and is one of the region’s oldest. Its stunning Tibetan architecture is captivating, and once inside, you’ll be embraced by a deep sense of peace and tranquility. The monastery also serves as an excellent vantage point, offering breathtaking views of the village nestled against the vibrant backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

History of Lava Monastery

In the 1980s, the Buddhist community of Lava gifted four acres of land to Karma Lodrö Chökyi Senge (1954–1992), the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, with the goal of establishing a monastery to preserve their religious and cultural heritage. The offer was accepted in 1987, and construction began in April 1988. The monastery officially opened its doors on June 6, 1990, coinciding with the celebration of Chökhor Düchen.

In 2001, the Dalai Lama inaugurated Mane Lhakhang, a community temple located beside the monastery. Today, the monastery is home to over a hundred monks dedicated to the practice of Buddhist philosophy.

About Lava Monastery

  • The Lava Monastery, one of the region’s oldest, showcases captivating Tibetan architecture and a peaceful atmosphere“.
  • The monastery offers stunning views of the village, framed by the vibrant surrounding mountains.“
  • In the 1980s, the Buddhist community of Lava donated four acres of land to establish a monastery, preserving their religious and cultural heritage“.
  • The monastery was officially opened on June 6, 1990, during the celebration of Chökhor Düchen“.
  • In 2001, the Dalai Lama inaugurated Mane Lhakhang, a community temple next to the monastery, which now houses over a hundred monks practicing Buddhist philosophy“.
  • The monastery in Lava, West Bengal, is a gateway to Neora Valley National Park and is located 32 kilometers from Kalimpong, with New Jalpaiguri Junction and Bagdogra Airport nearby.

Location

The monastery is situated in Lava, in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India. Located next to the Neora Reservoir, it serves as a gateway to Neora Valley National Park. The monastery is approximately 32 kilometers from Kalimpong. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction, and the closest airport is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri.
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