TSERING JONG MONASTERY

The Tsering Jong Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh. The monastery was founded in the 1960s by Tibetean exiles and is nestled amidst the majestic backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains. The monastery is known for its architecture and features stunning motifs and intricate carvings, showcasing the artistic knowledge of the Tibeteans. In case you are visiting this monastery, you will have the chance to check out the thangka paintings. This is also the best place to learn about the lifestyle of the Tibetan monks.

The monastery has some prayer wheels that tourists can check out too. This is one of the places that plays a crucial role in preserving Tibetan Buddhism, thanks to the rituals and the meditative ambience that this place offers. Apart from the history and architecture, the monastery also has a cafe where you can try out authentic Tibetean cuisine after checking out this place.

Highlights

• Travel in the toy train from Joginder Nagar to Bir and view the stunning mountains and villages.
• Visit Bangarou waterfall, which is located 4.5 kilometres away from Tibetan Colony after a trek.
• Pray at Baijnath temple and learn more about the deity who is believed to have healing powers.
• Walk alongside Bir River and experience the sound of water of the Bir river flowing by as it calms your mind and senses.
• Eat in the cafes and try out the different types of cuisines ranging from Tibetan to even South Indian.

How To Reach

By Car: The Tsering Jong Monastery 2.5 kilometres from the city centre, it will take 7 minutes via the Z Bir-Matru road.

By Foot: The Tsering Jong Monastery is almost 2 kilometres away from the heart of the city. If you are walking, it will take at least 30 minutes to reach the destination. If you are walking, take the Bir-Matru road to reach the destination. 

Best Time To Visit

• The best time to visit the monastery will be the summer season from May to June as the temperature is pleasant at that time. 
• The monastery is open on all days of the week, but we recommend visiting it on a weekday as this is the time when the number of tourists visiting the place is less and you can check out the place without much hassle.
• The monastery is open from 9:00 AM to 05:00 PM. We recommend visiting the monastery in the afternoon as you can tour the monastery, explore the architecture and try out the Tibetan cuisine.

Other Essential Information

• Maintain cleanliness in the premises for the benefit of the rest of the tourists and the monks living in the monastery.
• Since this is a religious place of worship, tourists will have to dress conservatively. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered when you visit this place. 
• Participate in the meditation sessions, if possible, to get an authentic experience of Buddhist faith and traditions. 
• Maintain silence in the monastery, especially when prayers are going on. 
• If you are carrying your mobile phones, make sure they are switched off, set in flight mode or silent mode so that you do not disturb the sanctity of the monastery.