Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery, also known as Druk Amitabha Mountain Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. The monastery was founded by the venerable Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher and scholar, in 1998.
The monastery is dedicated to the study and practice of the Buddha's teachings, as well as the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions. The monastery follows the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, which is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
The monastery's main temple houses a large statue of Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light and Infinite Life, which is surrounded by smaller figures of other Buddhist deities. The temple is also adorned with intricate murals and thangkas, traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings.
Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery offers a variety of programs and courses for both beginners and advanced practitioners. These include meditation retreats, teachings on Buddhist philosophy and practice, and classes on traditional Tibetan arts and crafts, such as thangka painting and woodcarving.
The monastery also provides a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors to engage in personal meditation and reflection. The surrounding hills and forests offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery is also engaged in various charitable projects, such as providing healthcare and education to impoverished communities in the region.
Places To Visit Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery:
Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery is a beautiful Buddhist monastery located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Situated in the Kangra district, this monastery is surrounded by stunning mountains and lush green forests, making it a peaceful and serene destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike.
Mahakal Temple:
The Mahakal Temple is located within the premises of the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular destination among devotees.
Tashi Jong Monastery is located around 7 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery and is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance. The monastery is a popular destination among Buddhist devotees and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Baijnath Temple is located around 16 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery and is known for its ancient architecture and religious significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular destination among tourists and devotees.
Kareri Lake is located around 30 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery and is known for its stunning beauty and serene surroundings. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains, making it a popular destination for trekking and camping.
Dharamshala is a popular tourist destination located around 36 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. The city is also home to the Dalai Lama and is a popular destination among spiritual seekers.
McLeod Ganj is a beautiful hill station located around 38 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and spiritual significance. The city is also home to many Tibetan refugees and is a popular destination among tourists and spiritual seekers.
Palampur is a beautiful town located around 42 km from the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery. The city is known for its beautiful tea gardens, stunning views of the Dhauladhar range, and serene surroundings.