Thongsa Gumpha, Kalimpong - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 1.5 km from Kalimpong Bus Station, Thongsa Gumpha is a Buddhist monastery situated in the hill town of Kalimpong. Located close to Mangal Dham, Thongsa Gumpha is the oldest monastery in the entire Kalimpong region and among the best places to visit in Kalimpong.

Built in 1692 CE, Thongsa or Tongsa Gompa is also known as the Bhutanese Monastery. The original Gompa was built under the direct guidance of Bhutan King. It was reconstructed in the 19th century after the demolition of the original Gompa by the ravage of Gurkhas in Sikkim. The monastery belongs to Nyingmapa School of Buddhism.

The monastery boasts of a serene and spiritual ambiance. Buddhists monks offer everyday prayer here and this place is a perfect place for mediation. The number 108 is known to be a holy number in Buddhism because it constitutes the product of all 9 planets and 12 months of the year. But this monastery has 219 prayers drums which is unusual and strange aspect. Many activities aiming towards the uplift of spirituality are undertaken in this Gumpha.

Every part of the Gompa is accessible to the tourists and this Gompa acts as an important attraction for the tourists. Buddha Purnima is the major festival celebrated at this Gumpha which attracts large number of tourists every year.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM