Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery), Mohabewala, Dehradun
Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Himalayas, the Buddha Temple, also known as Mindrolling Monastery, is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist center located in Mohabewala, Clement Town. Situated about 4.4 km from the ISBT, this monastery is one of the largest of its kind in India, showcasing stunning Japanese-inspired architecture that captivates visitors from near and far.
Architectural Marvel
The Buddha Temple, commonly referred to as Buddha Gardens, spans five floors, each housing exquisite statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava. The first three floors are adorned with ornate wall paintings that vividly narrate the life and teachings of Lord Buddha, while the fourth floor offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the serene Doon Valley.
Historical Significance
The Mindrolling Monastery, which translates to “place of perfect emancipation” in Tibetan, was re-established in 1965 by Khenchen Rinpoche, a significant figure in the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism, along with other dedicated monks. Originally a prominent center of Vajrayana Buddhism in Tibet, Mindrolling was constructed to preserve and promote the religious and cultural values of Buddhism. As one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, known as ‘Nyingma’, it has endured numerous attacks and natural calamities, standing resilient through history.
Inside the Temple
The interior of the temple boasts impressive architecture, beautifully carved stone figurines, and meticulously painted murals. Fifty skilled artists took three years to create the stunning wall paintings, which add a touch of opulence to the serene surroundings.
Key Attractions
The Buddha Temple is famous for several reasons, but its standout feature is the Great Stupa, towering at 220 feet high and 100 feet wide, making it the largest reliquary in Asia dedicated to world peace. Another major attraction is the impressive statue of Lord Buddha, standing at nearly 103 feet tall, which is a tribute to the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetans. Additionally, the monastery houses the Ngagyur Nyingma College, one of India’s largest Buddhist institutes.
A Must-Visit Destination
Mindrolling Monastery is a favored spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful sanctuary that rejuvenates the soul. Visitors can admire the temple’s exquisite architecture, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens spanning over two acres, and explore local Tibetan shops offering handicrafts and books. The temple’s surrounding gardens provide serene spots for relaxation, and food enthusiasts can indulge in delicious vegetarian Tibetan cuisine, including dumplings and chop suey.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting the Buddha Temple, consider exploring nearby sites such as Guru Ram Rai Darbar, St. Francis Church, the Tibetan Market, Paltan Bazaar, Indira Market, Gandhi Park, and Astley Hall for a complete experience.
Food Options
The temple area features a variety of food options, including budget-friendly restaurants serving Chinese and local cuisines. The pure vegetarian Tibetan dishes available at the temple are highly recommended.
Best Time to Visit
While the temple welcomes visitors year-round, Sundays are particularly recommended as the interior remains open for tourists. Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM.
How to Reach
Buddha Temple is conveniently located on the Delhi-Saharanpur road, approximately 4 km from ISBT, Dehradun. Local buses and auto-rickshaws frequently serve this route. The temple is around 52 km from Rishikesh, 59 km from Haridwar, and 239 km from Delhi. The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, about 9 km away, while Jolly Grant Airport is 35 km from the temple.
