The short answer
Bokar Monastery: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you want a calm, spiritual stop with a view. Take a taxi to the gate, as the walk up the ridge takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Dress modestly, remove shoes where asked, and keep your voice low. Allow about an hour, longer if you want to sit quietly.
History and context
The story behind Bokar Monastery
Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling is reported to have been founded in 1984 by Bokar Rinpoche (1940 to 2004), a Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu teacher who was recognised as a reincarnation in childhood and went into exile from Tibet as a young man. Sources differ on exact dates, so treat the founding year as reported rather than confirmed.
The complex includes a monastery, a retreat centre and a stupa, and it is known as a meditation centre. A younger incarnation, recognised in 2015, is associated with the monastery.
Useful facts
Bokar Monastery facts at a glance
- Location
- Highest point of Mirik, about 2.8 km from the lake
- Faith
- Tibetan Buddhism, Karma Kagyu tradition
- Dedication
- Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling, a meditation and retreat centre
- Visitor note
- Taxi to the gate; short walk and a few steps
- Built
- Reported as 1984; sources differ
- Altitude
- About 1,768 m, the highest point in Mirik
Why it matters
Why Bokar Monastery is worth your time
Bokar matters because it is a living Tibetan Buddhist community in a town better known for its lake. It belongs to the Karma Kagyu tradition and was founded by Bokar Rinpoche, a master of the Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu lineages who died in 2004. Visiting gives context to the Himalayan cultural world that surrounds Mirik, beyond tea and views.
It also works as a quiet counterpoint to the lakeside bustle. The setting, the prayer-hall art and the stupa reward slow looking. Respectful behaviour is the main requirement: follow the lead of monks and locals and treat it as a place of practice first.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The prayer hall
A large Buddha figure and painted murals fill the main hall; shoes are removed before entering.
- 02
The stupa
A stupa on the grounds offers views toward the lake on clear days; walk clockwise.
- 03
Ridge viewpoints
Rameetay Dara and Kawley Dara lie nearby and suit sunrise and sunset.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Hire a taxi from the lake rather than walking. The road climbs to about 1,768 m, the highest point in Mirik, and the cab saves your legs for the grounds. At the gate there is a short level walk and a few steps to the main areas. Take your time at the entrance; monks and residents are at work, and this is a practising centre, not a museum.
Inside, visitors usually see the prayer hall with a large Buddha figure, painted murals and a stupa that offers views toward the lake on clear days. Walk clockwise around the stupa and keep your voice low. If chanting is under way, sit quietly at the back rather than moving around.
Combine the visit with a viewpoint. Rameetay Dara lies further along the ridge, and Kawley Dara is reported to be a short walk from the monastery. Both are best for sunrise and sunset. Leave afterwards for lunch in town, as there is little to eat close to the monastery.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Go by taxi; the road is steep and the walk takes about 35 to 40 minutes
- Dress modestly and remove shoes where asked
- Ask before photographing inside the halls
- Go on a clear morning if you want the stupa views
- Carry water; there is little to eat nearby
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Highest point of Mirik, on the ridge toward Rameetay Dara
- Time needed
- About 1 hour
- Best time
- Morning; clear days for views
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Cars reach the gate and the final stretch is a short walk with a few steps. The approach road is steep and winding, so a taxi is the sensible choice for anyone with limited stamina. Seating inside is minimal, so allow for standing.
- Tickets and access
- No entry fee is reported for visitors, but check locally. Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering halls, walk clockwise around stupas, and ask before photographing inside.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bokar Monastery
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Cars reach the gate and the final stretch is a short walk with a few steps. The approach road is steep and winding, so a taxi is the sensible choice for anyone with limited stamina. Seating inside is minimal, so allow for standing.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How do you get to Bokar Monastery?
Take a taxi from the lake to the gate. The walk uphill takes about 35 to 40 minutes. A short level walk and a few steps remain after you arrive.
Is Bokar Monastery suitable for older travellers?
Usually, if you go by taxi. The approach is steep, seating is limited and the steps are few but present.
Can visitors take photographs?
Ask first. Photography inside prayer halls may be restricted, and exteriors and views are generally easier.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.