Bon Monastery is a treasure trove of ancient knowledge from Tibet, located in the beautiful Solan, Himachal Pradesh region. As a location beyond the immediate radar of the typical travel agenda, it hums with the myths of the pre-Buddhist world and secret rituals for the seeker who wanders beyond the touristic circuit. A 43-year-old monastery, it is not just a religious building but the history of the Bon religion, which is the original religion of Tibet. Bon Monastery is firmly committed to preserving ancient Bon traditions and culture, serving as an essential place for architectural and spiritual exploration. As you walk through the brightly painted gates with beautiful symbols engraved, you’ll be transported back in time.
About Bon Monastery: History And Significance
Bon monastery is enriched with cultural and historical significance. It showcases Buddhist heritage up close to visitors, putting them in touch with spirituality and tradition. The Bon Monastery, or Menri Monastery, was founded in 1969 by Lungtok Tenpai Nyima, the 33rd Menri Abbot. It operates as the central Bon religion outside Tibet, ensuring that the culture and teachings of this ancient spirituality are maintained.
Bon is generally perceived to be Tibet’s indigenous religion, and its practices existed before Buddhism came in. Thus, this monastery is very important in terms of its role as a religious centre for the practice of Bon and the preservation of its culture.
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Architectural Uniqueness of Bon Monastery
Image Credit: Amrit Thapa for Wikimedia Commons
This place of worship is one of the few Bon religious sites outside Tibet, with unique architectural features representing its rich history. It is characterised by its colourful and elaborate murals, beautiful carvings, and traditional designs similar to those found in Tibetan architecture.
Bright colours cover the walls, while detailed patterns fill its ceilings, making them more visually attractive. Other aspects contributing to the monastery’s spiritual and architectural beauty include large prayer wheels, a giant statue of Tonpa Shenrab (the founder of the Bon religion), and a peaceful courtyard.
Bon Monastery Nearby Attractions
Here is the list of top nearby attractions that you can’t miss in 2024 on your trip.
1. Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park
Image Credit: Rupika08 for wikimedia commons
This picturesque building is a popular destination in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the beautiful Himalayan Valley, this park houses a beautiful shrine, Kali Ka Tibba temple. The entrance to the park is through a colossal staircase, the borders of which are lined by heroic statues of horses revered in Hindu mythology. It also has beautiful sculptures, a neat compound, a garden, and painted models that depict scenes from the epics. This vast area is a significant place for those who have a deep interest in the mythology and culture of India.
Address: Shakti Sthal, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Key Highlights: Marvellous sculptures, Well-laid gardens, Painted models
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2. Solan Brewery
A one-of-a-kind place in India, Solan Brewery is a spot where one can see the process of beer brewing live and enjoy the serene views of the mountains around. Solan Brewery was founded at the end of the nineteenth century, making it one of Asia’s first and oldest breweries. It was one of the first breweries set up in India and was strategically located in Solan due to its cool climate, which is ideal for brewing beer. Accessible via the iconic toy train, this place is a must-visit. Tourists are also offered a guided tour to show how the beer is brewed, and samples of different beers are offered.
Address: Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Entry fee applicable for guided tours
Key Highlights: One of Asia’s oldest breweries, Guided tours of the brewing process, Beer Sampling
3. Karol Tibba
Karol Tibba, a beautiful place with excellent views and a cool climate, is perfect for trekking and one-day outings. It is the highest peak of Solan, standing at 2240 m above sea level. The place has gorgeous views of the hills surrounding the Karol Tibba and the beautiful valleys, which make it very attractive to trekking lovers. This trek also takes one through the famous Pandava cave, believed to be the oldest and longest cave in the Himalayas, as mentioned in the Mahabharata. Ensure you have all the necessary trekking equipment and are dressed comfortably for an enjoyable trip.
Address: Karol Tibba, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Key Highlights: Excellent views, Serene climate, Trekking and picnic spots, Beautiful valleys
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4. Kuthar Fort
Kuthar Fort is a vast architectural marvel located along the Kasauli highway and a great place for history lovers. The reddish-brown building stands in stark contrast to its natural surroundings. Believed to be over 800 years old, this place has a unique feature – freshwater springs flowing in the centre of the complex. This ancient fort, with architectural beauty and a stunning view of the surroundings, is a testament to the region’s history. Exploring the Kuthar Fort allows visitors to experience the spirit of the past and admire its history and architecture.
Address: Kuthar Fort, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Key Highlights: Stunning architecture, Historical significance, and Panoramic views
5. Shoolini Mata Temple
Shoolini Mata Temple is a highly esteemed place of worship dedicated to Goddess Shoolini, one of the forms of Goddess Durga. Local people consider this temple great spiritual importance, drawing many devotees and tourists throughout the year. The location of this temple is on top of a hill, which gives a view from the top of all the surrounding areas. From an architectural point of view, the temple appears simple yet beautiful at the same time, featuring some traditional Himachali design aspects. Bright flags, bells, and exquisite carvings add to its visual appeal.
Address: Anji, Himachal Pradesh 173221
Timing: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry Fee: free
Key Highlights: Stunning architecture, Historical significance, and Panoramic views
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How To Reach Bon Monastery?
By Air: Chandigarh International Airport is the closest airport to Bon Monastery, at about 65 kilometres. From this airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Solan.
By Train: Solan Railway Station is the nearest railway station, having extensive connectivity with major cities such as Delhi and Kalka. Thus, from there, anyone could call for a taxi or local means of transport, which would cover around 12 kilometres to the monastery.
By Road: A well-established road network links all crucial towns in Himachal Pradesh and adjoining states. Cities like Shimla (45 km), Chandigarh (70 km), and Delhi (300 km) are connected via major highways for easy driving or bus rides. Upon arrival at Solan, one may use available local taxis and auto-rickshaws to reach Bon Monastery.
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Bon Monastery in Solan is another excellent example of a spiritual and cultural attraction that attracts tourists for its off-beat location and activities. It is a territory where generations-old traditions are performed, and young tourists get information about the peculiarities of the oriental religion, something different from what the rest of the world offers. If you love exploring different traditions and cultures and are an adventurer in nature, a trip to Himachal will tickle your fancy. So what are you waiting for? Plan your next vacation today!
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Cover Image Credit: Christophe95 for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Bon Monastery
Can we take a guided tour of Bon Monastery?
Although there may be no paid professional guides, the monks who are present in the monastery are usually more than happy to take visitors around the compound and explain the areas and objects of importance.
What type of dress is appropriate when going to the Bon Monastery?
Caution should be taken with the kind of clothes one wears, especially when it comes to the dress code, as this is a religious site.
Can I visit the Bon Monastery even if I have a disability to some extent, like having to use a wheelchair or a cane?
There are some steps, and some areas of the Monastery are not flat, so it may be difficult for a wheelchair user. As for the accessibility, it’s better to consult with the monastery staff in advance.
Can people spend the night at Bon Monastery?
Overnight stays at the Monastery are not permitted for tourists, but there are many guest houses and hotels available in Solan.
Is photographing allowed in the Bon Monastery?
Taking photos of the outside is usually permitted.
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