Wilderness Hideaway: Bon Monastery, a Prized Gem
**Discover the Tranquil Dolanji Bon Monastery in Himachal Pradesh**
Nestled amidst the picturesque mountains of Solan in Himachal Pradesh, India, lies the Dolanji Bon Monastery - a spiritual haven that offers a unique glimpse into one of the world's oldest spiritual traditions.
Established in 1969, the monastery is an important centre of the Bon religion, a tradition that predates even Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha). It serves as a key institution where the Bon teachings, philosophy, and monastic education continue to thrive.
The monastery, painted in maroon, red, yellow, and a dash of white and deep brown, stands proudly with a typical Tibetan-style roof and slender prayer wheels on the sides. The main structure is a grand yet peaceful blend with the surrounding natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for spiritual reflection and learning.
The monastery complex houses the Yungdrung Bon Teaching and Listening Centre, a school for children, and another complex in a nearby valley with a nunnery named Redna Menling and a temple dedicated to the female goddess Satrig Ersang.
Visitors to the monastery can expect warm interactions with the knowledgeable monks who are more than happy to share insights into the monastery’s history, teachings, and founder. The monastery is a prominent place for studying Dzogchen and the Mother Tantras within the Bon tradition, preserving rare teachings that are difficult to find elsewhere.
The monastery can be reached from Delhi/Chandigarh by train or bus to Kalka, followed by bus or taxi to Solan, and then by taxi from Solan at reasonable rates. The monastery complex is located 12 kilometers from Solan town and 4 kilometers from Kheri bifurcation.
Travellers can also opt for lodging at the monastery's five-story Guest House, which offers good facilities at modest rates. The peaceful environment and friendly interactions with the monks contribute to visitors returning with memorable experiences.
In summary, the Dolanji Bon Monastery is a unique spiritual institution preserving the ancient Bon religion’s teachings while offering a serene environment set in the beautiful Himalayan landscape. It holds deep historical significance as one of the oldest known religious traditions and continues to educate and inspire visitors and practitioners with its rare spiritual knowledge and warm monastic community.
The Dolanji Bon Monastery, situated in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, serves as an excellent destination for travelers seeking tranquility and spiritual learning. Home-and-garden enthusiasts might appreciate the striking architecture of the monastery, painted in maroon, red, yellow, and a dash of white and deep brown, blending harmoniously with the surroundings. Lifestyle choices focused on personal growth and understanding of ancient spiritual traditions can find a rich resource in the teachings and philosophy of this spiritual haven.
