Nestled in the peaceful village of Bhattu, approximately 6 km from Bir in the Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, lies the serene Sherabling Monastery, more commonly known as Bhattu Monastery. It is one of the largest Tibetan monasteries in North India and a must-visit attraction for travellers visiting Bir Billing.
With its grand Tibetan-style architecture, spiritual ambience, and connection to His Eminence 12th Kenting Tai Situ Rinpoche, Bhattu Monastery is a hub of Buddhist learning, meditation, and cultural preservation. For those who visit Bir for adventure and paragliding, a short trip to this monastery strikes a balance between thrill and tranquillity.
Bhattu Monastery is not just a religious site; it’s an experience that combines culture, architecture, and peace. Here’s why you should visit:
Largest Tibetan Monastery in Bir region: Spread across a vast area, it houses hundreds of monks in its residential quarters.
Architectural Marvel: The monastery is built in an authentic Tibetan style with colourful murals, prayer wheels, and golden statues.
Spiritual Vibe: Daily prayers and chants create an atmosphere of peace, making it perfect for meditation and self-reflection.
Cultural Experience: Visitors can observe Tibetan rituals, festivals, and teachings.
Calm Escape: Unlike crowded tourist spots, the monastery is peaceful and less commercialised, ideal for slow travel.
Things to Do at Bhattu Monastery
Attend Prayer Ceremonies – Listen to the deep chants of monks and immerse yourself in Buddhist spirituality.
Meditate – Many travellers sit in the prayer hall or open lawns to meditate and experience inner calm.
Explore Tibetan Art & Murals – Admire intricate paintings, carvings, and thangkas (Tibetan scroll art).
Spin the Prayer Wheels – A symbolic act of spreading peace and positive energy.
Photography – Capture the monastery’s golden stupas, colourful flags, and peaceful environment.
Monastic Trails – Walk around the monastery campus and interact (respectfully) with monks to understand their way of life.
Best Time to Visit Bhattu Monastery
March to May – Spring and early summer offer pleasant weather, making them perfect for visiting monasteries and exploring nearby attractions in Bir Billing.
October to November – The autumn skies are clear, and festivals are celebrated in Tibetan monasteries, adding cultural vibrancy.
December to February – Winters are chilly but beautiful, with fewer tourists, a great time for peaceful meditation and retreats.
Avoid Monsoons (July–September) – Heavy rains make the roads slippery and outdoor exploration less comfortable.
The best time to visit Bhattu Monastery is March to May and October to November, when the climate is favourable, and paragliding in Bir Billing is also at its peak.
How to Reach Bhattu Monastery
By Road: Bhattu Monastery is just 6 km from Bir. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Bir.
Nearest Airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport, about 65 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Ahju Railway Station (2 km from Bir) or Pathankot (broad gauge).
From Delhi/Chandigarh: Overnight Volvo buses take you to Bir, from where you can reach Bhattu in 15–20 minutes.
Stay Options Near Bhattu Monastery
Most travellers prefer staying in Bir, which offers a range of accommodations, including hostels, homestays, guesthouses, and boutique stays. Popular options:
Budget Hostels – ₹400–₹700 per night.
Homestays & Guesthouses – ₹800–₹1,500 per night.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays – ₹2,500+ per night.
If you want to stay closer to the monastery, a few small homestays in Bhattu village also host visitors.
While the monastery has a simple monastic kitchen, travellers usually explore Bir cafes for food. Must-try options:
Garden Café – Known for fresh meals.
Silver Linings Café – An excellent spot for coffee with stunning views.
Avva’s Café – Local Tibetan and Himachali dishes.
June 16th Café – Popular for desserts.
Don’t miss Tibetan momos, thukpa, and butter tea.
Travel Tips for Visiting Bhattu Monastery
Respect monastic rules, maintain silence inside prayer halls.
Photography may be restricted in specific areas; always ask permission before taking a photo.
Dress modestly.
Avoid visiting during prayer sessions unless you want to sit quietly and observe.
Carry cash, as digital payments are limited in small villages.
Paragliding in Bir Billing – World’s top paragliding destination.
Chokling Monastery – Another popular Tibetan monastery in Bir.
Deer Park Institute – A centre for Indian philosophy and Buddhist studies.
Rajgundha Trek – A scenic hike from Bir.
Café Hopping in Bir – Explore artistic cafés with stunning views.
Manali
Kerala
Kashmir
Spiti Valley
Dharamshala
Shimla
Ladakh
Bir Billing
Dalhousie
Kasol
Tirthan & Jibhi
Meghalaya
Tawang