Discovering Bon Monastery: A Rare Spiritual Sanctuary
Hidden among the quiet hills near Solan lies a place that feels untouched by time — Bon Monastery, also known as Menri Monastery. Far from crowded tourist circuits, this sacred site offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions, set against the calm beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
Bon Monastery is located
in Dolanji village, around 18–20 km from Solan town. Surrounded by
pine forests and rolling hills, the monastery enjoys complete isolation from
urban noise.
Solan: A
Gateway to Peaceful Himachal
Before reaching the monastery,
it’s worth understanding Solan, the hill town that hosts this spiritual
treasure. Located between Chandigarh and Shimla, Solan is often referred
to as the Mushroom City of India and is known for its mild
climate, greenery, and relaxed pace of life.
Unlike larger hill stations,
Solan retains a quiet charm — small markets, forested trails, temples, and
colonial-era influences all blend seamlessly. Because of its excellent road and
rail connectivity, Solan has also become an ideal base for exploring nearby
villages, monasteries, and offbeat destinations — Bon Monastery being one of
the most meaningful among them.
Bon Monastery: A Living Legacy
of an Ancient Faith
Bon Monastery near Solan is not just another religious site — it represents the Bon religion, an ancient spiritual tradition that predates Buddhism in Tibet. The monastery stands as one of the most important Bon institutions outside Tibet and serves as its global spiritual center.
Established in the late 1960s, the monastery was built by Tibetan Bon masters who migrated to India to preserve their traditions, teachings, and way of life. Today, it functions as a monastic university, a place of worship, and a cultural archive — all at once.
Cultural Importance of Bon Monastery
The cultural value of Bon Monastery goes far beyond its religious role. It acts as a guardian of ancient knowledge, preserving texts, rituals, healing practices, and philosophies that have survived centuries.
The monastery is home to:
- A school of philosophy and debate
- A library of rare Bon scriptures
- Training centers for monks and nuns
- Ritual ceremonies that follow age-old traditions
For visitors, this offers a unique opportunity to witness a spiritual culture that is rarely seen elsewhere in India. The atmosphere is calm, respectful, and deeply introspective — making it ideal for anyone interested in spirituality, history, or Himalayan culture.
Architecture and Timeless Beauty of Bon Monastery
The beauty of Bon Monastery lies not only in its spiritual atmosphere but also in its
striking architecture and thoughtfully designed buildings. The temple stands gracefully against the
backdrop of green hills, adorned with vibrant prayer flags, intricate murals,
and traditional Tibetan symbols that immediately draw the eye. Its whitewashed
walls, golden rooftops, and colorful detailing reflect classic Himalayan
monastic architecture, creating a sense of harmony with the surrounding
landscape. Inside, the temple halls are calm and richly decorated with ancient
paintings, statues, and sacred motifs, each telling a story of faith and
tradition. The overall layout of the monastery — from prayer halls to
residential quarters — is simple yet elegant, designed to encourage peace,
meditation, and a deep connection with nature.
How to Reach
Bon Monastery from Chandigarh
Reaching Bon Monastery is
fairly easy, even for first-time visitors.
Step 1:
Chandigarh to Solan
- By Road:
Drive or take a bus from Chandigarh to Solan (approx. 65–70 km). The journey takes about 2 hours via the Chandigarh–Shimla highway. - By Train:
You can also travel by train to Solan Railway Station. You can enjoy the timeless beauty of the toy train journey from Kalka to Solan, offering scenic views through hills, tunnels, and forests.
Step 2:
Solan to Bon Monastery (Dolanji)
- Hire a local taxi or
drive from Solan town towards Ochhghat, then continue to Dolanji.
- The final stretch takes
about 30–40 minutes.
- Roads are motorable and
clearly lead to the monastery.
Best Time to
Visit
Bon Monastery can be visited
throughout the year, but the best months are:
- March to June –
pleasant weather and clear views
- September to November –
post-monsoon freshness and peaceful surroundings
Winters are cold but serene,
adding to the spiritual charm for those who enjoy quiet travel.
Final
Thoughts
Bon Monastery is not a place
you “see” — it’s a place you experience. Whether you are a spiritual
seeker, a cultural explorer, or simply someone looking to disconnect from noise
and routine, this monastery offers something rare: stillness.
For anyone visiting Solan, a
trip to Bon Monastery is not just recommended — it’s essential.
