Jirang is popularly known as the Little Tibet of Odisha. It is located at Jeerango, Gajapati district of the state of Odisha, India. Jirang Monastery is a hidden gem of Odisha, established in 2010. The Monastery was inaugurated by his holiness Dalai Lama himself. Jirang Monastery, i.e, Phuntsokiling Monastery is the largest monastery in Eastern India.
The eastern ghat hills dominate the skyline of Jirang. The second highest peak of Odisha, Mahendragiri, is a mere 70 km from Jirang. Green fields followed by high hills draw the serene ambience of Jirang.
After the Chinese invasion in Tibet in 1959, exiled Tibetans took shelter in various parts of India, and Jiranga is one of them. Jiranga is also popularly known as Chandragiri.
The Tibetans here call this monastery Phuntsokiling, which means happiness and Joy. People here are really charming and peace-loving.
The monastery remains closed from 12:00pm – 1:00pm. It is the lunch hour of the students there. Prayer is held twice a day, 5:30 am and 4pm. There is a canteen in the monastery where snacks are served.
Jirang (Chandragiri) is about 290 km from Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha and 100 km from Brahmapur, the most prominent city in southern Odisha. Nearest Airport – Bhubaneswar Airport, nearest Railway Station – Brahmapur Railway station, nearest interstate Bus Terminal – Brahmapur.
A travel enthusiast should not avoid the Khasada Waterfall just 6 Km. away from Jirang. Khasada Waterfall offers a serene escape into nature. It is surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
For staying in Jirang there is Ripa Guest House inside the Jirang monastery complex (Contact No. 091782 27087). There is OTDC Panthaniwas at Taptapani which is 40 Km away from Jirang (Contact No. 9438375772, 06816255031).
Most travellers on route to Jirang however prefer staying at Brahmapur, which is flush with hotels in all budget ranges and is a comfortable 100 KM away, making Jirang a great day tour.
Photo courtesy
Odisha Tourism
Nature Valley Eco Resort –
