A Visit to Global Vipassana Pagoda, Gorai

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The last day of the year went by quite fabulously, as my husband all of a sudden decided to take us to the Global Vipassana Pagoda near Gorai Creek. We reached there at around 5pm. It was quite crowded, today being the last day of 2024. 

                                                                       

The Pagoda is beautiful with a wide golden tomb that can be seen from far, while on the way to the place. The Main Entrance Gate is beautifully made with Buddhist sculptures. There are 2 enormous Statues of white lions on both sides. 

Upon entering we learned The Pagoda does not allow short or sleeveless clothes for visitors. So I had to wear a lungi and scarf on top of the dress I was wearing. It was quite comfortable. After a thorough security check we entered the place. We had to climb a few stairs to reach the main Pagoda. 

                                                   

After we climbed the stairs we saw 2 beautiful elephant sculptures at the two corners at the beginning of the stairs. The wide golden tomb of the main temple is so stunning, that it was shining like pure gold in the sun light. The entrance of the Temple and Vipassana area is from the left side of the Pagoda. 

                   

We entered the Vipassana Area and were seated on mats for meditation. Since pictures are not allowed inside we sat there for meditation. We loved the 10-15 minutes session of mass meditation. Even my daughter, who is otherwise very restless, was totally immersed during that time.

There are 2 separate buildings on both sides just opposite to the main Pagoda. In between there is a water fountain with and behind that are 5 statues inside small temple like structures. 



There is a small and beautiful Vipassana House at the left side of the Fountain. The building is striking because of the wonderfully carved wooden doors.

At the right side, there is the Guruji Nivaas, another Vipassana House. with staircases leading to the main gate to the house. The tomb of the building is very different with attractive designs and carvings allover. . 



There is a small but compact play area for the kids next. A wonderful fountain with 3 statues are placed at the centre of that place. There is a pair of golden statues of Shree Satyanarayan Goenka and Shrimati Elaichidevi Goenka at the entrance of the Play Area

                                                    

There is a Ashoka Stambh in the right side of the play area.




The next part is at the back of the Main Vipassana House. There is a narrow bridge corridor made to get a nice view of sunrise and sunset. However, it was closed. There is a huge bell on the other side. We got a lovely view of the setting sun. 




Here are some points that we have to take care of:

1. No short or sleeveless clothes are allowed

2. Difficult to access for elderly and those with walking disabilities

3. The main pagoda does not allow any pictures to be taken.

Here are the good things:

1. Very neat and clean

2. Tight security

3. Free entry

4. Nice parking lot

5. Availability of clean toilet

6. Food Joint

7. Curio Shop



Global Vipassana Pagoda is a wonderful place to spend some quality time. The location is wonderful and the Pagoda is a spectacular example of amazing Buddhist architecture. 






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