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Enchey Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery is built on a stunning hill above the Gangtok city from where the Kanchendzonga range is visible. Enchey Monastery means “Solitary Monastery.” It offers a serene and calm atmosphere and an excellent library full of old Buddhist scriptures and manuscripts. It is believed that the protecting deities – Khangchendzonga and Yabdean – reside here. The vibrant festivals and deep cultural significance of Enchey Monastery make it an ideal spot for spiritual seekers visiting Sikkim.
Location
Photo: Wingedtree / Wikimedia Commons
Enchey Monastery location is at a beautiful ridge, northeast of Gangtok City, Sikkim. It is situated on Gangtok – Nathula road, above the Siniolochu lodge and passes through a series of sylvan coniferous trees, near the TV tower. It is about 3 kilometres from the main marketplace in Gangtok. The monastery, built around the then-small hamlet of Gangtok, has now become a religious centre.
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Sikkim For Your Next Surreal Trip
How To Reach Enchey Monastery
Photo: Matthias Groeneveld / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Bus: The Deorali bus stand is 6 km away from the monastery, thus making it convenient for visitors.
By Bike: Bikes are available for rent in and around the main Gangtok market and can be used to explore the monastery and other places.
By cab/taxi: The most convenient way of viewing Enchey Monastery Gangtok is by hired or shared taxi. Numerous SUVs are available for hire on the way to Nathula Pass for the full day to view all places at leisure.
Places To Visit In And Around
1. Japanese Temple
Photo: Iam utkarsh / Wikimedia Commons
The Japanese Temple in Sikkim, often referred to as the Do-Drul Chorten, is a significant Buddhist stupa located in the Gangtok area. The Do-Drul Chorten is one of the most important stupas in Sikkim. It contains rare mandalas, relics, and other holy objects. Surrounding the stupa are 108 prayer wheels inscribed with Buddhist mantras. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed
2. Vishwa Vinayak Temple
Photo:Masoom321 / Wikimedia Commons
With the majestic golden statue of Lord Ganesha welcoming you at the entrance, this popular temple in Sikkim cannot be missed. The Vishwa Vinayak Temple features traditional Hindu temple architecture, with colourful exteriors and intricate designs typical of North Indian temple styles. Its proximity to MG Marg makes it accessible to both locals and tourists. The temple is surrounded by serene natural beauty, enhancing the spiritual experience for visitors.
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. MG Marg
Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
MG Marg is the main street in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It is lined with numerous shops selling everything from traditional Sikkimese crafts and clothing to modern apparel and electronics. You can find handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialities here. It also hosts a range of cafes and restaurants offering local Sikkimese cuisine as well as Indian, Tibetan, and international dishes. Popular spots include Baker’s Cafe, The Coffee Shop, and Taste of Tibet.
Timings: 8 AM – 11 PM
Entry Fee: Free to enter, prices of cafes/shops vary
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places Near Gangtok
4. Tsomgo Lake
Photo: Ashish Rangwala / Unsplash
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 3,753 metres above sea level. It is located about 40 km from Gangtok on the way to Nathula Pass. The lake is surrounded by steep mountains and lush green forests, offering a picturesque and serene environment. The reflection of the surrounding landscape on the lake’s surface is a breathtaking sight. Visitors can enjoy yak rides along the shores of the lake.
Timings: Open 24 hours, advisable to visit during daylight
Entry Fee: Free to enter, carry valid ID proof
5. Nathula Pass
Photo: Vijayanand7 / Wikimedia Commons
Nathula Pass is a strategic mountain pass on the Indo-China border, located around 56 km from Gangtok. The journey to Nathula Pass from Gangtok typically takes about 3 to 4 hours by car. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. Often visible in the distance, this glacial lake adds to the scenic beauty of the region. The pass is close to the India-China border, providing a unique opportunity to experience the high-altitude frontier.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM, Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Entry Fee: Free to enter, carry valid ID proof and Inner Line Permit (ILP)
Suggested Read: Your Complete Guide For Trekking In Gangtok
6. Tashi View Point
Photo: Soumendra Kumar Sahoo / Wikimedia Commons
Tashi View Point is one of Gangtok’s most popular tourist attractions in Sikkim. It is around 8 km from Gangtok’s city centre, making it easily accessible by taxi or local transportation. One can explore the surrounding areas on foot to enjoy the natural beauty and or even visit nearby monasteries to gain deeper insights into the local culture and religious practices. Tashi View Point is particularly famous for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, where the mountains are bathed in golden hues.
Timings: Open 24 hours, visit during sunrise/sunset
Entry Fee: No visiting charge, Rs. 10/- for using the binoculars
Where To Stay
Photo: Olexandr Ignatov / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Gangtok that offer comfortable accommodations. Some popular options include The Elgin Nor-Khill, Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, and Summit Norling Resort & Spa, as they are near the Enchey Monastery and cater to people from diverse economic backgrounds. They offer facilities like a spa, casino, swimming pool, fitness centre, and restaurants.
Suggested Read: Discovering The Best Food In Gangtok
Where To Eat
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When visiting Enchey Monastery, one can find several delightful places that cater to a variety of tastes. Just a short drive away, MG Marg in the heart of Gangtok offers numerous dining options. For authentic Sikkimese and Tibetan dishes, head to The Taste of Tibet. Café Fiction is another popular spot, perfect for coffee lovers and those seeking a cosy atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for a more diverse menu, Baker’s Café provides a range of options from pizzas and sandwiches to delectable desserts.
Best Time To Visit
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The ideal times to visit Gangtok’s Enchey Monastery are in the early winter (October/November) or late winter (February/March). The months of March through June are ideal for the summer. Most of the year, the weather is lovely. A calm setting with a light breeze makes for a wonderful experience. For the greatest views, you should go there first thing in the morning when the sky is clear.
Suggested Read: The Best Adventure Sports In Sikkim To Try On Your Next Vacation
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Iryna Tysiak / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average cost of the trip
Taking into account all the expenses that one might incur, the average cost would be ₹1500, including travel, food, and accommodation. This can vary depending on the options chosen by the traveller.
Tips For Travellers
- Visitors coming from lower altitudes should allow some time for acclimatisation to avoid altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities on the first day.
- You should make most bookings for cabs and hotels online in advance, as there may be network connectivity issues in the state.
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs inside the monastery or of the monks.
Enchey Monastery in Gangtok is the perfect ode to Sikkim’s rich spiritual heritage and vibrant cultural tapestry. The mountain breeze carries the scent of incense, blending with monks’ chants and the flutter of prayer flags. Whether you’re a devout pilgrim, a curious traveller, or a culture enthusiast, Enchey Monastery offers a profound journey into the heart of Sikkim’s spirituality. Plan your visit with TripXL to have a memorable, hassle-free experience.
Cover Photo: Rajeeb Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
