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The monasteries in Gangtok, situated amidst the Himalayan mountains, embody a tapestry of history, culture, and spiritual wisdom. The mountain breeze carries the scent of incense, blending with monks’ chants and the flutter of colourful prayer flags. Amidst this symphony of sights and sounds like numerous monasteries, each offering an experience waiting to be discovered. Amidst the flickering butter lamps and the gentle chime of bells, visitors can experience the profound faith ingrained in the people of Sikkim.
10 Famous Monasteries In Gangtok
Here are 10 famous monasteries in Gangtok, famous for its stunning views of the Himalayas and deep connection to Buddhism :
1. Rumtek Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, is the largest monastery in Sikkim. It serves as the spiritual centre for the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The construction of this monastery took place in the 16th century and the re-building in the 1960s after being destroyed by fire. Its impressive golden roof shines brightly in the sun, inviting visitors to explore its traditional surroundings. Rows of burning butter lamps light up detailed paintings that tell stories of the Buddha and other Tibetan gods.
Timings: 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Tsurphu Labrang Pal Karmae Sangha Dhuche, Dharma Chakra Centre, Sikkim
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2. Enchey Monastery
Photo: Rajeeb Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
Enchey Monastery, situated in the centre of Gangtok, is a peaceful sanctuary providing a break from the busy city life. It is the smallest monastery in Gangtok. Known as “the solitary temple” in the local language, this monastery came into existence in the 19th century by Lama Drupthob Karpo, a respected expert in tantric practices. The architecture combines Tibetan and Sikkimese designs, featuring a unique pagoda-shaped roof and detailed wood carvings. The monastery is a vibrant place, with monks residing there, moving around calmly, and surrounded by mountains.
Timings: 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Echey Gaon, Near New Jalpaiguri, Sikkim
3. Dubdi Monastery
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
The Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim, is thought to have been built in the 17th century by three respected holy men – Latsan Namkha Rinpoche, Lama Dorjee Ratna, and Lama Karma Sangye. This two-story building, famous for its worn exterior and detailed wood carvings, is a symbol of historical significance. It houses a collection of old religious texts and items, including worn statues, which link us to Sikkim’s Buddhist history.
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Location: Near Yuksom, Yuksom, Sikkim
Suggested Read: Your Complete Guide For Trekking In Gangtok
4. Phodong Monastery
Photo: walter callens / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Phodong Monastery serves as a sacred place for the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the famous monasteries in Gangtok. Established in the 18th century by the 9th Karmapa Lama, the monastery’s history relates to the expansion of the Kagyu lineage in Sikkim. The monastery features a golden roof and detailed paintings that illustrate stories from Buddha’s life, the collection of Kagyu gods, and important figures from the lineage. People respect the large gold statue of Guru Padmasambhava and encourages spiritual dedication.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Sikkim
5. Tsuk La Khang Monastery
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
The Tsuk La Khang Monastery was built a long time ago, in the 1800s, and was used as a private church for the royal family of Sikkim, where they could pray and be close to their beliefs. The monastery has white walls and old-style buildings that show its interesting history. Inside, visitors can smell the incense, see old Buddhist books, and look at beautiful statues of different gods. The small and friendly atmosphere of Tsuk La Khang helps tourists feel close to themselves.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Secretariat Rd, Vishal Gaon, Gangtok, Sikkim
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6. Dodrupchen Monastery
Photo: Akuppa John Wigham / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dodrupchen Monastery is the newest monastery in Gangtok, established in 1945 and adds a lively touch to Gangtok’s religious landscape. There are beautiful decorations on the monastery’s walls with paintings showing events from Buddha’s life, the Nyingma gods, and the history of the Dodrupchen Rinpoche. These detailed artworks highlight the lasting strength of belief and artistic creativity. The statues inside the monastery are not just impressive but also carry unique energies, influenced by the many followers who have come for blessings.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Tsang Chen Plains, Do Valley, Gangtok, Sikkim
7. Tashiding Monastery
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons
Tashiding Monastery is situated on a heart-shaped hill in Gangtok, offering a peaceful and spiritual retreat with views of the Himalayas. The path to Tashiding feels like a pilgrimage, decorated with bright prayer flags and colourful paintings that tell stories of Buddha and Buddhist gods. The monastery’s classic design, filled with detailed carvings and colourful prayer flags, attracts those looking for a spiritual experience. The Thongwa Rangdol Chorten, a golden monument inside the monastery, is thought to cleanse one’s sins.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 875X+H5C Sikkim
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8. Ranka Monastery
Photo: Goyaldevender / Wikimedia Commons
Ranka Monastery, also known as Lingdum Monastery, is a peaceful place hidden in the forests of Gangtok. The monastery has a simple look with colourful flags, and it is a home for young monks. Inside, the walls have bright paintings showing stories from Buddha’s life and many Buddhist gods. There is also a special statue of Buddha made of gold, which makes people feel calm and wise.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Lingdum, Gangtok, Sikkim
9. Pemayangtse Monastery
Photo: Tejas498 / Wikimedia Commons
The Pemayangtse Monastery, established in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, is a special place in Pelling. It has a long history and beautiful art, with its red walls and layered roofs decorated with detailed carvings. Inside, people can feel a sense of importance, seeing how the monastery is built and the strong belief of the Sikkim royal family. The monastery’s museum displays old items, such as royal clothes, special masks, and old religious texts, which share stories about the Sikkim royals and their dedication to Buddhism.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: 8742+3JP, Sikkim
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10. Bon Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
The Bon Monastery in Gangtok is a special place that tells stories from a very old religion that existed before Buddhism. It was set up in the 1980s by Yung Dung Tsultrim, who has passed away. This Monastery stands strong for the Bon religion, which is the original faith of Tibet, even though Buddhism is very common around it. The building, made in a style that mixes Indian and Tibetan designs, shows that it has a deep history. The monastery features drums, conch shells, and monks in red robes, while the quiet courtyard and wind remind us of its long history.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 78HM+FQ2,Sikkim
Monasteries in Gangtok, spanning from the grand Rumtek to the intimate Tsuk La Khang, offer a unique blend of faith, history, and beauty. These havens provide a window into Sikkim’s rich history and spiritual connection with the natural world. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories. For easy trip planning and well-chosen travel experiences, check out TripXL, a one-stop shop that perfectly suits the holiday package industry.
Cover Photo: Expressive Capture / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
