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One of Sikkim’s most famous spiritual and cultural attractions is Chorten Monastery. Known and famous for its serene environment and rich heritage, travellers enjoy spending a peaceful getaway learning about Tibetan Buddhism. Unique architecture and intense rituals at the monastery; coupled with its natural beauty on the outside, have been a magnetic attraction toward searching for spirituality and being in tune with nature.
Location
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated in East Sikkim, the Chorten Monastery lies on the outskirts of Gangtok. It overlooks a commanding site with superb views of the Himalayas and the surrounding green valleys, located about 24 km away from Gangtok; sufficiently away from seclusion but close enough for easy access. Its situation amidst the Himalayas ensures a serene environment perfect for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
How To Reach Chorten Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chorten Monastery is accessible through various modes of travel, such as:
By Air: The nearest airport to Chorten Monastery is Bagdogra Airport, about 125 kilometres away. One can book a taxi from Bagdogra or take a shared car to reach Gangtok, which will be a four to five hours long journey,
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, about 120 kilometres from Gangtok. A taxi or shared cab from NJP to Gangtok may take 4-5 hours.
By Road: Gangtok is well-connected to key cities in Sikkim and neighbouring states. You can reach or book a taxi from cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Kolkata. The drive from Gangtok to Chorten Monastery takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Places To Visit Around Chorten Monastery
1. Khangchendzonga National Park
Photo: Sujoy Saha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
About 50 kilometres from Gangtok, this UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawls across more than 850 square kilometres. This is a protected area of tremendous biodiversity and breathtaking natural beauty. Many rare and endangered species are found here, such as the red panda, the snow leopard, and the Himalayan tahr. The park comprises various landscapes; from lush forests to alpine meadows, glacial lakes, rugged mountains. The most prominent one is the Kanchenjunga Mountain itself,constituting the third-highest peak in the world.
Things To Do: Trek through diverse landscapes, view rare wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In West Sikkim
2. Pelling
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pelling, about 115 km from Gangtok, is a lovely town with great views of the Kanchenjunga range. The enchanting village and its surroundings, amidst a lush green ambience and other essential places of interest, make it popular. This was where the famous Pemayangtse monastery was situated, enriched with historical values and old murals. Not very far from it is the Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered holy by both Hindus and Buddhists and is famous for the crystal clarity of its waters and calm environs. Rabdentse Ruins, the remains of an ancient Sikkimese capital, go a long way in revealing the region’s historical past.
Things To Do: Explore Pemayangtse Monastery, visit Khecheopalri Lake, and admire the Rabdentse Ruins.
3. Tsomgo Lake
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Tsomgo Lake, or Changu Lake, is a glacial lake around 40 km from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,780 metres. This lake is one of the calmest, situated amidst snow-capped peaks and green meadows. Its high altitude contributes to its unique blue-green colour that changes with the seasons. Colourful prayer flags adorn the area, and small temples add to its spiritual charm. One can take yak rides around the lake or enjoy a peaceful walk while soaking in those views. This lake freezes in winter, and it forms a great winter landscape of the lake.
Things To Do: Take a yak ride around the lake, capture the changing colours of the lake, and enjoy local snacks from nearby stalls.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In May For A Serene Trip
4. Buddha Park of Ravangla
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons
About 70 km from Gangtok, the Buddha Park of Ravangla is a peaceful park with a massive statue of Buddha. Situated within the beautifully landscaped gardens is the 130-foot statue, considered one of the tremendous spiritual sites and a symbol of peace. Being able to view the Himalayas, with Mount Kanchenjunga, from the park provides a great backdrop. The peaceful atmosphere of the park and the Buddha statue set the scene for meditation and quiet reflection. It has colourful flowers and many statues of different Buddhist symbols that embellish the surrounding gardens.
Things To Do: Admire the 130-foot Buddha statue, stroll through landscaped gardens, and enjoy views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
5. Sangacholing Monastery
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sangacholing Monastery, an ancient monastery, is situated about 5 km from Pelling. The construction dates back to the early 17th century, making it one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It is located atop a hill, making it ideal to present fascinating and panoramic views of the surroundings and the Kanchenjunga range. The monastery is an extended centre of vital Buddhist worship and rituals, witnessing monks visit for their daily prayers or other ceremonies.
Things To Do: Explore the ancient monastery and its artefacts, enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop, participate in meditation sessions.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In June For A Fun Trip
6. Khecheopalri Lake
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Locals believe that the Khecheopalri Lake, some 120 km from Gangtok and near Pelling, is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists. It has a dense forest surrounding the lake, interspaced with crystal-clear transparent water and a calm, serene environment. There is a strong belief that this lake fulfils the wishes of the people visiting and offering prayers. Colourful prayer flags and small shrines are situated everywhere around the lake, enhancing its spiritualism. One can walk peacefully around the lake, get soaked in the natural beauty, and indulge in the local rituals.
Things To Do: Walk around the sacred lake, offer prayers at the shrines, and photograph the serene landscape.
Where To Stay
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Various accommodations options are available around Chorten Monastery to choose for your trip:
- Hotel Hilltop offers comfortable accommodations with beautiful mountain views. It is located at Gangtok and is easily accessible from all the places of interest, whether modern amenities or places of interest.
- The Elgin Nor-Khill is one of the heritage luxury hotels in Gangtok, known for its lavish rooms and admirable service. The colonial architecture and fine dining surely add to the overall experience.
- Gangtok Guest House is a budget guesthouse offering a homely atmosphere and basic facilities. The location is convenient; thus, the place becomes reasonably practical for visitors.
- Hotel Royal Palace combines comfort with affordability with its smartly furnished rooms and a restaurant bar that serves local and international cuisine.
- Hotel Tibet offers comfortable rooms with a traditional Tibetan ambience. The hotel gains praise for its hospitality and proximity to the main places of interest.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
Where To Eat
Photo: Walter Callens / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Explore the famous restaurants near Chorten Monastery:
- Taste of Tibet serves authentic Tibetan cuisine, such as momos, thukpa, and several traditional Tibetan dishes. This restaurant is renowned for its savoury food and warm hospitality.
- The Dragon Restaurant offers Chinese and Sikkimese cuisines, ranging from spicy stir-fries to bland noodles.
- The Coffee Shop is a place for casual dining with various varieties of coffee, pastry, and light meals.
- Rumi’s Kitchen offers Indian and continental cuisine with a varied menu and a nice ambience.
- Sikkim Café enjoys the distinction of local delicacies and a comfortable ambience, making it a favourite haunt with travellers and locals.
Best Time To Visit Chorten Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the Chorten Monastery would be from March to May and September to November. The weather is most pleasant in these months and is clear, perfect for visiting sights and exploring places. Visiting during the Tibetan New Year in February, the Lhosar festival should interest any visitor for a unique cultural festival experience.
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost of the Trip The entrance to Chorten Monastery is generally free of cost. Extras would be for transport, offerings, food, and staying arrangements. A daily budget for visiting could vary from ₹1000 to ₹6000 according to your stay and eating.
Tips for Travellers
- Dress modestly, covering both shoulders and knees in religious places.
- Show respect for the local customs, culture, and habits. Avoid littering.
- Check the weather and road conditions in advance while travelling, especially during the monsoon season.
Chorten Monastery follows through a cultural and natural experience with a rich spiritual heritage, set amidst surroundings of unparalleled beauty. The local attractions and dining options, with the serene setting of the monastery, add up to a satisfying visit. Spiritual growth, cultural enlightenment, or simple retreat—Chorten Monastery and its surroundings have everything for every visitor. With TripXL, travelling to Chorten Monastery will surely become a memorable and enriching experience.
Cover Photo: Gary Todd / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
