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The Gonjang Monastery is a place that attracts people with its tranquil ambience and offers a glimpse of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1981, this monastery lies at an altitude of 6066 ft. and provides a panoramic view of the beautiful valley below. With bright colours, murals, and prayer flags, the monastery has a magnificent statue of Buddha inside its inner sanctum. It is also one of the monasteries that serve as an educational centre where young monks pursue their quest for knowledge and learning.
Location Of Gonjang Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Gonjang Monastery’s address is near Fatak Bojoghari, close to the Tashi View Point, in Sikkim, India. It is situated on a hill with stunning mountain views. It is approximately 7 kilometres away from the capital.
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How To Reach Gonjang Monastery
Photo: Sourik8 / Wikimedia Commons
The monastery can be conveniently reached via road from Bagdogra International Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal. Visitors can drive their car or hire a taxi from to reach the monastery.
Places To Visit In And Around Gonjang Monastery
There are various places to visit in and around the monastery, such as:
1. Do Drul Chorten Stupa
Photo: LoukikDas / Wikimedia Commons
The Do Drul Chorten Stupa is a sign of peace and protection. It was constructed in 1946 by Trulshik Rinpoche. With prayer wheels and a collection of Dorjee Phurba mandalas and Zurma mantras, it shines bright like a light while manifesting the unparalleled power of faith. The stupa is abuzz with spiritual activities as monks and pilgrims chant and recite mantras. In this vibrant energy of Gangtok, the Stupa invites one to pause a little, appreciate Buddhist tradition, and connect with some inner peace.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
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2. Enchey Monastery
Photo: Wingedtree / Wikimedia Commons
Enchey Monastery, situated in the centre of Gangtok, is a peaceful place that provides a break from the busy city life. Known as “The Solitary Temple” in the local language, this monastery was established 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 vibrant and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Enchey Monastery is more than a historical or religious site as it allows visitors to find peace.
Timings: 10 AM to 2 PM
3. 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 monastery was first built in the 16th century and was later rebuilt in the 1960s after being destroyed by fire. Its impressive golden roof shines brightly in the sun, inviting visitors to explore its traditional surroundings. Inside, the atmosphere is filled with quiet respect. Rows of burning butter lamps light up detailed paintings that tell stories of the Buddha and other Tibetan gods.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
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4. Tsomgo Lake
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Tsomgo Lake is a gem in the crown of Sikkim. It is essentially known as Changu Lake, with the name “Tsomgo” derived from the Bhutia language, meaning “source of water”. Spring paints everything in bright greens and cerulean blues, reflecting rhododendrons and alpine trees. The tender warmth of summer turns the lake into a haven for reflection. Winter makes the lake completely serene and white, making it breathtakingly wonderful.
Timings: 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 200
5. Nathu La Pass
Photo: Thebrowniris / Wikimedia Commons
Nathu La Pass, a high-altitude wonder in Sikkim, symbolises peaceful trade and acts as a bridge between cultures. This was an essential limb of the Old Silk Route, which connected India to Tibet through the Himalayas. Today, it is one of the busiest markets, fluttering with coloured prayer flags and woven shawls. Above 14,000 feet, the towering pass offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and the Chumbi Valley on the Tibetan side. Vendors sell many types of Indian and Tibetan goods are sold in this market. These include woollen scarves, hand-crafted souvenirs, and local delicacies.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: INR 200 permit
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Where To Stay
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sikkim offers a plethora of accommodation facilities to pilgrims and travellers. Some popular ones are Hotel De Villa, The Royal Gangtok, Fab Hotel Prime Mayanka, Udaan Woodberry Hotel & Spa, The Loft Norling Hotel & Spa and many more. Accommodations are available in various budgets.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jay Wennington / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Visitors can savour food in 2 Bhukkads, Lhasa Newar, Slounge, Citrus Cafe, or Luing Garden and relish delectable local flavours and dishes.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
The monastery offers a unique experience that combines spirituality and culture, especially from early winter (October to November) or late winter (February to March), with clear skies and panoramic valley views. The Cham dance festival in December-January is a unique cultural experience. Generally, good weather is in summer (March to June), with slightly warmer skies but potential rain showers.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons
Here are some factors to consider before you take a trip to the monastery.
Average Cost Of The Trip: There is no entrance fee at the monastery. Additional expenses may include transportation, offering items, food, accommodation, and refreshments. The estimated cost can vary from INR 1500/- to 7000/- per day.
Tips For Travellers: Do not litter in the temple complex. Dress modestly (covering your shoulders and knees) to show due respect to the local customs and traditions.
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Gonjang Monastery, Sikkim, is a Buddhist place of worship that provides a calm ambience. It is essential for the growth of Buddhism in this area, tourists can visit here for meditation and exploring other nearby attractions. The monastery is a quiet beauty in the lap of the Himalayas in Gangtok, Sikkim. With TripXL’s deals and packages, travelling becomes effortless and the journey becomes a memorable and enriching experience.
Cover Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
