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Situated in the East Sikkim district, Lingdum Monastery, also referred to as Ranka Monastery, is a spiritual paradise located amidst lush green forests and tranquil landscapes. This monastery represents Tibetan Buddhism and its rich culture and learning centre. It contains colourful halls of prayers that are decorated with intricate murals and a massive gold statue of Buddha, which depicts peace and serenity. With its tranquil ambience and stunning architecture, Lingdum Monastery promotes spiritual solace and a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism.
Location
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the East Sikkim district and about 20 kilometres from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, Lingdum Monastery rests on a hill offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys it faces. The closest village is Ranka, providing an entrance point to this spiritual haven. Lingdum Monastery address makes it accessible for all the tourists.
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How To Reach Lingdum Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Lingdum Monastery is not at all challenging due to the availability of numerous options:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra International Airport in West Bengal, about 124 kilometres from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi or a shared cab from the airport to head towards the destination.
By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, NJP, in West Bengal, about 120 kilometres from Gangtok. From there, you can opt for a taxi or a shared cab.
By Road: Gangtok is connected to significant places of Sikkim and its neighbouring states by road. You can reach Lingdum Monastery from Gangtok in your car or by hiring a taxi. One can board the Ranka-bound buses from Gangtok Bus Stand, which cost about ₹20-₹30 per person for an hour’s journey, though the frequency might not be that high.
Places To Visit Around Lingdum Monastery
The several attractions around the Lingdum Monastery add to its charm. Some of them are:
1. Ganesh Tok
Photo: Nazmul Ahmed / Wikimedia Commons
A minor but significant temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Ganesh Tok offers a great panoramic view of Gangtok and the surroundings from its premises. This temple lies on a hill about 6 km from Gangtok and a short drive from Lingdum Monastery. The colourful entrance and serene atmosphere make this one of the finest viewpoints for devotees as well as tourists. The viewpoint, adjacent to the temple, provides spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range during sunrise and sunset.
Things To Do: Offer prayers, enjoy panoramic views, visit the nearby Smriti Van.
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2. MG Marg
Photo: Soumyajit Pramanick / Wikimedia Commons
MG Marg is the main street of Gangtok, which features on the to-visit list of every person coming to this region. This pedestrian-only zone comprises shops, restaurants, and cafes, which makes it the perfect location for shopping and eating out. During festivals, MG Marg exquisitely portrays the local culture and offers a view of the people’s daily life in Sikkim. This place is around 15 kilometres from Lingdum Monastery and can easily be reached through a taxi or other local transport.
Things To Do: Buy local handicrafts, try out different cuisines, enjoy the hustling streets.
3. Tsomgo Lake
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake located at an altitude of 3,753 metres. Situated about 40 km from Gangtok, a little more than Lingdum Monastery, this lake has been much pride for locals and tourists. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are just in the middle of snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most picturesque spots. During winters, the lake remains frozen, becoming ultimately a fairyland. People can explore yak rides and walk through nearby markets selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Things To Do: Take a yak ride, and capture the lake’s changing colours.
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4. Nathula Pass
Photo: Vijayanand7 / Wikimedia Commons
An integral mountain pass on the Indo-China border, Nathula Pass, is one of the world’s highest motorable roads. It is about 56 kilometres from Gangtok and is a historic and strategic location showing a different view of the India-China border dynamics. The twisting journey to Nathula Pass winds around in a pattern, with the grand stretch of the Himalayas in the background. Permits are essential to visit Nathula Pass.
Things To Do: View the mountain vistas and visit the border post and historic trade route remnants.
5. Do Drul Chorten
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Do Drul Chorten is undoubtedly one of the most significant Stupas in Sikkim, based near Gangtok. Built in 1945, it is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels that rotate when the devotees turn them while chanting mantras. These tranquil surroundings and Do Drul Chorten’s spiritual kindness make it a must-visit for people searching for peace and light. The stupa accommodates many relics and some other religious objects of importance to Tibetan Buddhism.
Things To Do: Rotate prayer wheels, explore the monastery, and meditate in the calm environment.
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6. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
Photo: Gurlal Maan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a historic shrine dedicated to the memory of a soldier who sacrificed his life for the country in the 1962 Sino-Indian War. At 3,000 metres, it’s close to Nathula Pass, offering fantastic views of the mountain ranges. The Indian Army maintains this shrine, revered with great respect and devotion. There have been claims that his spirit protects the region, and stories of his acts are deeply rooted in local folklore.
Things To Do: Learn the historic significance, explore the temple
7. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is located in Gangtok. The institute is one of the most renowned centres for research into studying Tibetan culture, language, and Buddhism. Founded in 1958, it houses many Tibetan artefacts, manuscripts, thangkas, and traditional Tibetan paintings. It exhibits very systematically arranged displays that reflect Tibetan history and art. The serenity in the environment and the scholarship setting make the visit very worthy for research scholars interested in Tibetan culture and Buddhist studies.
Things To Do: View Tibetan artefacts, get an insight into Tibetan culture, visit the library.
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8. Flower Exhibition Centre
Photo: ArindamRoy1993 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok is one of the places with exquisite displays of flowers and plants. It offers an annual flower show with a wide variety of local flowers and some of the rarest species of orchids and rhododendrons. One can stroll around with all fatigue or exhaustion in these well-maintained gardens to feast on the colourful and fragrant blooms at their best. The view provides ample opportunities for good photography and relaxation amidst a luxuriant landscape
Things To Do: Soak in the beautiful floral displays, and learn about horticultural practices.
Where To Stay
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Numerous hotels are available for your trip to Lingdum Monastery. Elgin Nor-Khill offers modern amenities and beautiful views of the mountains. Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino has luxury rooms, a spa, and fine dining. Budget Summit Norling Resort & Spa with warm, cosy accommodations and local food. Hotel Mount Siniolchu offers cosy rooms and a multi-cuisine restaurant with warm hospitality. Bamboo Retreat Hotel offers smartly furnished rooms, a restaurant, and a bar next to Lingdum Monastery.
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Where To Eat
Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The variety of eateries and restaurants around the Lingdum Monastery is just amazing. Cafe Live & Loud is the place to be if you want authentic Tibetan and Nepali cuisine, such as momos and thukpa. Taste of Tibet provides a wide variety of succulent delicacies in almost every form: steamed, fried, and baked. Parivar Restaurant has a unique local and international cuisine menu in a chic environment. Baker’s Cafe offers pastry and light meals in an amicable atmosphere. The Square Family Restaurant is very famous for the palatable rolls that are quickly available.
Best Time To Visit Lingdum Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
On an apt note, Lingdum Monastery timings would be from March to May or from September to November. The weather is pleasant in these months, with very few tourists, ensuring a peaceful experience. Spring is the peak season when temperatures vary from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. If one has to participate in the cultural festivals, then the ideal month will be February since it is the Tibetan New Year and the festival of Lhosar.
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost of the Trip: Visiting the Lingdum Monastery is free. However, one must consider other expenses like transportation, food, and offerings. The per day cost would be around INR 1000 to 6000, depending on the type of traveller you are.
Tips for Travellers
- Do not litter and maintain the cleanliness of the temple complex.
- Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered while visiting places of worship.
- Extend proper respect to the local customs and traditions.
Lingdum Monastery is a serene Buddhist sanctuary showcasing Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage. Coupled with beautiful surroundings, a spiritual atmosphere, and attractions in the vicinity, it makes up for an ideal retreat for peace and tranquillity. Whether a pilgrim, history enthusiast, or a nature lover, with TripXL’s support, travelling to Lingdum Monastery is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.
Cover Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
