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Phensang Monastery, one of the very famous monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism, is enriched with rich spiritual heritage and nature’s beauty. It was founded in the 18th century and is of great importance to the history of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. This monastery is particularly famous for its brightly coloured architecture, intricate murals, and tranquil atmosphere. It presents visitors with the rare privilege of being among the practising traditions of Tibetan Buddhism while bathing in some of the most magnificent Himalayan landscapes.
Location
Photo: Walter Callens / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the North district of Sikkim, India, Phensang Monastery lies about 30 kilometres from Gangtok, the capital. It is situated on a hillock from where one can view the ranges of mountains and valleys. The serene location of Phensang Monastery amidst green forests and rolling hills enhances the spiritual ambience with its perfect setup, ideal for meditation and reflection.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
How To Reach Phensang Monastery
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Phensang Monastery is readily accessible via air, rail or road transport:
By Air: The nearest airport to Phensang Monastery is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 125 kilometres from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from the airport to Gangtok; it takes about 4-5 hours. Gangtok to Phensang Monastery will take about an hour.
By Rail: The closest central railway station to Phensang Monastery is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, NJP, around 120 kilometres away. From NJP to Gangtok, a taxi or shared cab takes about 4 to 5 hours.
By Road: Gangtok is excellently connected with all major cities and towns of Sikkim and neighbouring states. You can drive or hire a taxi from places like Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Kolkata. The journey from Gangtok takes 45 minutes to an hour to Phensang Monastery.
Places To Visit Around Phensang Monastery
Your trip to Phensang Monastery could not only include the intriguing monastery but also more places to visit and explore, such as:
1. Lachung
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at about 120 kilometres from Gangtok, Lachung is one of the picture postcard towns of North Sikkim. Nestled among the mountains, it has beautiful landscapes of snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and fresh rivers. It is the access point to Yumthang Valley, one of the more favoured destinations, mainly because of its rhododendron flowers in vibrant colours and hot springs. It offers trekking, nature walks, and visits to local monasteries.
Things To Do: Trekking, Wildlife Viewing, Nature Photography
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
2. Yumthang Valley
Photo: Soumyajit Pramanick / Wikimedia Commons
Located around 150 km from Gangtok and near Lachung, the ‘Valley of Flowers’ is another name for Yumthang Valley. It is so renowned because of its fantastic floral shows during spring when several wildflowers bloom in different hues. Yumthang Valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and green meadows, offering excellent vistas and a calm atmosphere. The Valley is also home to some hot springs renowned for their health benefits.
Things To Do: Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins
3. Kabi Longstok
Photo: Walter Callens / Wikimedia Commons
One of the historical places to visit in Sikkim is Kabi Longstok, about 17 km from Gangtok. The place is famous for its monastery, called Kabi Longstok Monastery, which was related to the signing of a historical treaty between the Lepcha and Bhutia communities. A series of stone monuments face the site with inscriptions regarding this historical event. Quiet surroundings and historical importance make Kabi Longstok an ideal place of interest for history buffs and people attracted by the cultural heritage of Sikkim.
Things To Do: Clicking Moments, Relishing Local Snacks
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In June For A Fun Trip
4. Rumtek Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
The Rumtek Monastery, located about 24 km from Gangtok, is among Sikkim’s biggest and most important monasteries. This has been the seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery boasts an impressive golden roof, intricate interior decorations, and detailed murals and statues. Housed within this monastery are Buddhist learning and meditation centres that have received monks and visitors worldwide.
Things To Do: Monastery’s Artefacts, Panoramic Views, Meditation
5. Buddha Park of Ravangla
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 70 km from Gangtok, Buddha Park of Ravangla has a massive statue of Buddha, 130 feet tall. Beautifully landscaped with gardens, the park is in front of the grand views of the Himalayas. The Buddha statue speaks of peace and silence, attracting scores of visitors who come to this place for quiet and reflective reflection. The presence of meditation halls and prayer wheels makes this place spiritually rejuvenating. The tall statue is bound to attract locals and visitors to the calm surroundings.
Things To Do: View the 130 ft tall Buddha statue, Offer Prayers, Photography
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In May For A Serene Trip
Where To Stay
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
You can opt any among the following accommodation options, especially shortlisted for your memorable trip to Phensang Monastery:
Hotel Royal Orchid, Gangtok: The hotel offers guests all modern amenities and a comfortable stay, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant thus offers excellent convenience to guests travelling for sightseeing around this region.
The Himalayan Retreat, Pelling: Warm hospitality in cosy Sikkimese style characterises the retreat nestled amidst mountain beauty, presenting beautiful views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Mount Palms Hotel: Mount Palms Hotel integrates comfortable stays at affordable rates. It offers well-furnished guest rooms, a restaurant, and various facilities, making it a hot favourite amongst budget travellers.
Tashi Namgyal Palace Hotel: This heritage leisure hotel in Gangtok combines traditional and modern comforts. Its elegant rooms, exquisite dining, and great location make it the perfect base to explore Gangtok and its surrounding areas.
Sikkim Continental: The Sikkim Continental in Gangtok has exceptionally spacious rooms with good dining options. The hotel also offers visitors easy access to the local attractions and comfortable accommodations.
Where To Eat
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Explore the various restaurants to relish the exquisite local cuisines on your visit to Phensang Monastery:
- The Roll House is a casual dining restaurant that offers quick bites in the form of rolls, which are wraps with different fillings and flavours.
- The Local Café offers international cuisine dishes within the environment with fresh ingredients.
- Momo King is known for their lip-smacking momos and Tibetan snacks. It offers a taste of Sikkimese cuisine. It is a superb place to dig in for local delicacies.
- Baker’s Café, located in Pelling, has a fantastic range of baked items, pastries, and coffee. The relaxed ambience and delicious food make this an excellent place for a slow break.
- Namgyal’s Restaurant is situated in the heart of Gangtok. It is a strong contender for local Sikkimese and Tibetan cuisine, emphasising authentic tastes and comfort food in a comfortable dining environment.
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Sikkim For Your Next Surreal Trip
Best Time To Visit Phensang Monastery
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the Phensang Monastery would be during the seasons from March to May and September to November. The climate would be pleasant, with temperatures from 10° to 20°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploration. Visiting during the Tibetan New Year or other cultural festivals would be ideal for those interested in getting an inside view of local festivals.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost of the Trip: The entrance to Phensang Monastery is usually free. Additional expenses incurred are transportation, offerings, food, and shelter. You could budget an estimated daily expense of visiting the monastery to be about ₹1000 to ₹6000, according to the type of accommodation and food you opt for.
Tips for Travellers:
- Always dress modestly and respectably; ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered when visiting the monastery.
- Observe and respect local customs and traditions.
- Do not litter around the monastery complex.
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and eateries may not accept card payments.
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
Phensang Monastery is an abode of Tibetan Buddhist culture amidst the natural beauty of Sikkim, offering spiritual enlightenment and cultural richness with the essence of serenity in one go, which is indeed pretty rewarding. The unassuming surroundings and spiritual importance keep Phensang Monastery one of the most cherished destinations for tourists seeking peace and adventure in the Himalayas. Plan your trip to Phensang Monastery with Trip XL’s exclusive service today!
Cover Photo: Walter Callens / Wikimedia Commons
