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Ravangla is a beautiful town in South Sikkim at an elevation of 7000 feet and famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayan range. The various Ravangla monasteries attract tourists for their stunning architecture, vibrant arts, and a vast collection of Buddhist manuscripts. Visitors are welcomed with the warm smile of the Buddha and the gentle hum of chanting monks as they enter, allowing them to indulge in spirituality and peace. The holy Ravangla monasteries provide a glance into the lives of monks and offer visitors a chance to feel the power of connection with the universe.
Top 10 Ravangla Monasteries to Visit in Ravangla
Here are the top Ravangla Monasteries to explore.
1. Samdruptse Monastery, Namchi
Photo: Carsten.nebel / Wikimedia Commons
The Samdruptse Buddhist Monastery is located in Namchi, South Sikkim. The monastery was founded in 1940 by the late King of Sikkim, Tashi Namgyal, and belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is a prominent centre for Buddhist learning. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, in-built beautiful gardens, and vibrant murals, making it a popular tourist destination and a place of spiritual significance.
Location: Namchi, Sikkim
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 22 Kilometres
How To Reach: Located in Namchi, it is easily accessible by road.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In May For A Serene Trip
2. Doling Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Doling Monastery, also known as Doling Gompa, is an esteemed Buddhist monastery in the picturesque town of Ravangla. This monastery was founded in the 18th century and belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. This Monastery is situated at a top hill offering stunning views of the Himalayas and valleys and is home to a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures, artefacts, and relics. The monastery is also famous for its beautiful statues of Buddhist deities, peaceful atmosphere, stunning architecture, and vibrant murals, making it a perfect destination for meditation and contemplation.
Location: Bakhim, Sikkim
Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 6 Kilometres
How To Reach: Situated on a small hillrock at Barfung Village near Ravangla, accessible by road.
3. Ngadak Thupten Shedup Dargey Choeling Monastery, Gangtok
Photo: Devadath 1008 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Ngadak Thupten Shedup Dhargey Choeling Monastery, also known as the Tharpa Choling Monastery, is a prominent Buddhist shrine located in the town of Gangtok. It was founded in 1914 by the 13th Dalai Lama’s emissary, Lama Osel, and belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is also well-known for its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, intricate frescoes, a vast collection of Buddhist manuscripts, artefacts, and relics, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas and valleys, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking peaceful and spiritual significance.
Location: Namchi, Sikkim
Timings: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 23.9 Kilometres
How To Reach: Easily accessible via Damthang Rabongla Road/Tarku Rabongla Road and NH-710.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
4. Ralong Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: PrabhaRA / Wikimedia Commons
The Ralong Monastery, also known as Ralong Gompa, is a revered Buddhist shrine located in the town of Ravangla. The monastery was founded in 1768, and it belongs to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The ancient monastery is renowned for its beautifully crafted architecture, vibrant murals, and panoramic views of the Himalayas, and valleys. The gentle hum of chanting monks and the warm smile of Buddha make it a calm atmosphere. The scent of incense and the soft glow of butter lamps create an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation for those who are interested in peace and wisdom.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 13 Kilometres
How To Reach: Visitors can reach by road via Ralong Road
5. Bon Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons
The Bon Monastery is a holy spiritual hub for the Bonpo ethnic group in Sikkim. The monastery was founded in the 1980s and belongs to the Bonpo sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a prominent centre for Bonpo learning and practice. This monastery is known for its unique architecture and beautiful murals, making it a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom and communicating the rich cultural heritage of the Bonpo tradition. The calm atmosphere, beautiful statues of Bonpo deities, and stunning views of the Himalayas and valleys make it an ideal destination for worshippers and discoverers.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 6 Kilometres
How To Reach: Located in the Kewzing Village, worshippers can reach by road.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Sikkim
6. Sinon Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
The Sinon Monastery, also known as Sinon Gompa, is an esteemed Buddhist shrine located in the Ravangla area of South Sikkim. The word “Sinon” means “the suppressor of intense fear.” The monastery was constructed in 1716 under the leadership of Pedi Wangmo. The stunning monastery is known for its famous murals, Pedi Wangmo, Sikkimese artwork, and panoramic views of the Himalayas and valleys, making it a calm spot for spiritual seekers, visitors and pilgrims. The paintings inside the monastery display a strong influence on the Ajanta cave paintings.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 46.5 kilometres
How To Reach: Tourists can reach by road via NH-510.
7. Tashiding Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: Walter Callens / Wikimedia Commons
The Tashiding Monastery is the most sacred and holiest Buddhist monastery. This monastery is described as the “Heart of Sikkim” because of its religious sacredness. It is located on the top of the hill rising between the Rathong Chu and the Rangeet River. It was founded in 1641 by Ngadak Sempa Chempoo and belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery also provides deeper insight into Buddhism and its religious culture, beliefs and rituals, attracting worshippers and discoverers from all over the World.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 38 Kilometres
How To Reach: Travellers can reach by road via NH-510.
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In June For A Fun Trip
8. Buddha Monastery, Ravangla
Photo: Somnath Dutta, Kolkata / Wikimedia Commons
The Buddha Monastery, also known as the Buddha Gompa, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located in Ravangla. The monastery features a stunning 130-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha that belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery is a marvel of modern architecture with a vast collection of scriptures, artefacts, and relics, and it is considered a treasure trove of Buddhist wisdom. The spiritual atmosphere, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for travellers and pilgrims.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 1 Kilometre
How To Reach: Located in the north of the city of Ravangla. Tourists can easily reach by road.
9. Mane Choekorling Gompa, Ravangla
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Mane Choekhorling Gompa is a revered Buddhist shrine located in Ravangla. It was founded in 1912 and belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The picturesque monastery is adorned with beautifully crafted murals and fine architecture. The monastery, home to several monks, is enveloped in the gentle hum of chanting, the soft glow of butter lamps, and the soothing scent of incense, creating an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation.
Location: Ravangla, Sikkim
Timings:
Distance From Ravangla: 2.1 Kilometres
How To Reach: Accessible by road via Ralong Road.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
10. Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim
Photo: Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
The Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, is a significant Buddhist monastery located in Rumtek. It is considered one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim and belongs to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in 1959 by the 16th Karmapa, Ranjung Rigpe Dorje, and it features serene architecture, blending traditional Tibetan and modern styles. The beautiful and calm atmosphere creates a perfect place for meditation and contemplation.
Location: Sikkim
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance From Ravangla: 56.9 Kilometres
How To Reach: Accessible by road via NH-510.
Ravangla monasteries are Buddhist shrines that offer the feel of spiritual and religious significance to pilgrims and tourists. The monasteries are considered the home of Buddhist learning and practice. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings invite tourists to immerse themselves in the essence of Buddhism, making it a truly unforgettable experience. So, plan accordingly to visit the esteemed Ravangla monasteries with the most trusted travel agency, TripXL.
