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8 Must Visit Monasteries in Sikkim

Written by Helen_K on 24. October 2017. Posted in english.

8 Must Visit Monasteries in Sikkim

Sikkim is a land blessed with breathtaking biodiversity. Also, it is a land dotted with spectacular monasteries. One would be surprised to know that though most of the residents of Sikkim are Hindus, it has a rich Buddhist heritage. Each major monastery in Sikkim has a lot of history attached to it and is also a major pilgrimage spot for Buddhists from around the world. A trip to Sikkim is not complete without visiting the major monasteries, taking in their history and enjoying their architectural beauty.

1. Rumtek Monastery

Built in the 18th century, Rumtek monastery also known as the Dharma Chakra centre is the largest and most popular monastery in Sikkim. It is home to some of the most unique Buddhist artwork in the world, from wall murals to ancient scriptures to hand painted scrolls. It was first built by the 12th Karmapa Changchub Dorje. But after it fell to ruins, the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje rebuilt it in the year 1959. It is home to the Kagyu school of Buddhism and the monastery is supposed to be an exact replica of the Kagyu headquarters in Tibet.

2. Dubdi Monastery

The oldest monastery in Sikkim, Dubdi monastery was built in the year 1701. It is nearly 40 kms away from Pelling. It is also known as the Yuksom monastery and was built by the first king of Sikkim. Dubdi monastery has iconography pointing to the formation of the state of Sikkim, when the first Chogyal of Sikkim was crowned by the three Lamas. It is home to a lot of rare manuscripts and texts. One can truly feel the weight of history as they walk through the aisles of one of the most historical sites in Sikkim.

3. Pemayangtse Monastery

One of the oldest and most popular religious sites in Sikkim, the Pemayangtse monastery was built by Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo in the year 1705. He was one of the three Lamas who crowned the first king of Sikkim, Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal in the year 1642. This place has many unique buddhist idols, statues and paintings. Pemayangtse translates to ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’. This monastery is especially popular as it is extremely easy to reach from Pelling and also offers a great view of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

4. Tashiding Monastery

Considered the holiest place in all of Sikkim, Tashiding monastery is located 40 kms from Pelling. It is surrounded by major monasteries and holy places on all sides. Also, it is located between 4 sacred caves in each direction which increases its importance. It was built in the 17th century and the Bhimchu festival celebrated on the 14th and 15th day of the 1st month of the Tibetan calendar draws people from across the world.

4. Enchey Monastery

Most popular for the Chaam dance that happens on 18th and 19th day of the 12th month in the Tibetan calendar, Enchey monastery literally means the ‘Solitary Temple’. Apart from the amazing view of Kanchenjunga that one can see from this monastery, it is also home to numerous images of Gods and Goddesses. Enchey monastery is an integral part of the people’s lives in Gangtok. It houses the Guru Padmasambhava and Loketeswara deities in addition to the Buddha statue.

6. Ralang Monastery

Located around 55 kms from Pelling, Ralang monastery is one of the most breathtaking monuments you will visit in Sikkim. The annual festival celebrated here is called Pang Lhabsol, where Mt. Kanchenjunga is worshiped. Here one can see a huge number of paintings called Thangkas, which is a Tibetan art form that depicts Buddhist religious iconography. This monastery was built in memory of the successful pilgrimage to Tibet undertaken by the fourth Chogyal (ruler of Sikkim).

7. Rinchenpong Monastery

Established in the year 1730, Rinchenpong monastery is famous for the Ati Buddha statue. It is a short trek from the Rinchenpong market. Also, the monastery offers a clear view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Narsing. Also, for those interested in history, this place is very close to the famous Poison lake. This is where the British invaders reached before being forced to retreat.

8. Sanga Choeling Monastery

Built in 17th century by Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo, the Sanga Choeling monastery is located 9 kms away from Pelling. It is the 3rd oldest monastery in Sikkim. The monastery belongs to the ancient Nyingmaga sect, which is the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a good 30-45 minute hike to reach the monastery. But you will not only enjoy the monastery visit but also be mesmerized by the panoramic view from the top.

A visit to the monasteries above can be made from or be organized by the Bamboo Retreat. We would be more than happy to host you during your stay in Sikkim.

Village Walk, Your unforgettable trip to Sikkim

7 Experiences that will make your trip to Sikkim Unforgettable

Written by Helen_K on 18. October 2017. Posted in english.

Your unforgettable trip to Sikkim

To be able to truly experience a place, one needs to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the place. Interacting with the local people and getting information first hand is the best way to learn about a place. When it comes to Sikkim, people often are wonder-struck by the amazing views and the regular tourist circuit that they forget to dig deeper. Sikkim is a Himalayan state that has rich culture with unique architecture, dances, songs and cuisine. These are the must do activities in Sikkim that will ensure that your trip will turn out to be really special and memorable.

1> Lepcha Cultural Experience

Lepchas are the indigenous people of Sikkim. A peak into their lives will give you a great insight into Sikkimese culture. You can go on a one day pre-arranged trip to experience the Lepcha way of life. It includes a visit to the village monastery and interaction with the local monks and village shaman. Next, you get to witness a cultural program with all the traditional Lepcha dances, songs and instruments. You also get to visit a traditional Lepcha house and eat a traditional Lepcha lunch. This is one of the best experiences you will get in Sikkim.

2> Learn Buddhism

Sikkim is a land of monks and monasteries. Buddhism is a deep part of Sikkim’s history. Also, here you can get a good idea about Buddhist history and traditions. You can learn from the monks themselves, ask questions and clear all your misconceptions once for all. Once you realize the beauty of the teachings, you will only be inspired to learn more. But, most importantly you will take back something really invaluable from Sikkim.

3> Ethnic Cooking

India has a large variety of cuisines. Every state and region boasts of a unique preparation style and an army of flavours. You can get a crash course to the basics of the Lepcha cuisine, unique to Sikkim. Also, you can learn to cook a number of Bhutia, Nepali, Lepcha dishes. This is knowledge that you can showcase to your friends and family. So, the next time you miss Sikkimese food, all you have to do is make it yourself and enjoy it.

4> Village Walk

When you move away from downtown Gangtok, you will discover numerous quaint villages and meet friendly villagers. You can go on a guided tour to beautiful villages and walk through scenic routes that are not on the tourist map. As you stop by the villages, you get to taste different snacks and even stop for a full meal. This enriching trip into the heart of Sikkim will stay with you for a long time. You will also get to see firsthand the laid back lifestyles of the Sikkimese and envy the views they get to see everyday.

5> Hot Stone Bath

Popular among the country-folk in Sikkim, the traditional hot stone bath is an experience unique to the Himalayas. Spring water is collected into over-sized wooden tub. Heated stones are added to the water. Locally available herbs are added for their medicinal value. A special vegetable soup called ‘Kowri’ is served during the bath. This is such a relaxing experience that you will crave for it every time you return home from a busy day at work. So, you need to experience it as many times as possible during your stay in Sikkim.

6> Meditation Workshop

Meditating in the the Himalayas is a whole different experience. With nature to give you company and no noise to disturb you, this is the best place to connect with yourself. You can get a qualified instructor (Buddhist monk, nun or teacher) to do a personal workshop for you. This will be an opportunity to learn tips and ways to improve your meditation experience. Also, you can learn about how Buddhist monks meditate and the philosophy behind it. This would be a great opportunity to renew and revitalize yourself.

7> Monastery Tour

Monasteries in Sikkim are part of the tourist circuit. But, a lot of the quaint and smaller monasteries are often ignored. For a true understanding of Sikkimese history and culture, one has to go on a comprehensive monastery tour that takes in all the historical monasteries with legends attached to them. This will give you the big picture about the historical significance of Buddhism in Sikkim. This will also make you among the 10% of the people who go on the complete monastery tour in Sikkim. In the process, you can talk with locals, monks and nuns and get insights about Sikkim that you can’t find in books or the internet.

All of the above activities can either be experienced at or be organized by the Bamboo Retreat. We would be more than happy to host you during your stay in Sikkim.