Monasteries of Rumtek

Immerse yourself in the Buddhist heritage of Sikkim and join us on a visit to the two Kagyu monasteries of Rumtek. Your guide will explain the different schools of Buddhism and the significance of the Buddhist murals, statues, and symbols. You will gain deep insights into the life of the monks at the monastery.

If possible, we will allow you to experience a “Puja”: a religious ceremony where monks or devotees invoke spiritual powers through prayers, chants, offerings, and rituals to attain prosperity, healing, protection, or enlightenment.

Both monasteries host mask dance festivals in winter. We are happy to provide information on the anticipated dates.
Optionally, you can end the day with a walk from the nunnery to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel.

The new Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, was built in 1966 in Tibetan style under the leadership of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. After the Karmapa fled Tibet, the Chogyal (King of Sikkim) offered him asylum and support to build a new monastery. It is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim and the main monastery of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism in India. It houses the Golden Shrine, which displays statues of the Karmapa reincarnations, and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. The monastery holds great religious significance and is also a center for Buddhist studies and practices. During the lifetime of the 16th Karmapa, it was an important pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists from around the world. The Karmapa is one of the most important reincarnations in Tibetan Buddhism and the head of the Karma Kagyu school, one of the four main branches of Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama is the head of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) tradition. Your guide will also show you the “Golden Shrine,” the most important sanctuary in the main Rumtek Monastery, where all previous Karmapa reincarnations are represented with statues.

The old Rumtek Monastery, founded in 1734, is situated on a picturesque hill and radiates a peaceful, meditative atmosphere. It was originally the main monastery of the Kagyu tradition in Sikkim before the new monastery was built. It is a less-visited site compared to the new monastery, but it holds significant historical and spiritual importance. Visitors can experience its simpler, original architecture and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The monastery is also known for its impressive views of the surrounding landscape and occasional religious ceremonies.

Duration: 4 – 6 hours (Travel time: approx. 1 hour)

Included in the price:

• Transport to the Rumtek monasteries with entrance fees
• Accompaniment by an English-speaking local, expert guide
• Drinking water and lunch (either packed or at a local restaurant)
• Sightseeing as per description, including the “Golden Stupa”
• Opportunity to experience a prayer ceremony

Optional:

• Guided walk from the Rumtek Nunnery to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel
• Visit to the Rumtek Nunnery
• Arrangement of a “Puja” tailored to your needs, performed by one or more monks in the meditation room of the Bamboo Retreat Hotel

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants, season, and qualifications of the guide.