10 Best Monasteries in Sikkim Oozing with Tranquility & Serenity

The distinct Buddhist Monasteries in Sikkim not only unwrap incredible architecture for the travelers but exudes tranquil vibes along with the vibrant culture that can’t be witnessed elsewhere in the world. Courtesy, the legacy left behind the missionaries and settlers in Sikkim which has been the prime reason why these Buddhist temples are the highlights of Sikkim pilgrimage tours. Here is the list of 10 Best Monasteries in Sikkim that are totally worth witnessing if you have a penchant for cultural diversity that is served on the platter with the blend of various mystical elements of the North East. Here we go, check out!

With a dense number of whooping 200, we have handpicked the famous monasteries in Sikkim that will leave you awestruck on your trip to this fascinating land tucked beautifully in northeast India. Take a dekko!

1. Rumtek Monastery

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the scenic Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery was founded by Wangchuk Dorje who was the 9th Karmapa Lama in the 16th century. Reckoned as the largest monastery of the region, this sprawling Buddhist temple houses brilliantly carved golden stupa, holy shrine, a retreat center, a monastic college, institutions, sculptures belonging to the 16th Karmapa, and a few other establishments that are worth witnessing.

Location: 24km from Gangtok

Best time to Visit: October to mid-December

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

2. Ralang Monastery

This biggest monastery of Sikkim comes to life during an annual festival, Pang Lhabsol. Apart from the breathtaking vistas of magnificent and auspicious Mount Kanchenjunga which is worshipped during the festival, one can also witness Chaam masked dances and Mahakala dance which depict the cultural diversity of this beautiful region of India. Apart from symmetrical and eye-catching architecture, Ralang Monastery also puts on display a series of paintings and thangkas that depict the grandeur of Buddhist art. You can also enjoy short tricks and the serenity of hot water springs that are in close proximity to the monastery.

Location: 13 kms from Ravangla

Best time to Visit: April to June & August during the annual festival of Pang Lhabsol

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

3. Dubdi Monastery

Perched at an altitude of 2,100 meters, Dubdi aka Yuksom Monastery is considered the oldest monastery in Sikkim which was built during the reign of Chogyal Namgyal in 1701. Named as the Hermit’s Cell, Dubdi is where the first King or Chogyal of Sikkim, Phuntsog Namgyal wore the royal crown. This ancient monastery of the region carries the images of divine Buddhist saints, symbols, and a massive collection of manuscripts and texts. The three lama statues positioned in the monastery worked towards the establishment of Yuksom.

Location: 3 km walk away from Yuksom

Best time to Visit: March to May

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

Suggested Read: Top 15 Places To Visit In Sikkim

4. Tashiding Monastery

One of the oldest and sacred Buddhist temples in Sikkim, Tashiding Monastery is where the holy water used in Bhumchu Festival is kept in a sealed pot. The monastery also houses holy Chhoedten (stupa) making it a sacred place for Buddhist pilgrimage. Belonging to the Nyingmapa sect, this 17th-century monastery is home to around 70 monks who practice spirituality and help in spreading the magic of Buddhism in the world. Apart from brilliant architecture, one can enjoy the gorgeous landscape from the monastery that is surrounded by the beauty of nature. 

Location: 19km from Yuksom

Best time to Visit: March to June & February or March to witness Bumchu Festival

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

5. Tsuklakhang Royal Chapel and Monastery

The famous Buddhist palatial monastery in Gangtok. Tsuklakhang Palace was once a residence of the royal family of Sikkim when the region was under the monarchy of the Namgyal dynasty. The impressive Tibetan-style pagoda, a large collection of religious scriptures of Buddhism, beautiful altars adorned with paintings, wooden sculptures, and regal architecture are some of the highlights that make it stand apart from other monasteries in Sikkim. Also, every year people from different parts of the country visit this monastery to witness the vibrant festivals of Sikkim such as Phang Lhabsol and Losoong that are hosted annually to showcase their diversity. 

Location: 3km from Gangtok

Best time to Visit: February for festivals & October to March

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

6. Kartok Monastery

One of the most picturesque and gorgeous Monasteries of Sikkim, Kartok Monastery holds its original fossil charm. Located amid the serenity of lakes, mountain peaks and charming paddy fields, the beauty of the monastery doubles up and attracts not only Buddhist pilgrims but also nature lovers from every part of the country. Although small in size, Kartok gained popularity soon after the Lama who played a pivotal role in the coronation of the maiden ruler of Sikkim began residing in the monastery.

Location: Yuksam

Best time to Visit: March to June

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

Suggested Read: 10 Famous Festivals Of Sikkim That Are Totally Worth Experiencing

7. Lingdum Monastery

This famous Buddhist pilgrimage site in Sikkim is merely a short distance from Gangtok and it is super easy to get to this fascinating monastery that has everything to captivate your senses. Right from its mammoth-sized Buddha Statue to spectacular apex carved with parasols, finials, and pagoda roofs, no wonder one can get intimidated by other features like an impressive collection of murals, statues, edifices, and adornments that are put on display for the visitors. Also, do visit the retreat center perched on the hilltop right behind the monastery which is a place where the monks retire to meditate.

Location: 30km from Gangtok

Best time to Visit: March to May & September to October

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

8. Pemayangtse Monastery

Withstanding the testimony of time, Pemayangtse Monastery is located near the quaint town of Pelling and is considered as one of the ancient monasteries of Sikkim where only elite and high-ranking monks get an opportunity to reside. Housing a spectacular museum on the top floor, one can lay eyes on the exquisite collection of murals and artifacts from the 17th & 18th centuries. The monastery is also famous for its gorgeous Tibetan architecture which is nothing less than a feast for the eyes. Its picture-perfect location and serene vibes are also the reasons why it is among the list of famous monasteries in Sikkim. 

Location: 2km from Pelling

Best time to Visit: March to June

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

9. Phodong Monastery

Nestled at the hilltop over an altitude of 4500 ft, Phodong Monastery is one of the top six significant monasteries in Sikkim that houses the remains of the Kagyupa sect. Abode to 260 monks belonging to the Kagyu sect, the monastery was founded by the fourth King Gyurmed Namgyalm in the 18th century. Adorned with spectacular murals, paintings, and frescoes, visiting this monastery is an enriching experience.

Location: 25km from Magan

Best time to Visit: March to May & October to December

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: Siliguri

Suggested Read: 10 Best Treks To Take In Sikkim

10. Enchey Monastery

Just in close proximity to Gangtok, Enchey Monastery holds immense significance as it is a significant seat of the Nyingmapa order of Vajrayana school of Buddhism. Famous for Chaam dance - a special prayer offered by masked monks and Pang Lhabsol festival that brings together the two Buddhist communities of Lepchas and Bhutias, these two auspicious festivals are held in this monastery of Sikkim which is the major crowd pullers. The monastery is home to 90 monks and is considered one of the mystical wonderlands for Buddhist pilgrims.

Location: Right on the Nathula-Gangtok road

Best time to Visit: Sept and October during the annual festival, Detor Cham

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri

Frequently Asked Questions About Monasteries In Sikkim

Q1. How many famous monasteries are there in Sikkim?

Ans. Sikkim is a main Buddhist pilgrimage center in the world with more than 200 monasteries dotted around the region. However, talking about the famous ones, we have listed 10 famous monasteries in Sikkim that are highlights of Buddhist pilgrimage tours in Sikkim. 

Q2. Which is the biggest monastery in Sikkim?

Ans. The sprawling Ralang Monastery is considered to be the biggest monastery in Sikkim. However, certain records suggest Pemayangtse Monastery near Pelling and Rumtek near Gangtok to be the biggest. So without much factual evidence, it’s hard to be precise.

Q3. Which is the best medium to book pilgrimage tours?

Ans. You can consider booking your pilgrimage tours with Adotrip as we provide end-to-end services to our customers for hassle-free traveling. Right from cheapest flight tickets to exciting packages and great deals, we have everything to keep us as your go-to travel partner. With us, nothing is far!