Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour

Embark on a spiritual Journey: The Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour

Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the monastic culture and breathtaking landscapes of Sikkim. This monastic trek takes you through the remote villages and picturesque monasteries nestled in the Himalayas, providing a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the region.

The serene ambiance of these monasteries offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With expert guides leading the way, trekkers can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

This trekking tour is an enlightening journey into the soul of Sikkim. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a novice, the Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with spirituality and adventure.

The visit to the monasteries in Sikkim can be undertaken as a trekking tour or simply as a tour in luxury vehicle. Do let us know your preferences and we will draw up a customized Itinerary as per your need.

Major Attractions on the Monastery Trekking Tour: Famous Monasteries of Sikkim

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim 24 kilometers away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level was built in the mid-18^th.century under the watchful eyes of the 12^th.Karmapa, Jamcho Dorjee. It belongs to the Kagyu Sect of Buddhism.

The Rumtek monastery was rebuilt in 1959 by the 16^th. Karmapa Rangchung Rinpet Dorje when he saw it in ruins when he fled Tibet and arrived in Sikkim the same year. Though he was offered other places, he refused as he found this place auspicious, as it was surrounded by small streams, snow clad Kanchenjunga Range and lush vegetations.

With the generous help from the royal family of Sikkim and the local people of Sikkim, the 16th Karmapa built the Rumtek Monastery as his base during his exile in Sikkim within a time period of four years. The Rumtek Monastery is the replica of the monastery in Tsurpu, Tibet, and this monastery contains religious artifacts brought from Tsurphu Monastery, the Karmapa’s seat in Tibet.

In the year 1966 on the auspicious Tibetan new Year day, the Dharma Chakra Centre in Rumtek was officially inaugurated by the 16^th.Karmapa, as a place of erudition and spiritual accomplishment. Rumtek monastery also houses a school and college, known as the Nalanda Institute for higher Buddhist studies. The monks at this monatery perform the rituals and practise the Kagyu sect of Buddhism. As a reason of it’s significance the Rumtek Monastery forms an important part in the Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour.

Pemayangtse Monastery

The Pemayangtse Monastery, located near Pelling, is one of Sikkim’s oldest and most significant monasteries. Founded in the 17th century, it serves as a spiritual hub for the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is renowned for its intricate woodwork, ancient relics, and the exquisite Zandog Palri (the celestial palace) model on the top floor. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and witness the monks’ daily rituals and prayers.

Sangachoeling Monastery

The Sanga choeling Monastery in South Sikkim is located on a ridge above Pelling at a distance of 7 kilometres from Pemayangtse Monastery. Pilgrimage to Sanga Choeling Monastery is undertaken by many Buddhist devotees as part of a religious monastery trekking tour. The monastery was affected by fire several times and was rebuilt.

Sanga Choeling Monastery, built in 1697 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo is also known as the place of secret spells. It is believed that secret mantras (guhyamantra) were taught here in ancient times. It houses several ancient paintings and clay statues, which date back to the 17th century.

On the tenth day of every month according to the Tibetan calendar, lamas recite hymns at this monastery. Every morning and evening prayers are special here. The monastery is reserved for men only and belongs to the Nyingma sect, and is an important site of the heritage circuit for Buddhist devotees.

Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake, also known as the “Wish-Fulfilling Lake,” is a sacred site revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Surrounded by dense forests, the lake is believed to be a manifestation of the Goddess Tara. According to local legends, the lake’s surface, despite being surrounded by foliage, remains devoid of leaves, as birds immediately remove them. The serene ambiance and spiritual significance of Khecheopalri Lake and the monastery on it’s shore make it an important part of the Buddhist religious pilgrimage circuit.

Coronation Monastery or Norbugang

The coronation monastery in Yuksom, in West Sikkim also known as Norbugang was erected during the coronation of the first king of Sikkim conducted by the three holy monks, led by the holy Lhatsun Chempo. This event marked the coronation of Sikkim’s first Chogyal, who was awarded with the additional surname of ‘Namgye’ by Lhatsun Chempo. From then on, he was known as Phunshok Namgyal, the king of Sikkim.

The Lepchas and Magars, who were witness to the coronation ceremony at Yuksom Norbugang, bestowed treasures upon the three holy monks, with a special focus on Lhatsun Chempo.

Following the sacred rituals prescribed in ancient scriptures, the esteemed lamas oversaw the coronation ceremony. As a testament to their devotion, they embarked on the construction of Chorten at Norbugang, gathering materials from every corner of Sikkim.

With materials carefully gathered, the chorten was meticulously constructed, and within its walls were enshrined all the precious offerings bestowed upon Lhatsun Chempo by the devoted people of Sikkim. The consecration rites, led by the revered lamas, spanned over a period of 21 days at the Norbugang Chorten.

The Norbugang Park, situated 42 km from Pelling town, is a serene haven boasting of a prayer hall, magnificent prayer wheel, and the renowned Norbugang Chorten (stupa). A grand cryptomeria pine stands tall just behind the stone-built Coronation Throne (Norbugang), resembling an ancient Olympic Medal Podium. The throne comprises four seats, with the topmost one reserved for Lama Lhatsun Chhempo himself.

Just opposite to it lies the Norbugang Chorten (stupa), believed to contain water and soil from all corners of Sikkim. The sacred waters of Kathok Lake were used in the consecration ritual to crown the Chogyal. Visitors can spot a footprint believed to belong to one of the lamas involved in this historic event by removing the headboard and observing the imprint of toes and soles on display.

Dubdi Monastery

Dubdi Monastery, also known as the “Hermit’s Cell,” is situated just above the small village of Yuksom, and is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. Established in 1701, it holds immense historical and cultural significance. The monastery is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Visitors can explore the monastery’s ancient frescoes, murals, and statues, and gain insights into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Tashiding Monastery

Tashiding Monastery, located in the village of Tashiding, is one of the most revered spiritual sites in Sikkim. It was founded in the 17th century and is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. The monastery hosts several important festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The serene ambiance and breathtaking views make Tashiding Monastery a highlight of this trekking tour in Sikkim.

Hongri Gumpa (monastery)

Hongri Monastery was built in early 17th century by Gyalwa Ngadak Semchenpo during the reign of Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal. Hongri Monastery lies between Silnon and Yuksam.

As per the history, the Lepcha Lamas established the Hongri Monastey with a small Lhakhang. Later, it was dismantled and on the same site, a new monastery was erected as a branch monastery of Pemayangtse in 1922, by Tamatam Lama who was a Ponlob deputed from Pemayangtse Monastery. The Hongri Gunpa retains the stone walls and is one of the very few monateries in Sikkim retaining such type of structure.

An interesting thing to see in this gonpa is a small stone Altar attached to the right exterior wall of the Gonpa, which is dedicated to the Serpant God Lunag Thana Tenzing. This Altar was built after the workers at this site heard the sound of pigs grunting from under the ground when they attempted to dig there.

In the old structure there was a window above this Altar from which offerings were made. One day when a young daughter of a lama tried to make offerings, she fell from the window and died. Thereafter this window was closed down. The nuns of this Monastery have constructed three old stupas by the side this gonpa.

A rock face found little below the monastery is believed to be the abode of Tsen Dorje Dadul the guardian deity. It follows the Nyingmapa Sect of Minling lineage. The present structure is damaged by the earthquake shock of 18th September 2011 and needs restoration. The monastery presently has 60 monks and 18 novice monks.

Silnon Monastery (Gunpa)

Ngadag Rinchhen Gon, the grandson of Saint Ngadag Sempa Chhenpo—one of the three pioneer Lamas of Sikkim—built Silnon Monastery in 1716 A.D. But, some believe it was built in 1649 A.D. Despite being a family man, he settled at Silnon instead of Tashiding around that year and made his home there, Lama Ngadag Sempa Chhenpo continued to guide the monks at Tashiding Monastery on religious matters.

The monastery is said to have been built on top of a pond existing at that location. The present monastery was rebuilt in 1992. Inside the main altar are statues of Buddha and Eight Bodhisattvas crafted by Lama Ngadags’ son Jampa Tenzing.

Next to this monastery stands a circular structure with three seats constructed under Chaktha Rinpoche’s instructions. One seat for himself and two for his previous incarnations Mani Sonam Rinchen and Drubthob Saraha. Nearby is a chorten (stupa), erected by Lama Ngadag Sempa according to legend; it was built after slaying a demon disguised as a five-headed snake whose remains were marked with stone mendangs visible along the road leading up towards the monastery.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Considerations

The best time to undertake the Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, and the skies are clear, offering excellent visibility of the mountains. The temperatures are also moderate, making trekking more comfortable. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.

Permits & Regulations

Foreign nationals will need an Inner Line Permit/Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit certain parts of Sikkim, including the trekking routes. The Inner Line Permit will be issued for a period of thirty days and cannot be extended. The Inner Line Permit can be obtained from Sikkim’s tourism offices in major cities in India. The Permit is also issued at the Sikkimtourism desk at Bagdogra Airport, the Sikkim Nationalised Transport Office in Siliguri and the border crossings at Melli, Rangpo and Jorethang.

Foreign Nationals will need to bring with them xeroxed copies of the Passport, Indian Visa and four passport-sized photographs for permit issuance. It is important to carry with them the Passport and Indian Visa in Original all the time while in Sikkim.

Brief Itinerary for the Sikkim Monastic Trek 

TRIP FACTS

• Total Number of Days: 9 Days
• Minimum number of Participants required: 2 Persons
• Type of Tour: Jeep Tour & Camping Tour
• Starting Point: Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station
• Ending Point: Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station

Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station. Meet our Guide and drive to Gangtok ( 124 km/5 hour). Overnight Hotel.

Day 2: Take 23 km drive to Rumtek Monastery. The biggest monastery in Sikkim. On the drive back visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The only Institute in India that delve in Tibetan Language. Evening visit the Enchey Monastery situated above the main town of Gangtok. Overnight Hotel in Gangtok.

Day 3: Drive to Pelling. Enroute take a short 3 km trek through the bird sanctuary to the Rabdantse Palace Ruins. Overnight Hotel.

Day 4: Take a walking tour Pemayangtse Monastery. Return Back to the hotel for lunch. After Lunch trek up to the Sangachoeling Monastery and the sky walk at Samdruptse. Return back to the Hotel.

Day 5: Drive to Kcheperli Lake. Visit the Lake and the Monastery beside it shores. Further drive to Yuksom. Visit the coronation monastery in rthe evening. Overnight Lodge.

Day 6: Trek to Dubdi Monastery high above the Yuksom Village. Trek furter on to Hongri Gumpa. Overnight Tents/ Home stay.

Day 7: Trek to Silnon Gumpa. Overnight tents or Home stay.

Day 8: Trek down to Tashiding Monastery and tyhen drive to Kalimpong(124 km/5 hours). Overnight Hotel.

Day 9: Drive to Bagdogra Airport for Final Departure. End of the Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour.

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Sikkim Monastery Trekking Tour Cost: US$800 per Person

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   TOUR COST INCLUDES :

• Hotel accommodation – twin share including breakfasts.
• Twin share tent with mattress during camping/trekking.
• Fully organized trek services with guide, porters, camping equipment.
• All fixed three meals everyday during trekking/Camping.
• All road transport as per itinerary by car/jeep.
• Service of an English speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to monuments visited.
• All Permits for Sikkim.

 DOES NOT INCLUDE :

• personal clothing/equipment.
• Lunches and dinners during hotel stays.
• Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
• Tips, client insurance, evacuation costs.
• Any expenses of personal nature.

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Note:  The above itinerary is a sample, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather,road conditions, the physical ability of the participants,etc., may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of the trip participant’s safety, comfort and general well being.

(All relevant terms and conditions apply)