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Buddhist Monastery

10 Must-Visit Monasteries in Sikkim & Darjeeling

February 2, 2026 10 min read MySiliguri Team

The Himalayan regions of Sikkim and Darjeeling are home to some of the most beautiful and spiritually significant Buddhist monasteries in India. These ancient centers of Tibetan Buddhism, known locally as "gompas," offer visitors a glimpse into centuries-old traditions, stunning architecture, and profound peace. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for tranquil spaces amid the mountains, these ten monasteries should be on your must-visit list.

🙏 Monastery Etiquette

  • Remove shoes before entering prayer halls
  • Dress modestly – cover shoulders and knees
  • Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels
  • Ask permission before photographing monks
  • Maintain silence inside prayer halls
  • Turn off mobile phones or keep them on silent

1. Rumtek Monastery (Dharma Chakra Centre)

Rumtek is the largest and most significant monastery in Sikkim, serving as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Originally built in the 16th century, it was reconstructed in the 1960s by the 16th Karmapa after he fled Tibet. The monastery complex is a masterpiece of traditional Tibetan architecture, featuring intricate murals, thangka paintings, and a stunning golden stupa containing relics of the 16th Karmapa.

The main shrine houses a 4-foot statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, and the Golden Stupa is adorned with precious stones and gold. The monastery also has a school for monastic studies and a retreat center. The colorful Tibetan New Year (Losar) celebrations here are spectacular, featuring traditional mask dances called Cham.

📍 24 km from Gangtok ⏰ 6 AM - 6 PM 💰 ₹20 entry 🎫 Permit required

2. Ghoom Monastery (Yiga Choeling)

Perched at an altitude of 8,000 feet, Ghoom Monastery is one of the oldest and most famous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Built in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this Gelugpa school monastery houses a magnificent 15-foot statue of the Maitreya Buddha (the Future Buddha), which is the main attraction for visitors.

The monastery's interior is adorned with beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha and various Buddhist deities. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the mist-shrouded surroundings, creates a mystical experience. The monastery is located near Batasia Loop, making it convenient to visit both attractions together. Morning prayers around 5 AM offer an especially spiritual experience for early risers.

📍 8 km from Darjeeling ⏰ 6 AM - 5 PM 💰 Free entry 🚂 Near Ghoom Station

3. Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse, meaning "Perfect Sublime Lotus," is one of Sikkim's oldest and most important monasteries, founded in 1705 by Lhatsun Chempo. It belongs to the Nyingmapa order and holds the distinction of being the head monastery that validates all other monasteries of this order in Sikkim.

The monastery's three-story structure contains valuable scriptures, ancient paintings, and religious artifacts. The highlight is a stunning seven-tiered painted wooden model of Guru Rinpoche's heavenly palace called "Zangdok Palri," created by the late Dungzin Rinpoche over five years. The annual Cham dance festival during Losar (February/March) draws devotees and tourists alike. The monastery also offers spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga on clear days.

📍 Pelling, West Sikkim ⏰ 7 AM - 5 PM 💰 ₹20 entry 🏔️ Great Kanchenjunga views

4. Tashiding Monastery

Considered the holiest monastery in Sikkim, Tashiding sits atop a hill at the confluence of the Rathong and Rangeet rivers. Founded in 1717 by Ngadak Sempa Chempo, it belongs to the Nyingmapa order and is believed to bless all who see it. The name "Tashiding" means "the devoted central glory."

The monastery is famous for its sacred chortens (stupas), particularly the "Thong-Wa-rang-Dol" stupa – looking at it is said to wash away all sins. During the Bumchu festival (February/March), a sacred pot believed to contain holy water is opened, and the water level is interpreted to predict the coming year's fortunes. The monastery's remote location adds to its spiritual aura, and the walk through the forest is a meditative experience in itself.

📍 40 km from Pelling ⏰ 7 AM - 4 PM 💰 Free entry 🎉 Famous for Bumchu festival

5. Enchey Monastery

Located on a hilltop near Gangtok, Enchey Monastery is about 200 years old and is known for its scenic location and the annual Chaam dance held during the Pang Lhabsol festival. The name "Enchey" means "solitary monastery," reflecting its peaceful hilltop setting.

The present structure was built in 1909 and follows Chinese architectural design. The monastery belongs to the Nyingmapa order and houses images of gods, goddesses, and other religious objects. The tantric Chaam dances performed here are believed to drive away evil spirits. On clear days, the monastery offers beautiful views of Gangtok and the surrounding mountains. It's particularly photogenic during sunrise and sunset.

📍 3 km from Gangtok ⏰ 5 AM - 6 PM 💰 Free entry 🌅 Sunrise views

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

While technically not a monastery, this world-renowned institute dedicated to Tibetan studies deserves a place on this list. Founded in 1958, it houses one of the largest collections of Tibetan books, manuscripts, and artifacts outside Tibet.

The museum displays rare thangkas, bronze statues, coins, ritual objects, and ancient texts. The Do-Drul Chorten (stupa) in the complex is one of the most important stupas in Sikkim, containing relics and complete mantras. The institute also has a beautiful orchid sanctuary and a research library. For anyone interested in understanding Tibetan Buddhism and culture, this is an essential visit.

📍 Deorali, Gangtok ⏰ 10 AM - 4 PM (Closed Sunday) 💰 ₹20 entry 📚 Research library

7. Dubdi Monastery

Dubdi, meaning "the retreat," is Sikkim's oldest monastery, established in 1701 near Yuksom. It's built on a hilltop and can only be reached by a 45-minute trek through dense forest – but the effort is well worth it. The monastery was built by the first religious king of Sikkim, and the coronation throne stone is still present in Yuksom below.

The monastery houses sacred texts and ancient artifacts, though visitors can only view the exterior and a small prayer room. The trek to reach it passes through beautiful rhododendron forests and offers glimpses of bird life. The peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make Dubdi a must-visit for those interested in Sikkim's spiritual heritage.

📍 Yuksom, West Sikkim ⏰ 7 AM - 4 PM 💰 ₹20 entry 🥾 45-min trek required

8. Ralang Monastery

Located in South Sikkim, Ralang Monastery (also known as Ralong or Palchen Choeling) was established in the 18th century and is one of the most important Karma Kagyu monasteries in Sikkim. The original monastery was destroyed and rebuilt several times, with the current impressive structure completed in 1995.

The monastery is particularly famous for the Pang Lhabsol festival, when monks perform the spectacular Mahakala dance. The colorful prayer flags, beautiful murals, and serene atmosphere make it a photographer's paradise. The monastery also runs a school for young monks. From here, you can see stunning views of the Himalayan range.

📍 Ravangla, South Sikkim ⏰ 6 AM - 5 PM 💰 Free entry 🎭 Pang Lhabsol festival

9. Bhutia Busty Monastery

Also known as Karma Dorjee Chyoling Monastery, this historic monastery in Darjeeling offers perhaps the best close-up view of Mount Kanchenjunga from any monastery in the region. Built in 1879, it houses the original copy of the Tibetan Book of the Dead.

The monastery follows the Nyingmapa order and features traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture. The peaceful gardens and stunning mountain backdrop make it ideal for meditation and photography. It's located below the Chowrasta in Darjeeling and can be reached via a pleasant walk through old colonial-era buildings. The monks are friendly and often happy to explain Buddhist traditions to curious visitors.

📍 Darjeeling town ⏰ 6 AM - 5 PM 💰 Free entry 🏔️ Best Kanchenjunga view

10. Salugara Monastery

For those traveling through Siliguri, the Salugara Monastery (Thupten Shedrub Jangchub Choeling) offers an easy introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery features an impressive 100-foot tall white stupa visible from miles away, making it a landmark in the plains below the hills.

Completed in 2000, the stupa was blessed by the Dalai Lama. The monastery complex includes a prayer hall with a golden Buddha statue, prayer wheels, and beautiful gardens. While not as ancient as the other monasteries on this list, Salugara's accessibility and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit, especially for travelers with limited time. It's particularly beautiful at sunset when the stupa glows in the golden light.

📍 8 km from Siliguri ⏰ 7 AM - 6 PM 💰 Free entry 🚗 Easy access

Planning Your Monastery Tour

To visit all these monasteries, you'll need at least 5-7 days, combining destinations strategically:

  • Day 1-2: Siliguri (Salugara) → Darjeeling (Ghoom, Bhutia Busty)
  • Day 3-4: Gangtok (Rumtek, Enchey, Namgyal Institute)
  • Day 5-6: West Sikkim (Pemayangtse, Tashiding, Dubdi)
  • Day 7: South Sikkim (Ralang) → Departure

📅 Best Time for Monastery Festivals

  • Losar (Feb/Mar): Tibetan New Year – colorful celebrations at Rumtek, Pemayangtse
  • Bumchu (Feb/Mar): Sacred water festival at Tashiding
  • Pang Lhabsol (Aug/Sep): Thanksgiving festival with Mahakala dance at Enchey, Ralang
  • Saga Dawa (May/Jun): Buddha's birthday – celebrations at all monasteries

Visiting these monasteries is not just about sightseeing – it's about experiencing a living tradition that has survived for centuries in these remote mountains. Each monastery has its own unique character, history, and energy. Whether you find peace in the grandeur of Rumtek, the mystery of Tashiding, or the serenity of Dubdi, these sacred spaces offer moments of reflection that stay with you long after you leave the mountains.

Want a guided monastery tour? Contact us on WhatsApp for customized spiritual tourism packages!