Monasteries of Sikkim are popular place of worship for the Buddhist monks who reside in Sikkim. These monasteries mainly follow the Nyingma and Kagyu order of Buddhism. There are about 200 big and small monasteries which not only depict the cultural heritage and life style of Buddhists in Sikkim but also preach the ancient rituals of Buddhism. These are mainly established by the well known and most revered monks who lay the foundation of these monasteries.Monasteries of Sikkim are mainly known for upholding the tradition folk culture through the monk dances and mask dances that take place according to the calendar of ancient Tibet. Decorated with frescos of Buddhist legends, rare silk and brocade fabric are some of the most colourful sites in Sikkim. Established during the 17th and 18th century these monasteries are mainly known for their architecture as well as their religious practices.
Different Monasteries of Sikkim
Monasteries of Sikkim mainly follow the Nyingma and Kadyug order. This relates Sikkim with ancient Tibet. Among these Nyingma is among the four ancient Schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Following are the popular monasteries of Sikkim:
Rumtek Monastery: Rumtek Monastery is one of the major and most significant monasteries in Asia which is situated next to the capital city of Gangtok. It is the best model of Tibetan architecture in India.
Tashiding Monastery: The Monastery is part of Buddhist spiritual pilgrimage journey in Sikkim. Tashiding Monastery is the most stunning Monastery of North East India, located on top of the hill rising between the Rathong chu and the Rangeet River.
Enchey Gompa: The monastery has a big assortment of masks and Cham dance festival celebrates here each year. Enchey Monastery is one of the olden religious sites of the Buddhists in the state of Sikkim which was built around the then small hamlet of Gangtok.Dubdi Monastery: Dubdi Monastery is also called as Yuksom Monastery, situated in the Geyzing part. Yuksom Monastery is the oldest monastery in Sikkim and strongly linked to the founding of the State.
Pemayangtse Monastery: The monastery is located at a height of 2085m and offers wonderful panoramic view of the Himalayan snow-capped mountains and Kanchenjunga peak. Pemayangtse Monastery is situated on a hill top near Pelling and one of the foremost monasteries of Sikkim.
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