Enchey monastery

4.5

Location: 8JP9+9MF, Gangtok, Sikkim 737103, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 2 hours.

Enchey Monastery is one of Sikkim’s smaller monasteries, tucked among woods in Gangtok’s back slopes. This 200-year-old monastery is located 3 kilometers northeast of Gangtok. It is a significant seat of the Vajrayana school of Buddhism’s Nyingmapa order.

Attraction

The Enchey (meaning alone) Monastery stands true to its name, strategically positioned on a magnificent ridge north of Gangtok. On a clear day, the monastery overlooks Gangtok and provides a stunning view of the snow-capped peaks of Kanchendzonga. Enchey, which had been erected in 1840, is one of the most prestigious seats of the Nyingma order, the oldest of Tibetan Buddhism‘s four major schools. The monastery is deeply respected by the inhabitants, and its creation may be credited with transforming Gangtok from a hamlet to a large town during the previous century. During the reign of the 10th Chogyal of Sikkim, it was restored in 1908 to resemble a Chinese pagoda. The enormous prayer hall is supported by intricately carved pillars, and its walls are decorated with magnificent paintings representing the pantheon of Mahayana deities. The monastery also has a magnificent collection of masks, which are frequently utilized in Cham dances during festivals. Unfortunately, certain parts of the monastery were severely damaged after the 2011 earthquake.

History

The monastery is magnificently constructed on land blessed by the tantric master recognized for his ability to play, Lama Druptob Karpo. When the Tantric flew to Maenam Hills from here, he constructed a little hermitage, but later in 1901, a monastery was built in the Chinese Pagoda construction. Over the last 200 years, the monastery has maintained its religious significance, cultural relevance, and the confidence of devotees who come here to pray to the almighty for blessings for a happy and prosperous life.

Inside/Outside Views

Stupa at the Enchey Monastery or Gompa in Gangtok.

The Enchey Monastery contains Buddhist architecture and hence has a similarity to any other Buddhist monasteries found in China or Nepal. It is indeed like a Chinese pagoda. The golden gleaming Cupola on top of the monastery is one of the most remarkable features of the monastery. It serves as the monastery’s crown and draws the attention of all visitors.

Opening Hours

The opening hour is Everyday 6:00 A.M to 7.00 P.M

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entry fee to visit this place.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra Airport is approximately 126 kilometers distant from Enchey Monastery. The airport has direct flights to Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. International passengers can connect from Kolkata or Delhi.

By Rail: The nearest train station to Enchey Monastery is Siliguri’s New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. It is almost 148 kilometers from Gangtok.

By Road: Since the monastery is located on the Nathula-Gangtok route, it is easily accessible by car. Anyone may take a cab from Gangtok to Enchey Monastery in 15 to 20 minutes or walk the entire distance. You can inquire for instructions from locals if you stop along the road.

Tips for Travellers

Look for permission from monastery administrators to take photographs recently and keep a strategic distance from anything that can disturb the monastery’s holiness, like chatting loudly.