Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

Rumtek Monastery Gangtok Known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, the Rumtek Monastery is situated atop a mountain around 20 kilometers from Gangtok. It is the residence of His Holiness Gyalma Karmapa the XVI, the leader of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism. Constructed during the 16th century, this monastery is the biggest in Sikkim, showcasing exceptional Tibetan architectural design and uncommon Buddhist artwork. The monastery’s enormous prayer hall is embellished with magnificent murals, statues, and antique thangkas, as well as fabric-based Buddhist paintings. Eight Bodhistavas and exquisite artwork of the Kargyu tradition are also available to view.

Attraction

Rumtek Monastery Gangtok primary draw is the Rumtek Monastery, home of the Kargyu sect of Buddhism’s His Holiness the Gyalwa Karmapa. The largest monastery in Sikkim is a nearly exact duplicate of the ancient monastery in Tsurpu, Tibet, and showcases the best of Tibetan architecture. The monastery is a well-known hub for Kargyu teachings and is home to some of the rarest Buddhist holy artifacts.

History

Rumtek Monastery Gangtok the 9th Karmapa founded it in the 16th century, it went into disrepair until the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, restored it in 1966 after leaving Tibet. It served as the principal site of the Karma Kagyu lineage and was modeled after the Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet. The monastery complex is an important hub for Buddhist study and practice and has a college, multiple shrines, and a golden stupa. Despite internal conflicts, especially regarding the 17th Karmapa’s acceptance, the monastery is still a popular destination for pilgrims. Rumtek Monastery, which is well-known for its holy artwork and traditional Tibetan architecture, is still a major hub for Buddhist education and culture.

Inside/Outside Views

It is a well-known global hub for Kargyu instruction. The building’s main structure was constructed using traditional Tibetan monastery styles. The building’s main structure was constructed using traditional Tibetan monastery styles. Paintings, frescoes, and murals embellish its interior. Within the main building is a shrine hall containing a 10-foot-tall statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. Four more sculptures representing the guardians of the universe are housed at the monastery: those of Virupaksha, Virudaka, Dritarashtra, and Vaishravana. After completing a ritual, the 9th Karmapa is said to have thrown four grains of holy rice over Sikkim, one of which is said to have landed on the site of the current Rumtek Monastery, which is located 15 minutes downhill from the Dharma Chakra Center.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to the East district is Pakyong (Sikkim), which is around 32 km from Gangtok. From there, one can hire a taxi or bus service to get to Gangtok. Another airport at Bagdogra(West Bengal. The distance from Bagdogra to Gangtok is 124.5 km, and it takes approximately 4 hours to reach Gangtok. Helicopter/ Chopper services are also available from Bagdogra to Gangtok.

By Train: The nearest railway stations to Gangtok are Siliguri (113 km) and New Jalpaiguri (125 km) connecting Kolkata, Delhi and other important cities of the country. Rail connectivity is under construction between Rangpo in Sikkim to Siliguri in West Bengal.

By Road: From Bagdogra Airport and New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri railway stations, one can hire a taxi at Siliguri bus stand. From there, one has the option to travel to Gangtok by Sikkim Nationalized Transport Buses, which is roughly a 5-6 hour journey. Luxury taxis/normal taxis can also be booked at the airport or railway stations or by tour and travel operators.

Tips for Travellers

Always ask for permission before clicking pictures.
Wear appropriate clothes to show respect. Anything above the knees is deemed disrespectful.
Women should avoid any physical contact with the monks.
Smoking is not allowed.
Do not step or stand on the door’s threshold, as it symbolizes the Buddha’s shoulders.
Switch your mobile phone to silent before entering the monastery.
Remove your hat and sunglasses before stepping in.
Maintain the sanctity of the monastery.
If you want to refer to Buddha, use the palm instead of the finger

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the place?

Ans: Photography is usually restricted inside the main temple of Rumtek Monastery to preserve the sanctity of the religious site. Tourists may be allowed to take pictures of the exterior and surrounding areas, but it’s advisable to ask for permission and to be respectful of any photography rules.

Que-03: What is the best time to visit Rumtek Monastery?

Ans: The best time to visit Rumtek Monastery is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, offering a better view of the Himalayas.

Que-04: What are the main attractions within Rumtek Monastery?

Ans: Key attractions include the beautifully decorated main shrine room, the large golden stupa containing relics of the 16th Karmapa, the monastery’s ornate traditional architecture, and the surrounding gardens that offer panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Que-05: Are there any festivals celebrated at Rumtek Monastery?

Ans: Yes, Rumtek Monastery celebrates several Tibetan Buddhist festivals, with the most significant being the annual Tse-Chu festival. It features sacred dances, processions, and ceremonies that attract both local devotees and international tourists.

Que-06: What accommodations are available near Rumtek Monastery?

Ans: Tourists will find a range of accommodations near Rumtek Monastery, from budget stays to luxury resorts. Additional options are available in Gangtok, which offers a wider variety of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.