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Gonjang Monastery: A serene retreat in Gangtok

Find serenity at Gonjang Monastery near Gangtok. Explore Tibetan Buddhist traditions, intricate art, and panoramic Himalayan views.

4.5

Gonjang Monastery, established in 1981 by H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche, offers a tranquil escape near Gangtok. This Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism monastery is known for its peaceful ambiance, intricate murals, and the teachings imparted to its monk students.

A brief summary to Gonjang Monastery

  • 9JC8+6CQ, N Sikkim Hwy, Gangtok, Sikkim, 737103, IN
  • +913592209090
  • Monday 7 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-5 pm
  • Friday 7 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect local customs.
  • Photography is allowed of the monastery's facade, but not in the inner sanctum.
  • Visit between 7 AM and 5 PM to fully experience the monastery.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Tashi View Point for more stunning scenery.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Gangtok SNT Bus Station or the city center, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to Gonjang Monastery, located near Tashi View Point, typically takes around 20-30 minutes. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Expect to pay approximately ₹300-₹500 for a one-way trip.

  • Public Transport

    Shared taxis or jeeps are available from Gangtok's local taxi stand towards Tashi View Point. Get off near Sichey and then take Lower Burtuk Road and then NH10 towards the monastery. The walk from the main road to the monastery is short. The shared taxi fare is around ₹50-₹100 per person.

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Discover more about Gonjang Monastery

Nestled in the hills near Gangtok, Sikkim, Gonjang Monastery, also known as Gonjang Karphuk, provides a serene and spiritual experience for visitors. Founded in 1981 by H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche, the monastery follows the Jangter tradition of the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Rimpoche was recognized as the incarnation of Yolmo Terton Ngakchang Shakya Zangpo, a 15th-century Nyingmapa Terton. The monastery's architecture reflects Tibetan style, and the prayer hall features a striking statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who introduced Buddhism to Tibet. Inside, you'll find idols of Khen-lop-Choe-Sum, the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism from the 8th century, and engraved statues of Padmasambhava's twenty-five disciples, known as Jebang Nyernga. These disciples received direct transmissions from the enlightened Buddhist master. Gonjang Monastery is not only a place of worship but also a center for learning. Monastic education, Tibetan language, and English are taught to the monk students. The monastery imparts knowledge on Indian and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy based on moral values, offering a nine-year course similar to other Nyingma institutes. The Dalai Lama has blessed the monastery. The monastery also houses the Thadrol Dorjee Memorial Community Health Care Centre, providing medication to monks and the local community. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley and mountains from the monastery's high-altitude location. The best time to visit is between 7 AM and 5 PM. Photography is permitted of the monastery's exterior, but not inside the inner sanctum.

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