Enchey Monastery Gangtok Entry Fee
- No Entry Fee
Enchey Monastery Gangtok Phone
03592 209 090
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| 4/5 stars
Based on total 32 reviews
Enchey Monastery Gangtok Address: Gangtok, Sikkim, 737103, India
Enchey Monastery is a beautiful Buddhist religious destination in Gangtok. Enchey means ‘solitary,’ and it’s a soul-soothing monastery built on a hill against the backdrop of pine trees. Enchey is also one of the oldest monasteries in the region. It’s more than 200 years old.
The monastery in Gangtok is blessed by and dedicated to Lama Druptob Karpo. The Buddha, Avalokitesvara and Guru Padmasambhava are the three important deities worshipped here. Apart from these religious figures, the monastery also has several religious objects.
Devotees from all over the world visit Enchey Monastery to seek the blessings of Lord Buddha. They come here also to bask in the serenity and solitude of the place.
Enchey Monastery Sikkim has a surreal and peaceful environment where you can learn about the culture of the Buddhist monks. You can enjoy a trance away from the noise of the city. The monastery is also popular for the vibrant and colourful Cham dance of Tibetan culture.
Where is Enchey Monastery in Gangtok?
Enchey Monastery falls on the way to Nathu La, about 3 km away from Gangtok. It’s a small monastery (compared to other monasteries in Sikkim) situated on a hill overlooking the city. From here, you can get a dreamy view of Mt. Kangchenjunga in the distance.
History of Enchey Monastery
Enchey Monastery is said to be over 200 years old. It belongs to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. The site was blessed by Lama Drupthob Karpo, who is said to be adept in the tantric practices of Buddhism. It’s also believed that he had flying powers.
Initially, the monastery was established as a small Gompa by the lama. It’s believed that he also built a small hermitage at the site of the monastery.
Enchey Monastery is sacred as it’s believed that the spirits of deities Khangchendzonga and Yabdean reside here. Local people believe that these powerful deities always fulfill the wishes of the devotees.
The present structure of Enchey Monastery Gangtok was built around 1909-1910, during the reign of Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal. Although the monastery was gutted in 1947, it was rebuilt in 1948 with help from devotees. Today, Enchey is home to around 90 Nyingma monks.
Architecture of Enchey Monastery
The monastery is built on a ridge of a hill above Gangtok city. Its architecture is an artistic adaptation of China’s Mt Wutaishan (meaning five-terrace mountain). It’s built in the shape of a Chinese Pagoda and it’s topped by a shining golden cupola.
The walls in the large prayer hall are fully covered with paintings and murals of four heavenly kings. They’re the deities of the four cardinal directions in Mahayana Buddhism. The four pillars that support the roof are also elaborately carved. And the windows are painted in vivid red, green and golden colours.
Things to do at Enchey Monastery Gangtok
1. Exploring the architecture – Enchey Monastery has a unique architectural design that’s a reflection of the root of Buddhism as well as the traditional Sikkimese style. While the prayer hall houses important deities and religious objects, the colourful frescoes make the monastery more attractive. The detailed woodwork is also a mirror of the region’s artistic heritage.
2. Understanding Sikkimese culture – A visit to Enchey Monastery isn’t only about exploring the place; you get to immerse yourself in Buddhism. You can interact with the monks, witness their daily rituals, and meditate in the serenity of the monastery. It’s an entire world of profound spirituality and natural beauty. Enchey also offers a dive into Sikkim’s vibrant culture.
3. Soaking in the views – Perched amidst lush pine forests and barren hills, Gangtok Enchey Monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the landscape. It has a large open area from where you can enjoy the surrounding view. The serene environment makes the monastery perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.
4. Enjoying local festivals – Enchey Monastery is quite famous for its Cham dance. Visit Gangtok in December/January, and you might just be in time for the festivities. Cham dance is a popular ritual in Tibetan Buddhism, performed during most festivals.
Monks wear colourful masks and costumes and pray for peace. It’s not just a visual treat but also a cultural show providing a glimpse into the traditions of the region. Another popular festival in Enchey Monastery Gangtok is Pang Lhabsol. On this occasion, the Lepchas and the Bhutias swear blood brotherhood.
Enchey Monastery Timings and Entry Fee
Enchey Monastery is open every day throughout the year. The opening and closing times are 9 AM and 5 PM. You don’t have to pay any entry fee for the visit.
Best time to visit Enchey Monastery Gangtok
The early winter months (October/November) or late winter (February/March) are the best time to visit Enchey Monastery in Gangtok. The summer season (from March to June) is also great. The weather is pleasant most times during the year.
Light breeze and a serene environment create a magical experience. Visit the place in the morning, when the sky is clear, for the best views.
Time to explore Enchey Monastery
It takes only about an hour to explore the premises of Enchey Monastery in Sikkim. It’s small compared to other Buddhist monasteries nearby. Explore it at a leisurely pace, taking in the views and losing yourself in the spiritual vibes.
How to reach Enchey Monastery in Gangtok?
The distance of Enchey Monastery from Gangtok is 3 km. It’s on a hill just outside the city, on the way to Nathu La. The monastery is 6 km away from Deorali bus stand, 120 km from New Jalpaiguri railway station and 124 km from the nearest Bagdogra airport.
You can reach Enchey Monastery from Gangtok in the following ways –
By bike – You can take a bike for rent in Gangtok and easily explore the monastery and other nearby places. Rental bikes are available conveniently in and around the main market.
By cab/taxi – The most convenient and comfortable way to see Enchey Monastery Gangtok is to get a shared taxi or private cab. Many SUVs are available for hire from the top car rental companies in Gangtok. As the monastery falls on the way to Nathula Pass, you can hire a cab for a full day and explore all the places at leisure.
Book a Gangtok tour package with Gangtok Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA and explore this beautiful city leisurely. We offer these packages at best prices which are suitable for all types of travelers. You can explore the popular sightseeing places of Gangtok and make everlasting memories. Make sure to fill the Contact Us form to get in touch with us.
