Rumtek Monastery/ Dharma Chakra Centre Gangtok (Entry Fee, Timings, History, Built By, Images & Location)

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Rumtek Monastery, also called Dharma Chakra Centre, is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in India. It’s a spiritual centre for the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s also one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim.

It’s a three-storied structure surrounded by verdant green mountains. Stepping into Rumtek, you can’t help but marvel at the stunning Tibetan architecture. The walls are adorned with vibrant murals and intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Buddhist mythology.

In Rumtek Monastery Sikkim, you can participate in the daily prayers. It has a splendid prayer hall. You can also attend teachings and lectures given by the resident lamas.

It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and tradition of the region. Rumtek Monastery isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Its sacred aura makes your visit a journey to look within and lose yourself.

Besides being a point for spiritual solace, Rumtek serves as a visual treat. Standing beautifully against the backdrop of lush green terrain and misty mountains, it’s a popular destination for photography.

Where is Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok?

Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre Sikkim is a gompa perched on a hilltop near Gangtok, 22 km from the city centre. It’s an ideal place to spend some quiet time with yourself. The drive to Rumtek, snaking through Sikkimese villages and paddy fields, is also spectacular.

History of Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery Gangtok Sikkim was originally built in the 1740s under the direction of Changchub Dorje, the 12th Karmapa Lama. It served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim.

In the 1960s, however, when the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, arrived here, he found the place in ruins. So, he took the initiative to rebuild the monastery. And he stayed here until the construction was completed.

Dharma Chakra Centre is the new monastery that you see today. The 16th Karmapa officially inaugurated this seat on Losar in 1966. The old monastery is half a kilometre away.

Architecture of Rumtek Monastery

Sikkim Rumtek Monastery is one of the finest in the world. It has been constructed according to the design of the traditional monasteries in Tibet.

The entrance of this three-storey building is bedecked with beautiful paintings of the four guardian deities. It houses a beautiful shrine temple with a magnificent Buddha statue. The highlight of the place is a golden stupa.

The interior of the prayer hall is intricately decorated with murals. Its walls are also adorned with religious text, thangkas and silk banners.

Things to do at Rumtek Monastery Gangtok

1. Seeing the golden stupa – The majestic golden stupa might be the highlight of your visit to Rumtek Monastery. It’s thirteen feet high, housing the relics of the 16th Karmapa and rare religious scriptures.

It’s ornamented in ancient Turquoise and Coral, along with intricate metalwork. The magnificence of Golden Stupa Rumtek Monastery shows how respected the Great Guru of the Kagyu lineage was.

2. Checking out the architecture – Rumtek Monastery Gangtok offers a glimpse into Tibetan architectural splendour. It’s a three-storey building, resembling the monastery built in Tsurphu, Tibet.

As you walk inside Rumtek Monastery, the expansive ground floor unveils a vibrant prayer hall. It’s decorated with exquisite hand paintings and intricate murals and thangkas. The first floor is where Gyalwang Karmapa lived. The top floor has a terrace and a small stupa.

3. Exploring monastery complex – The monastery was established to spread the teachings of the Buddha throughout the world. The complex has several buildings, including an institute for higher Buddhist studies and a library with ancient scriptures and texts.

A short distance away stands the old Rumtek Monastery, constructed in the 1740s. You can also check out the monk quarters to peek into their disciplined and devoted lives.

4. Being a part of local culture – At Rumtek, you can do more than just observe the rituals and cultural practices. You can participate.

Start by engaging in the act of Kora, a sacred tradition of circumambulating holy idols while spinning the prayer wheels. You can also attend prayer sessions in the hall or watch debate sessions held in the courtyard.

5. Enjoying panoramic views – While you’re exploring the monastery, take a moment to absorb breathtaking panoramic views. Perched high, Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim offers a view of the bustling town of Gangtok, surrounded by lush hills. It's a sight that captures the civilization living in harmony with nature.

6. Experiencing the festive vibes – The spiritual energy of the monastery can be felt better during its numerous festivals. Among the most prominent ones are Losar (Tibetan New Year), Dungdrub Puja and Vajrakillaya Drupchen. Then, the mesmerising Tsechu Chaam and Gutor Dance offer a vibrant spectacle of masked lamas performing in rhythm to traditional music.

7. Shopping for souvenirs – Another must thing to do in Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok is to look for souvenirs in the shops around. Local shops surrounding the monastery overflow with Tibetan handicrafts.

You will find Thangkas, replicas of prayer wheels, traditional jewellery and many other things that capture the essence of the place. While you’re shopping, you can also have a taste of Tibetan cuisine. Thukpa noodle soups, momos and butter tea are popular among the local people.

Rumtek Monastery Timings and Entry Fee

Rumtek Tibet Monastery is open every day, throughout the year. The visiting hours are from 6 AM to 6 PM. Rumtek Monastery entrance fee is ₹10 per person.

Best time to visit Rumtek Monastery Gangtok

It’s best to visit the monastery in the early winter months (October/November) or late winter (February/March). The weather in Gangtok is the most pleasant during these times of the year. The summer season (from March to June) is also suitable.

Visit the place when the morning prayers are on. It’s the time when you can feel its aura the best. The evening hours, when the sun casts its golden rays at the monastery, are equally enchanting.

Time to explore Rumtek Monastery

It takes only about an hour to explore Rumtek Monastery Gangtok. Stroll around the complex, see the golden stupa, and perform Kora along with other monks. Take your time and feel the spiritual vibes of the monastery.

Things to keep in mind when you visit Rumtek Monastery

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Dress respectably, covering your knees and shoulders.
• Take a guide along for the best experience.
• Don’t wear footwear inside the monastery shrine.
• Don’t touch the idols in the shrine.
• Maintain silence in and around the temple.
• Perform customary Kora to pay your respects.

How to reach Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok?

The distance from Gangtok to Rumtek Monastery is 22 km. It is 18 km away from Deorali bus stop in Gangtok. The nearest railway station to Rumtek Monastery is New Jalpaiguri railway station, 130 km away, and the nearest airport is Bagdogra airport, 135 km away.

Now, here’s how to reach Rumtek Monastery from Gangtok –

By bike – Bikes are available for rent in Gangtok. You can take one for the day and explore the monastery and other nearby tourist places.

By cab/taxi – The most comfortable way to go to Rumtek Monastery Gangtok is by a shared taxi or private cab. SUVs are available for hire from the top car rental companies in Gangtok.

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Location Map for Rumtek Monastery Gangtok