Tashiding monastery is one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim that follows the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which is practiced widely in the Himalayan region. The monastery is situated at the top of a hill and offers a view of two rivers namely, Rangit and Ranthong that flows through the scenic valley below.
The white snow-covered peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga offer a picturesque backdrop to this monastery. Tashiding monastery was constructed under the reign of the Third Chogyal of Sikkim back in the early 1700s. The original monastery was affected due to the earthquake, however, there are different structures that remain intact to date.
One of the four chortens, Thongwa Rangdol built by Lhatsun Chenpo still stands within the monastery. You can also see several alluring stone tablets that are carved with different sacred mantras surrounding the monastery.
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How to Reach
Tashiding monastery is located in close proximity to Ravangla at a distance of 35.3 km It will take about 1 hour and 19 minutes to reach the monastery.
After reaching the road, you need to climb a number of steps to reach the gate of the monastery named Mani Lakhang. From there you will need to walk to the main monastery.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Monastery Name | Tashiding Monastery |
| Location | Close proximity to Ravangla |
| Distance from Ravangla | Approximately 35.3 km |
| Travel Time | Approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes |
| Entrance Procedure | After reaching the road, climb a number of steps to reach the gate of the monastery named Mani Lakhang. From there, walk to the main monastery. |
Also Read: Places to visit Pelling
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit This Monastery is between the months of February and March when you will get pleasant weather and can also enjoy the Bumchu Festival that is being celebrated at the monastery every year.
This festival is associated with a vase containing holy water that has the ability to predict the future, based on the water level, when each year monks open the vase.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | February to March |
| Weather | Pleasant |
| Special Event | Bumchu Festival (February to March) – Experience the Bumchu Festival, celebrated annually at the monastery. The festival revolves around a vase containing holy water, believed to predict the future based on its water level when opened by monks each year. |
Also Read: Best Time to Visit Pelling
Travel Tips
While exploring the monastery, maintain silence to avoid disrupting the peaceful ambiance or disturb the monks while praying or chanting mantras, and avoid taking photographs without permission.
Folklore
As per the local belief, Guru Rinpoche in search of an ideal place to meditate shot an arrow in the sky that landed at the spot where now the Tashiding monastery stands. It is also believed by locals that the signing of this monastery helps in cleansing of sins from a person.
The locals also have a firm belief in the Bumchu Festival that helps in revealing the future. If the holy water in the vase is below half, then it indicates famine, if over half then it indicates natural calamities and if near half, it indicates a prosperous year ahead.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Sikkim
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