Sanga Choeling Monastery is a gompa that is located opposite to the Pemayangtse monastery. The dramatic backdrop filled with lofty hills makes a picturesque scenery. Sanga Choeling Monastery was built in the 17th century and is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim.
This monastery is also called “The Place of Secret Spells”, as it is believed that magic practices occur in this monastery. On the 10th day of every month, lamas chant mantras and recite hymns in the inner sanctum of the monastery.
People interested in old Tibetan architecture must visit this destination and also spot 17th-century clay models of Vajrasattva, Sakyamuni, and Padmasambhava.
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How to Reach
You can travel to Sanga Choeling Monastery from Pelling via a taxi after traveling 8.9 km that will take around 30 minutes from Pelling to reach your destination. You need to walk a distance of 2 km amidst a tunnel of deciduous trees to reach the entrance of this monastery.
The monastery is open to the public throughout the week and is open between 9 AM to 5 PM.
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Pelling |
| Destination | Sanga Choeling Monastery |
| Mode of Transport | Taxi |
| Distance from Pelling | 8.9 km (Approximately 30 minutes by taxi) |
| Trekking Distance | 2 km (Through a tunnel of deciduous trees) |
| Monastery Opening Hours | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Open throughout the week) |
| Additional Information | The monastery is accessible to the public during the specified hours. |
Also Read: Things to do in Ravangla
Best Time to Visit
You can visit this monastery during summer to witness the clear scenery of the surroundings. The panoramic view will make you spellbound.
On the other hand, if you visit this monastery during winter, then you will find a snow-covered area with mist covering the area adding a mystic feeling to the monastery.
Travel Tips
You can visit only the outer sanctum of this monastery and only lamas and buddhists can enter the inner sanctum of the monastery.
| Access | Availability |
|---|---|
| Outer Sanctum | Open to all visitors |
| Inner Sanctum | Restricted to lamas and Buddhists |
Folklore
It is believed by the locals that in ancient times, secret mantras were taught in this monastery called guhyamantra.
Also Read : Things to do in Yuksom
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Frequently asked questions
What is the history of the Sanga Choeling monastery?
It has a number of historic paintings, accessories, and 17th-century clay sculptures. The monastery was constructed in 1697 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo and is a significant stop on the Buddhist pilgrimage route. It is said that in the past, this location taught people how to chant hidden mantras, or guhyamantra.
Which is the oldest monastery in Sikkim?
The Chogyar Namgyal founded the first monastery, known as the Dubdi Monastery, in 1701 in Yuksom, Sikkim.
It is a stop on the Buddhist religious pilgrimage circuit, which also includes the Sanga Choeling Monastery, the Norbugang Chorten, the Pemayangtse Monastery, and the Rabdentse ruins.
Which monastery is known as Heart of Sikkim?
Tashiding Monastery
Adjacent to the Ranthong and Rangit rivers, this Nyingma-style monastery is situated. Known as “the heart of Sikkim,” the monastery dates back to the seventeenth century.
