Rumtek Monastery is in Gangtok in Sikkhim.
Also known as Dharma Chakra Centre, but don’t let its fancy name fool you, this place has a little bit of drama behind it.
It’s the seat-in-exile of the Gyalwang Karmapa, but also a focal point for some serious sectarian tension.
The monastery was originally built in the mid-18th century by Changchub Dorje, the 12th Karmapa Lama. But when the 16th Karmapa arrived in Sikkim in 1959 after fleeing Tibet, the monastery was in ruins. But with the help of the Sikkim royal family and local folks, it was rebuilt and officially inaugurated in 1966.
Now, the monastery is currently the largest in Sikkim and is home to a community of monks where they perform the rituals and practices of the Karma Kagyu lineage.
But the real showstopper here is the golden stupa that contains the relics of the 16th Karmapa. And let’s not forget the Karma Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, where you can expand your knowledge on all things Buddhism.
Located just 24km from Gangtok at an altitude of 1,500 metres, the Rumtek Monastery is a must-see destination for any spiritual traveler. With its vibrant and truly magnificent design, it’s home to some rare and ancient Buddhist artwork like Thangkas, divider wall paintings and even 1001 models of Buddha!
So pack your bags, grab your camera and let’s head to Rumtek Monastery for a spiritual journey of a lifetime!
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