Sikkim - Monastic Tour

Sikkim is home to almost 200 monasteries, or Gompas, belonging to the Nyingma and Kagyu orders of Tibetan Buddhism. These sacred sites have played a vital role in shaping the cultural heritage and daily lives of the Sikkimese people, preserving ancient rituals that date back centuries. Within the hallowed halls of these monasteries, devoted Lamas chant age-old mantras to the rhythm of drums and trumpets, creating a solemn atmosphere. The Gompas are not just places of worship but architectural marvels that inspire awe. Adorned with intricate frescoes that bring to life ancient Buddhist legends, these monasteries are a testament to the artistic prowess of their creators.

The life-like paintings, rich in detail and colour, serve as visual narratives of Sikkim’s spiritual history. The monasteries also house rare silk and brocade Thangkas, each one a masterpiece of religious art.

Trip Highlights & Attractions

In addition to these treasures, the monasteries preserve ancient Tibetan manuscripts and invaluable records of Buddhist teachings and traditions. Exquisitely carved woodwork and icons crafted from silver and gold further enhance the sanctity and beauty of these spiritual sanctuaries, making them not only places of worship but also repositories of Sikkim’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Sacred Rituals and Ceremonies: Witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the monks, including chanting mantras, lighting butter lamps, and spinning prayer wheels, all of which contribute to the tranquil and meditative atmosphere.
Breathtaking Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the picturesque settings of the monasteries, often perched on hilltops with panoramic views of the Himalayas. These places offer a perfect blend of spiritual and natural beauty.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore the cultural and artistic treasures within the monasteries, including ancient Thangkas, murals, and statues, each telling a story of Sikkim’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.
Spiritual Retreat: Engage in meditation and spiritual practices in the serene surroundings of the monasteries, which provide an opportunity for introspection and a deeper connection with Sikkim's spiritual essence.

Trip Facts

Trip id: SKTU-08
Trip type: Sikkim Tour
Trip grade: Easy
Starting from: Darjeeling
Ending at: Silguri
Trip duration: 15 Days
Base price: $$$$
Max. altitude:
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
Group size: 2-16 Person

Sikkim - Monastic Tour — Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival and Transfer to Darjeeling

Meeting & assistance on arrival and transfer to Darjeeling. Overnight at the hotel in Darjeeling.

Day 02: Full day sightseeing of Darjeeling.

You can witness a stunning sunrise view from Tiger Hill early in the morning. After breakfast, you can visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, the former residence of Tenzing Norgay, the Natural History Museum, the Lloyd Botanical Garden, and the Zoo. In the afternoon, visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, where Tibetan crafts are produced and sold. Spend the night at a hotel in Darjeeling.

Day 03: Darjeeling – Gangtok (98 km/4 hrs 30 min.)

After breakfast drive to Gangtok. Afternoon free for shopping and leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Gangtok.

Day 04: Full day sightseeing including visit to:

Institute of Tibetology is housed in a beautiful building built in the traditional Tibetan style, with mural-decorated columns and a wonderful smell of beeswax polish from the creaky wooden floor.
Rumtek Monastery: Visit the largest and one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim, which serves as the seat of the Karmapa of the Kagyu lineage. Explore its magnificent architecture, golden stupas, and tranquil surroundings.
Enchey Monastery: Located in Gangtok, this 200-year-old monastery is the centre of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is known for its vibrant religious dances performed during the annual Chaam festival.

Day 05: Gangtok – Kalimpong (77 km/3 hrs)

We will drive to Kalimpong in the morning and visit the Tharpa Choling Monastery in the afternoon. Then, we will drive to Deolo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong at 5,500 ft, which offers a good view of the region. Afterwards, we will visit the Zong-Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery and Gauripur House, the favourite retreat of Rabindra Nath Tagore. We will stay overnight at a hotel in Kalimpong.

Day 06: Kalimpong – Siliguri or Bagdogra airport or New Jalpaiguri (80 km/3 hrs)

Cost Includes

All Transportation – All sightseeing, including pick-ups and Drops
All Transportation Non-AC / Qulise and Non A/C. Tata Sumo, Maxx Jeep and Mini Tourist Bus
Guide/ leader (Experienced Tour Guide will lead the tour).
All internal taxes
Parking Charges/Driver's Allowance
Deluxe Hotels with Breakfast at Gangtok & Lunch
Exclusive Non-A/C vehicle for transfers & sightseeing.

Cost Excludes

Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone, alcohol, etc.
Personal insurance, however, covers immediate medical facilities
Additional sightseeing or extra vehicle usage other than what is mentioned in the itinerary.
Extra expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as landslides/strikes/accidents/natural calamities
Ropeway, airfare ticket, internal flight, tips, etc.