Places To V
isit In Sikkim
1. Tashiding Monastery
It is about 40km From Gyalshing. It is of Nyingmapa order at a hilltop that looms up between Rathong River and Rangit River. It is surrounded by flags and stone plates skilfully carved with holy Buddhist mantras was ‘ Om Mani Padme Hum” by Yanchong-Lodil. The main monastery was built in 1717 by Pedi Wangmo (Ngadak Sempa Chenpo) during the reign of 3rd Chogyal Chahdor Namgyal, on a spot consecrated by Guru Rimpoche. Tashiding Monastery (1469m) is considered to be the most sacred and holiest shrine or Chorten in Sikkim.
It is believed that to merely view the sacred Chorten Thongwa Rangdol and Bumcho (holy water) is enough to cleanse one of all sins. Lhatsun Chenpo built the chorten. Bumchu is one of the sacred objects of worship to the Sikkimese. It is a sacred pot-containing holy, blessed by a Buddhist saint in the 17th Century, which does not dry up nor spoil. Today, even after 300 years the water remains as fresh as before. The sacred ceremony of Bumchu is held on the 15th day of the first Tibetan month, when the Bumchu containing the holy water is opened for public 'darshan' once a year. Pilgrims come each spring for the Bumchu or water-pot festival in February to drink water from the sacred pot to the gold-topped monastery - Tashiding.
2. Ralong
Belonging to the karma kagyu order, it was built after the return of the 4th Chogyal from his Pilgrimage to Tibet. H.H. the Gyalwa Karmapa performed the 'Rabney' (blessing) on it's completion from Tsurpu itself, and grains from this ceremony fell on the ground at Ralong. Between 1975-81 the Government rebuilt the monastery. The main ceremony falls on the 28th and 29th day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar. When the 'chaams' are performed.
3. White Hall
Built in 1932 in memory of the first Political Officer of Sikkim, Sir Claude White. Situated on a ridge, it has historical value only. There is an officer’s club.
4. Ganesh Tok
It is at an altitude of 6500 ft. above Gangtok and 7 km Where a small temple of God Ganesha is nested. Panoramic view of Gangtok, magnificent and breathtaking view of Khangchendzonga and Siniolchu can be observed and enjoyed from this spot on a ridge. A cafeteria serves hot tea, coffee and snacks.
5. Hanuman Tok
It is at an altitude of 7200 ft., about 5 km From Gangtok where there is a temple of God Hanuman. Panoramic view of Gangtok and adjoining hills and valleys with Khangchendzonga on the background can be seen from here. Sunrise can be observed from here. Night view of the Gangtok city lights is mood elevating.
