Gangtok is the capital of Bhutan, which is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in West Bengal. In this town, you can see almost 200 colorful monasteries that are surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty, historical significance, and breathtaking views of the mountain ranges.
You can explore the famous monasteries of this place comfortably with a car rental. However, to take care of your budget plans, you must always compare the NJP to Gangtok car rent so that you get to choose the best and most affordable option. The melodious chanting, vibrant prayer flags, and relaxing ambiance of the monasteries in Gangtok will leave you amazed.
Let’s discover some of the most beautiful monasteries in Gangtok that you must add to your bucket list.
1. Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery or the Dharma Chakra Centre was founded by Wangchuk Dorje and is one of the largest monasteries in Gangtok. This monastery is open Monday to Friday from 9 am – 6 pm. This place also has a beautiful shrine which signifies to spread of the valuable lessons of Buddha.
The architectural design, spiritual solace, lush green surroundings, sculptures, and golden stupa that you can see here will help you understand the true essence of Buddhism.
2. Enchey Monastery
The Enchey Monastery is a 200-year-old monastery situated on the Nathula-Gangtok road. The serene environment of the monastery while enjoying the splendid views of Mount Kanchenjunga and tall pine trees will give you a lifetime experience.
While visiting the prayer hall here, you can see various tantric murals and images of gods and goddesses. The wheel of law present on the porch is another attraction and if you’re lucky you can also witness the Pang Lhabsol festival and vibrant masked dance in the monastery.
3. Do Drul Chorten
Do Drul Chorten is a famous stupa in Bhutan that reflects beautiful Buddhist architecture. You can visit this site after exploring the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The golden top of the stupa looks mesmerizing and can be seen from far away.
It is believed by the locals there that this stupa was built in 1946 to drive away the evil spirits. Various valuable items, relics, mantras, and relics are also kept here along with 108 prayer wheels. You can book Gangtok car rental services to explore all of these famous monasteries.
4. Tsuk La Khang Monastery
Tsuk La Khang is a palacial monastery in Gangtok that is also known as the Palace Monastery. This is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, which was built in 1898 AD by 9th King Thutob Namgyal.
The well-decorated altars and walls of the monastery as well as the marvellous architectural style will surely catch your attention. You can also witness mask dance here during the Tibetan New Year.
5. Ranka Monastery
Ranka or Lingdum monastery is a beautiful monastery in Gangtok that you must visit. This is a new monastery and offers some splendid scenic views surrounded by forested mountains. You can also see young lamas undergoing Buddhist training here. Especially, huge, bright, and golden statue of Buddha in the prayer hall here will leave you mesmerized.
Apart from these monasteries, you can also visit various other sightseeing attractions in Gangtok such as Ban Jhakri Falls, Hanuman temple, and MG Marg. You can book a car rental from a reputed agency at an affordable NJP to Gangtok car rent to make your trip memorable and hassle-free.
