Pemayangtse Monastery

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche consecrated three spots in west Sikkim, leading to the construction of Dubdi, Tashiding, Pemayangtse, and Sangachoeling monasteries. Pemayangtse was exclusively reserved for"ta-sang"lamas, monks of pure Tibetan descent, celibate, and without physical deformities.

Crafted by the visionary Lhatsun Chhembo, Pemayangste evolved into the nucleus of Sikkim's monastic culture, earning the title of the"premier monastery."It played a crucial role in anointing the sovereign with holy water.

Drawing spiritual inspiration from Mindoling Monastery in Central Tibet, Pemayangtse once sent monks there for rigorous training. The monastery houses ancient idols, religious artifacts, vibrant wall paintings, and sculptures. Notable is the seven-tiered wooden structure depicting Guru Rimpoche's Heavenly Palace, meticulously crafted by Dungzin Rimpoche over five years.

Don't miss the annual Chaam, a mesmerizing monk dance held on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month in the Tibetan Lunar Calendar. Adorned in splendid costumes, the lamas enact Mahakala and Guru Drag-dmar, culminating with the unfurling of the Ghyo-Ku' and a grand embroidered Buddhist scroll.