Heritage in Sikkim

About Heritage Tourism in Sikkim

Sikkim has a diverse and rich heritage demonstrated in its old monasteries, culture and traditions. The state is home to some beautiful monasteries painted in golden and red colour and preserved in them is the opulent history of Sikkim. The rich culture of Sikkim compels one to trace its cultural heritage that has been passed from one generation to another and is quite vibrant and interesting to experience. Most of all, Sikkim greatly boasts rich natural heritage. It is a land of the Himalayas, alpine lakes & meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers that justify when we call it a nature lover’s paradise.

Major Heritage in Sikkim

The heritage of Sikkim plays a major role in the Buddhist religious pilgrimage circuit, starting with the Dubdi Monastery, and further moving to the Rabdentse ruins, which was the second capital of the former kingdom of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814. Here are some major heritage sites in Sikkim:

• Dubdi Monastery : It is a Buddhist monastery of the Nigyam sect of Tibetan Buddhist near Yuksom, which gives it its another name, Yuksom Monastery. This monastery, established either in 1642 or 1701 by the Chogyar Namgyal, is associated with the history of the creation of the state. Dubdi Monastery is located on top of the hill in Yuksom village, and claims to be the first and the oldest monastery in Sikkim, making it the top Heritage tourism attraction in the state.
• Rabdentse Ruins : According to the pre-historic times, it was first established by Chadok Namgyal; son of Phuntsog Namgyal, in the year 1670. The Gurkha army who came to invade the place, destroyed the city, and left it in ruins, which are now designated as of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. The vantage point of this former capital, gives a mesmerizing view of the Khangchendzonga ranges.
• Pemayangtse Monastery : One of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim is Pemayangtse Monastery, which overlooks the Himalayan ranges, the surrounding hills and the countryside. This popular Buddhist heritage site in Sikkim was established by one of the revered Lamas; Lhatsun Chempo, who performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal of Sikkim.

This primeval monastery that was originally established for the high-ranking monks, called the ‘Pure Monks’ (Ta-Sang), has become pre-eminent over the years. Almost all the religious functions of the monarch times were performed here. The wooden structure inside the monastery depicts the celestial palace of the Maha Guru; Sang-tok-palri - a demonstration of masterwork by Dungzin Rimpoche.

Other Heritage Sites in Sikkim

• Rumtek Monastery
• Phodang Monastery
• Namchi
• Coronation Throne of Norbugang near Yuksam

Dotted with many impressive heritage sites, Sikkim offers its history lovers a great opportunity to enjoy their sightseeing tours. Every tourist visiting Sikkim in North east India must explore all these wonderful sites.