Long before Pelling had hotels, it had monasteries. The hills around town hold some of the oldest Buddhist sites in Sikkim — places where monks still chant at dawn, butter lamps flicker in dim halls, and prayer flags carry blessings on the wind.
You don’t need to be Buddhist, or know anything about Buddhism, to find these places moving. You just need a little time and a little respect. Here’s our guide to monastery hopping in Pelling.
Pemayangtse Monastery
Built in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, Pemayangtse is one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim and belongs to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its name is often translated as “perfect sublime lotus.”
The highlight inside is an extraordinary seven-tiered wooden sculpture depicting Zangdok Palri, the heavenly palace of Guru Rinpoche — a painstaking work of art that people travel far to see. The monastery sits on a hilltop close to Pelling, with wide views over the valleys.
When to go: morning, when it’s quieter and the light is soft.
Rabdentse Ruins
Just below Pemayangtse lie the ruins of Rabdentse, the second capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814. A peaceful walk through forest leads to stone walls, chortens and platforms where the royal palace once stood. On clear days, the views towards Kanchenjunga are superb.
Pemayangtse and Rabdentse pair naturally — visit both in one morning.
Sanga Choeling Monastery
Founded in 1697, Sanga Choeling is among the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It stands on a ridge above Pelling and is reached by a steep uphill walk through forest. The climb takes effort, but the reward is solitude, fluttering prayer flags and some of the best views around.
Tip: go early, carry water and wear shoes with good grip.
Dubdi Monastery, Yuksom
A day trip from Pelling takes you to Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim, where the first Chogyal was crowned at Norbugang in 1642. On a hilltop about an hour’s walk from Yuksom stands Dubdi Monastery, established in 1701 and considered the oldest monastery in Sikkim. The walk through forest is lovely in itself.
Khecheopalri Lake
Not a monastery, but one of the most sacred sites in the region, revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike. The lake, about 34 km from Pelling, is known as the wishing lake; a small monastery stands above it. Walk the prayer-flag path quietly and you’ll feel why it matters.
A suggested monastery day from Pelling
- Early morning: Sanga Choeling (if you’re up for the climb)
- Mid-morning: Pemayangtse Monastery
- Late morning: Rabdentse Ruins
- Afternoon: Chenrezig Statue and Skywalk — a modern site dedicated to the Buddha of compassion
Add Yuksom and Dubdi, or Khecheopalri Lake, on another day. See our full Pelling itinerary.
Monastery etiquette: how to visit respectfully
- Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees.
- Walk clockwise around monasteries, stupas and prayer wheels.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering prayer halls when asked.
- Ask before photographing inside, and never photograph monks without permission.
- Keep your voice low, especially during prayers.
- Don’t touch statues, murals or ritual objects.
- A small donation in the offering box is appreciated.
- Never point your feet towards altars or sit with your back to a statue of the Buddha.
Festivals worth planning around
Monasteries in Sikkim hold colourful festivals with masked Cham dances at various times of year, following the Tibetan lunar calendar — so dates change annually. If you’d like to catch one, ask us before you book and we’ll check the local calendar for your dates.
Stay close, travel gently
Kaya Gantavya Resort & Spa is in Middle Pelling, a short drive from Pemayangtse and Rabdentse. After a day of monastery visits and hill walks, come back to a warm room, a quiet garden and — if your legs need it — a treatment at our Meraki Spa. For everything else to see, read things to do in Pelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the oldest monastery near Pelling?
Sanga Choeling (founded 1697) is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim and is right above Pelling. Dubdi Monastery near Yuksom (1701) is considered the oldest in Sikkim.
When was Pemayangtse Monastery built?
Pemayangtse Monastery was built in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo.
Can tourists visit monasteries in Pelling?
Yes, visitors are welcome. Dress modestly, walk clockwise, keep quiet during prayers and ask before taking photographs inside.
How far is Rabdentse from Pemayangtse?
Rabdentse Ruins are just below Pemayangtse Monastery and the two are easily visited together in one morning.
Plan your stay: Kaya Gantavya Resort & Spa is a 14-room boutique resort in Middle Pelling with Kanchenjunga-facing cottages, Meraki Spa and K-Kitchen & Lounge. Check live rates and book direct or call +91 76029 98999.
