Dubdi Monastery, also known as Yuksom Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery located in Yuksom, in the West Sikkim district of Sikkim, India. Established in 1701, it is considered to be the oldest monastery in Sikkim and is an important part of the state's religious and cultural heritage.
Dubdi Monastery can be reached by a trek from Yuksom town. It's approximately a 3-kilometer trek through dense forests rich with flora and fauna. Yuksom is well connected by road from major cities in Sikkim like Pelling and Gangtok. The nearest airport is in Bagdogra, West Bengal, and the nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri (NJP), West Bengal. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Yuksom.
Dubdi Monastery is famous for being the first monastery established in Sikkim. It is revered for its religious significance and its role in the history of Sikkim. The monastery is known for its beautiful and tranquil location, as well as its architecture and the ancient murals and scriptures housed within.
The best time to visit Dubdi Monastery is between March to June and September to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, offering good conditions for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty surrounding the monastery.
As of the last update, there is no entry fee to visit Dubdi Monastery. However, it is always recommended to check for the latest information and guidelines before planning a visit.
Visitors should respect the sacredness of the monastery by dressing modestly and maintaining decorum. Photography may be restricted in some areas, so it is advisable to ask for permission before taking pictures. Additionally, since the monastery is reached via trek, it's important to wear appropriate footwear and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
Local guides are often available in Yuksom, and they can be hired to lead you to the monastery. Though the path is not very difficult, having a guide can enhance the experience by providing historical context and helping identify local flora and fauna.
Typically, the monastery is open from dawn to dusk. Specific opening and closing times may vary, so visitors should verify the current timings before starting the trek to the monastery.
Staying overnight within the monastery is generally not allowed. However, various accommodations like hotels and guest houses are available in Yuksom, where visitors can stay comfortably during their visit to Dubdi Monastery.
The trek to Dubdi Monastery is of moderate difficulty and may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. Elderly people who are physically fit and used to walking on uneven terrain may find the trek manageable. It is always best to assess individual fitness levels before planning the visit.
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