The Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, also known as the Rumtek Monastery, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Rumtek, Sikkim, India. It is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is the seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage, one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The center is a significant place of pilgrimage and study for Buddhists from around the world.
Rumtek Monastery was originally built in the mid-1700s but fell into disrepair. The sixteenth Gyalwa Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, established the current monastery in the 1960s after fleeing Tibet due to the Chinese invasion. The monastery is considered the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage outside Tibet and preserves the teachings and practices of this tradition.
Rumtek Monastery is located about 23 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Visitors can take a taxi or local transport from Gangtok to reach the monastery. The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport in Sikkim or Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, and the closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. From these points, one will have to arrange a road journey to reach Rumtek.
The main attractions include the stunning main shrine hall with its exquisite murals and statues, the Golden Stupa containing the relics of the Gyalwa Karmapa, and the Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies. Visitors are also attracted to the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful architecture of the monastery, and the scenic views of the surrounding areas.
The best time to visit Rumtek Monastery is from March to June and from September to December when the weather is pleasant. Monsoon months from July to August should generally be avoided due to heavy rainfall and risk of landslides in the region.
Yes, tourists can witness various ceremonies and festivals at Rumtek Monastery, such as the Tibetan New Year (Losar), which occurs in February or March. The annual Black Hat Dance (Tse-Chu Chaam) is a significant event usually held in June that involves colorful masked dances and rituals.
As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, there may be a nominal entry fee to maintain the premises and for the security of the site. However, visitors are advised to check the latest information before planning their visit as this can change.
While staying overnight within the monastery is not generally permitted for tourists, there are guesthouses and hotels in the vicinity of Rumtek where tourists can stay. Accommodations range from budget to luxury, catering to different preferences.
Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs. It is important to remove shoes before entering shrine rooms, and silence should be maintained inside the prayer halls. Photography may be restricted in certain areas, and visitors should refrain from touching sacred objects or murals.
Rumtek Monastery and its associated Nalanda Institute may offer courses, teachings, and retreats on Tibetan Buddhism and meditation. Availability can vary, so interested visitors should inquire directly with the monastery for the current schedule and details.
