Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is one of the few places of its kind. It stores Tibetan Buddhist culture and history that goes back hundreds of years. NIT works very hard to protect the country's rich history, religion, and valuable culture. The museum and library, which are the main draws here, have great collections that show this. Many Gangtok tour packages include a visit to this cultural gem, offering insight into Tibet's heritage.

Collections and Exhibits of Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

The 135-volume Encyclopedia Tibetic is one of many rare items that are there. The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology Library is open to everyone, but since it is a reference library, no one can borrow books to take home. The main reason for this is to keep all the rare and old works of writing safe. You can take notes and even print many of them in the study rooms if you are there for school or artwork, but not all of them.

At the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology Museum, one of the most interesting things is the casket that holds the relics of two Ashokan missionaries. The museum also displays the sandalwood figures of five important Buddhist figures: Guru Rinpoche, three founding lamas of Sikkim, and King Phuntsok Namgyal. The most impressive thing in the show is the beautiful silver statue of Majushri, who is a saint or enlightened Lord Buddha, carved in the traditional style of Sikkimese art.

History

Tibetan history's torchbearer has a solid base. The late Sikkimese King (Chogyal) Sir Tashi Namgyal donated the property on which the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology stands. The 14th Dalai Lama, the leader of the Buddhist religious hierarchy, laid the foundation of the institute on February 10, 1957, and Indian Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated it on October 10, 1958.

Since then, the Namgyal Institute organization has changed. International collaboration and research were added in 2002. The institute's Golden Jubilee festivities in 2008 included the inauguration of a conference hall, library, study rooms, and studios by the Governor of Sikkim.

Museum Highlights

It is as important as it is for people who want to learn about Asian culture and Buddhism. It is also a tourist paradise, especially for people who are interested in history on occasion. Even though you can't take pictures inside, you can put down your phone and see everything with your eyes. Some people come to the Namgyal Institute to study and learn about Tibetan and Buddhist culture. It has also become a popular place to visit in Gangtok.

The Institute encourages and helps to study, explore, and keep alive Tibetan history, art, literature, architecture, religion, and philosophy. It also preserves everything else that goes along with it. The great Dalai Lama himself put the cornerstone for the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. It was one of the first places to protect and promote Tibetan art and writing.