Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse houses the highly respected Buddhist Pemayangtse Monastery in the Pelling area of Sikkim. This is considered to be the oldest temple in the state and rests on top of a hill over historically magnificent Rabdentse ruins, once the capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim. Among the places to visit in Pelling, this monastery must not be left out as a prime attraction.

The name Pemayangtse translates to 'perfect, beautiful flower' and represents one of the human body's four networks of nerves (vessels). The monastery celebrates Padmasambhava, also called Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism back to Tibet. The most noticeable feature is the statues of him and his partners.

History and Significance of Pemayangtse Monastery

The building was first designed as a Lhakhang, the main temple hall with a shrine, in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo. It was later expanded during the rule of the third king of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal, from 1700 to 1717. To protect the Buddhist faith in Sikkim, he required that every three boys in a Bhutia family become monks at the Pemayangtse Monastery.

Since its establishment, 108 monks from the Tibetan ancestry group Bhutias have made the regal monastery their home. The area experienced several earthquakes in 1913 and 1960, which damaged its roots. It has been fixed up and remade several times since then.

Architectural Marvels of the Monastery

The Pemayangtse Monastery is at 6840 feet and offers unmatchable peaceful views of snowcapped mountains, including the lofty Kanchenjunga peak. The beautiful abbey is remarkable because it has survived many challenges, including earthquakes, over the years.

The main prayer hall covers about 140 square meters (1500 square feet) and has many colourful figures, windows, and doors. The central figure of Padmasambhava shows him in a fierce form with many arms and heads.

The monastery's first floor has old scrolls, lovely paintings, and finely made idols and statues. The main drawing is a seven-layered wooden picture on the top floor that shows Guru Rinpoche's heavenly palace, called "Santopalri." It took Dungzin Rinpoche 5 years to plan and build this achievement.

Festivals and Events at Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse Monastery holds lively holidays and events, such as the Chaam Dance during Losar, the Tibetan New Year. Monks do covered dances that show the triumph of good over evil, drawing people worldwide. These cultural events give a glimpse into Buddhist customs and are a key part of many Pelling tour packages. They provide a unique experience of spirituality and local culture in the peaceful area of Sikkim.