About Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Train Station, about 179 km away
Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport, about 88 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: SNT Bus Terminus, Siliguri about 172 km away
Visit Yuksom, Sikkim, to see the historic Coronation Throne of the Namgyal Dynasty, also called the Norbugang Throne, and is one of the best things to do in Sikkim. In 1642, three respected Nyingma lamas crowned Phuntsog Namgyal as the first Chogyal of Sikkim under a sacred cryptomeria pine tree. This was the beginning of the Namgyal line.
The rectangular stone platform faces east and has four stepped seats, one for Lama Lhatsun Chempo in the middle, one for the king next to it, and two for the other lamas. The seats are still marked by inscriptions and sacred footprints.
Across from it is the Norbugang Chorten, which was built with soil and stones from all over Sikkim and has gifts, soil, and water from each region inside it. It represents unity and is kept safe under the huge pine tree. Kathok (Kuthok) Lake is nearby and was used during the coronation.
The site is now part of a peaceful ASI-protected park where people can meditate, honour history, and connect with their spiritual selves. There are prayer flags, mani walls, and native plants that all work together peacefully.
It's a major stop on the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit and is close to Dubdi Monastery and other holy sites, making it a great place for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and trekkers starting the Kanchenjunga trail. This holy relic of the Himalayan monarchy combines spiritual significance, cultural depth, and stunning natural beauty.
Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty Highlights
• Marvel at the historic Coronation Throne, the site of the crowning of Phuntsog Namgyal, the first Chogyal, by three revered Nyingma lamas in 1642.
• Visit the Norbugang Chorten stupa, which contains buried ritual offerings and stands as a symbol of the fledgling kingdom’s unity.
• Reflect by Kathok Lake, nearby, for both a peaceful experience and historic relevance.
• Stroll through Norbugang Park’s spiritual garden, which features prayer halls, a giant prayer wheel, fluttering flags, and indigenous flora.
How To Reach Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty
By foot: The Coronation Throne of the Namgyal Dynasty is about 400 m from the Yuksom city centre. You can take a brisk 5-minute walk to get there.
Best Time To Visit Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty
Peak Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, moderate temperature, 10 to 20 °C by day, cooler nights (~5 °C)
- Things to Do: Explore the Coronation Throne, Norbugang Chorten
Moderate Season (September to November):
- Weather Insights: Post-monsoon clarity, 10 to 18 °C daytime, around 5 °C at night
- Things to do: Hike to Dubdi and Kartok Lake, sample local momos
Low Season (June to August: Monsoon; December to February: Winter):
Monsoon:
- Weather Insights: Temperatures hover between 15 °C to 25 °C with high rainfall and periodic fog
- Things to do: Enjoy lush greenery
Winter:
- Weather Insights: Cold weather, and snowfall blanket Yuksom, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 10 °C
- Things to do: View the frozen Coronation Throne, trek to Dubdi with snow gear
Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Hire a local guide to enrich your visit with history, customs, and religious stories also support the local community.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as stone steps and paths can be slick, especially near shrines and monuments.
- Pack layered clothing as Yuksom’s weather varies dramatically; mornings are chilly, afternoons mild; bring warm, breathable layers suited for hiking.
- Carry enough cash as ATMs are scarce, and the mobile network might be weak.
- Secure the Restricted/Protected Area Permit (RAP/PAP) in advance for park entry.
- Acclimatize before exploring, spend a day in Yuksom (~1,780 m) before walking to higher-altitude sites to avoid altitude sickness.
- Respect sacred spaces, dress modestly, remove shoes before shrines, maintain silence, and seek permission before photographing religious features.
Explore Coronation Throne & Sacred Pine
Stand under the old pine tree at the stone Coronation Throne, where Phuntsog Namgyal was crowned in 1642. The four-tiered platform facing east has engravings and the famous footprint of Lama Lhatsun Chempo, which gives you a real sense of connection to the spiritual and royal history of the Himalayas.
Admire Norbugang Chorten & Prayer Wheel
After the coronation, the nearby Norbugang Chorten was built in 21 days using soil, water, and treasures from all over Sikkim. In a space maintained by ASI, visitors can spin the huge prayer wheel, enjoy the quiet, and look at the flags that are flying.
Sit by Kathok Lake
The ritual waters used during the coronation came from Kathok Lake, which was only 600 meters away and was surrounded by prayer flags. The clear water and shaded benches make it a great place to relax and take pictures in peace.
Embark on the Dubdi Monastery Trek
Take a 3-kilometer walk from Yuksom to Dubdi Monastery, which was built in 1701 by Lhatsun Chempo and sits on a ridge. This hermit's retreat, which has been around for hundreds of years, has beautiful views of the Himalayas, traditional murals, and a peaceful, meditative atmosphere.
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Explore the Yuksom Bazaar
Take a walk through Yuksom Bazaar to see local crafts and try some warm Tibetan-style momos and thukpa. Friendly vendors and the traditional hospitality of an inn give you a real sense of the culture, and your historical pilgrimage ends with the charm of a real village.
Tourism Board Alliances
Coronation Throne of Namgyal Dynasty FAQs
What is the historical significance of the Coronation Throne?
Three Nyingma lamas crowned Phuntsog Namgyal as Sikkim's first Chogyal in 1642. This four-tiered stone platform is below a sacred cryptomeria pine. The east-facing throne has inscriptions and a holy footprint of Lama Lhatsun Chempo on it. This marks the beginning of the Namgyal dynasty's spiritual and political power.
What nearby sites should I visit?
Include the Dubdi Monastery (a 3 km, 1-hour hike), Kathok Lake just below the Throne, Kartok Monastery, and Yuksom Bazaar. These places are part of a spiritual circuit that combines Buddhist history with life in a Himalayan village.
Are there any entry fees or visiting hours?
You can get in by paying a small fee at the park entrance. Most of the time, Norbugang Park and its attractions are open from 9 AM to 5 PM. There are signs on the property that give historical context. For a deeper understanding, it is best to hire a local guide.