About Dubdi Monastery Yuksom
Opening time- 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings, and Evenings
Suggested Duration- 2-3 hours
Tickets- Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station- New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, about 146 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Yuksom Bus Stand, about 2.5 km
Nearest Airport- Bagdogra Airport, about 154 km
Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom is more than just a place of worship; it is a peaceful retreat nestled in the lush forests of West Sikkim. Built in 1701, it is the oldest monastery in the state and holds deep spiritual and historical importance. Perched at 2,100 meters, the monastery can only be reached by trekking for about an hour through a quiet trail surrounded by chestnut and oak trees.
Along the way, you’ll walk through fresh mountain air, with the sound of chirping birds and views of distant snow-covered peaks. Once you reach the top, the sight of the simple yet beautifully painted two-storey structure instantly calms your senses. Inside, you’ll find sacred texts, paintings, and statues of the three lamas who helped establish the monastery.
One of the most serene things to do in Sikkim is to visit Dubdi Monastery, which allows you to connect with nature and explore the rich spiritual roots of the region.
Dubdi Monastery Yuksom Highlights
• Visit Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom, Sikkim’s oldest monastery, perched at 2,100 meters amidst peaceful chestnut forests.
• Trek through scenic forest trails for about an hour to reach this hilltop spiritual retreat known as the Hermit’s Cell.
• Admire the beautiful Buddhist architecture, ancient manuscripts, and statues of the three founding lamas inside the monastery.
• Soak in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys from the monastery's serene hilltop setting.
How To Reach Dubdi Monastery Yuksom
By Road- To reach the Dubdi Monastery, you will have to drive to the base camp, Yuksom town, which is about 40 km from Pelling, taking around 2 hours to reach via Pelling-Rimbi Rd.
By Trek- You can reach the Dubdi Monastery from Yuksom, by trekking for about 2.5 km which is approximately 1 hour long.
Best Time To Visit Dubdi Monastery Yuksom
Peak Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights- The weather is cool and clear, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
- Things to do- Perfect for trekking, photography, and spiritual exploration in the monastery.
Moderate Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights- The skies are generally clear with temperatures ranging between 6°C and 18°C.
- Things to do- Explore the nearby spots like Norbugang Chorten and Kartok Monastery.
Low Season (June to August)
- Weather Insights- Heavy rainfall, making the trail slippery, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 23°C.
- Things to do- Explore the Monastery amidst fewer crowds.
Dubdi Monastery Yuksom Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go!
- Wear Comfortable Shoes as the only way to reach the monastery is through a steep uphill trek of around 2.5 km.
- Carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as the weather can drop, especially in winter.
- Maintain silence inside the monastery and avoid loud conversations during your visit.
- While the exterior can be photographed freely, seek permission before taking pictures inside.
- Basic homestays and small lodges are available in Yuksom town, just a short walk from the trail’s starting point.
- Since the trail involves hiking, avoid carrying heavy backpacks and unnecessary luggage.
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Trek through the lush Forest Trails
Start your journey to Dubdi Monastery with a peaceful one-hour uphill trek through dense chestnut and oak forests. The short yet steep trail offers a calming blend of birdsong, cool breeze, and occasional glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. It’s not just a walk, it’s an adventurous journey from the outside world into spiritual solitude.
Admire the Monastery’s Ancient Architecture
Dubdi Monastery is a beautifully preserved two-story stone structure with traditional Buddhist architecture. Its square layout, richly painted walls, and golden bell-shaped dome called Gyaltshen make it a stunning heritage site. Inside, you will find statues of lamas, sacred symbols, and old manuscripts that reflect centuries of spiritual history.
Discover the History of the Statues
As you step inside, look out for the statues of Lhatsun Chenpo and two other lamas who played a vital role in founding both the monastery and the state of Sikkim. These figures aren’t just symbols; they’re storytellers of Sikkim’s deep spiritual roots and the early days of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
Tourism Board Alliances
Dubdi Monastery Yuksom FAQs
Why is the Dubdi Monastery famous?
Dubdi Monastery, also known as Yuksom Monastery, is famous as it holds significant historical and religious importance. It was found soon after the consecration of the first Chogyal King of Sikkim. The monastery is also renowned for its two-story stone structure perched on a hilltop, offering a serene retreat and panoramic views.
Which is the oldest Monastery in Sikkim?
The oldest monastery in Sikkim is Dubdi Monastery, established in 1701 at Yuksom, after the consecration of the first Chogyal King of Sikkim. It is also known as the Hermit's Cell, named after its founder, Lhatsun Namkha Jigme. Dubdi Monastery is a significant part of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit in Sikkim, known for its spiritual significance and serene atmosphere.
How to get there in Dubdi Monastery?
Dubdi Monastery, located in Yuksom, West Sikkim, is reached by a trek from Yuksom town, which is about 2.5 km long taking around 1 hour. The nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB) and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). You can also hire a taxi or take local transportation to Yuksom from the main towns like Pelling (40 km), Gangtok (120 km) and Geyzing (40 km). Once in Yuksom, it's a roughly 2.5 km hike uphill to the monastery.