About Tashiding Monastery
Opening Hours: 10:00 am-04:00 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Station, about 124 km away.
Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport, about 101 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Tashiding bus stop, about 8 km
Tashiding Monastery, nestled on top of the western side of Sikkim, provides a powerful infusion of spirituality and natural beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Founded by a disciple of Guru Padmasambhava in 1641, in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, it stands for peace and purification. It houses Thong-Wa-Rang-Dol stupa, a sacred shrine that is believed to cleanse one's sins by a single dedicated glance.
Partake in the annual Bumchu Festival, which draws people from across the country, where monks look into the holy water and predict the region’s future.
The shrine is surrounded by prayer flags and stone tablets engraved with ancient mantras, providing a classic Buddhist ambience. The snow-capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga mountains in the background of the monastery elevate it to an immersive experience rather than a strictly religious one.
Tashiding Monastery Highlights
• Experience deep spirituality at Tashiding Monastery, one of Sikkim’s most sacred Buddhist sites.
• Attend the sacred Bumchu festival, celebrated annually, where the sacred vase’s water level is believed to predict Sikkim’s future.
• Admire the sacred chortens and white-washed mani walls inscribed with Buddhist prayers that echo the spiritual legacy of the Nyingma sect.
• Soak in panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and feel a deep connection to the region’s spiritual heartland.
How To Reach Tashiding Monastery
By car/taxi: Tashiding Monastery is about 27 km from the Geyzing city centre, via NH 510. It will take you around 1 hour to get there.
Best Time To Visit Tashiding Monastery
Peak Season (October to March):
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, cooler temperatures, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C
- Things to Do: Explore the monastery, enjoy panoramic Himalayan views,and attend the Bhumchu festival
Moderate Season (April to June):
- Weather Insights: warmer weather, with higher temperatures, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C
- Things to do: Nature walks, peaceful visits
Low Season (July to September):
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C
- Things to do: monsoon photography, enjoy nature in full bloom
Tashiding Monastery Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear modest clothes and respect the decorum of the monastery.
- Do not take pictures or shoot videos inside the temple without prior permission.
- Check the timings for festivals and special prayers so you don't miss out.
- Stay patient and maintain proper queue etiquette during the festival time rush.
- Do not carry plastic or non-ecofriendly items, as the monastery authorities encourage eco-conscious behaviour.
Witness the Thong-Wa-Rang-Dol Chorten
Regarded as one of the holiest chortens in Sikkim, this sacred structure at Tashiding Monastery is believed to cleanse all sins with a single devoted glance. Encircled by fluttering prayer flags and smaller stupas, it draws pilgrims year-round who come seeking spiritual purification, blessings, and liberation through faith.
Experience the Bumchu Festival
Celebrated annually in the first Tibetan month, February–March, the Bumchu Festival marks the ceremonial opening of a holy water sacred urn. Monks use their level and purity to project the fortunes of the next year. Thousands of people attend the event, which also reflects strong Sikkim spiritual traditions.
Meditate Amidst Himalayan Peace
Find a quiet spot near the monastery where you can meditate in complete silence, with the Himalayas all around you. The calming chants, fluttering prayer flags, and wide-open views make for a deeply spiritual and refreshing experience that is perfect for meditation and self-reflection.
Tourism Board Alliances
Tashiding Monastery FAQs
Where is Tashiding Monastery located?
Tashiding Monastery is located about forty kilometres from Geyzing, in West Sikkim, India. Perched on a hilltop between the Rathong and Rangit Rivers, it provides sweeping views of the Eastern Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga.
What is the Bumchu Festival?
Bumchu Festival is organised annually in February or March. Monks open a holy water ceremonial vase and read its state to forecast the fortunes of the area. The celebration is special to Tashiding and draws big numbers of followers.
What is the best time to visit Tashiding Monastery?
The best time to visit Tashiding Monastery is from October to May since the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. February through March is rather popular, particularly for the Bumchu Festival. It is best to exercise caution during monsoon months (June to September) as strong rain and landslides are common.
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