Sanga Choeling Monastery- Sikkim

Address

Sanga Choeling Monastery- Pelling, Sanga Choeling, Sikkim, India- 737113

Deity

Buddha

Introduction

• Monastery Name: Sanga Choeling Monastery (also spelled Sange Choeling Monastery).
• Established in: 17th century by Lama Lhatsün Chempo.
• Meaning: “Island of the Guhyamantra teachings” where “gling” refers to a vihara (monastery) and “secret mantra teachings” relates to Vajrayana Buddhism.
• Location: Ridge top above Pelling, Sikkim, 7 kilometers from Pemayangtse Monastery.
• Access: Through a steep 4-kilometer hilly trail amidst rich forest cover.
• Pilgrimage Circuit: Forms part of a heritage and religious circuit that includes Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse ruins, Khecheopalri Lake, Norbugang Chorten, Dubdi Monastery, Yuksom, and Tashiding Monastery.

Puranic Significance

• Founded in: 1697, also referred to as the “Place of Secret Spells.”
• Artifacts: Contains clay statues, wall paintings, scriptures, and other relics dating back to the 17th century.
• Historical Fires: The monastery was damaged by fire multiple times but has been rebuilt.
• Scenic Location: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Cultural Importance: Built in traditional Tibetan architectural style.
• Sacred Site: Houses the Dhutoe Silwar Tshar, a 300-year-old sacred Buddhist crematorium, which has been made accessible to the public recently.
• Preservation: Well-preserved artifacts, statues, and ancient clay structures provide a glimpse into 17th-century Buddhist art and history.

Century/Period/Age

17th century CE.

Managed By

UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Nearest Bus Station

Pelling

Nearest Railway Station

New Jalpaiguri Station

Nearest Airport

Bagdogra

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