Old Ralang Monastery
The Old Ralang Monastery, also known as the Karma Rabten Ling, is one of the most historically significant religious sites in Sikkim. Built in the 18th century, it belongs to the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. According to legend, the 9th Karmapa threw grains of rice from Tibet during a bles sing ceremony, and these grains fell exactly where the monastery now stands. This sacred origin makes it a primary pilgrimage site for devotees worldwide. The atmosphere here is deeply meditative and quiet, far removed from the modern tourist trails. The monastery houses ancient scriptures, rare thangkas, and exquisite murals that have survived centuries. Unlike the newer monasteries, the old one has a weathered, authentic feel that resonates with spiritual energy. It is located in a valley that requires a short trek to reach, adding to its sense of seclusion. The monks here follow traditional rituals that have remained unchanged for generations. The surrounding landscape is filled with prayer flags that flutter in the mountain wind, carrying prayers across the valley. Visiting this site offers a glimpse into the monastic life of ancient Sikkim. The structure is built with stone and wood, reflecting the traditional architecture of the region. It is particularly famous for its annual masked dances, which are performed with great fervor. For those seeking peace and a deep connection with Buddhist history, the Old Ralang Monastery is an irreplaceable destination. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the Sikkimese people.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 HoursPlace Type:
Category: Religious & SpiritualEntry Fees:
Free Entry: No admission fee is charged for visitors or pilgrims.
Donation: It is a custom to leave a small voluntary donation in the charity box for the maintenance of the ancient structure. ...Free Entry: No admission fee is charged for visitors or pilgrims.
Donation: It is a custom to leave a small voluntary donation in the charity box for the maintenance of the ancient structure.Timing:
Regular Timings: 8. 00 AM to 5. 00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: 9. 00 AM to 11. 00 AM during morning prayers. The monastery is most peaceful during the early hours before the mist rolls in. ...Regular Timings: 8. 00 AM to 5. 00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: 9. 00 AM to 11. 00 AM during morning prayers. The monastery is most peaceful during the early hours before the mist rolls in.Special Events:
Kagyed Dance: A grand masked dance performed by monks to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Pang Lhabsol: A festival dedicated to Mount Kanchenjunga where the monastery becomes the center of ritualistic offerings. ...Kagyed Dance: A grand masked dance performed by monks to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Pang Lhabsol: A festival dedicated to Mount Kanchenjunga where the monastery becomes the center of ritualistic offerings.Best Photo Spots:
Monastery Entrance: The heavy wooden doors framed by prayer flags make a classic shot.
Valley View: Capture the monastery from the trekking trail as it nestles in the green valley.
Interior Altar: With perm...Monastery Entrance: The heavy wooden doors framed by prayer flags make a classic shot.
Valley View: Capture the monastery from the trekking trail as it nestles in the green valley.
Interior Altar: With permission, photograph the intricate statues of the Karmapas.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Spiritual Meditation: Spend time in the quiet prayer hall for deep reflection.
Viewing Murals: Study the ancient wall paintings depicting the life of Buddha.
Trekking: Enjoy the scenic 1. 5 KM downhill trek from the motorable road to the monastery gate.
Photography: Capture the weathered facade and the colorful prayer flags.
Offering Prayers: Light butter lamps as a gesture of peace and gratitude.
Interacting with Monks: Learn about the Kagyu lineage from the resident lamas.
Nature Exploration: Walk through the surrounding oak and rhododendron forests that buffer the monastery from the world. ...Spiritual Meditation: Spend time in the quiet prayer hall for deep reflection.
Viewing Murals: Study the ancient wall paintings depicting the life of Buddha.
Trekking: Enjoy the scenic 1. 5 KM downhill trek from the motorable road to the monastery gate.
Photography: Capture the weathered facade and the colorful prayer flags.
Offering Prayers: Light butter lamps as a gesture of peace and gratitude.
Interacting with Monks: Learn about the Kagyu lineage from the resident lamas.
Nature Exploration: Walk through the surrounding oak and rhododendron forests that buffer the monastery from the world.
Information
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Why Famous:
Mythological Origins: Famous for the legend of the 9th Karmapa's falling rice grains, which established its holiness.
Masked Dance Festivals: It is renowned for hosting the most authentic 'Chaam' (masked dance) performances in South Sikkim ...Mythological Origins: Famous for the legend of the 9th Karmapa's falling rice grains, which established its holiness.
Masked Dance Festivals: It is renowned for hosting the most authentic 'Chaam' (masked dance) performances in South Sikkim during the Pang Lhabsol festival. -
Architecture:
Traditional Tibetan Stone Masonry: The structure is built using local river stones and mud mortar, with heavy wooden beams supporting the roof.
Dimensions: The main prayer hall is roughly 40 feet by 40 feet, featuring a multi-tiered roof to...Traditional Tibetan Stone Masonry: The structure is built using local river stones and mud mortar, with heavy wooden beams supporting the roof.
Dimensions: The main prayer hall is roughly 40 feet by 40 feet, featuring a multi-tiered roof topped with a golden 'Ganjira'. The walls are thick to provide natural insulation against the cold Himalayan winters. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (125 KMS).
By Train: Reach via NJP Railway Station (120 KMS).
By Road: Drive from Ravangla toward Borong.
By Local Transport: Hire a pri...By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (125 KMS).
By Train: Reach via NJP Railway Station (120 KMS).
By Road: Drive from Ravangla toward Borong.
By Local Transport: Hire a private cab from Ravangla taxi stand; shared jeeps are not frequently available for this specific interior route. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Autumn: September to November for clear views and festivals.
Winter: December and January for the masked dances.
Spring: March to May for pleasant trekking weather. Early morning is the best time for photo...Autumn: September to November for clear views and festivals.
Winter: December and January for the masked dances.
Spring: March to May for pleasant trekking weather. Early morning is the best time for photography. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. New Ralang Monastery (3 KM), 2. Ralong Hot Springs (4 KM), 3. Borong Village (5 KM), 4. Buddha Park (13 KM), 5. Maenam Hill (10 KM), 6. Bon Monastery (8 KM), 7. Temi Tea Garden (18 KM), 8. Tendong Hill (15 KM), 9. Doling Monastery (12 KM), 10. Namchi (30 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The trek down is steep; wear shoes with good grip.
Packing: Carry warm layers even in summer.
Cash: No ATMs nearby; carry sufficient cash for taxi and donations.
Read MoreHealth & Safety: The trek down is steep; wear shoes with good grip.
Packing: Carry warm layers even in summer.
Cash: No ATMs nearby; carry sufficient cash for taxi and donations.
Connectivity: Mobile signal is very weak; inform your hotel about your return time.
Respect: Do not touch the ancient murals or take photos inside the sanctum where prohibited.Reviews
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