Ralong Monastery
The Ralong Monastery complex represents the dual heritage of the Kagyu sect, consisting of the ancient 18th-century Gompa and the majestic 1995 Monastic Institute. Together, they form the most important religious center in South Sikkim. This destination offers a unique contrast between the intimate , historical spirituality of the old site and the grand, institutional scale of the new one. Visitors typically start at the new monastery to admire the architecture and then trek to the old one for a more secluded experience. The entire area is considered highly sacred, believed to be blessed by the 9th Karmapa himself. The combined visit provides a comprehensive understanding of how Buddhist traditions have evolved while remaining rooted in ancient legends. The complex is a hub for festivals, specifically the Pang Lhabsol, which draws people from across the state. The monks here are known for their hospitality and are often willing to share stories of the monastery's history. The landscape surrounding the two sites is a mix of dense forest, terraced fields, and snow-capped mountain views. Walking between the two monasteries allows travelers to experience the true rural beauty of Sikkim. It is common to see young monks playing football in the courtyards, showcasing a more human side to the monastic life. The air here is thin and crisp, filled with the scent of burning juniper and the sound of distant drums. For any traveler to Ravangla, this combined site is the spiritual highlight of the trip. It offers a perfect blend of history, art, adventure, and peace. It is a place where one can spend an entire day and still find new corners of beauty and devotion to explore.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
4 HoursPlace Type:
Category: Heritage & PilgrimageEntry Fees:
Free Entry: Admission to both monasteries is free.
Suggested Donation: A combined donation of INR 100-200 is recommended for the upkeep of both historical and modern facilities. ...Free Entry: Admission to both monasteries is free.
Suggested Donation: A combined donation of INR 100-200 is recommended for the upkeep of both historical and modern facilities.Timing:
Regular Timings: 8. 00 AM to 5. 30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start at 9. 00 AM at the New Monastery and reach the Old Monastery by 11. 00 AM to enjoy the full experience before the afternoon clouds gather. ...Regular Timings: 8. 00 AM to 5. 30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start at 9. 00 AM at the New Monastery and reach the Old Monastery by 11. 00 AM to enjoy the full experience before the afternoon clouds gather.Special Events:
Cham Dance: A religious mask dance performed during the Tibetan 10th month.
Saga Dawa: Celebrating Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death with elaborate rituals across both monasteries. ...Cham Dance: A religious mask dance performed during the Tibetan 10th month.
Saga Dawa: Celebrating Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death with elaborate rituals across both monasteries.Best Photo Spots:
The Trail Midway: A spot on the path where both monasteries are partially visible through the trees.
Golden Spire: The top of the new monastery during sunrise.
Ancient Doors: The weathered, colorful doors o...The Trail Midway: A spot on the path where both monasteries are partially visible through the trees.
Golden Spire: The top of the new monastery during sunrise.
Ancient Doors: The weathered, colorful doors of the old monastery.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Comparative Architecture Study: Compare the art and building techniques of the two eras.
Trekking: Walk the 3 KM path connecting the two sites.
Participating in Chants: Join the monks during the morning prayer session.
Butter Lamp Lighting: Light lamps at both the old and new altars.
Nature Photography: Capture the monasteries against the backdrop of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Visiting the Dispensary: See the traditional herbal medicine center run by the monks.
Exploring Stupas: Visit the various white stupas scattered around the hillsides of the complex. ...Comparative Architecture Study: Compare the art and building techniques of the two eras.
Trekking: Walk the 3 KM path connecting the two sites.
Participating in Chants: Join the monks during the morning prayer session.
Butter Lamp Lighting: Light lamps at both the old and new altars.
Nature Photography: Capture the monasteries against the backdrop of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Visiting the Dispensary: See the traditional herbal medicine center run by the monks.
Exploring Stupas: Visit the various white stupas scattered around the hillsides of the complex.
Information
-
Why Famous:
Complete Lineage History: It is the only place where one can witness the physical evolution of the Karma Kagyu seat in Sikkim over three centuries.
Festival Epicenter: Famous for being the primary venue for the Kagyed dances, which are cons...Complete Lineage History: It is the only place where one can witness the physical evolution of the Karma Kagyu seat in Sikkim over three centuries.
Festival Epicenter: Famous for being the primary venue for the Kagyed dances, which are considered the most authentic in the region. -
Architecture:
Dual Monastic Styles: The site features both the 1768 stone-and-timber construction and the 1995 reinforced concrete architecture.
Dimensions: The total area of the complex spans several acres, with the new monastery's spire reaching approx...Dual Monastic Styles: The site features both the 1768 stone-and-timber construction and the 1995 reinforced concrete architecture.
Dimensions: The total area of the complex spans several acres, with the new monastery's spire reaching approximately 75 feet in height. The old monastery's smaller footprint is characterized by low ceilings and intimate prayer spaces, contrasting with the new monastery's high-domed ceilings. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Bagdogra (126 KMS) is the standard entry point.
By Train: NJP Station followed by a 4-hour drive.
By Road: Centralized access from Ravangla via the Ralong Road.
By Loca...By Air: Bagdogra (126 KMS) is the standard entry point.
By Train: NJP Station followed by a 4-hour drive.
By Road: Centralized access from Ravangla via the Ralong Road.
By Local Transport: Private taxis are the best option; ask the driver to drop you at the new monastery and pick you up near the old one. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Autumn: October to November for the best visibility.
Spring: March to April for rhododendrons.
Winter: For a snowy, quiet atmosphere.
Summer: Pleasant for walking between t...Autumn: October to November for the best visibility.
Spring: March to April for rhododendrons.
Winter: For a snowy, quiet atmosphere.
Summer: Pleasant for walking between the sites but carries rain risks. Afternoon is ideal for seeing the monks' activities. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Buddha Park (6 KM), 2. Ralong Hot Springs (5 KM), 3. Borong Village (4 KM), 4. Bon Monastery (7 KM), 5. Kewzing (5 KM), 6. Doling Monastery (11 KM), 7. Temi Tea Garden (16 KM), 8. Tendong Hill (14 KM), 9. Namchi (28 KM), 10. Samdruptse (30 KM).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Be prepared for a moderate walk; carry a walking stick if needed.
Packing: Comfortable hiking shoes are a must.
Cash: Carry cash for the monastery cafe and donations; ATMs are only in Rav...Health & Safety: Be prepared for a moderate walk; carry a walking stick if needed.
Packing: Comfortable hiking shoes are a must.
Cash: Carry cash for the monastery cafe and donations; ATMs are only in Ravangla market.
Connectivity: Patchy network; stay close to the main buildings for a signal.
Respect: Maintain a quiet demeanor and walk clockwise around all religious structures.
Reviews
FAQs
Ravangla Itineray And Cost:-
Ralong Monastery Tourism:-
Other Places In Ravangla :-
Other States In India :-
Information about New and Updated Locations() of Sikkim Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
Near Places
Bon Monastery
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Borong Hot Springs
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Buddha Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Doling Gompa
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Doling Monastery
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kewzing Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kheunpheling Carpet Centre
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Khundirke Falls
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Lingmoo Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Maenam Hill
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Old Legship Suspension Bridge
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Old Ralang Monastery
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ralang Monastery
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ralong Hot Springs
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ralong Monastery
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Rangit View Point
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities