India /Sikkim /East Sikkim /Rumtek

Rumtek also called the Dharmachakra Centre, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Indian state of Sikkim near the capital Gangtok.It is a focal point for the sectarian tensions that characterize the Karmapa Controversy.Originally built by the 9th Karmapa Wangchuk Dorje in 16th century, at the same time as Phodong Monastery and Ralang Monastery, Rumtek served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for some time. But when the 16th Karmapa arrived in Sikkim in 1959, after fleeing Tibet, the monastery was in ruins. Despite being offered other sites, the Karmapa decided to rebuild Rumtek.

Quick Facts-Edit

Category : Cultural

Time Zone: UTC + 5:30 Hours

Pincode: 737135

STD Code: 3595

Info Website: N.A

Best Time to Visit:  October to June

HistoryEdit

Rumtek also called the Dharmachakra Centre, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Indian state of Sikkim near the capital Gangtok. Widely known as Dharma chakra Centre, Rumtek is located in the affluent state of Sikkim in the Gangtok district. It is a beautiful small town which is incredibly famous for its Tibetan Buddhist monastery and is situated at a distance of only 24 Kms from Gangtok. Rumtek travel guide is incomplete without a mention of its natural beauty and serene vegetation. Rumtek is among the most noteworthy and renowned places for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists.The monastery here is an incredibly famous place and attracts a lot of tourists. It being located in the top of a hill and the grandiose entrance adds to its charm. It is situated in the north-east of Gangtok and must be visited during the peak season, when the festivities are in full fervour as it provides an opportunity to have a glimpse of Buddhist monks and experience their rich culture. The monastery also enshrines ancient remnants and has a golden stupa.

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How to ReachEdit

By Air : The nearest airport is Bagdogra, 126 km south of Rumtek Monastery. The airport is connected to Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. International travelers can get connecting flights from Kolkata or Delhi. There are jeeps, taxis and private vehicles available from Bagdogra airport and from Gangtok Helipad, about 25 km north of Rumtek, to reach the monastery.

By Train : The nearest railways station is in Siliguri; about 118 km south of the monastery, but New Jalpaiguri is better connected to important cities in India. New Jalpaiguri is nearly 160 km from Gangtok. Jeeps, taxis and private vehicles are available from both the railways stations to reach the monastery.

By Bus : There is regular bus service from Gangtok, Bagdogra, Kalimpong and Darjeeling to the monastery.

By Taxi : N.A

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FestivalAdd

Lampokhari Tourism Festival ; Venue:  Rumtek ; Period :  March and April ; Details:  It is celebrated in the month of March and April and is marked with boating in the Lampokhari Lake, horse Equestrian activity around the Lake, conservational archery contest and short treks to hilltops and scenic points. The festival offers visitors cultural shows, exotic flowers and local ethnic cuisine to excite your taste buds.

Safety / WarningEdit

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HelplineEdit

• Ambulance : 102
• Fire Brigade : 101
• Police : 100

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