Sanghak Choeling Gompa

Sikkim

Near the foot of the vast new Chenrezig Statue, this monastery complex is a contrastingly calm, meditative place with fabulous views, with seven stone stupas on its south side that are attractively unpainted.

It was founded in 1649, along with now-bigger Pemayangtse, by Lhatsun Chenpo – the great lama who had recently left Yuksom after conducting the coronation ceremony for Sikkim's first chogyal (king). The main monastery building was rebuilt in 1714 and 1966 and has a vividly painted interior. It's 2km from the Upper Pelling junction but the last 800m of rocky road is too rough and steep for most taxis. Walk or take a fearless jeep.

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