Sanga Choeling

One of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim, the Sang Choling Monastery has been built according to the Tibetan style of architecture. It houses several ancient paintings, accessories, and clay statues, which date back to the 17th century. The monastery is an important site of the heritage circuit for Buddhist devotees and was built in 1697 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo. It is believed that secret mantras (guhyamantra) were taught here in ancient times. Situated amidst a picturesque backdrop of the Great Himalayas, the monastery also provides spectacular natural views. Entry to it is restricted to men and no one apart from the members of the Bhutia and Lepcha communities is allowed in the inner sanctum. Another attraction is a 300-year-old crematorium located nearby.

History

Sanga Choeling Monastery, which means the place of secret spells, was built in 1697 CE by Lama Lhatsun Chempo. Located atop a high ridge, this is extremely acclaimed among the followers of the Nyingmapa sect of the ancient school of Tibetan Buddhism. In ancient times, Guhyamantra i.e. secret mantras were taught here. The monastery only houses male monks and belongs to the Nyingma sector. Entry into the inner sanctum of Sanga Choeling Monastery is strictly restricted to the Bhutia and Lepcha communities.

Architecture

The Sange Choeling Monastery is known as the place for sacred spells. It is built in a traditional Tibetan style of architecture and houses a sacred Buddhist crematorium named Dhutoe Silwar Tshar which is around 300 years old. The crematorium has become public only recently. All the artifacts, statues, paintings, and other relics present in the monastery date back to the 17th century.