About Rinchen Chholing Monastery
Rinchen Chholing Monastery, also known as Rinchenpong Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery located in Rinchenpong in Soreng District, Sikkim, India. Established in 1730 and belonging to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, it is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. Set on a ridge with views of the Kanchenjunga range, it is known for its traditional architecture, murals, and serene religious atmosphere.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a tranquil hilltop monastery complex with traditional Sikkimese-Tibetan architecture, prayer halls adorned with murals and thangkas, statues of Buddhist deities, and prayer flags. The monastery is set in a forested ridge offering views of surrounding valleys and the Kanchenjunga range on clear days. Visitors can explore the main shrine hall, observe monks in prayer, and experience a quiet, spiritual environment.
Key highlights
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One of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Sikkim established in 1730
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Traditional Tibetan-Buddhist architecture with colourful murals and thangkas
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Statue of Ati Buddha (Adi-Buddha) in the main prayer hall
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Panoramic views of Kanchenjunga range and surrounding valleys
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Peaceful forested hilltop setting in Rinchenpong
History of Rinchen Chholing Monastery
Rinchen Chholing Monastery at Rinchenpong was established in 1730 by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phuntsok Rigzing. It belongs to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism and is considered the third oldest monastery in Sikkim after Pemayangtse and Tashiding. It has historically served as an important religious centre for western Sikkim.
Culture & Context
The monastery is an important centre of Nyingma Buddhism in Sikkim. It houses sacred images including Ati Buddha, murals and thangkas, and serves as a place of daily prayer, rituals and festivals for the local Buddhist community. It reflects the cultural and religious heritage of Sikkim's Bhutia and Lepcha communities.
Route
| By air |
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