Tashiding Monastery

Tashiding Monastery is a prominent Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop at Tashiding in Gyalshing District, Sikkim, between the Rathong Chu and Rangeet rivers. Founded in 1641 and belonging to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism, it is one of Sikkim's most sacred monasteries. Notable for its sacred chorten Thongwa Rangdol, extensive mani stone walls, and panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, it is a major pilgrimage site and center for the annual Bumchu festival.

Visitors can expect a hilltop monastery complex reached by a steep uphill walk with stone steps, surrounded by forested slopes and river valleys. The complex includes the main prayer hall with Buddhist murals and statues, the sacred Thongwa Rangdol chorten, long mani stone walls inscribed with mantras, prayer flags, and smaller shrines. The site offers panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding ranges, a tranquil environment for sightseeing, photography of exteriors and landscapes, and observation of monastic rituals.

Founded in 1641 by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing, one of the three lamas who performed the consecration of the first Chogyal of Sikkim. It is one of the oldest and holiest monasteries of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim and was extended and renovated by Pedi Wangmo during the reign of Chogyal Chakdor Namgyal.

Highly sacred to followers of Nyingma Buddhism. Houses the sacred chorten Thongwa Rangdol, believed to purify sins of all who see it. Famous for the annual Bumchu festival held on 14th-15th day of first Tibetan lunar month, when lamas open a sacred vase containing holy water to predict the coming year's fortunes. The monastery is a major pilgrimage destination and center for Buddhist teachings and rituals.