The Ralang Monastery is located around 6 km from Ravangla, in the southern portion of Sikkim. Starting off from the Main Bazaar road in Ravangla, cross past all the shops to follow the jeepable road for about 20 minutes. This road will ultimately lead you to the Ralang Monastery.
As per records, the monastery was constructed post the pilgrimage of the of the fourth Chogyal. After his return, the Karmapa performed the Rabney or blessing. The grains that he threw from the Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet (the main seat of Karmapa) fell on the ground of Ralang and was witnessed by devotees. As such it became the site for the Ralang Monastery. Reconstruction work was carried out in this monastery by the government between the period of 1975 -81. This old Ralang Monastery is one of the most important and sacred monasteries in Sikkim following the Kagyupa tradition.
A new monastery, "Palchen Choeling Monastic Institute", came up in the year 1995. It was constructed by the XIIth Gyaltsab Rimpoche who is counted amongst the four regents of the Kagyupa sect. Despite its recent construction, the monastery structure proves that meticulous care has been undertaken to maintain the authentic Tibetan architecture. Also, the paintings of the monastery is one of its huge highlights.
The monastery is home to around 100 monks.
Festivals
The old Ralang monastery celebrates "Pang Lhabsol" or the worship of Mt Khangchendzonga & "Kagyad", Chaam masked dances annually on the 15th day of the seventh month of the Buddhist calendar (August / September) and on the 29th day of the tenth month (December ) just before Losoong - the Sikkimese New Year. The sacred "Mahakala Dance" takes place every year in the month of November.
Ravangla
Ravangla is situated in the south Sikkim, 22 km from Namchi (close to Sikkim-West Bengal border) and 120 km from Siliguri. Situated at an altitude of 8000 feet, it has sprung up as a tourist spot in fairly recent times. Its awesome beauty is one that elates all hearts. Stunning beauty of the snow ranges of Greater Himalayas. Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Sinialchu, Mt. Kabru are extremely fascinating here. If you are visiting during the months of April and May, a delightful spectacle of thousands of known and unknown flowers in full bloom will greet you to this place. Combine this beautiful trip with a visit to the Buddhsit monasteries of the region and enjoy a completely satisfying trip.
Ravangla has quiet a few accommodation option if you wish to stay overnight here. Alternatively, you could also put up at Namchi. Remember, credit cards are not accepted at any of the hotels here.
Other Attractions
- Kewzing Monastery: This monastery that stands near Kewzing in south Sikkim was constructed during the rule of Chogyal Thutob Namgyal. It is 5 km away from Ravangla.
- Tumlong: The monastery was constructed in the year 1840 and is situated near Kewzing village in south Sikkim. The term Dalling means 'the thunderbolt'.
- Mangbrue Gompa & View Point: This gompa is more famous for the fantastic views it offers of the mountain and hills. It is located 8 km above Kewzing.
- Yangyang Monastery: The monastery, located 10km downhill from Ravangla, was constructed in the year 1840. Tha name of the monastery, Yangyang, implies 'the ridge of fortune'..
- Tashiding Monastery : This is one of the most famous monasteries of the state and is situated around 39 km away from Ravangla. It was constructed in the year 1716. The annual festival of 'Bumchu' is celebrated in this monastery. Of special mention in this festival is the custom of opening the barrel filled with holy water. The level of water seen at the opening of the barrel is indicative of the kind of year that will follow.
- Namchi Monastery: Erected during the rule of Chogyal Gurmed Namgyal, this monastery stands in Namchi, the district headquarters of south Sikkim.
How to Reach
By Air - The nearest airport is located at Bagdogra which is 112 km from Namchi. Flights to and from Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati and Patna land at this airport.
By Rail - New Jalpaiguri, at a distance of 107 km from Namchi, is the closest rail head.
By Road - From Bagdogra, taxis with Namchi permit are available to transfer you to Namchi. From Siliguri, Namchi is a drive of three hours ( 102 km). By bus, You can reach upto Jorethang (83 km) and from there proceed on a taxi to Namchi. From Namchi to Ravangla, it is a distance of just 22 km which can be covered by shared jeep, car or buses.
Alternatively, a much better option to reach Ravangla is to go directly from Siliguri on a jeep taxi or a shared jeep. The distance is around 120 km which is completed in 4 hours. If you opt for a bus from Siliguri to Ravangla, it will take around 5 hours.
