Best 5 Historical Places to Visit in Sikkim
Sikkim is a land that has centuries old history and heritage associated with Buddhism. Before becoming a part of India, Sikkim was ruled by many dynasties who left a cultural and historical impact on the present day Sikkim. These historical sites are still present in Sikkim and are quite the tourist attraction. And it’s not just history buffs, nature lovers and photographers also visit these places to learn and appreciate Sikkim and its heritage. These historical sites include century old monasteries, historical ruins, and sacred lakes. These historical places in Sikkim give visitors peace, relaxation, and abundant knowledge about the gone-by era that has led Sikkim to the present day.
If you are planning a Sikkim tour and want to explore the historical sites of Sikkim, keep reading.
Best 5 Historical Places to Visit in Sikkim
Table of Contents
1. Dubdi Monastery
2. Rabdentse Ruins
3. Khecheopalri Lake
4. Sanghak Choeling Monastery
5. Coronation Throne of Norbugang
1. Dubdi Monastery
Start your historical tour of Sikkim with one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, the Dubdi monastery. The monastery is believed to be established in 1701 by the Chogyal dynasty. The monastery was called the Hermit’s Cell because of the ascetic who found it, called Lhatsun Namkha Jigme. Even the word Dubdi means retreat in the local language. The location of the monastery is in Yuksom village and you can reach here by going through a pathway from a scenic forest. The inside of the monastery is filled with paintings, murals and beautiful Tibetan styled design. This monastery is also a part of Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
- Location: Yuksom, West Sikkim
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Rabdentse Ruins
Travel a few kilometers from Pelling and you will reach Rabdentse Ruins, also known as the Machu Picchu of India. These ruins narrate the story of a bygone era. This place was once called the second capital of Sikkim’s vibrant kingdom but unfortunately was destroyed by Gurkhas. When you reach the site, you will see the ruins of the palace, chortens, and courtyards. The Rabdentse Ruins have been recognised by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Around the ruin complex you will find the Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park which is home to 200 of the 550 avian species. When you enter through the gates of Ruins, you will go through a picturesque trek through a jungle and lake that will lead you to rampart. The three tall chortens are like soldiers. From here you can get stunning views of the surroundings. It is one of the most enchanting historical places to visit in Sikkim.
- Location: Near Pelling, West Sikkim
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 20
Suggested Read : Experience the Magic of the Langtang Valley Trek in Just 10 Days
3. Khecheopalri Lake
Khecheopalri Lake is a part of Buddhist circuit pilgrimage and is said to be 3500 years old.
The natives believe that whosoever prays and wishes from a sincere heart gets their wishes fulfilled. The greenish waters of the lake reflects the sky and trees and has a mystica. serenity about it. The many Tibetan prayer flags around the lake signifies its religious importance for Buddhists. However, this lake also holds religious significance for Hindus as well. The pious and transcendental vibe around the lake must be experienced in person for you to actually feel it. Since, this lake is one of the most sacred historical places in Sikkim, visitors are advised to maintain decorum. Do not wash hands or bathe in the lake. Similarly don’t camp around or litter around the lake.
- Location: West Sikkim
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
4. Sanghak Choeling Monastery
How about visiting a 17th century old monastery on your Sikkim tour to historical places? Hike up a hill and you will find an isolated but beautiful monastery. The Sanghak Choeling Monastery offers a vantage point from where you can watch the panoramic views of mountains and valleys. You can head here if you are going to be at the Sikkim’s Skywalk. The monastery was built by Gyalwa Lhatsum Chempo and gained acclamation among the followers of the Nyingmapa sect of the ancient school of Tibetan Buddhism. One thing to note here is that the entry into the monastery is strictly restricted to the Bhutia and Lepcha communities.
- Location: Pelling, West Sikkim
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Coronation Throne of Norbugang
At this historical place in SIkkim, the coronation of Sikkim’s first Chogyal King, Phuntsog Namgyal took place in the year 1642. In close proximity, you will also find Kuthok Lake around the throne of Norbugang. There is a big throne, a stupa, a prayer wheel and many prayer flags around the site. The throne has the appearance of a podium, the one we see in the Olympics or Asian games.
- Location: Yuksom, West Sikkim
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 10
If you are on a short Sikkim trip and want to cover the top historical places, visit the above-mentioned destinations.
