About Sanga Choeling Monastery
This monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling and the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in 1697 AD, it is considered to be the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. In order to reach this Monastery one has to be prepared to spend at least 40 minutes walking up the steep hilly slope which leads through rich forest covers.
History
The Sanga Choeling Monastery, also spelt Sange Choeling Monastery, established in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, is one of the oldest monasteries in the Northeast Indian state of Sikkim. The literal meaning of Sanga Choeling is the “island of esoteric teaching”. The Monastery is located on a ridge top above Pelling at a distance of 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) from Pemayangtse Monastery and is accessed by walking the steep hilly track of 4 kilometres (2.5 mi), which traverses through rich forest cover.
Pilgrimage to Sanga Choeling Monastery is undertaken by many Buddhist devotees as part of religious and also heritage circuit encompassing the Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rabdentse ruins, the Khecheopalri lake, the Norbugang Chorten, the Dubdi Monastery, Yuksom and the Tashiding Monastery.
Architecture
Sanga Cheoling Monastery, built in 1697, is also known as the place of secret spells. It has clay statues dating back to the 17th century. The monastery was affected by fire several times and was rebuilt. The Monastery’s location provides very scenic and panoramic view all round.
Religiosity
On the tenth day of every month according to Tibetan calendar, lamas recite hymns at this monastery. Every morning and evening prayers are special here. The monastery is reserved for males only and belongs to the Yellow Hat sect.