Day 3: Gangtok
After breakfast sightseeing in Gangtok visiting Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (Closed on Saturday / Sunday & Govt. Holidays), Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts (Closed on Saturday / Sunday & Govt. Holidays) and Flower Exhibition Centre.
Rumtek Monastery:- 24 kms from Gangtok is the awe-inspiring Rumtek Monastery, the World Dharma Chakra Centre and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa, who is the head of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Behind the main monastery is the lavishly decorated Karmae Nalanda Institute of Buddhist Studies, which attracts students from all over the world. Opposite the entrance to the institute is a small hall featuring a beautiful jewel - studded Chorten, the Golden Stupa, which contains the ashes and remains of His Holiness the XVI Gyalwa Karmapa. According to legend, it is believed that after years of meditation, the first Karmapa was visited by ten thousand fairies who came to congratulate him, each of whom offered a strand of her hair as a gift. These were said to have been woven into a black hat, which was passed down and is still at Rumtek Monastery today. It is said that unless held on to by the wearer (who, of course, cannot be anyone else but the Karmapa) or kept in a box, the hat would fly away.
The Do Drul Chorten was built to commemorate the victory of good over evil, and the Jhang Chub Chorten was built in the memory of Thrukshik Rinpoche, an ardent devotee, a great spiritualist and interpreter of Buddhism. Near the Chorten are housed two giant statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology:- Amidst serene surroundings of oak, birch and ash lies the unique organization established in 1958. Built in traditional style, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology promotes research in Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet. It has one of the world’s largest collections of rare books and manuscripts on Mahayana Buddhism. The institute also has a retail outlet where related books and commercially produced religious art and crafts of Tibet can be bought.
Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts:- This directorate was set up to promote traditional Sikkimese art and handicrafts. Exquisitely carved wooden friezes, intricate bamboo work, along with beautiful handwoven carpets and handlooms are on exhibit here. Visitors can not only purchase these items here but also see the artisans at work. Among others, a favourite item here is the choktse, a wooden table with carved panels that can be folded into a portable pack.
Flower Exhibition Centre:- The Flower Exhibition Centre, situated in Gangtok, showcases flowers from different parts of Sikkim under a single roof, making it a heaven for all nature lovers. Located right across the White Memorial Hall and below the Ridge Park, it lies within walking distance from MG Marg. Though the flowers are displayed here throughout the year, the annual flower show held from April to May should not be missed, as during this time numerous varieties of orchids along with other flowers from around the state are presented. Participants from neighbouring states are invited to be part of the annual flower contest held on the premises by the Government of Sikkim. A medium - sized tropical greenhouse, the centre is filled with unusual species of plants, including numerous species of fresh orchids, namely Anthurium and Lilium. The presence of such colourful flowers along with their enchanting fragrance fills the entire centre, making it a very refreshing place for visitors. This lovely place is fantastic to spend time just looking at the flowers and clicking pictures. In addition, there is an artificial water pond along with a bridge constructed over it where tourists can take a stroll while enjoying the pleasant ambience around. One is likely to get amazing photographs among the colourful and bright bushes and flowers. This place is worth a visit if you are planning a trip to Gangtok, as looking at the ever - smiling flowers is sure to freshen you up entirely and brighten your day.
Overnight at hotel.