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You will find the divine Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim’s lofty mountains and mystical valleys. Perched atop a heart-shaped hill overlooking the Rathong and Rangit Rivers, the monastery exudes an aura of serenity. With Mount Kanchenjunga standing tall in the backdrop, Tashiding Monastery is a sight.
The quaint hamlet of Tashiding houses one of the most sacred Buddhist monasteries in Northeast India. Belonging to the Nyingmapa order of Vajrayana Buddhism, Tashiding Monastery traces its history back to 1717. The region is believed to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. His divine presence is still felt by devotees coming from far and wide.
You can feel the tranquil vibes as you go through the fluttering prayer flags to the monastery entrance. The spiritual energy is palpable and alluring. Read on as we take you through all the things to do in Tashiding Monastery to help plan your visit to this holy site.
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The monastery architecture itself will leave you spellbound. As you enter through the traditional wooden door, you’ll notice the frontal facade decorated with murals, manuscripts, and the religious symbols of “Om Mane Padme Hum.” Adorning the monastery walls are 41 engraved holy stone plates called ‘manis.’
The main prayer hall enshrines beautiful statues of Buddhist deities and Rimpoche, and this can be the favorite of all the things to do in Tashiding Monastery. The vibrant colors, sublime artifacts, and glowing butter lamps emit a divine glow. Take a peaceful stroll around the old stupas with inscriptions of Buddhist teachings all over. The charming setting dotted with vibrant blooms will delight your senses.
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One of the significant highlights of Tashiding Monastery is the mystical stupa called ‘Tong-Hwa-rang-Do.’ The stupa is believed to wash away all your sins if you merely focus on it. It symbolizes Buddha’s divine power, which can enlighten anyone just by a glimpse.
As per legends, the Stupa contains holy water, sacred soil, precious gems, etc., collected from various pilgrimages. Missing this, one of the many things to do in Tashiding Monastery will be no less than regrettable. Several devotees ritualistically pour water over the Stupa while circumambulating it. Watching the water trickle down the sides, forming a little stream, is a sight of tranquility.
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To get a peek into Sikkim’s local culture and traditions, attend the annual Bhumchu festival. Celebrated in February or March, the Bhumchu festival draws crowds in huge numbers. Also called the Water Festival, it was started centuries ago by Guru Rimpoche himself.
On auspicious days, the monks ceremoniously open the ‘Bhumchu pot’ containing holy water. The water level in the pot determines the predictions for the coming year. It is an important day for all Sikkimese people. Watch attractive masked dances, partake in the rituals, savor traditional cuisine, and soak in the festive merriment. So, do not forget to add this to your list of things to do in Tashiding Monastery.
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What better place to meditate than these mystic lands believed to be blessed by Guru Rimpoche himself? Tashiding Monastery provides the perfect ambiance for meditation. Find your inner peace as you meditate while visually soaking in the vibrant prayer flags fluttering against the mighty Himalayas.
You can join the monks during their meditation ritual and chant the sacred Buddhist hymn of Om Mani Padme Hum along with them. The positive vibes and soothing spiritual energy will relax your mind, body, and soul. Spend a few hours meditating here for life-long memories.
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As you get drawn into the spiritual vortex of Tashiding Monastery, don’t forget to uncover some precious divine mementos to take back. From singing bowls emanating the hum of om mani padme hum to prayer flags fluttering tales of the Buddha, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Run your fingers over the meticulously knitted mufflers and stoles, with dragon motifs glowing fiercely. The kaleidoscopic masks staring back at you reflect the divine imagery of mystical Tibetan lore. Intricately etched bells promise to ward off evil spirits. Fragrant incense sticks to transport your home to these very prayer halls. Those prayer wheels – spin them every day to be blessed with the monk’s chants making the shopping from here as your most favorite of things to do in Tashiding Monastery.
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Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when you’re enjoying things to do in Tashiding Monastery:
You can immerse yourself in divinity at the Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim. This sacred monastery will leave you spiritually rejuvenated with memories to last a lifetime. The vibrant prayer flags with Buddhist inscriptions look mesmerizing against the mighty Himalayas. Do not miss visiting this holy monastery on your trip to Northeast India for inner peace and mental well-being.
