Dubdi Monastery

Dubdi Monastery, alternatively known as Yuksom Monastery, is a Buddhist shrine of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism near Yuksom. Established in the year 1701, during the reign of Chogyal Namgyal, is considered to be the oldest monastery in Sikkim, carrying immense historical significance to it. The literal meaning of the word ‘Dubdi’ is ‘the retreat’ which clearly be seen authenticating itself through its mesmerizing hilltop location amidst the thick chestnut forest.

This elaborately painted two-storied stone structure stands at an altitude of 2,100 metres carrying images of divinities, saints, other symbols, and a collection of manuscripts and texts. Along with these, there are statues of three lamas positioned in the monastery, who worked towards the establishment of Yuksom. The ornamented bell-shaped gilded dome on top of the roof is known as “Gyaltshen”.

Location: Near Yuksom, Yuksom, Sikkim