Caves In Sikkim

Sikkim has Four Great Holy Caves – ‘Phug Chen Zhi’, which are included in ‘gNas-Chen-InGa’ (Paanch Dhaam) of Sikkim. These Caves are located in four cardinal directions of Tashiding (West Sikkim), namely –Sharchog Beyphug in the East, Lho Kando Sangphug in the South, Nub Dechenphug in the West, and Jhang Lhari Nyingphug in the North. Tashiding, according to the Holy text, is the Navel point of “Bayul Demajong”, and is considered the Dhaam of this Holy Land.

Guru Padmasambhava sanctified these Caves as the abodes of various Protective Divinities of Esoteric Buddhism. Today, these Caves have become the most important pilgrim destination of the Buddhist followers of Sikkim, Darjeeling, and the devotees of Bhutan. For the Sikkimese Buddhists, these Caves are like the ‘Char Dhaam’ of the Hindus. The ardent Buddhist devotees especially from Sikkim make a pilgrimage to these caves at least once in their lifetime.

Lha-Ri-Nying Phu in the North

Located in the north of Tashiding, this place is held to be a sacred cave in Sikkim. It is also known as the cave of God.

Kah-Do-Sang Phu in the South

The cave of the occult fairies lies close to the Reshi hot springs which by the way are known for their therapeutic value. Why the name ‘occult fairies’ footprints on a rock in river Rangit can still be seen that are believed to be of the fairies?

Pe Phu in the East

It is positioned between the Tendong and Maenam hills. Pe Phu or secret cave is a huge grotto that is said to extend from the Tendong to the Maenam hill.

De-Chhen Phu in the West

This cave of great happiness as it is called is best accessed during the month of autumn when the entrance is not covered in snow.