Enchey Monastery

Enchey Monastery, meaning 'the solitary temple', is a holy pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists situated in the magical wonderland of Gangtok surrounded by natural beauty. The presence of tall pine trees, flowery meadows, and the beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga Hills give the devotees a feeling of being in the middle of a serene and blessed environment. Situated 3 km to the northeast of Gangtok, this monastery is about 200 years old. History has it that Lama Druptob Karpo, who was a very famous tantric with flying powers, flew down to the Maenam Hill and built a hermitage at this exquisite location which was later renovated under the rule of Sidkeong Tulku in the Chinese Pagoda style.

History

This 200-year-old Monastery lies 3 km to the northeast of Gangtok. It is an important seat of the Nyingmapa order of the Vajrayana school of Buddhism. It is believed that Lama Druptob Karpo; a renowned tantric blessed with flying powers, flew from Maenam Hill and constructed a hermitage at this mesmerizing location. That had been renovated in Chinese pagoda-style under the reign of Sidkeong Tulku (1909 1910). At present, this sanctimonious monastery is home to 90 monks. The Monastery pays its reverence to Buddha, Loki Sharia, and Guru Padmasambhava.

Architecture

The Enchey Monastery was constructed in 1840 by the eighth Chogyal after which the small hamlet of Gangtok grew into a pilgrim place. The monastery was built in 1909 just like a Chinese Pagoda during the rule of Sikyong Tulku. The foundation was laid down at the same point where Lama Druptub Karbo had his hermitage. The famed monastery also consists of a shining golden cupola on the top and houses a variety of images of Gods, religious objects, and Goddesses.
The principal deities worshipped at Enchey Monastery include Loki Sharia, Lord Buddha, and Guru Padmasambhava. The walls of the large prayer hall are entirely covered with paintings, and murals of the four religious kings, the deities of the four cardinal directions, and the galaxy of Mahayana Buddhist deities. The manuscripts of scriptures are stored in an almirah. The regal monastery has four pillars that support it and are exquisitely carved.
The Enchey Monastery which was constructed under the Nyingma order houses a total of 90 monks inside. The windows are ornately carved and painted. There is an extensive collection of masks that is used for the various ritual dances that are held here every year. It also has a serene atmosphere just like its name and maintains a really good library worth visiting. Colorful prayer flags are fluttering around the monastery as well which creates a very peaceful environment altogether.