Yuksum Monastery
Dubdi is also regarded as Yuksum (Yuksom) Monastery and belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1701 by Chogyal Namgyal, it is considered to be the oldest monastery in the state. The word 'Dubdi' in the vernacular tongue means to retreat. The monastery is a two-storeyed structure made of stone. It is situated at an altitude of 2,100 m and has an elaborately painted interior. One can find images of divinities, saints, and a collection of manuscripts inside. There are two aisles where rare collections of manuscripts and religious texts are preserved. The monastery has an important historical connotation as it is linked to the founding of the state at Yuksum (Yuksom) in the mid-17th century by Lhetsum Chenpo and his two associate lamas. The monastery provides a magnificent bird's eye view and enables visitors to witness Cupressus funebris, a species of cypress brought by Latshen Chem Po from Kham village in Tibet.
History
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 be seen authenticating itself through its mesmerizing hilltop location amidst the thick chestnut forest. A fair walk to the monastery introduces you to nature’s wonderland embellished with fine tall trees, a gorgeous stoned path eventually leading to the panoramic view of the snow-peaked mountains, and the far-off valleys and greenery.
Architecture
This elaborately painted two-storied stone structure stands at an altitude of 2,100 meters 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”. Dubdi is a sacred place named the Hermit’s Cell after the crowning of Phuntsog Namgyal as the first King or Chogyal of Sikkim at Norbugang Yuksom in the year 1642.
