Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, is a prominent gompa situated near Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Originally constructed in the mid-18th century, Rumtek served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for a period. However, by the time Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, the 16th Karmapa, arrived in Sikkim in 1959 after fleeing Tibet, the monastery was in a state of disrepair.
Despite being offered alternative locations, the 16th Karmapa chose to rebuild Rumtek due to the site's auspicious qualities. Surrounded by flowing streams, protective mountains, a snow-capped range in front, and a river below, the site was considered ideal. With the support of the Sikkimese royal family and local residents, the Karmapa undertook the reconstruction of Rumtek, establishing it as his main seat in exile.
After four years of construction, the new monastery was completed. Sacred items and relics brought from Tsurphu Monastery, the Karmapa's seat in Tibet, were installed in the new structure. On Losar in 1966, the 16th Karmapa officially inaugurated the new seat, naming it the Dharma Chakra Centre, a place of deep learning and spiritual practice, and the seat of the glorious Karmapa.
Today, Rumtek Monastery stands as the largest monastery in Sikkim, home to a community of monks dedicated to the rituals and practices of the Karma Kagyu lineage. The monastery also houses a golden stupa containing the relics of the 16th Karmapa. Opposite the main building is the Karma Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, an esteemed educational institution.
Located 24 kilometers (15 miles) from Gangtok, at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), Rumtek Monastery remains a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in Sikkim.
