Ranka Monastery, Gangtok | History, Timings, Best time to Visit
Ranka Monastery, sometimes called Lingdum Monastery, is 20 kilometers from Gangtok and is part of the Zurmang Kagyud school of Buddhism. Spread across a large region, the regal monastery offers visitors breathtaking beautiful vistas. Being relatively young is one of the main reasons it is not discussed much, even though it is regarded as one of the most important and magnificent monasteries in East Sikkim. Nonetheless, the Ranka Monastery’s beauty has drawn certain filmmakers, and it has appeared in a number of Bollywood productions.
Because the Ranka Monastery is surrounded by gorgeously forested mountains, it is one of the most picturesque monasteries in East Sikkim. A two-story building with classrooms for the young lamas to study in is located close by. Monks dressed in exquisite crimson and saffron robes swarm the courtyard whenever there is a pause. Additionally, visitors can take photos with the monks, who remain energetic. For relaxation, there is a café and a gift shop on the property.
The Banjhakri Falls, which are close to the magnificent monastery, are another popular destination here. Adventurers will adore this place because it offers the thrill of paragliding from here to a nearby location. You will experience a great deal of spiritualism at Ranka Monastery together with breathtaking views. It’s worth taking in the splendor here, and don’t forget to talk to the young monks that are trained here.
Religious Importance of Ranka Monastery, Gangtok
The locals in Sikkim consider themselves fortunate to have Ranka Monastery on their property, hence it is very important to them. With the monks constantly saying their prayers, you feel relieved to be in this peaceful location. The monastery is given a heavenly joy by the tranquil surroundings, which also heightens its significance.
History & Architecture of Ranka Monastery, Gangtok
Zurmang Charwang Rinpoche, currently regarded as the 12th incarnation of this lineage, resides in the Ranka Monastery, which was constructed in 1998 CE. Young monks are in charge of this monastery because it is relatively new. It is situated over a large region with beautiful views and was built in the traditional Tibetan architectural style. A huge gold-plated statue of Lord Buddha in the lotus position is housed inside the sanctum. Furthermore, there are low tables in the sanctum where the lamas read their prayer documents.
The inner sanctum of Ranka Monastery is embellished with numerous beautiful paintings and wall hangings to enhance its beauty. Additionally, a two-story structure with multiple classrooms has been built along the courtyard’s edge for the teaching of the young lamas.
Bhumchhu Festival
Numerous Buddhist pilgrims from Bhutan and other nearby regions participate in Bhumchhu, the monastery’s most well-known celebration. Every year, the holy water festival is celebrated here with great fervor. The Bhumchu rite, which is held at this festival on the fourteenth and fifteenth day of the Lunar month each year, involves sanctifying the followers with holy water. At the occasion of this celebration, water is extracted from Ranka monastery once a year. When the celebration is over, the water is sealed and returned to a secure location.
No one ever passes up the opportunity to participate in this celebration since the devotees view it as extremely auspicious. This is where tens of thousands of devotees congregate to watch the divine procession. Beginning around midnight, people form lines to receive the divine water. It’s worth praising the fervor of those who line up for this celebration merely to sip on the sacred water. The duration of this celebration is three days. In addition, there is a lot of excitement here for the Lohsar festival.
Best Time To Visit Ranka Monastery, Gangtok
Because of the calm and agreeable weather, October through November and March through May are the ideal times to visit the Ranka Monastery.
How To Reach Ranka Monastery, Gangtok
Gangtok is about 15 to 20 kilometers away from Ranka Monastery. The monastery is easily accessible via cab. You can board a bus at the Gangtok Bus Stand if you’re searching for a less expensive option.
Weather : 9 – 16°C
Timings : 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Time Required : 1-2 hours
Entry Fee : No entry fee
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