The eye-catching Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which is located in Sikkim, has very illustrious roots: its foundation stone was laid out by the 14th Dalai Lama himself and was inaugurated by the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, in the 16th-century. Its name itself is rooted in history, as it was named after the late King Sir Tashi Namgyal, who also donated the land where the institute now stands. While it is known for housing the rich tradition and history of the practice of Buddhism in Sikkim, it has since become one of the top tourist attractions in the area because of its beauty and serene environment. What’s more, it houses a number of relics that would make you better appreciate the culture of the region. It also hosts a number of research programs that aims to document the social history of about 60 monasteries around Sikkim, as well as digitize old photographs and other materials to help in preserving these. If you’re planning to visit this area, use this guide to Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok, to help you in planning your itinerary.
Highlights
Museum
The museum at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a must-see while you’re visiting it. It houses a number of Buddhist and Tibetan artifacts, as well as some important memorabilia from across the globe. There are even ancient manuscripts in different languages housed here. You can also find traditional art, including statues and figurines. Also in the museum is a casket that features the relics of two Asokan missionaries. If you are a fan of history and religion, you can also find sandalwood images of Guru Rinpoche, who brought Vajrayana Buddhism to Tibet. You can also find a silver image of the enlightened Buddha done in Sikkimese style.
Library
There are two libraries on site: the general library, which features tomes on Buddhism, and the Tibetan Library, which has over 60,000 canonical and non-canonical Tibetan translations of sacred Buddhist transcripts.Stored in the general library are books on philosophy, theology, and Buddhist culture and traditions. It also features xylographs, which are wooden plates with embossed transcripts and are common in Chinese and Tibetan culture. Some of the books in the general library can be photocopied if you want to study the material later, but none of the tomes can be taken out of the library itself to protect them from damage. Even if you’re not a fan of reading, both are still worth checking out, especially if you love learning about religion, culture, and history, as the institute has one of the most extensive collections of Tibetan documents and literature.
Travelers tips
Accessibility
Be aware that cars can only drop you off at the bottom of the hill, and you will need to go on foot uphill to get to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, and if you wish, the Do-Drul Chorten Stupa. While not overly steep, the short walk can be difficult for those who have mobility issues.
Opening time
The institute is open from Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm. Be aware that it is closed on Sundays, every second Saturday of each month, and on official holidays. Make sure to allocate about an hour to explore the institute.
Best time to visit
Try to avoid visiting the area from July to September, which is the rainy season, so you don’t have trouble getting around.
Observe proper etiquette
Make sure to remove your footwear before entering the museum.
Photography
Do note that photography is not allowed within the premises.
Food
If you get hungry, there’s a cafe across the street where you can get some refreshments.
Souvenirs
If you want to buy a keepsake with you to bring back home or to give as a present, there are some small shops around the vicinity of the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology where you can buy art pieces, trinkets, and other gift items.
Nearby attractions
If you have the time, you can visit the Do-Drul Chorten Stupa, which is within walking distance from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The Deorali Bazaar Ropeway Station is also nearby.
How to get there
Car rental
There are car rental services in Sikkim if you plan on driving yourself to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, as well as to the other destinations in the area.
By taxi
Besides renting a car, the easiest way to get to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is by hailing a taxi. Shared taxi is also an option in Sikkim.
By bike
If you want to get a workout while you’re on holiday, you can actually rent a bike so you can travel to the institute on your own steam.
Tour package
If you’re planning on booking a tour around Sikkim, many of the offered packages include the institute as one of its stops.
How to get tickets
Tickets can be purchased on site.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology information
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Address: Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101
Entry fee: 0.15 USD
Official website: Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Department of tourism: Sikkim Tourism
History
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