Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

    About on the same height, 24 Kms away from Gangtok, on the other side of the Ranipool valley is the seat of head Kagyu-pa sect---Gyalwa Karmapa. The sect, which was founded in 11th century, has its teachings transmitted orally. The main structure which was built by Gyalwa Karmapa strictly according to architectural designs from the monastery in Tibet, from where he came. The whole structure is covered with murals and if you are interested in Tibetan paintings then Rumtek is a must for you. The old monastery can still be seen just beyond the new structure though it's not obvious as it is hidden by trees.

    Pemayangtse- It is the second oldest monastery in Sikkim. Located at a height of 2085 meters, it belongs to the tantric sect Nyingma-pa, established in the 8th century. There are two more monasteries- Tashidingand, Phodang worth visiting.