Enchey Monastery visit
Enchey Monastery is a compact, serene 18th-century Nyingma Buddhist monastery perched on a hill overlooking Gangtok. It is known for its colorful murals, ornate prayer hall, and annual masked Cham dance festival. The monastery offers panoramic views of Gangtok and, on clear days, distant peaks of the Kanchenjunga range.
Location
Enchey Monastery (Enchey Gompa), Gangtok, India
Duration
1–2 hours (typical visit); 2–4 hours if attending rituals or combined with nearby sites
Best Time to Visit
Best: March–June and September–November. Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Winters (Dec–Feb) are cold but crisp and clear on many days.
Special events: Attend during Losar / Cham festival (dates vary each year) to witness the sacred masked dances.
Pricing
No official entry fee. Donations are welcome at the monastery. Typical costs:
- Local guide: INR 200–600 (depending on duration and negotiation)
- Parking/taxi from MG Marg: INR 150–400 one-way (short drive)
- Souvenirs/prayer flags: INR 50–500
- Donations to the monastery: voluntary
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
17th–18th century Nyingma monastery with vibrant murals and paintings
Occasional Cham (masked) dance performances during festivals
Peaceful prayer hall and resident monks
Panoramic views over Gangtok and distant Kanchenjunga peaks on clear days
Close to other attractions: Do Drul Chorten stupa and Directorate of Handicrafts
Itinerary
Reach the monastery via taxi or a short uphill walk from the main road.
Taxis can be hired from MG Marg or nearby areas; short uphill ascent with steps—wear comfortable shoes.
Explore the prayer hall and main shrine.
Observe murals, butter lamps, and the central altar. Maintain silence and follow local customs.
Attend rituals / interact with monks (if permitted).
Ritual timings vary; ask a local guide or monastery attendant. Photography may be restricted inside.
Walk to viewpoints and photograph panoramic scenes of Gangtok.
Best light is in the morning or late afternoon; watch for sudden weather changes.
Buy small souvenirs or make a donation before departure.
Respect local customs when purchasing ritual items like prayer flags or incense.
Safety Requirements
Respect dress code: modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Remove shoes before entering main prayer hall unless signs indicate otherwise.
Photography: ask permission before photographing monks or inside the shrine; some areas may be off-limits.
Altitude and mobility: Gangtok sits at ~1,650 m. Move slowly if you have breathing or heart conditions.
Footwear: wear sturdy, non-slip shoes for steps and occasionally wet paths.
COVID/health: follow current local health guidelines; carry hand sanitizer and a mask if required.
Tips
Morning visits offer clearer views and a quieter atmosphere.
Hire a local guide for historical context and help with etiquette (helpful but optional).
Carry small change for donations and buying incense/prayer flags.
Combine this visit with Do Drul Chorten and the Directorate of Handicrafts for a half-day cultural circuit.
Check festival dates in advance if you want to see the Cham dances—dates change each year.
Dress in layers—Sikkim weather can change quickly; bring a light jacket even in summer.
