Why to visit Tashiding Monastery

Tashiding Monastery is one of Sikkim's oldest and holiest Buddhist temples, located 40 kilometres from Geyzing in the west of the state. It was built in 1717 and is located between the Ranjit and Rathong Rivers on the top of a hill. Manis, or stone plates, etched with sacred Buddhist mantras, are housed in the Monastery, which has a spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Another point of attraction is a magical vase, which is the focus of the Bhuchu festival, which attracts Buddhists from all over the world to watch the yearly ceremony of opening the sealed vase and inspecting its contents. The vase is used by Nyingmapa Buddhists to forecast wealth for the future year. A full vase predicts a lucky year, whereas a famine is indicated by a low water content. A dusty vase denotes a time of struggle and conflict. 

To reach to this wonderful location, you can book a taxi from any of Sikkim's major towns. Tashiding is a perfect village in West Sikkim, thus there is no airport, however commuting is quite common and easy to pursue. Buses and public transportation are also viable options; nevertheless, cabs may be your best bet!

Special Tip

The vase opening ritual takes place at midnight during the full moon in the Tibetan calendar's first month, usually between February and March, and this is the finest time to visit.

By Shobhna J.