Located on the outskirts of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is the 200-year-old Enchey monastery. Famed for its Chinese-style pagodas, it is an artistic representation of the Gyanak Riwo Tse-Nga or the “sacred mountain with five peaks” in China. Home to images of gods, goddesses and other religious objects, it was restored in 1908. Enchey, meaning the solitary temple, is a serene location providing gorgeous views of Mt Khangchendzonga. It is believed that Buddhist monk Druptob Karpo, who was bestowed with flying powers, flew from Maenam Hill in south Sikkim and constructed a monastery at this spot. Today, it is home to about 90 monks.

The entrance to its main shrine portrays the kings of four cardinal directions that protect the not just the monastery but also the universe. There is a special shrine where the sick can come and offer prayers for healing and recovery. A large metal-roofed prayer hall and the wheel of law on the porch are other attractions at this monastery.

The monastery is also popular for the traditional chaam dance that’s performed with great gusto during the Lossong festival, which is held for two days every January, on the 18th and 19th days of the 12th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.

Gangtok is just 20 minutes away.