Located in north Sikkim on a slope spreading from Kabi to Phodong, Phensang Sangag Choling monastery is amongst the largest monasteries in Sikkim. First constructed in 1721 during the reign of Jigme Pawo, the monastery was destroyed in a catastrophic fire in 1947. It was rebuilt a year later. Currently, around 300 lamas of the Nyingmapa Buddhist order reside in Phensang monastery.
Phensang hosts an annual festival on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan calendar (usually in December). Sacred dances are performed at this festival, which falls two days before the Sikkimese New Year.
Gangtok is about 27 km.
Rumtek monastery is also known as the Dharma Chakra Center and serves as the seat of His Holiness Gyawla Karmapa the XVI, the head of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Tashiding monastery stands atop a hill that stands between the Rathong and Rangeet rivers, with the majestic Mt Khangchendzonga in the backdrop.
Dubdi offers mesmerising scenic views. A short trek leads to the monastery and a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas.