State : Sikkim, in the north eastern state of India
Best time to Travel : March to late May, October to Mid-December.
Significance : The Pilgrimage Centre.
Location : Rumtek Monastery of Sikkim is about 24 km from Gangtok in Sikkim, India.

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. It was established in the 8th century. There are two more monasteries- Tashidingand, Phodang worth visiting.

Getting There

Airport : Nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal( 124 kms.), from where scheduled flights operates to and fro from Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati. The Bagdogra airport is connected to Gangtok by a helicopter service operating between Gangtok - Bagdogra - Gangtok.

Railhead : Two nearest railway station are at Siliguri (114 km) and New Jalpaiguri (125 km) stabilizing link to Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati, Lucknow and other important cities in India.

Road Transport : Gangtok is connected with all weather mettaled road with Siliguri, Kalimpong, Gangtok etc. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim is connected by all weather road to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and also to all the District headquarters within Sikkim.

Accommodation : There are not many options available as far as accommodation in Rumtek is concerned. There are just a few hotels and guest houses to choose from.