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Pemayangtse is one of the oldest monasteries situated in the Pemayangtse town of Sikkim. This Buddhist pilgrimage place is located only 140 km to the west of Gangtok. This monastery was established in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo and was further developed during the reign of Jigme Pawo. The Nyingma order is followed by this monastery.
The monks are selected from the Bhutias. Earlier the Pemayangtse monastery was constructed only for the "pure monks" in other words for the "ta-tshang" which means "monks of pure Tibetan lineage". This practice still continues. The monks who belong to the Pemayangtse monastery are only eligible for the title of "ta-tshang". The literal meaning of Pemayangtse is "Perfect Sublime Lotus" and is believed to symbolize the four plexus of human body.
History: The history of Pemayangtse is strongly related with the reign of Chodar Namgyal. He was a very religious person and had taken a number of initiatives to spread the Buddhist religion in Sikkim. Chodar Namgyal had ordered that every second son out of the three sons of a family should be dedicated the Pemayangtse monastery as a monk. Guru Lhakhang Tashiding was constructed in 1715 during his reign.
Architecture: The monastery is situated at an elevation of 2085m having snow topped mountains on both the sides. It is a three storied structure which contain paintings on its walls statues of Rinpoches and saints in different colors. As we know that the monastery was built under the Nyingma order you will see that the characteristic features like the idol of Padmasambhava along with his two consorts are present here.
The Lakhang or Dukhang which is the main temple consists of a huge prayer hall having an area of 1500 square feet. The doors and windows of this hall consist of beautiful and colorful paintings which reflect the Tibetan designs. The wrathful form of Guru Padmasambhava having multiple arms and heads is present here. The monastery has well-maintained gardens in its compound wherein the houses of the monks are also built.
On the first floor of the monastery there is a huge collection of scriptures, Buddhist antique statues and decorated paintings. You will be able to see all the eight incarnations of Guru Padmasambhava in his fierce form. On the very top floor is a seven-tiered painted wooden structure which depicts the "Sanghthokpalri" or in other words the Heavenly Palace of Guru Rimpoche.
Festival: The Chaam festival is festival is celebrated on every 28th and 29th day of the twelfth lunar month of the Tibetan Calendar. The monks perform dance during this festival who dress up in colorful costumes. There are around 108 monks in this monastery who are recognized by the red hats which they wear. On the last day of this festival fireworks are displayed which symbolize the driving away of the evil spirits. A large beautifully embroidered scroll is also displayed which attracts the attention of pilgrims.
Travel Route:
- Airways: Bagdogra which is in West Bengal is the nearest airport.
- Railways: The nearest railway stations are Siliguri 114 km away and New Jalpaiguri 125 km away.
- Railroads: Pemayangtse is easily approachable from Pelling by road. Pelling in return is well connected to Gangtok.
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