Dubdi Monastery Yuksom, Yuksom

The Kartok Monastery, adorned with crimson walls, gilded edges, and fluttering prayer flags, radiates timeless Tibetan elegance. Set beside the peaceful Kartok Lake in Pakyong, it was built in the 17th century and named after the lama who helped crown Sikkim's first Chogyal, adding to its royal and spiritual significance.The still waters of the lake mirror the monastery, which is surrounded by terraced fields and the distant peaks of the Himalayas. The scenic beauty is both a photographer's dream and a pilgrim's refuge. It is a part of Yuksom's sacred trio, along with Dubdi and Ngadak Chorling Monasteries. Kartok is more than a historical landmark; it is a living chapter of Sikkim’s spiritual legacy.

Located in the peaceful hills of Yuksom, Dubdi Monastery is the oldest monastery in Sikkim and a true gem for anyone seeking quiet and calm. Built-in 1701, it sits on a hilltop at 2,100 meters and can only be reached by walking through forest trails lined with tall chestnut and oak trees. This one-hour uphill trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the nearby Yuksom Valley.The monastery is known for its spiritual charm, colourful paintings, and ancient Buddhist scriptures. You will also find statues of the three lamas who helped establish Yuksom as a religious site. A visit here offers a meaningful break from the busy world, which makes it one of the must-visit places in Sikkim.

The Coronation Throne (Norbugang) in Yuksom is located under a centuries-old pine tree. It marks the 1642 crowning of Phuntsog Namgyal by three Nyingma lamas, which started Sikkim's Namgyal dynasty. This stone platform, which faced east and had four staggered seats, was a place of honour for spiritual and royal roles: Lhatsun Chempo, Phuntsog, and two attendant lamas. On the other side is the Norbugang Chorten, which was made from soil and stones from all over Sikkim. Its core is filled with treasures that were given during the consecration ceremony, which lasted 21 days.There is a stone footprint of Lhatsun Chempo by the altar, which is a real relic under the fluttering prayer flags. Kathok Lake is next door, and its holy waters were used in ritual baths. As part of an ASI-protected pilgrimage park with a prayer hall, prayer wheel, and native plants, it is a peaceful place to stop and start Yuksom's trek and spiritual circuit.