Located atop a ridge over the town of Pelling, the Sanga Choeling Monastery was established in the 17th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo. The literal meaning of the word Sanga Choeling is "Island of the Guhyamantra teachings". These secret Mantra teachings are synonymous for Vajrayana Buddhism and the word gling means vihara. This monastery is located about 7 km from the oldest and Premier Pemayangtse Monastery and can be accessed by walking the steep hilly track which traverses through the rich forest cover.
Architecture of Sanga Choeling Monastery
Built in 1695, the Sanga Choeling Monastery is known as the place of sacred spells. The monastery is built in the Tibetan style of architecture and houses a 300 years old sacred Buddhist crematorium named Dhuthoe Silwar Tshar. The crematorium has now become public but only of Buddhist faith. The monastery was severely affected by a fire but was rebuilt and now has unique collection of clay statues, ancient paintings and accessories, all of which are dating back to almost 17th century.
Religion in Sanga Choeling Monastery
According to the Tibetan calendar on the 10th day of every month, the lamas recite hymns at this monastery. The morning and evening prayers are special here. The monastery is only reserved for men belonging to the Nyigma sect of Buddhism.
Visiting Information on Sanga Choeling Monastery
The nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station which is about 174 km away from the monastery. The Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, is the closest at a mere distance of 140 km away.
