Originally built by 12th Karmapa Lama ChangchubDorje, in the mid-1700s, Rumtek served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim. Located at a close distance from Gangtok, Rumtek is gateway to the Rumtek Monastery. The snowy mounatains and flowery terrain of Rumtek will quite amaze you with silly cold breeze blowing from every direction. The golden paddy fields and and lush green site of Rumtek will amuse you for sure.
Hill facing Rumtek is worth visiting for the monasteries, seat of His holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa of the Kargyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism.The drive through villages will take you back to those early days of typical simple village life. The paddy fields resemble a green carpet swaying in the breezy air. You cann't miss the sightseeng opportunities, white water rafting and adventurous trekking. The The Tibetan architecture finds a great manifestation in the Monastery here. The monastery hosts some of the antique Buddhist religious art objects rare in world. Nehru Botanical Garden is a big greenhouse of exotic collection of orchids. The footpaths winding down the hill is ideal for a stroll.
This Buddhist pilgrimage is unique for its calm setting midst nature and heritage of Buddhism.