Enchey
is the highly revered monastery, located in
Gangtok, the
capital city of Sikkim in India. The literal meaning of 'Enchey' is the
'solitary temple'. Said to be approximately two hundred years old, it is one
of the most important monastery in Gangtok. The ancient monastery is belongs
to the 'Nyingma Order', which was built during the reign of Thutob Namgyal. Apart from the spectacular surroundings, the dominating structure of the monastery is an attraction. The monastery boosts of the various images of the gods and goddess. There are three gods that are worshiped in the monastery Buddha, Loki Sharia and Guru Padmasambhava. There are approximately 90 monks who stay in the Enchey Monastery. The best time to visit the monastery lies between June to October.
History of Enchey Monastery
According to the legends, Enchey Monastery was built on the site blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, a Tantric master known for his power of flying. Originally Lama Druptob Karpo, had built a small hermitage at this spot while flying here from Maenam Hill in South Sikkim, more than two hundred yeas ago. The present monastery was built in 1901, during the hegemony of the Sikyong Tulku.
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The annual dance festival called 'Chaam' is celebrated at the Enchey monastery on the 18th and 19th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan calender. The festival is unique to Gangtok. The essence of the dance is the mystical dance the pomp and pageantry. Visitors from far and wide gather here to watch the performances of the Lamas The major attraction of the festival is the Singhe Chaam, which performed once for every three years at the monastery. Another festival which is celebrated at the monastery is Pang Lhabsol. The festival is a symbol of love between the Bhutias and Lepchas.
