It is believed to be the first monastery related to Kargyupa order in Sikkim before the 16th Karmapa established himself in Rumtek in 1690 after he fled Tibet. The original monastery was rebuilt in 20th Century. Today Phodong Monastery boasts one of the beautiful monasteries in Sikkim and serves as residence of approximate 260 monks. It posses exquisitely delicate ancient mural paintings and frescos.

 

Phodong Monastery   Perched on an altitude of 4500 ft Phodong Monastery is one of the six most important monasteries in Sikkim and located around 35 kms from Gangtok town on Gangtok – North Sikkim Highway. Phodong Monastery was built during the 2nd quarter of the 18th Century (Possibly in 1740) by the Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal and it belongs to Kargyupa Sect (Karmapa). It is believed to be the first monastery related to Kargyupa order in Sikkim before the 16th Karmapa established himself in Rumtek in 1690 after he fled Tibet. The original monastery was rebuilt in 20th Century. Today Phodong Monastery boasts one of the beautiful monasteries in Sikkim and serves as residence of approximate 260 monks. It posses exquisitely delicate ancient mural paintings and frescos.   Like Rumtek Monastery and Ralang Monastery the annual festival at Phodang Monastery  takes place on the 28th and 29th day of the tenth month of the Tibetan Calendar (usually December). During this festival the Chaam Dance is performed by the monks along with religious rituals at the monastery.