- Where
- Enchey ridge, Gangtok
- Distance
- About 3 km from Gangtok's main market
- Timings
- About 6 am–4 pm
- Entry fee
- Free
- Permit
- None
- Best time
- Year-round; January–February for the Chaam dance
- Time needed
- 30–45 minutes
Book onlineGangtok Local Sightseeing (Full Day)₹3,999 / car (up to 4) · Car and driver from your Gangtok hotel for the day includedEnchey Monastery is a small Nyingma gompa on a pine-covered ridge above Gangtok. Its name means 'the solitary monastery', and the site is linked to the tantric master Lama Druptob Karpo. The present building dates from the early 20th century and is one of the most visited monasteries in Sikkim.
What it's like
A courtyard lined with prayer wheels leads to the main prayer hall, painted inside with murals of protector deities. Monks hold prayers in the morning and you can sit quietly at the back. Remove your shoes in the hall and walk clockwise around the monastery.
The Chaam dance
Enchey's best-known event is the Chaam masked dance, held in the 12th month of the Tibetan calendar, which usually falls in January or February. Monks in masks and silk costumes perform over two days in the courtyard. Check the dates locally, as they move each year.
How to reach
The monastery is about 3 km from the main market, 10 minutes by taxi or a steep 30-minute walk uphill. It sits on the way to Ganesh Tok and Tashi View Point, so it fits easily into a Gangtok sightseeing day.
Enchey Monastery: questions travellers ask
What are Enchey Monastery timings?
Roughly 6 am to 4 pm. Morning is the best time to see prayers.
Is there an entry fee at Enchey Monastery?
No, entry is free.
When is the Chaam dance at Enchey?
In the 12th month of the Tibetan calendar, usually January or February. Dates change every year.
How far is Enchey Monastery from MG Marg?
About 3 km, around 10 minutes by taxi.
Sources
Timings and fees change. Check on the day, or ask us when you book.
