spiritual · Pedong, Kalimpong
Sangchen Dorjee Gompa, Pedong's 1706 monastery
Sangchen Dorjee Gompa stands just outside Pedong bazaar and is usually dated to around 1706, during the period when the hills east of the Teesta were part of Bhutan. That makes it one of the oldest Buddhist foundations in the district, older than any of Kalimpong town's monasteries.
The prayer hall has old murals, statues and thangkas, and the courtyard is ringed with prayer wheels. The monastery holds an annual masked cham dance, when monks in costume perform ritual dances in the courtyard; dates follow the Tibetan lunar calendar, so ask locally. Outside festival days it is quiet, with only a few monks and caretakers.
Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall, walk clockwise and ask before photographing inside. A small donation is appreciated. The monastery is a short walk or drive from the bazaar and fits easily into a half-day that includes Cross Hill, Damsang Fort and Sillery Gaon.
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How old is Pedong Monastery
Sangchen Dorjee Gompa, known as Pedong Monastery, is generally dated to around 1706, when Bhutan ruled the hills east of the Teesta. Kalimpong passed to British India only in 1865, so the monastery predates British rule here by more than 150 years. It is among the oldest monasteries in Kalimpong district.
When is the cham dance at Pedong Monastery
The monastery holds an annual masked cham dance, with dates set by the Tibetan lunar calendar, so the Western date changes each year. Ask your hotel in Kalimpong or the monastery staff for the current year's date. Arrive early on dance days for a place to stand, and do not use flash photography.
Can I photograph inside Sangchen Dorjee Gompa
Rules vary; often photography inside the prayer hall is not allowed, and you should always ask a monk or caretaker first. Photographs of the exterior, courtyard and prayer wheels are usually fine. Never use flash on murals or statues, and avoid photographing people in prayer without permission.
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A small town on the old mule road to Jelep La