Magnificent Sikkim

pp_saha — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 04:32:00 GMT

In the first week of June 2010, I planned for a short trip at West and South Sikkim. of India. On 3^rd June I reached Rabangla at South Sikkim. This is a relatively new tourist spot in south Sikkim. Situated at an elevation of 8000 ft the small picturesque semi town on the Gangtok-Gaysiling highway, Rabangla is becoming a hot destination for its breathtaking landscape and tranquility. But I went there in search of some documentary photographs of Buddhist religion and culture. I visited Bonn Monastery and Ralong Monastery and took those photographs which are submitted here.

Buddhism is the main religion in Sikkim. In its early years, migrants from Tibet brought this religion to Sikkim and dominated a major part of the state. Sikkim boasts of innumerable monasteries that are assigned to the practice and preaching of Buddhism. Devoted Lamas robed in red, chant ancient mantras to the rhythm of drums and trumpets, while soft lights flicker from decorative lamps placed before statues of the great Guru Padmasambhava. One can feel the peace and quiet of being one with nature and close to the almighty as sacred words mingle with the whirring prayer wheels, near the monasteries.

Photos: Religious Rabangla

pp_saha — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 04:18:00 GMT

In these photographs you can see the activities of little lamas in the monasteries of Sikkim