Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology

About Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology Gangtok

It is one of the most important and famous institutes in the world that does research in the areas of Tibetan language and culture. It promotes and supports the study, research, and preservation of Tibetan history, art, literature, architecture, religion, philosophy and anything and everything else that comes with that. Its role is for the pursuers of Asian culture and Buddhist studies, with its quiet and serene charm, it is a paradise for the tourists as well, especially for the occasional history-enthusiast.

Namgyal Institute History:

The cornerstone of the institute was laid down by the 14th Dalai Lama – the leader of Buddhist religious hierarchy, on February 10, 1957.

The structure of the Namgyal Institute has undergone changes ever since. In 2002, it was opened for international collaboration and also got its research wing. More recently, in 2008, the Governor of Sikkim presided over the inauguration of some new additions – conference hall, library, study rooms, and studios as a part of the institute’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.

Things To Do At Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology:

Museum

The museum is on the ground floor in the core building which has the rare collection of timeless and priceless Tibetan and Buddhist artifacts, ranging from statues and figurines, ritualistic objects, traditional art pieces, Thangkas to many ancient manuscripts written in Sanskrit, Chinese, Tibetan and Lepcha all are put on display.

Some of the major attraction pieces at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology museum are – a casket with artifacts of two Ashokan missionaries and sandalwood images depicting five great men from Buddhist history – Guru Rinpoche, three founding lamas of Sikkim and King Phuntsok Namgyal. The showstopper of the entire display is the spectacular silver image of Manjushri – the bodhisattva or enlightened Lord Buddha depicted in authentic Sikkimese artistry.

Library

The Library here is stocked with some of the rarest and greatest creations of Tibetan and Buddist history, philosophy, theology, culture and also has journals and periodicals about the same. It has over 60,000 volumes including several translated versions of Buddhist teachings, research papers, and articles written over the years by academics and scholars on Buddhist studies. The library also has xylographs, typical to Chinese and Tibetan culture, which are nothing but wooden plates with transcripts written and embossed in reverse.

Photography:

Not allowed inside the Institute.