Forest hike to Dubdi Monastery
The trail starts near the village health centre and climbs on a stone path and steps through oak, chestnut and fern forest, with birdsong most of the way. It gains roughly 200 m. At the top, the monastery stands in a clearing with a small courtyard and views back over the Yuksom valley.
The building is modest, two storeys of stone with a painted interior and statues of Guru Rinpoche and the three founding lamas. It may be locked; a caretaker usually lives nearby and will open it if asked politely. Leave a small offering if you go in.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How steep is the walk to Dubdi Monastery
It is a steady climb of about 45–60 minutes on stone steps and forest path, gaining roughly 200 m from the village. There are a few flat sections to rest. Most reasonably fit adults and older children manage it. Take water, wear shoes with grip, and allow extra time on the way down if your knees are sore.
Is Dubdi the oldest monastery in Sikkim
It is often described as one of the oldest, built in 1701 soon after the kingdom was founded at Yuksom. Other monasteries, such as Sangachoeling near Pelling and Tashiding, also claim early dates, and older shrines existed before. It is safest to call Dubdi one of the first monasteries of the Namgyal kingdom.
Will Dubdi Monastery be open when I arrive
Not always. Dubdi has few resident monks, and the main hall is often locked outside prayer times. A caretaker usually lives close by and will open it for visitors if you ask. Go in the morning, be patient, and accept that you may only see the exterior, which is still worth the walk.
Also in Yuksom
More hours to plan around
