ENCHEY MONASTERY

Built on a ridge above Gangtok, this superb monastery attached to the Nyingmapa order. Established in 1840, then entirely rebuilt in 1909, it shelters a small hundred monks. It also has a beautiful collection of traditional masks and a library. The lama Druptok Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flight, stayed here. From there, the view of the city and the Kanchendzonga is spectacular. In January or February, the monastery hosts the Detor Chaam festival, with masked dances and music, for two days.