Namgyal Institute and Do Drul Chorten

The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology stands in a wooded compound at Deorali, about 2 km below MG Marg. Its foundation stone was laid by the 14th Dalai Lama on 10 February 1957, and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated it on 1 October 1958. It is named after Sir Tashi Namgyal, the 11th Chogyal, and it publishes the Bulletin of Tibetology, one of the oldest journals in its field.

The museum on the ground floor holds thangkas, bronzes, ritual objects and manuscripts, with clear labels. The building itself is worth a look, with its painted eaves and traditional Sikkimese proportions. Photography inside is restricted, so ask at the desk. The museum usually closes on Sundays and government holidays; check current status before you travel.

From the institute, walk uphill for about five minutes to Do Drul Chorten. Trulshik Rinpoche began it in 1945 at the Chogyal's invitation, and inside it holds a complete Dorje Phurba mandala set, volumes of the Kangyur and rolls of mantras. Residents walk clockwise around it each morning, turning the 108 prayer wheels. Join them, keeping the stupa on your right.