See the Ati Buddha at Rinchenpong Monastery

The walk from Rinchenpong bazaar to the monastery is short but steep, 20–30 minutes on foot or a few minutes by car. The gompa sits at about 1,700 m among old trees, with prayer flags strung towards the ridge. It was founded around 1730 by Ngadakpa Lama, and the Soreng district administration describes it as the third oldest monastery in Sikkim. Wikipedia notes it began with about 98 lamas. Today it is quiet, with a caretaker monk and a few novices, and morning prayers when the community is present.

The reason to come is the Ati Buddha, the primordial Buddha, shown seated in yab-yum, in union with his consort. In Vajrayana Buddhism this stands for the joining of compassion and wisdom, not for desire. The figure is deep blue, the colour of open sky and of the mind's own nature. Such images are rare in Sikkim, and the monks treat it with care. Ask before entering the lhakhang, remove shoes, walk clockwise and do not photograph the image unless you are clearly told you may.

Go early. From October to April the monastery yard looks straight at the Kangchenjunga range, and by mid-morning cloud often rises from the valleys. A visit takes about 1.5 hours including the walk, and pairs well with the Poison Lake on the path below and the climb to Reesum Gumpa. Leave a small offering of ₹20–100 in the box if you wish; there is no entry fee.