Namgyal institute of Tibetology was inaugurated officially by the prime minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 10th February 1957, and it was opened on 1st October 1958 and since its inauguration it has look to display the eloping culture of Tibet.
As per the history the foundation stone of this pristine institute was laid by his holiness the 14th Dalai Lama who have always encouraged and embraced the culture and heritage of Tibet. Renowned as curator of Tibetan culture here one can witness the art, culture, religious aspects, historical importance within the wall of the institute as it has always looked to promote the flourishing tradition of Tibet.
Here one can witness an amazing compilation of Tibetan work and one must also understand that it is home to the largest compilation of Tibetan art and craft outside Tibet. Beside that this Institute has also housed a museum which is located at basement and here you will have an amazing opportunity to see Thangkas and Statues.
A Pre historic manuscript which is documented in distinct languages such as Sanskrit, Lepcha, Chinese and Tibetan are also open for display. One of the most stunning exhibits of this museum is grandeur silver idol of Manjushri who is the house of Wisdom. Amongst the gems of the museum sandalwood idols of Padmasambhava and the relics of two Ashokan missionaries, Madhyama and Kasyapagotra are note worthy.
Within the wall of institute one can witness the Tibetan library which is at the main site of complex. The library is has one of the largest compilation of Tibetan works.Further the library also contains more than 60,000 titles which ideally have been interpreted from authentic Sanskrit and Pali works to Tibetan.
Readers are strictly advised not to take the books as all the references are important and are meant to be read within the stands of library.
Timings From Monday - Saturday: 10.00 AM - 4.00 PM, Sunday: 10.00 AM - 4.00 PM and in all Public Holidays: it will open at 10.00 AM and will closed at 4.00 PM
Entry fee To witness the culture and heritage of Tibet one would require paying US 0.10$ as an entry fee.
How to reach Nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri which is at a distance of 120 km and it will take approximately 2 and half hour to reach here and once you reach Gangtok you can hire cab to reach Namgayal institute of Tibetology.
Nearest airport is Bagdogra which is located at a distance of 124 km and it will take round about 2 and half hour to reach here.
Nearest nodal point of railway station and airport is siliguri which is located at a distance of approximately 5 to 10 km and from here you can avail cab to reach Gangtok.