Yoksum is an immensely significant place for the Sikkimese since it was here that the first religious king of the state, the first Chogyal, Phuntsog Namgyal was enthroned in the year 1641. Three lamas, whose gathering was predicted by the Rimpoche some nine hundred years back, came down to carry out the coronation ceremony.

The Nyingma Dubdi Monastery, also known as the Hermit's Cell, was the first monastery that came up after this coronation ceremony and hence occupies a unique place for itself in the history of Sikkim. The monastery was constructed in the year 1701 by the followers of the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. From the town itself, a prayer flag can be seen which marks out the site of the Nyingma Dubdi monastery.


The term Dubdi implies " The Retreat". Accordingly, the this monastery is the perfect place for lamas in quest of solitude for their meditation.

Yoksum
Situated 42 km north of Pemayangtse and 33 km from Pelling, Yoksum is a small town with charming attractions. The term Yoksum means the meeting place of three Lamas. The name is reminiscent of the event that made Yoksum the first capital of Sikkim. The monastery located here is the oldest one in the entire state of Sikkim. Apart from being a sacred Buddhist destination, Yoksum is also attractive for adventure enthusiast, the reason being the opportunity for trekking.

Yoksum also provides comfortable staying options for those wish to put up here and explore the surrounding areas for few days.


Other Attractions

• Norbugang Chorten : Norbugang chorten is white dome chorten and was constructed by stone and earth gathered from all over Sikkim. In this chorten, Lhatsun Chenpo buried offerings. Following a path from here, you will reach upto the place where throne of the firts Chogyal king of Sikkim and footprints of one of the three lamas can be seen. The footprints are embedded in a rock that faces the kings throne.
  
  
• Melli Monastery : The term Melli means "a lepcha village". The monastery stands in close vicinity of Yoksum.
  
  
• Shaivite Monastery : Adjacent to the Maha Bodhi temple, lies the Shaivite monastery, which further consists of four temples and several samadhis. It was at this place where Adi Shankaracharya, the religious head of the Hindus in the medieval period had a heated discussion with the Buddhists.
  
  
• Sinon Monastery : The name of the monastery means 'the suppressor of intense fear'. Erected in the year 1716, the monastery stands some 10 km from the Tashiding monastery.