Established in 1975, the Tibetan Settlement Office in Gangtok is one of four Tibetan refugee cluster settlements in northeastern India. Owing to Sikkim’s geographical proximity to Tibet (Gangtok to Tibet border is just 60 kilometres) and centuries of shared historical and religious ties, the majority of early settlers arrived in Sikkim directly from Tibet following the brutal Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959. They entered through the Nathu-la Pass and other mountain passes in North Sikkim, routes that had long been frequented by both Tibetans and Sikkimese during Tibet’s era of independence.

Under the jurisdiction of TSO Gangtok, Gangtok hosts the largest Tibetan refugee population, dispersed across 21 pockets in smaller towns and villages. Among these is Rumtek, internationally renowned as the seat of the Gyalwa Karmapa. North Sikkim, a popular tourist destination, has the second-largest population under the TSO’s jurisdiction, with Tibetan refugees living in 12 villages. In the eastern region of Sikkim, there are 8 villages where Tibetan refugees reside, further highlighting the widespread community presence across the state.

The majority of Tibetan refugee settlers under TSO Gangtok’s jurisdiction sustain themselves through independent livelihoods, such as running small businesses, operating taxis, managing restaurants, or working in the hospitality sector. Many also engage in seasonal trades, particularly selling sweaters during the winter months.

In contrast, settlers in the North Sikkim region predominantly follow a nomadic lifestyle, with some exceptions of individuals running small shops catering to tourists. Additionally, we have recently identified a few families in the far eastern parts of Sikkim, such as Zuluk, engaged in road construction work. With support from LTDM France, we have been able to provide these construction labourers with an annual stipend of ₹13,000 to ₹15,000 per person, offering them much-needed assistance.

Institutions – Health / Cooperative:

Primary Health Centre (Allopathy)

The settlement has a Primary Health Centre (PHC) managed by the Department of Health, CTA. Conveniently located within the premises of the TSO office, the PHC is staffed by a dedicated Community Health Worker (CHW) who is permanently assigned to oversee and address the healthcare needs of all settlers.

Primary Health Centre (Traditional) Men-Tsee-Khang

To serve the local population, regardless of nationalities, with the traditional Tibetan healing system (Sowa Rigpa or Sorig), a branch clinic of Men-Tsee-Khang operates near Sera Monastery at Chandmari. A qualified senior doctor is available six days a week to consult patients and prescribe Tibetan medicines, which can be purchased at

 

the clinic. Thousands of patients have benefited from Men-Tsee-Khang’s treatments and medicines since its establishment in year 1988.

 

Co-operative Society

The Federation of Tibetan Cooperatives in India (FTCI), also known as Nyamdel, proudly operates its flagship establishment, Hotel Tibet, in Gangtok. Since its inception in 1981, Hotel Tibet has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The hotel employs 38 staff members, including 15 Tibetans and 23 local Indians, reflecting a harmonious blend of cultural collaboration. Renowned for its exceptional hospitality, Hotel Tibet has received several prestigious accolades, including the “Best 3-Star Hotel in the Eastern Region” award from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

TSO Gangtok oversees 11 monasteries, encompassing all major traditions of Tibetan Buddhism: Sakya, Geluk, Nyingma, Kagyu, and Bon.

1. Dromo Kagon Tsechokling, Chandmari 1963
2. Karma Shedrup Chokorling, Rumtek 1966
3. Tingey Gonjang Urgyen Dongag Chokorling, Bojoghari 1987
4. Guru Kubum Taklung Sanag Choeling, Deorali 1987
5. Sera Jey Dropheling, Chandmari 2005
6. Urgyen Chokorling Nunnery, Taktse 1988
7. Pal Karma Zurmang Shedup Chokorling, Lingden 1992
8. Bokar Dolma Legshey Doeguling Nunnery, Pakyong 2018
9. Sog Yungdrungling Bon Monastery, Yangang 2013
10. Sakya Ngor Gompa, Rongney. 1961
11. Khachoe Pemawoeling Nunnery, Ranka 2006

Settlement Officer / Representative:

The Settlement Officer, appointed by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Dharamsala, serves as the overall in-charge of the settlement. Acting as a liaison, the Settlement Officer facilitates communication and coordination between the CTA, State and Central government agencies.  He is also responsible for maintaining excellent relationship with project donors, sponsors and other relevant national and international agencies who show interest in Tibetan community under TSO Gangtok.

Under the Settlement Officer’s leadership, each of the 41 towns and villages within TSO Gangtok’s jurisdiction is represented by an elected leader (Me-thue). In this cluster settlement model, the Me-thues play a vital role in keeping the TSO informed about local developments and needs. Apart from conveying the needs of the people within their respective areas, another crucial responsibility of these leaders is to disseminate information and announcements about CTA schemes (through TSO Gangtok), particularly regarding the organization of prayers, scholarships, health awareness programs, and other initiatives, to the people of their respective areas for their participation and to take benefits according to their needs.

Most of the important projects are implemented in collaboration with the respective town or village leaders (Me-thues) to ensure effective planning and execution. The Settlement Officer makes all major decisions in consultation with these leaders, serving as a crucial link between the settlement office and the community.

CTA affiliated organisations:

Local Tibetan Assembly, Gangtok

The Local Tibetan Assembly (LTA) of Gangtok is a democratically elected body representing the Tibetan refugee community under the jurisdiction of TSO Gangtok. It collaborates with the TSO to address settlers’ concerns, has the responsibility to either approve or disapprove the annual and revised budgets of TSO Gangtok, and it ensures effective implementation of CTA policies by the TSO. The LTA meets twice a year, fostering grassroots governance and community participation.

Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement, Gangtok

In Gangtok, the Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement works closely with the Tibetan Settlement Office to advocate for Tibetan cause and support the local refugee community. They actively assist the TSO in promoting Green Book contributions, and organizing awareness programs wherever necessary.

Non-Governmental Regional Tibetan Associations, Gangtok:

Regional Tibetan Youth Congress (RTYC)

Regional Tibetan Women’s Association (RTWA)

Regional Do-Toe Association, Gangtok

Regional Do-med Association, Gangtok

Regional U-tsang Association, Gangtok

SUNDAY TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS:

In 2016, the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress (RTYC), Gangtok, took a significant initiative to establish a Sunday Tibetan Language School for children in the Tibetan community who were deprived of the opportunity to learn their mother tongue. This effort was driven by a pressing need arising from the closure of a Tibetan school in Gangtok due to land subsidence, which posed a threat to the safety and security of its students and staff. The closure compelled many Tibetan parents to enroll their children in local English-medium schools, where Tibetan language education was unavailable.

The RTYC’s initiative was further inspired by a profound message delivered by His Holiness the Dalai Lama that same year, emphasizing the critical importance of preserving, learning, and promoting the Tibetan language as a cornerstone of Tibetan identity and culture. Recognizing the urgency of this call, RTYC Gangtok acted swiftly to provide a platform for Tibetan children to reconnect with their linguistic and cultural roots.

The Sunday Tibetan Language School in Gangtok has since become a vital institution, offering classes in Tibetan script, grammar, reading, and writing. Beyond language instruction, the school fosters an environment where Tibetan children can engage with their rich cultural heritage, learn traditional values, and build a strong sense of community.

This initiative is a testament to the resilience and commitment of the Tibetan community in Gangtok to uphold their identity amidst challenges. It also serves as a model for similar efforts worldwide, ensuring that the Tibetan language and culture continue to thrive for generations to come.

All teachers are volunteers, most of them trained and experienced former school teachers.

Present strength: 40 students with 4 teachers.

Funding: INR. 25,000/- Per Year by LTDM, France.

VEROCHANA BUDDHIST TEACHING CLASSES:

The Regional Tibetan Youth Congress (RTYC), Gangtok, took a noble initiative to promote Buddhist teachings and philosophy through the Verochana Buddhist Teaching Classes, held 4 times a month at Sera Jey Monastery, Chandmari. These sessions, led by the esteemed Gen. Jampa la, are open to all Buddhists, regardless of nationality, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and shared spiritual growth.

Under Gen. Jampa la’s guidance, attendees delve into the profound teachings of Buddhist philosophy, gaining insights into mindfulness, compassion, and the path to enlightenment. The classes provide a platform for both beginners and seasoned practitioners to deepen their understanding of the Dharma in a supportive and serene environment.

This initiative not only strengthens individual spiritual practices but also builds a sense of unity among Buddhists from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the universal values of Buddhism. The RTYC Gangtok’s effort to organize these teachings is a meaningful contribution to preserving and spreading the timeless wisdom of the Buddha.

Funding: INR. 25,000/- Per Year by LTDM, France.

HOW TO REACH GANGTOK:

By Flight / Helicopter:                      

1. Pakyong Airport in Pakyong, East Sikkim (32 kilometres)
2. Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal (123 kilometres)

By Train: 

1. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal (118 kilometres)

By Bus / Taxi:                     

1. SNT Terminus, Siliguri, West Bengal. (111 kilometres)