Lineage & Governance
Lineage Affiliation
Sangchen Thongdrol Ling maintains a historical and institutional connection with Pemayangtse Monastery of West Sikkim, one of the principal monasteries of the Nyingma tradition. This relationship situates Ging Gompa within a wider network of monastic institutions sharing lineage, ritual practice, and administrative continuity.
Administrative Structure
The monastery was historically administered under the authority of the Sikkim Darbar. As per Darbar Notification No. 464/J dated 1933, the management of the monasteries at Ging and Bhutia Busty in Darjeeling was entrusted to the Judicial Secretary of the Darbar. This responsibility is presently exercised by the Ecclesiastical Affairs Department of the Government of Sikkim.
Appointment of Head Lama
The appointment of the Head Lama has traditionally been regulated through deputation from Pemayangtse Monastery, ensuring continuity of lineage authority. The late Head Lama, Phutuk Bhutia, was appointed under this system. Following his passing on 25 January 2011, the monastery functioned without a formally appointed head for a significant period.
In recent years, Lopon Yeshey Dorjee Bhutia was appointed as the Head Lama by the Ecclesiastical Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim. He previously served as a resident teacher at Lhatsun Dharma Centre, Rabongla, and was formally initiated by Kyabji Yangthang Rinpoche in the Domang Tersar tradition. He assumed charge of Ging Gompa on 24 October 2021.
Current Challenges
The monastery has also faced material and structural challenges. Originally endowed with over 19 acres of land under the 1879 grant, its holdings have significantly reduced over time due to encroachments.
Additionally, the earthquake of September 2011 caused substantial damage to the existing structures. Subsequent restoration efforts are addressed in a dedicated section below.