Initially known as the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, this institute was established way back in the year 1958. Named after late Palden Thondup Namgyal (The Chogyal of Sikkim), its main aim was to research and analyse the Mahayana Sect of Tibet along with the overall Tibetan culture and language. Beautifully set on the top a hill, the institute offers a lot of insight into the norms and traditions of Tibetan culture. It is also the safe keeper of many Buddhist texts and rare manuscripts and other cultural aspects. It is also set up in a picturesque forest, amidst Birch, Magnolia and Oak trees.