Established in 1958, this institute has one of the biggest collections of Tibetan artefacts outside Tibet. It has been built in a traditional style, and promotes research in Tibetan culture and Mahayana Buddhism. Its museum is a treasure-trove of thangka paintings (painted, woven and embroidered silk scrolls); ancient manuscripts in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese and Lepcha; statues and other religious objects. The Tibetan library contains a large number of books on Buddhism, Tibet, Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan, in different languages.
The Do-Drul Chorten, a large white Tibetan stupa is also located nearby. It is encircled by 108 prayer wheels, and houses some rare religious books. The Namgyal Institute is also close to the Damovar Ropeway, a cable car that connects it to the ridge and offers stunning views along the way.