Do Drul Chorten

Gangtok, Sikkim’s Do Drul Chorten is a Buddhist stupa located three kilometers from the Gangtok SNT Bus Station. One of the most impressive and largest stupas in Gangtok, it is located next to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and is a popular destination for Gangtok tourists. Often referred to as Phurba, the white Chorten Stupa is visible from different locations in Gangtok and is distinguished by a golden top dome. Vajra Kilaya, also known as Dorjee Phurpa, is the name of the deity housed atop the stupa. Chorten Lhakhang, which encircles the Chorten, is home to two enormous statues of Guru Rinpoche (also known as Guru Padmasambhava). Constructed according to Dud-Zom Rinpoche’s wishes, the stupa is encircled by 108 prayer wheels. Om Mani Padme Hum is a holy inscription etched on these prayer wheels. Holy scriptures, relics, full mantras, and various other religious artefacts are housed inside the Chorten Stupa. The big stupa is surrounded by several smaller ones. Jhang Chup Chorten is one of them; it was constructed in Trulshig Rinpoche’s honor following his passing. After the passing of Trulshig Rinpoche, Dodhrubchen Rinpoche, a well-known lama, arrived and set up his dhamma preaching centre on these same grounds. The structure can hold roughly seven hundred monks. Travellers from all across the state are drawn to this location to pay respects to the hallowed stupa.

Attraction

The spiritual and historical significance of the Do Drul Chorten in Gangtok, Sikkim, is its main draw. A collection of relics and holy scriptures is kept in this stupa, which was constructed in 1945 by the esteemed lama of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, Trulshik Rinpoche. In order to accrue merit and cleanse bad karma, visitors spin the 108 prayer wheels that surround it while reciting mantras. Due to its religious significance and tranquil setting, Do Drul Chorten is a well-liked destination for travelers looking for spiritual enlightenment and serenity.

History

Actually the Namgyal Royal Family of Sikkim was going through a difficult period in the 1940s and throughout the Second World War. In order to guide and construct this chorten for the benefit of the people of Sikkim and the royal family, the queen of Sikkim summoned Trulshik Rinpoche from Tibet to live as a hermit.

Despite the fact that Trulshik Rinpoche was only able to speak Tibetan, the common people admired and respected him for his charm and civility. When the chorten was constructed, it housed a number of priceless objects, such as the Buddhist scripture Tanjur, whole mantras, numerous religious artifacts and relics, and several priceless gifts from the wealthy and powerful. Actually, the queen gave the Rinpoche a priceless Swiss watch that she had brought with her from Switzerland, and he kept it. Considered one of the most significant chortens or stupas in Sikkim, this one is also called Phurba Chorten since the god ensconced on top of it is called Dorjee Phurba or Vajra Kilaya.

Inside/Outside Views

The main stupa is a stunning white edifice with a golden dome that represents enlightenment and purity from the outside. A series of smaller stupas encircle it. Around the stupa are rows of prayer wheels that worshipers spin while reciting mantras. Smaller monuments and statues of significant Buddhist figures can also be seen at the location. The serene setting, frequently embellished with waving prayer flags, amplifies the chorten’s meditative atmosphere.

Sacred relics such as holy scriptures and items used in Buddhist ceremonies are kept inside the stupa. There is a gompa, or monastery, next to the stupa where monks live and carry out rites. The monastery’s prayer hall is lavishly embellished with elaborate murals, god statues, and other offerings. Monks and tourists can conduct their spiritual lives in designated areas for prayer and meditation. In addition to being a place of worship, the Do Drul Chorten is also a historically and culturally significant location that draws visitors to its stunning architecture and spiritual aura.

Opening Hours

Friday 9 AM–5 PM

Saturday 9 AM–5 PM

Sunday 9 AM–5 PM

Monday 9 AM–5 PM

Tuesday 9 AM–5 PM

Wednesday 9 AM–5 PM

Thursday 9 AM–5 PM

How to Reach

By bike: Rental bikes are easily available in the city. You can take one to explore Do Drul Chorten and other tourist places in Gangtok.

By cab/taxi: Getting a shared taxi or private cab is the best way to see Do Drul Chorten Stupa. SUVs are available for hire from the top car rental companies in Gangtok easily. So, you can hire one for the day or your entire vacation and visit the stupa at your convenience.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the place?

Ans: Photography is not allowed.

Que-03: Who built Do Drul Chorten, and when?

Ans: The stupa was built in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism.

Que-04: Are there any special ceremonies or events held at Do Drul Chorten?

Ans: Special religious ceremonies and rituals are conducted regularly at Do Drul Chorten, especially on auspicious Buddhist festivals and occasions. These events attract monks, pilgrims, and tourists alike.

Que-05: What is the best time to visit Do Drul Chorten?

Ans: The best time to visit Do Drul Chorten is between March and June and from September to December, when the weather in Gangtok is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.

Que-06: Are there any nearby attractions?

Ans: Nearby attractions include the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Enchey Monastery, and the Gangtok Ropeway, offering visitors a chance to explore more of Gangtok’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.