Japanese Temple

4.5

Location: 27H5+9R2, Rajbari, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 hour

Also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, the temple was built in 1972 and is located on Jalapahar Hill, 10 minutes from Darjeeling city center. Showcasing the classic Japanese style of architecture, this majestic white building offers visitors a serene and tranquil sanctuary where they can meditate and find inner peace. A fabulous Japanese Temple Darjeeling is located 10 minutes from the center of Darjeeling city. It is a two-story building built in 1972 in a traditional Japanese style. Right next to the temple is a Shanti Pagoda which depicts the four incarnations of Lord Buddha.

Attraction

A peace pagoda is located 100 yards from the temple. It displays the four incarnations of Lord Buddha. It is the tallest structure in Darjeeling with a height of 28.5 meters. As one climbs up, two concrete models of lions become visible. Large statues representing the four avatars of Lord Buddha are carved on the walls which are polished in gold. It was designed by Dr. M Okha of Japan over a period of three years. While walking around the pagoda one can notice a beautiful artwork, a sandstone carving that looks like a wooden structure depicting the life of the Buddha and his relics. Stunning views of mountains and snow peas are visible if one is there on a clear day. Japanese Temple Darjeeling is one of the most popular destinations in Darjeeling.

History

There is no remarkable history of this place.

Inside/Outside Views

Japanese Temple As soon as you enter the temple, you can see the picture of the founder Fuji Guruji. There is also a statue of Lord Buddha which indicates that it is a Buddhist religious temple. There is a large prayer room, as you walk up the wooden stairs. Prayer timings are from 4.30 am to 6.30 pm and from 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm. People can join the prayers and get a chance to experience the divine peace that the temple offers. You will be given a small drum pad and a stick that you can use to drum to the same beat. As you leave you will be given a small sweet ball as a sign of the deity’s blessing. Photography is allowed inside the temple but prohibited inside the prayer hall during prayers.

Opening Hours

The temple is open from 4.30 am to 7 pm.

Entry & Others Fees

There is no admission fee for entry.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra, 90 km (via NH 110) from Darjeeling, is the nearest airport connected by flights to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. One can hire a taxi from the airport to reach Japanese Temple Darjeeling as desires.

By Rail: Apart from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station (88 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station), the two nearest railway stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. These railway stations have direct rail connections with Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and other major cities of India. One can reach his desired place easily using any vehicle.

By Road: The main access to Darjeeling by road is via Siliguri, 77 km. (via NH 55), which is connected to all major cities in India. Bus services are available from Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand, Siliguri. Smaller vehicles are also available for seat sharing/hire from airports, railway stations, and motor syndicates/police motor stands. Pre-paid taxi stands can also be availed from NJP Railway Station and Bagdogra Airport. The four routes from Siliguri to Darjeeling are: i) Tyndharia-Kurseong route ii) Dudhia-Mirik route iii) Rohini route iv) Pankhabari.