The Japanese Temple Darjeeling, locally called the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, is a beautiful, white structure. This temple was constructed in 1972 by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order and is a piece of architecture and a gateway to another world. Just picture yourself meditating and the hills around you resounding with the chants of ‘Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo’ that make it seem like you are in a dream world. This is a perfect retreat, located a few minutes’ drive from Darjeeling town, for those who are in search of an extraordinary experience.
History Of Japanese Temple Darjeeling
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The Japanese Temple Darjeeling, or Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, was founded in 1972 by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order. Located at Jalapahar, it is a perfect retreat that is only 10 minutes away from the main Darjeeling city. The temple is built in the traditional Japanese style, which is simple and focuses on the spirit. It also plays a central role in promoting peace through the chanting of ‘Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo,’ which is the essence of Buddhism, and the sound of this chant, during prayer times in the misty hills is very inspiring and peaceful. The temple represents the people’s togetherness and the balance they seek in their spiritual lives.
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Architecture Of The Japanese Temple In Darjeeling
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The Japanese Temple’s architecture is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese and Tibetan styles, distinguished by its impressive scale. It is the tallest free-standing structure in Darjeeling, standing at 28.5 metres with a diameter of 23 metres. The temple features a classic Japanese pagoda with a gracefully curved roof and ornate wooden carvings. Two concrete lion statues flank the staircase, adding to its grandeur. Inside, the walls are adorned with polished golden carvings of the four avatars of Buddha, depicting various postures such as sitting, sleeping, standing, and meditating. This design reflects the temple’s commitment to peace and spiritual enlightenment.
Japanese Temple Darjeeling Timings & Entry Fees
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The Japanese Temple Darjeeling is open for visitors every day from 4:30 am to 7 pm. The prayer hours are from 4:30 am to 6:00 am and from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, the best time to witness the calmness of the chanting rituals. Japanese Temple Darjeeling entrance fee is zero; thus, it is a perfect place for those who are in search of a place of worship.
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Top Attractions Near Japanese Temple In Darjeeling
If you are in the area around the Japanese Buddhist Temple, you have, accessible to, you some more beautiful destinations that are worth a visit. Include these spots in your travel itinerary to enhance your visit and create lasting memories.
1. Peace Pagoda Darjeeling
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The Japanese Temple is followed by the Peace Pagoda which is a structure that has been constructed to encourage world peace. This beautiful white building enshrines four statues of Lord Buddha in which each statue symbolises different phases of life of Buddha. The pagoda is located in a serene environment with vegetation and has a vantage view of the entire Darjeeling environment inclusive of the Kanchenjunga mountain. People can just stroll around the pagoda and enjoy the calmness of the place and the message of Buddha. It is a great place for meditation and to find the inner self.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
2. Batasia Loop
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The Batasia Loop is another engineering wonder and a beautiful place located a short distance from the temple. This spiral railway track was intended to help reduce the gradient of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The toy train which goes round the loop provides a spectacular view of the hills and valleys around the place. It also has a beautiful garden and a war memorial for the Gorkha soldiers who laid their lives for the country. It is a natural wonder and an archaeological site at the same time. The loop is open from 6 am to 5 pm every day.
Days Needed: 1-2 day(s)
Entry Fee: 20 INR per person
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3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
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The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or the “Toy Train”, is a world heritage site and an engineering marvel of the nineteenth century. This railway is a narrow-gauge one and it is famous for the beautiful views of the hills of Darjeeling. The route takes passengers through lush tea estates, picturesque villages and through mountains veiled in mist, giving the passengers a feel of the old world travel. The train runs daily with short and long routes and is a must-do activity for tourists visiting Darjeeling.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 100 INR on Weekdays and 200 INR on Weekends
4. Tiger Hill
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Tiger Hill is famous for the beautiful view of the rising sun and therefore tourists prefer to visit the place early in the morning. During the early morning, especially in the morning of clear days, one can see the first light touching the Kanchenjunga and at times even the Everest. The viewpoint is approximately 11 km away from Darjeeling town and one has to start early to capture the sunrise. The view of the mountains in the early morning or in the evening when the sun is setting is a beautiful sight that will leave the lovers of nature and photography breathless.
Days Needed: 2 days
Entry Fee: Free entry
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5. Rock Garden
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The Rock Garden or Barbotey Garden is a very well designed terraced garden located in the midst of hills. It has waterfalls, rocks, and a number of flowers and plants which make the place beautiful and calm. The garden can be viewed by the visitors and one can take a walk in the compound while feeling the cool breeze and listening to the sound of water falling. It is a perfect place for a rest and taking pictures, as there are many beautiful views and comfortable benches.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 10 INR for Indians, 20 INR for Foreigners
How To Reach The Japanese Temple Darjeeling
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By Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra airport which is about 90 kilometres away from Darjeeling. Bagdogra is well linked with other cities of the country such as Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. After reaching the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to get to Darjeeling.
By Train: The nearest railway station is NJP Railway Station which is 88 km away and Darjeeling can be reached by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. NJP is easily accessible from cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. However, there are taxis and buses from NJP to Darjeeling also available for the tourists.
By Road: Darjeeling is easily accessible by road mainly through Siliguri, which is about 77 km away from Darjeeling. To get to Darjeeling from Siliguri, one can take a bus, hire a taxi or avail a shared jeep. The trip is picturesque and the ride is quite pleasant.
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A visit to the Japanese Temple Darjeeling is not just a tour but it is a tour to tranquillity and spiritualism. The calmness of the place along with its architectural and historical importance makes it a place worth visiting. If you are planning your trip to Darjeeling , do visit this temple and feel the serene atmosphere of this place.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Temple Darjeeling
What are the prayer timings of Japanese Temple Darjeeling?
The prayer hours are between 4:30 am to 6:00 am and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm for the next day.
Is there any entrance fee for Japanese Temple Darjeeling?
No, there is no entrance fee. There is no charge for visiting the temple.
Are the visitors allowed to join the prayer sessions?
Yes, people are allowed to attend the prayers and even dance with small drums in their hands.
When is the best time to visit the Japanese Temple Darjeeling?
The best time to visit is during the months of March to May and October to November since the weather is mild and the skies are clear.
Is there any hotel or place to stay in the vicinity of the Japanese Temple Darjeeling?
Yes, there are many hotels and lodges around the temple ranging from the cheap hotels to the expensive hotels to suit everyone’s pockets.
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