Darjeeling is famous for its beautiful tea gardens, cool weather, and breathtaking views of the mountains. But did you know it is also home to a special temple that brings peace and harmony? The Japanese Temple Darjeeling, also called the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, is a place of meditation, prayer, and calmness.
History of Japanese Temple Darjeeling
The Japanese Temple in Darjeeling was built in 1972 by Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan. He wanted to spread the message of peace and unity. The temple follows the teachings of Nipponzan Myohoji, a Buddhist order dedicated to non-violence and love.
Japanese Temple Darjeeling is a two-story white building designed in traditional Japanese style. As you enter, you will see a picture of Fujii Guruji, the founder, along with a model of Lord Buddha.
The upper floor has a large prayer hall, where monks and visitors chant prayers and beat a huge drum, creating a deep, calming sound that fills the temple.
What You’ll See at the Japanese Temple Darjeeling
Right next to the temple, you’ll find the famous Peace Pagoda. This is a tall, white tower that houses four different statues of Buddha. Each statue shows Buddha in a different form, including the Maitreya Buddha, which represents the future Buddha who will bring happiness to the world.
From the temple, you can see some of the most breathtaking views in all of India. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world! The temple sits at a perfect spot where you can see the rolling hills and valleys of Darjeeling spread out below you.
The temple is surrounded by well-kept gardens where you can sit quietly and think. Many visitors come here not just to see the building, but to find some peace and quiet away from the busy world.
Prayer and Meditation
The temple is open from 4:30 AM. to 7:00 PM. Visitors can join the daily prayers, which take place in the morning from 4:30 AM to 6:00 AM and in the evening from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. During the prayer session, monks chant and beat the drum, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors are welcome to participate and experience the calming effect of Buddhist chants.
How to Visit the Japanese Temple Darjeeling
The temple is located on Jalapahar Hill, just a short drive from the main town. You can reach Darjeeling by train or flight, with the nearest railway stations being Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri, and the nearest airport being Bagdogra, which is about 90 km away. From Darjeeling town, taxis and shared jeeps are available to take you to the temple.
Plan to stay at least 2-3 days** in Darjeeling to see everything.
Book your accommodation early, especially during peak season.
Try the famous Darjeeling Tea while you’re there.
Good news – visiting the Japanese Temple is completely free! You don’t need to pay anything to enter and explore.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Japanese Temple Darjeeling is like taking a mini trip to Japan without leaving India! You can learn about Japanese Buddhism and see how different cultures can come together in beautiful ways.
Let’s be honest – this place is perfect for taking cool photos! The white temple against the green mountains makes for some pretty amazing pictures that will make all your friends jealous.
Many visitors say that sitting quietly at the temple, looking out over the mountains, gives them a sense of peace they’ve never felt before.
“Have you visited the Japanese Temple in Darjeeling? Share your experience in the comments below! And if you’re planning a trip, let us know what you’re most excited to see.”