Japanese Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling – Top 5 Reasons to visit

Darjeeling, also known as ‘Queen of the Hills’, is nature’s best destination which offers many serene and beautiful locations to explore. One of them being the infamous Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Being considered a symbol of peace and religion, the Pagoda is an extremely popular Buddhist temple and stupa.

Here are our top five reasons that describe why you should definitely visit and experience the Japanese Peace Pagoda of Darjeeling.

How to reach the Japanese Peace Pagoda

Situated on the slopes of the Jalapar Hill in Darjeeling, the Japanese Temple and the Peace Pagoda are located at a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

It is effortlessly accessible by road, taking about ten minutes of a taxi or car ride from the heart of Darjeeling town.

Our top 5 reason’s why you should visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda

1. India’s first Japanese Temple

It is India’s first Japanese Temple which is also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple. This is a two storied white building, and has the picture of the founder Fuji Guruji and a model of Buddha.

Walking up the wooden stairs and you’ll reach the large prayer room upstairs. The prayer timings are from 4:30 am to 6 am in the morning and again from the 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the evening.

You can also join the prayers and get the opportunity for introspection and feel the divine peace the temple offers.

2. Symbolises global peace

Built by a Buddhist monk Fuiji, the Japanese Peace Pagoda of Darjeeling, to spread a message of harmony all around the world after the bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The foundation stone of this place was laid in the 1972 by Fuiji and it was taken till construction by his favourite disciple Guruji Fuiji in the year 1992.

This place symbolizes global peace by welcoming individuals from every part of the world, regardless of any religion and express of religious equality and harmony. A visit to this beautiful place will ensure you experience immense peace and a sense of positivity.

3. Mesmerizing architecture of the Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Temple is a two-storied construction was built in 1972 and it sports a traditional Japanese style of architecture.

At the entrance , you will come across two concrete models of lions as you ascend upstairs.

The Buddhist Pagoda is one of more than 70 pagodas built around the world. It is the tallest free-standing structure in Darjeeling with its height of 28.5 metres and diameter of 23 metres.

The stupa boasts of avatars of Lord Buddha that are all large statues carved in the walls. The Peace Pagoda was designed by Dr. M. Ohka of Japan.

4. Depicts four avatars of Lord Buddha

The Peace Pagoda houses four gold-polished statues of Buddha. You should take a stroll (‘Parikrama’) around the pagoda to witness completeness of the fabulous artwork which is engraved on sandstone that depicts Buddha’s life and some of his relics.

These carvings depict different stories from the different stages of Gautama Buddha’s life . The place is also known for its tranquility and peace.

5. Offers scenic views of Darjeeling

Located on the slopes of a hill, and symbol of spirituality, you can experience a surreal beauty from its premises. Once you reach on the top of the Pagoda, be ready to be unquestionably fascinated by the lush green views it offers.

Also, if you are lucky enough to visit the place on a clear day, you can view the majestic snow laden peak of Kanchenjunga along with other surrounding hills and valley which is absolutely mesmerizing.

Summary

So, here are our top five reasons to visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda. This place is a must-visit on your next trip to Darjeeling, which you can plan with the help of Darjeeling Travel Guide post that is coming out soon on the blog.

Have you visited Darjeeling and the Japanese Peace Pagoda? We’d love to read your stories. Do share them in the comments below.