Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is known for its breathtaking beauty and unique cultural heritage. One of the many highlights of this city is the many Hindu temples that dot its landscape. These temples not only offer a spiritual experience but also showcase the architectural and historical richness of Hinduism. In this blog, we will explore some of the famous Hindu temples in Gangtok that you must visit.
1. Hanuman Tok
This is a popular Hindu temple in Gangtok which is situated in the capital city of Sikkim. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is known for his devotion to Lord Rama. Hanuman Tok is not very large but is known for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance. It is believed that the temple was built in 1956 by the Indian Army in honour of Lord Hanuman. The temple is located on a hilltop and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs. One of the main attractions of the temple is the breathtaking view it offers of the city. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and is located at a distance from the hustle and bustle of the city. The view from the temple is especially spectacular during sunrise and sunset.
2. Ganesh Tok
This is another popular Hindu temple in Gangtok which is also located in Sikkim. Ganesh Tok is situated at an altitude of 6,500 feet and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is considered to be the remover of obstacles and the lord of wisdom in Hinduism. The temple is known for its scenic location and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The temple is located on a hilltop and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs. The climb to the temple can be challenging, but the stunning views make it all worth it.
3. Tashi Viewpoint
This temple is a popular tourist attraction located in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Tashi Viewpoint is situated on a hilltop and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its spiritual and religious significance. It is believed that the temple was built in the early 20th century and is one of the oldest temples in Gangtok. The temple has a small prayer hall where devotees can offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
4. Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple
Temple is a significant Hindu temple located near Legship in Sikkim. Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most revered temples in Sikkim and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The temple is situated on the banks of the River Rangit and is surrounded by lush green forests and beautiful mountains. The temple derives its name from the legend of the Mahabharata, where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Kirat or hunter to test the valour of the Pandavas. It is believed that the temple was built at the spot where Lord Shiva revealed himself to the Pandavas. The temple is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. It has a small sanctum where the Shiva lingam is worshipped. The water from the spring is channelled into a small pool where visitors can take a dip and offer their prayers.
5. Lakshmi Narayan Mandir
This temple is a very famous Hindu temple which is located in the heart of Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. It is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Gangtok and is known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. The architecture of the temple is a blend of traditional Sikkimese and Hindu styles, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings of the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions?
One of the most visited Buddha temples in Gangtok is the Enchey Monastery. It is a 200-year-old monastery located on a hilltop about 3 kilometres away from the city centre. The monastery is dedicated to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests.
Gangtok is a city with a rich cultural heritage and is home to many beautiful Hindu temples. The temples listed above are just a few of the many temples that you can visit in the city. Whether you are a spiritual person or just interested in the history and architecture of these temples, a visit to these temples will be a memorable experience. So, plan your trip to Gangtok today and explore the spiritual side of this beautiful city.
