Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling is one of the many pagodas built by the Japanese Buddhist organization Nipponzan Myohoji. It is a symbol of peace and tranquility. Showcasing the four avatars of Lord Buddha, including the Maitreya Buddha. The site offers stunning views of Darjeeling and the Himalayan ranges encompassing it.
The Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling was established under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii. He was a Buddhist monk from Japan. He supported the Nipponzan-Myo-ho-Ji Buddhist Order. Peace Pagoda is a religious place and it is believed to be a representation of spirituality and peace.
The Peace Pagoda is perched on the Jalaphar Hill. It is located at a short distance from the town and is open to people of all races and creeds. It is purposely made to spread peace and prosperity in the world. The pagoda took about 20 years to build, the foundation stone was laid on 3 November 1972 and was inaugurated on 1 November 1992.
Structure of Peace Pagoda
The Japanese Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling was designed by M. Ohka, measuring 28.5 meters in height and about 23 meters in diameter, the pagoda is the highest free-standing structure in Darjeeling. From the top of the Peace Pagoda, you can enjoy the dazzling and breathtaking views of the lush landscape of Darjeeling with the backdrop of Kanchenjunga Range.
Two concrete models of lions stand on both sides of the staircase and gold polished statues of Buddha are carved in the walls. They show Buddha in different postures such as sitting, sleeping, standing and meditating. There are eight sandstone carvings, narrating stories of different stages of Gautama Buddha’s life.
Peace Pagoda comprises of beautiful artwork which depicts the life of Buddha. Here you can find the relics which are engraved on sandstones and they look like wooden framework. There are mythological depictions like 'Gift of Mango Grove by Amrapali at Vaishali' and 'Great departure of Siddhartha'. From the top of the pagoda, you get to witness wonderful views of Japanese Temple nearby, the rows of pine trees and the snow-clad mountain peaks.
Peace Pagoda has snuggled in the vicinity a Buddhist temple and a monastery. These pilgrimage sites built in the traditional Japanese style. You can spend several peaceful hours here and listen to the low hum of the monks chanting the mystic peace mantra ‘nam myoho renge kyo’.
Famous for its tranquility, the Peace Pagoda offers stunning views of snow-clad peaks, including the Kanchenjunga peak, making it an ideal place for peace and nature lovers.
How to reach Peace Pagoda
Peace Pagoda is located at a distance of about 2.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and it can be easily reached by car. The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport which is well-connected with the major cities while the nearest major railway station is the New Jalpaiguri which is located at about 70 km from the Peace Pagoda. One can hire a taxi or catch a bus from the respective places to reach Darjeeling.
Best time to visit Peace Pagoda
People can visit the Peace Pagoda throughout the year while the best time to visit here is from April to June when the weather of the region remains comfortable for the sightseeing tour.
Peace Pagoda Darjeeling Timings: 4:30 A.M to 7:00 P.M, Prayer timings are from 4:30 A.M to 6:00 A.M and 4:30 P.M. to 6:30 P.M.
Peace Pagoda Darjeeling Entry Fees: Nil
