Do Drul Chorten

Do Drul Chorten, also known as Do Drul Chorten Stupa, is a prominent Buddhist monument located in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, India. Situated on a hillside overlooking Gangtok, this stupa is one of the largest and most important chortens (Buddhist stupas) in Sikkim, serving as a sacred pilgrimage site and a revered symbol of Buddhist faith and culture.

Constructed in 1945 by Trulshik Rinpoche, the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, Do Drul Chorten is renowned for its imposing architecture and intricate religious symbolism. The stupa is adorned with colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, and sacred Buddhist scriptures, creating a vibrant and spiritually charged atmosphere that attracts devotees and visitors from far and wide.

The chorten is surrounded by a circular pathway, known as a kora, which pilgrims and visitors can circumambulate in a clockwise direction while reciting prayers and spinning prayer wheels. The pathway is lined with prayer wheels inscribed with Buddhist mantras, and spinning them is believed to generate merit and blessings according to Buddhist tradition.

Inside the Do Drul Chorten, visitors can find a central shrine housing a large golden statue of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, the legendary Indian saint who introduced Buddhism to Tibet. Surrounding the shrine are numerous smaller statues, stupas, and religious relics, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.

The Do Drul Chorten is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and educational center, hosting religious ceremonies, festivals, and Buddhist teachings throughout the year. The stupa is especially bustling during auspicious Buddhist occasions such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Saga Dawa (Buddha's Enlightenment Day), when devotees gather to offer prayers, light butter lamps, and make offerings.

With its serene ambiance, stunning views of Gangtok and the surrounding mountains, and profound spiritual significance, the Do Drul Chorten is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Sikkim and Tibetan Buddhism. Whether you're a devout Buddhist pilgrim, a curious traveler, or simply seeking peace and tranquility amidst sacred surroundings, a visit to Do Drul Chorten promises a deeply enriching and unforgettable experience.