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Mahakal Temple: The Confluence of Religion
Originally the site of Dorje Ling monastery, this temple complex reflects a wonderful confluence of religions.
You know how every once in a while a journey throws up a place that brings a paradigm shift? This unassuming temple is one of them.
The much-revered monastery, Dorje Ling, once stood at the temple site. Soon after the monastery was built, a rock formation resembling three Shiv Lingas self-manifested at the site. Hindus started visiting the monastery area to worship the rock.
However, a few decades later, an invading Gorkha army destroyed Dorje Ling and so the monastery ceased to exist. A local Hindu King then built the Mahakal temple over the Shiv Lingas. Mahakal is today a deity common to Hinduism as well as certain sects of Tibetan Buddhism. So while the monastery ceased to exist, the Mahakal temple became an important place of worship amongst the Buddhists. It continues to be so today.
Perched atop the Observatory Hill, the temple makes for an exciting experience. The complex is festooned with prayer flags. You can hear the sound of gongs and bells in equal measures. Hindus turn the prayer wheels, and Buddhists ring the temple bells. Visit this temple to see saffron-robed monks walk along with dhoti-clad priests!
Good to Know :
Location: 9.5 km from Sterling Darjeeling
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Take care to follow photography/ mobile phone instructions. Keep children safe and quiet.
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