About Do Drul Chorten
Do Drul Chorten is a prominent Buddhist stupa located in Deorali, near Gangtok in Sikkim. Built in 1945-1946 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, it is one of the largest stupas in Sikkim. The white dome topped with a golden spire enshrines relics, holy texts and mantras, and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels. It is a major pilgrimage and sightseeing site.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large white stupa with a gilded spire set on a hilltop at Deorali, surrounded by 108 Mani Lhakor prayer wheels that visitors spin while walking clockwise around the structure. The complex includes two statues of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), a small monastery building, and a paved circumambulation path. The setting is calm and forested with views of surrounding hills, offering space for sightseeing, photography and quiet observation of prayer rituals.
Key highlights
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Large white stupa with golden spire - one of the biggest stupas in Sikkim
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108 Mani Lhakor prayer wheels encircling the stupa for circumambulation
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Enshrined relics, complete Kangyur texts, mantras and Dorjee Phurba inside the stupa
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Two statues of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) in the complex
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Hilltop location near Namgyal Institute of Tibetology with peaceful surroundings
History of Do Drul Chorten
Built in 1945 and completed in 1946 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, to ward off evil and promote peace. The stupa was consecrated with relics and sacred objects and is considered one of the most important stupas in Sikkim.
Culture & Context
A significant pilgrimage site for the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The stupa is believed to contain a complete set of Dorjee Phurba, Kangyur relics, and mantras, and is revered by Buddhists who circumambulate and spin prayer wheels for merit. It stands adjacent to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, reinforcing its religious and cultural importance.
Route
| By air |
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