The stupa was built to dispel evil spirits and negative forces believed to be affecting the region at the time of its construction.
The 108 prayer wheels encircling the structure are inscribed with the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum.
It is a repository for rare Buddhist texts and the relics of the late Kyabje Dodrubchen Rinpoche.
The structure is specifically linked to the Nyingma lineage, the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
The site acts as an active monastic community rather than just a monument.
Do Drul Chorten is the most significant stupa in Gangtok, Sikkim, established in 1945 by Trulshik Rinpoche. The main stupa is crowned with a distinctive golden spire and surrounded by 108 prayer wheels. It serves as a center for Buddhist study, containing holy books, mantras, and religious artifacts. The site includes the smaller Jhang Chub Chorten and a monastery housing statues of Guru Padmasambhava. Architecture follows the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, featuring intricate traditional iconography. The stupa is built on a hillock, offering views over the surrounding valley.
From the steps facing the golden spire during the golden hour for optimal lighting on the structure.
Walk clockwise around the stupa to participate in the traditional Kora practice.
Spin the prayer wheels consistently in a clockwise direction as you pass them.
Maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor as this is an active site of religious devotion.
Attempting to photograph monks or pilgrims without asking for permission; walking counter-clockwise around the stupa.
Remove shoes before entering the shrines; dress modestly covering shoulders and knees; maintain silence; do not point feet toward religious statues.
