Today, we had a wonderful opportunity to visit Hanuman Tok in Gangtok, which is one of the most famous temples in Sikkim. Hanuman Tok is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is worshipped as a symbol of strength, devotion and courage. It is 11 km away from Gangtok town. The height of this point is roughly 7,200 ft.

From the parking lot when you start climbing the paved stairs of the temple, there are benches to rest and soak in the greenery around. However the climb is relatively easy and doable for all. Prayer bells hang from above. Ring a bell and it makes a resonating sound. Prayer chants and sometimes religious music are played through the fitted audio speakers. It’s a divine and heavenly feeling when you reach up to the main Hanuman temple and offer your prayers.

LEGEND

According to the local legends, when Hanuman was flying with the mountain with Sanjeevani herbs (mythological life saving herb) to save Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana, he rested at this spot for some time where his temple now lies. The locals used to worship a stone here for centuries. The temple is popularly known as wish-fulfilling temple.

In 1950s a political officer named Appaji Pant had a divine dream at this place and after that the idol of Lord Hanuman had been erected here. Since then the temple is locally known as the Hanuman Tok. In 1968, the temple was handed over to the Indian Army. Currently, the temple is maintained by the Units of 17 Mountain Division of the Army.

The temple is situated on a hilltop at an altitude of 7200 feet and offers a panoramic view of Gangtok city and the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga range. The temple complex also has a small shrine of Saibaba and several stupas and chortens. One can relax on the benches in the parks and soak themselves in the magnificent and religious culture of Sikkim.

Due to mists and clouds, we couldn’t see Kanchenjunga. Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world.

I felt a sense of peace and bliss as I entered the temple premises and saw the idol of Lord Hanuman adorned with flowers and vermilion. It was an unforgettable experience for me.

Jai Hanuman!