Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple in Manali
Buddhist lineage is closely intertwined in the towns and villages of Himachal Pradesh. From Dharamshala to Joginder Nagar, Rewalsar, Key, Lahaul and Spiti and many more such locations in Himachal Pradesh Buddhism thrives. Several Buddhist monasteries and temples can be visited throughout the state. Thanks to Pema Jugne also known as Guru Rinpoche, an 8th-century Buddhist master.
Being one of the most popular winter tourist destinations in India, Himachal Pradesh attracts tourists from within the country and abroad. Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Kufri, Solan are some of the places travellers frequent upon arrival.
When you are in Manali enjoying the pleasant climate, picturesque places, exciting activities, you might miss Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple. Located adjacent to the heart of the busy street of Manali, you would require prior knowledge or a tour guide to lead you to the Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple.
Location
“As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise, you will miss most of your life.” The words of Lord Buddha himself is apt here. Given the location, your chance of missing the temple is high. Visitors in the town usually prefer to walk around from one spot to another. And that is the best way to utilize your time in Manali. Well, now you know that Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple is a spot not to miss in Manali.
About the Himalaya Nyingmala Buddhist Temple
The pagoda styled temple is a tranquil attraction in the otherwise busy Manali street. Built in the 1950s the structure is not in regular Tibetan style construction. Situated in a small park, the temple is painted in bright yellow and red colours outwardly. However, just note that surrounding residential and commercial buildings also have colourful roofs. It is a small structure and doesn't occupy much space in the area.
The Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple Premises
Tibetan style symbolic stupa or Chorten is seen in the garden next to the temple. Usually, such stupa is eructed to bury the saintly figures of Buddhism. These dome-shaped graves are considered holy places.
The entrance of the temple is made attractive with Buddhist symbolic mural paintings and dragon sculptures. The principal colours in Buddhism such as blue, black, white, red, green, and yellow-painted murals can be seen here.
Prayer Wheels
Like in any Buddhist shrines, you can see prayer wheels at the Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple on the right side. The faithful make a circle around the temple by a specified passage to rotate the prayer wheels.
Following the Tradition, the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” is written in the Newari language of Nepal and Sanskrit. And the auspicious Buddhist symbols are inscribed on the outside of the wheel and where you start the procession around the temple.
Interesting Facts – Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple
On the forefront of the temple top, in golden color you can notice Buddhist deer symbol along with the Dharma wheel. You are supposed to remove your footwear before entering inside the temple. The awe-inspiring statue of Lord Buddha inside the temple is the major attraction. He is in the meditation posture (Dhyanasana) and holding a begging bowl in his left hand.
Hidimba Devi Temple
When you are in Manali, do visit Hidimba Devi Temple which 25 KM away from Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple. Constructed in the 1550s, amid a forest, the four-story structure is certainly a sight to behold.
How to reach Manali
Air – The nearest airport is at Bhuntar at approximately 50 km away. Train – The closest railway stations are Pathankot (290 km) and Chandigarh (315 km). Road – There are several taxies and buses that can you take you to Manali from nearby major towns. And it is recommended to travel by road within Himachal Pradesh just to enjoy the beauty of the places.
Author
Deepu
A Travel enthusiast and Foodie, craving to explore the intricate beauty of nature and its gift of delectable treats. Pens down his thoughts and experiences to present a delightful journey for his readers
OH, I didn’t know that a Buddhist temple exists in Manali. I have been to Manali twice but haven’t heard of it before.
I have been here twice…Manali is so beautiful.
I have a wish to visit the place once
Benar-benar indah😍dengan latar gunung himalaya yang menggoda👏🏻👏🏻
Excellent choice of topic and well presented.
Going here is such an adventure, I’m sure. Beautiful temple with an air of mystery. It must even be grander to see it in person.
What a beautiful place! I must go there atleast one time.
What a beautiful temple! You always bring us the most lovely spots. Thanks!
Looks like a great spot.
Thanks for suggesting
This is nice. I haven’t heard or seen prayer wheels before. I’d love to be on one of them!
Oh this makes me long for the good old traveldays again!
I have never actually entered a buddhist temple, so that would be a great experience to check off the bucketlist.
This temple looks absolutely gorgeous. I need to expand my horizons of where I have traveled Cannot wait to travel again!
This looks so beautiful, I love all the bright colors.
I would love to be able to come and visit this gorgeous spot! Hopefully in the next couple of years, post-pandemic. 🙂
What a beautiful spt! I love the photographs. I have never been there before but it looks like it was be a great trip!
What a beautiful place! I would love to visit Manali someday and see this temple. It’s awe inspiring! I loved seeing all of your incredible photos. Thank you for sharing your experience here with us!
My knowledge with India travel destination relies on your blog and each time I visited your page, I learned so much new information! This place is totally gorgeous, and breathtaking.
Thank you for such inspiring feedback.
Prayer wheels are pretty interesting to me. It is very fascinating to consider how this idea even came to pass.
I’ve never heard of this place before but that sounds like a great place to visit someday. Thanks for sharing this with us.
I enjoy these temples. Thank you for showcasing these to us!
I wish I can visit Manali too in the future. I’d love to experience being in the temple and immerse with the locals too.
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