Hanuman Tok is a temple complex, a viewpoint, and a tourist attraction in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god of Hindu mythology, who is believed to have rested here while carrying a mountain with a medicinal herb to save Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana. Hanuman Tok offers a panoramic view of Gangtok, a majestic view of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, and a serene view of the mountains and valleys. It is a place of beauty, spirituality, and peace, where you can feel the divine presence and enjoy the natural scenery.
History and Legends of Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok has a rich history and legends associated with it. According to one legend, Lord Hanuman was flying over Sikkim with the mountain of Sanjeevani herb, when he saw a statue of Lord Buddha on a hill. He mistook it for Lord Rama and descended to pay his respects. He placed the mountain on the ground and rested for a while. The place where he rested came to be known as Hanuman Tok.
According to another legend, Hanuman Tok was originally a small temple built by a local devotee of Lord Hanuman. Later, it was renovated and expanded by the Indian Army, who took over the management of the temple in 1968. The Indian Army also installed a new idol of Lord Hanuman, which was consecrated by the former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, in 2003.
Hanuman Tok is considered to be a sacred and auspicious place, where the wishes of the devotees are fulfilled. Many people visit the temple to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings. The temple also hosts various festivals and celebrations, such as Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami, and Dussehra.
Attractions and Features of Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok has many attractions and features that make it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims. Some of the main attractions and features are:
The Main Temple: The main temple is the focal point of Hanuman Tok, where the idol of Lord Hanuman is enshrined. The idol is about 10 feet tall and depicts Lord Hanuman in a flying posture, holding the mountain of Sanjeevani herb in one hand and a mace in the other. The idol is adorned with flowers, garlands, and vermilion. The temple also has a prayer hall, where the devotees can chant, meditate, and listen to the hymns and songs dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
The Idols: Apart from the main idol of Lord Hanuman, there are also other idols of Hindu gods and goddesses in the temple complex, such as Lord Rama, Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Goddess Kali. These idols are also worshipped by the devotees and add to the religious and spiritual atmosphere of Hanuman Tok.
The Bells: Hanuman Tok has many bells of different sizes and shapes, which are hung around the temple complex. The devotees ring the bells as a sign of their devotion and gratitude to Lord Hanuman. The sound of the bells creates a soothing and harmonious effect, and also wards off evil spirits and negative energies.
The Flags: Hanuman Tok has many flags of different colors and patterns, which are tied to the poles and trees around the temple complex. The flags are inspired by the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of prayer flags, which are believed to carry the prayers and wishes of the devotees to the heavens. The flags also symbolize peace, prosperity, and happiness, and add to the beauty and charm of Hanuman Tok.
The Garden: Hanuman Tok has a beautiful garden, which surrounds the temple complex and enhances its natural beauty. The garden has many flowers, plants, and trees, which create a colorful and fragrant display. The garden also attracts many birds and butterflies, which add to the liveliness and joy of Hanuman Tok.
The Cafeteria: Hanuman Tok has a cafeteria, which serves snacks, beverages, and souvenirs to the visitors. The cafeteria is a good place to relax, refresh, and enjoy the view of Hanuman Tok and its surroundings. The cafeteria also sells prasad, which is a sacred offering of food to Lord Hanuman, and can be taken home as a blessing.
The Souvenir Shop: Hanuman Tok has a souvenir shop, which sells various items related to Lord Hanuman and Hanuman Tok, such as idols, pictures, books, CDs, DVDs, keychains, magnets, and stickers. The souvenir shop is a good place to buy some memorabilia and gifts for yourself and your loved ones.
Views and Scenery of Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is famous for its views and scenery, which are among the best in Gangtok and Sikkim. Some of the views and scenery that you can enjoy at Hanuman Tok are:
The Panoramic View of Gangtok: Hanuman Tok offers a panoramic view of Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, which is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.
The Majestic View of Kanchenjunga: Hanuman Tok offers a majestic view of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, which is also the guardian deity of Sikkim.
The Serene View of the Mountains and Valleys: Hanuman Tok offers a serene view of the mountains and valleys of Sikkim, which are rich in flora and fauna.
How to Reach and Visit Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is located about 11 km from Gangtok, and can be easily reached by car or taxi. The road to Hanuman Tok is well-maintained and scenic, and passes through some of the other attractions of Gangtok, such as the Tashi View Point, the Ganesh Tok, and the Bakthang Waterfall. The road also offers some glimpses of the Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River.
Hanuman Tok is open from 7 am to 5 pm, and there is no entry fee. However, you may have to pay a nominal fee for parking, photography, and videography.
The best time to visit Hanuman Tok is from October to March, when the weather is clear and pleasant, and the views are at their best. However, you can also visit Hanuman Tok during the monsoon and winter seasons, when the place is less crowded and more serene.
Hanuman Tok is a divine destination in Gangtok, where you can experience the beauty, spirituality, and peace of the temple complex, the viewpoint, and the tourist attraction. It is a place where you can feel the divine presence of Lord Hanuman, enjoy the natural scenery of Gangtok, Kanchenjunga, and the mountains and valleys, and explore the nearby places and activities of Gangtok and Sikkim. Hanuman Tok is a place that you should not miss when you visit Gangtok and Sikkim, as it will leave you with a lasting impression and a memorable experience.
