Cave temple of Lord Shiva at Banjhakri falls, East Sikkim

2015-06-17 6

A small cave temple of lord Shiva is located at Banjhakri falls energy park. Its a man made temple or cave. All along the park you will witness ethnic sculptures and figurines depicting jhakri culture. The figurines in the park illustrates rituals, some healing ceremonies and others the induction process in the life of a shaman.

Banjhakri fall is a new sightseeing destination for tourists, its compound spreads on 2 two acres of land. The main attraction of the park is the waterfalls which cascades from a rocky height of almost 40 feet and plunges down with intense force. Around the waterfalls gardens have been beautifully landscaped and the place is further adorned with several statues of Ban Jhakri, Lyam Lymay, Mangpas and Lepcha ancestors. Other recreational activities and refreshment stalls are also placed at the entrance of the park. Entrance fee is levied for all visitors.

Ban literally means forest or jungle, and Jhakri means traditional healer. A Ban Jhakri is a mythical man, who exists only in folktales within the Nepali Community in Sikkim. Local people believe that Ban Jhakri dwells in the forest and live in rock caves worshiping sprits. The ethnic communities of Sikkim still believe in such mysteries as it is part of their tradition and culture.

All along the park you will witness ethnic sculptures and figurines depicting jhakri culture. The figurines in the park illustrates rituals, some healing ceremonies and others the induction process in the life of a shaman. Other recreational activities and refreshment stalls are also placed at the entrance of the park. Entrance fee is levied for all visitors.

Banjhankri falls energy park is about 10-12 kilometers from Gangtok on the way to Ranka. Very scenic and well maintained, it is a government initiative for green energy conservation and generation. The whole park is powered by solar energy. Solar panels are laid along side the edge of the wall of the park.

Solar parks, solar panels on rooftops and