Solophok Chardham Sikkim - Timings, History, How to Reach

Solophok Chardham was built to promote Eco and Village tourism and Religious Tourism. Among the top attractions in the state, this site is visited by national as well as foreign tourists. Located at a distance of about 5 km from Namchi in South Sikkim, the complex is built on the top of Solophok hill and covers an area of 7 acres.

Being a pilgrimage and a cultural center, Chardham of Namchi has an 87 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva seated at Solophok Hill. Another highlight of the center is the replicas of 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

Chardham yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimage journeys in Hinduism and comprises four religious destinations, namely, Dwarka (West), Puri (East), Badrinath (North), and Rameshwaram (South). Solophok Chardham also has models of these places so that the visitors can pay their reverence.

Solophok Chardham in Sikkim is distributed mainly in 4 parts -

i) Statue of Lord Shiva with 12 Jyotirlingas,
ii) Chardham,
iii) Sai Baba Temple,
iv) Kirateshwar statue

There are a few other sacred sites too, such as Nandi bull temple, Sai dwar, Shiv dwar, and Kirat Dwar.

Solophok Chardham has information kiosks, a security building cum auditorium cum cafeteria, VIP guest house, car parking, driver’s room, viewing pavilion, main prayer hall for the entertainment and comfort of the visitors. Dormitory, 96 bedded Yatri Niwas, and viewing chattri are also available.

History of Solophok Chardham

According to mythology, Lord Shiva was born in the form of Kirateshwar in a place called Indrakeel, which today is known as Sikkim. Due to the same reasons, he is worshiped by the local people as Lord Kirateshwar. The temple complex also has a statue of Lord Kirateshwar, which is 16.5 feet high.

Best Time to Visit

Plan a trip to Solophok Chardham any time of the year. However, March to May and September to January are considered the best times to visit Solophok Chardham Namchi. The temperature ranges from 4°C to 12°C, which can go up to 28°C. You can see Mount Kanchenjunga and the flowers blooming around the temple complex.

Timings & Entry Fees of Solophok Chardham

Open 12 hours a day with a nominal entry fee.

How to Reach Solophok Chardham

This temple complex is located 5 km from Namchi. Govt.-run buses or shared taxis are available from the main cities in Sikkim to Solophok Chardham. To reach Sikkim, the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport and the closest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri. Tourism of India provides permitted vehicles to travel within Sikkim and intercity drives.