Hong Kong Gurudwara, Hindu Temple & Mosque
What is life existence without the realisation of the Supreme Himself? Can't imagine! Indians are known to be more religious and spiritual. It is not only within India but is carried with them wherever they go. Hong Kong has many people of Indian origin and Indians themselves, most of them being Sikhs and Hindus. Naturally, the place of worship came into existence. So if you visit HK and miss the temples, you have an option! Gurudwara - Khalsa Diwan The Gurudwara was built in 1901 by the Sikh members of the British Army in Hong Kong. Since, the number of Sikhs living in HK kept growing, there was a need of a bigger space for the temple and subsequently it was expanded. The Gurudwara is in the Wan Chai district of Hong Kong. Time of Bombing In the 1940s war, the bombing over the area damaged the Gurduwara and even proved fatal for the then priest. However, there was no damage done to the holy book. Many people, both Sikhs and non Sikhs sought refuge in the Gurudwara during that time. It was later reconstructed. Today, the Gurudwara is visited by hundreds of devotees daily and it also provides ' langar '. Offer your ' seva ' (help in serving, cleaning dishes, cooking, etc.) and also experience eating in a langar with many others. It is not only visited by Indian origin people but also Hong Kongers, Philippines, Indonesians, Pakistanis and others who reside in Hong Kong. How to reach? Get down at Wan Chai A3 exit and follow the sign board of Sikh temple after crossing the road. It is about 15 mins walk. Alternatively, the buses going to 'The Peak' pass infront of the Gurudwara and you may get down at the nearest stop. Hindu Temple - Happy Valley The Hindu Temple in Happy Valley was founded in 1949 by the Hindu Association. One can see many devotees coming here and praying daily. All the major Hindu festivals are celebrated with full devotion and rituals. It is also visited by the Indian Consulate General and other dignitaries on major occasions like Diwali. The temple has deities of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh and also Lord Hanuman. Devotees can also avail priest services for any rituals. How to Reach? It can be easily reached by the Happy valley tram. Just get down at the last station, i.e. Happy Valley and a 2-3 mins walk will take you to the temple. Kowloon Mosque The Kowloon Mosque is perhaps the biggest religious place in terms of space and is a pious place for Muslims. The first mosque was built in the year 1896 by the ' Mohemeddans of Upper India " who had arrived in Hong Kong with the British Army. However it was later rebuilt in 1984 and was spread over 16000 sq ft. on the Nathan Road (TST). It celebrates and organises all major Muslim festivals and also the Friday prayers. The mosque also has madrassa for the religious teaching of students. There are other Mosques in Hong Kong as well- Wan Chai, Stanley and in Chai Wan. Churches There are also many Churches in Hong Kong which are visited by the locals who follow Christianity. Some of the notable ones are Community Church, Lifehouse International, Methodist International Church, Vine Church and more!