Dragon Palace

Built through collaboration with Japanese Buddhist groups and completed in the early 2000s, Dragon Palace’s pagoda architecture and landscaped grounds stand apart from Nagpur’s otherwise mostly Indian-style religious sites, and it remains an active meditation and prayer centre alongside its role as a visitor attraction. Dragon Palace sits at an elevation of 285 m and is typically explored in about 1 hour. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Other notable highlights include 31-foot gold-plated Buddha statue in main hall, japanese-style pagoda with intricate white marble carvings, and peace garden with lotus pond and meditation benches. It falls within Maharashtra.

State: Maharashtra

Ideal Duration: 1 Hour

Things to Do

Circumambulate the main pagoda and admire the white marble architecture
Attend the evening prayer or light-offering ceremony (if timing permits)
Climb the short staircase to the upper terrace for panoramic views
Walk the landscaped Japanese-style garden with koi pond and bonsai
Visit the meditation hall and join a silent sitting session
Explore the small exhibition room on Buddhist history and Japanese influence

Best Time to Visit

December, January, November, February

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any dress code or behavior rules I should follow inside the temple?

Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering the main shrine area. Photography is allowed outside but restricted inside the prayer hall, and you must maintain a calm, quiet atmosphere to respect the monks and meditators.

What is the Dragon Palace and why is it significant for visitors?

Dragon Palace is a grand Buddhist temple and meditation center in Kamptee, near Nagpur, built by the Japanese organization Nipponzan Myohoji. It is significant because it houses sacred relics of Lord Buddha, including a holy bone relic, and is a peaceful spot for spiritual reflection and sightseeing, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.

How do I reach Dragon Palace from central Nagpur, and is there parking available?

Dragon Palace is about 20 kilometers from Nagpur city center, and you can reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus (take a bus towards Kamptee). Ample free parking is available for cars and buses, making it convenient for group travellers.

Is Dragon Palace suitable for senior citizens or those with mobility issues?

Yes, the complex is largely flat with gentle ramps and well-paved walkways, making it accessible for wheelchairs and walkers. There are shaded rest areas and benches throughout, and staff are helpful, but do carry water and a hat as the walk around the large grounds can take about an hour.

What are the visiting hours and entry fees for Dragon Palace?

The temple is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week. Entry is absolutely free, though donations are welcome, and you should maintain silence and modesty inside the main prayer hall.