The Swarna Jayanti Maitreya Manjri (SJMM) is a commemorative public space gifted to the people of Sikkim, symbolizing five decades of Maitreya (harmonious friendship) with India. Established to mark the Golden Jubilee of this enduring relationship, SJMM serves as a vibrant cultural destination that reflects the values of unity, peace, and shared heritage.
SJMM projectis thoughtfully composed of three key elements. The Maitraye Plaza, Orchid experience center and an Orchidarium.
i) The Maitreya Plaza
A 2100 sq.m. plaza set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kanchenjunga range; the Maitreya Plaza is an open civic space for gatherings and cultural events. Its defining feature—a series of five architectural glass ridgelines of the cool house—evokes the silhouette of Kanchenjunga and symbolizes five decades of enduring Maitreya (harmony and friendship). Plaza is planned by the Ashoka Stambha at one end and the Statue of Harmony at the other end.
ii) The Ashoka Stambha Pavilion
The four lions of Ashok Stambha signify royal authority and Buddhist truths, while the Dharma Chakra symbolizes spiritual continuity, linking Sikkim’s traditions with the spirit of Maitreya. Stambha stands for peace and India’s ethical vision. Stambha is installed under a traditional structure called The Dhamma Dwar, a symbolic gateway from the wordly to the spiritual, inspired by Buddhist philosophy
iii) The Maitreya Monument (The Statue of Harmony)
This iconic sculpture symbolizes the lasting friendship between Sikkim and India. Inspired by the Buddhist fable of The Four Harmonious Friends—an elephant, monkey, hare, and bird—it embodies unity, mutual respect, and interdependence.
iv) Orchid Experience Centre
Orchid Experience Centre is a 3500 sq.ft. indoor space which exhibits the information about geology, morphology and history of orchids, through models, display, simulations and projections. Various commercial usage of orchids for medicine, perfumes, fashion and decorative has been presented aesthetically in an interactive manner. Cultural and religious significance has been presented through actual life models. Experience center also has a section on interactive games which inspires visitors to know more about orchids
v) The Orchidarium Cool House
The Orchidarium Cool House is a tribute to Sikkim’s natural heritage and rich biodiversity. Known as the Orchid Paradise, Sikkim hosts over 500 orchid species that thrive in its mist-laden valleys. The Noble Orchid (Dendrobium nobile), the state flower, and the Rhododendron, the state tree, reflect this floral wealth. Within its 1,027 sq.m. climate-controlled glass house, 115 orchid species and over 100 native plants—ferns, foliage, and rare flora—are carefully nurtured. Each specimen tells a story of resilience and belonging, making it one of the largest orchidarium globally.
