Ka'u District
The first place that Polynesians landed in Hawai'i was at South Point (Ka Lae) in the Ka'u district on the "Big Island". This district is considered to be the spiritual heart of Hawai'i and the home of the Volcano goddess, Pele.
Ka'u contains both spacious barren desert and dense lush rain forest, extending from the summit of Mauna Loa to a rugged coastline where land meets the Pacific Ocean. Nechung Dorje Drayang Ling's temple and meditation center is tucked away on twenty–five acres in a hidden valley in Wood Valley, Ka'u.
The Temple is near the town of Pahala, 28 miles south of Kilauea Volcano. K'au is an ideal travel destination for people to experience rural Hawai'i, away from the crowded tourist areas and resorts. The Temple guest house is a wonderful place to stay while exploring the southern region of Hawai'i's "Big Island".
Sights and Adventures
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is just a ten minute drive from the Temple.
This black sand beach surrounded by coconut palms is a nesting ground for Hawaii's native green sea turtles and is a great place to view turtles in the water and at rest on the sand.
South Point
South Point is a great day trip off the beaten path. This area is the southernmost spot on the island and in the United States.
The beautiful Green Sand Beach, created from a mix of black sand and olivine, is accessible as a walk or with 4WD.
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, with its ever–changing volcanic landscape, lush rain forest, and miles of trails is a wonderful place to explore.
Visitors from all over the world come to experience the energy and beauty here.
Directions
From Hilo
From Hilo, drive south on Highway 11, 54 miles to Pahala (1.5 hours). After the 51-mile marker, turn right into Pahala. Continue to the stop sign at Pikake Street. Turn right. Pikake takes you to the edge of town, continue straight up the road about 5 miles (gradual uphill past orchards, pastures,bridges) until you come to the forest. At the forest, follow the paved road left. The temple is the first building on your right marked by colorful prayer flags. Park at Visitor Parking and check in at the Main Temple.
From Kailua–Kona
From Kailua-Kona, drive south on Highway 11, 79 miles to Pahala (2 hours). After the 52 mile marker, turn left into Pahala. Continue to the stop sign at Pikake Street. Turn right. Pikake takes you to the edge of town, continue straight up the road about 5 miles (gradual uphill past orchards, pastures,bridges) until you come to the forest. At the forest, follow the paved road left. The temple is the first building on your right marked by colorful prayer flags. Park at Visitor Parking and check in at the Main Temple.
