Situated between Nathula and Jelep La Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir is a shrine created to honour the memory of Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who is revered by the soldiers and locals as a saint and hero. It is believed that his spirit is still around to protect the soldiers and this belief is so strong that the Indian army keeps an honorary seat for him during flag marches and meetings. This temple is also known as Baba Mandir and within the premises travelers can visit the shrine, a memorial and a small museum displaying his personal belongings. The Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir Sikkim is set against the scenic backdrop of the beautiful mountains ensuring travelers experience a truly mystical moment as they find themselves surrounded by scenic vistas.
The Story Of Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
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The story of Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir is extremely intriguing and according to legend his spirit is still present in this place. In 1968, when Baba Harbhajan Singh went missing, the army launched a search operation, and the deceased body of Baba Harbhajan was found after 3 days. Soldiers believed that it was Baba himself who guided them to his body. A samadhi was created to pay tribute to him. The soldiers call him “the Hero of Nathula” and it is still believed that Baba Harbhajan Singh still protects the border and guards the soldiers’ lives on the border in East Sikkim. Baba Harbhajan Singh is treated as a soldier who never died.
Also Read: Monasteries In Sikkim
Places To Visit In East Sikkim
The eastern side of Sikkim has a lot of tourist attractions which will make your trip to Sikkim filled with memories. Here is a list of Places that you should visit.
1. Nathula Pass
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The Nathula Pass connects the Indo-China border, situated at an altitude of 4310 meters, it is the highest mountain pass in the world. The Nathula Pass is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China and is a popular tourist destination in East Sikkim due to its scenic vistas and captivating environment. The temperature at Nathula Pass remains low throughout the year. The Nathula Pass attracts thousands of tourists from different regions by providing a picturesque view of the mountains and connecting many tourist attractions in Sikkim. A visit to Nathula Pass during your Sikkim Trip is once in a lifetime experience.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: 7.8 kilometers
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
2. Tsomgo Lake
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Situated at 12400 feet, the beautiful Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim is a dream destination for every traveler. Also known as the Changu Lake, it is 40 kilometers from Gangtok. Nestled between the snow-capped mountains the natural charm of the lake attracts tourists from different regions. Besides the magnificent charm of the lake, the Yak ride near the Changu Lakes is a favorite thing to do for tourists. The Yaks are decorated with woolen weaves on their horns and a bell around their neck. Before planning to visit Tsomgo Lake keep in mind that Tsomgo Lake is situated in a restricted area and you need a special permit issued by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: 16.8 kilometers
Timings: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
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3. Rumtek Monastery
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Situated in the verdant hills of Sikkim, the Rumtek Monastery also known as the Dharma Chakra Center is Sikkim’s one of the popular tourist attractions. The Rumtek Monastery offers a spiritual atmosphere for tourists. The Rumtek Monastery originally belonged to the Kargyu Sect of Buddhists, originated in Tibet in the 12th century. Besides the cultural heritage of the Rumtek Monastery, another attribute that attracts tourists is the architectural brilliance of the monastery. However, the main attraction of the monastery is the Golden Stupa which preserves the relics of the Sixteenth Gyalwa Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. The stupa is beautifully embellished with ancient Turquoise and coral work. A visit to Sikkim remains incomplete without visiting Rumtek Monastery.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: 86.1 kilometers
Timings: 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
4. Enchey Monastery
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The Sacred Enchey Monastery is a 200-year-old Buddhist Monastery famous among tourists due to its traditional Buddhist architecture and an unparalleled view of the Kanchenjunga. The Enchey Monastery offers a pristine environment for the tourists. The Monastery serves as a home to 90 monks and the main deities of the Enchey Monastery are Loki Sharia, Lord Buddha, and Guru Padmasambhava. Inside the main prayer hall, you can find paintings and murals of the four religious kings, the deities of the four cardinal directions, and the galaxy of Mahayana Buddhist deities. The Enchey Monastery offers you a deep spiritual learning of Buddhism.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: 54.7 kilometers
Timings: 6:00 A.M.to 4:00 P.M.
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5. Tashi Viewpoint
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The picturesque view of mountains all over Gangtok can only be experienced from the Tashi viewpoint. Tourists can get a panoramic view of Mount Siniolchu and Mount Kanchenjunga. The majestic viewpoint was built by Tashi Namgyal who ruled Sikkim from 1914-1963. The Tashi Viewpoint is an ideal place to enjoy a picnic with your family and friends while you revel in the picturesque views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The Tashi Viewpoint has been well-maintained by the Tourism Department of Sikkim. The Tashi Viewpoint offers captivating and scenic views of the surrounding mountains, fills you with peace and helps you find solace from your monotonous life.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: 58.5 kilometers
Timings: 6:00 A.M.-4:00 P.M.
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Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir situated between the picturesque Nathula Pass and Jelep La Pass, is a must-visit place on your trip to Sikkim. The legend and the mystery of Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir captivate the tourists. Apart from the sacred Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, Sikkim has a lot of picturesque landscapes, monasteries, and lush green forests which makes your Sikkim trip more enchanting.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
What are the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir timings?
The temple is open for tourists from morning 8:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M., the trip to Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir is included as a day trip, as you can also explore nearby attractions like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass.
What is the best time to visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir?
The months of March-June are the best time to visit the temple and the months of September-November. During these months the weather is quite pleasant and the skies are clearer to enchant the scenic views of the snow-capped mountains.
How to reach Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir?
It is situated between the Nathula Pass and Jelep La Pass. The tourists can hire SUV cars which will cost around INR 4000 for a round trip. This journey from Gangtok to Baba Mandir will take about 3 hours to reach.
Is a permit required to visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir?
It is located under a protected area and the tourists are required to obtain a permit which is issued by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department issued by Travel agencies.
Is there any entry fee required for entering Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir?
No entry fee is required to enter the sacred Temple.
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