Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a different kind of temple that is not dedicated to a particular religion but to selflessness and bravery. Baba Harbhajan Singh was a soldier of the Indian Army, often regarded as the ‘Hero of Nathula’ because he sacrificed his life at the young age of 26. In September 1967, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his bravery and martyrdom.

Situated at an altitude of 13,123 feet, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple is located between Nathula Pass and Jelepla Pass. It is about 60 km from Gangtok and can be easily reached by public transport. This is one of the major attractions in East Sikkim and should not be missed on your Sikkim tour.

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple Story

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple’s story says that Baba Harbhajan Singh drowned in a glacier while trying to lead a column of mules carrying supplies. Soon enough, some army men left for his search and found his dead body after three days. It is said that Harbhajan Singh himself helped other men to find his body. He had once asked one of his colleagues to build a shrine for him.

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Harbhajan Singh used to warn the team about any attacks at least three days before they occurred. Even the Chinese regarded him with special respect and arranged a special chair for him during the flag meeting between India and China. Soldiers of Nathula collect some money every month in his memory and send that to his mother.

Many stories set this man aside, and many of these contain elements of supernatural sightings and events. Many social network posts tell about his visits to the camps and use of bedclothes and boots, even today.

Timings and Entry Fees for Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

April to November is the best time to visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple in Sikkim. The weather during these months remains pleasant, and you can comfortably pay your respects to the soldier Harbhajan Singh.

You cannot be able to access Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple in winter as the Nathula Pass is blocked by heavy snowfall.

Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.

Special Day: Every 11th September, a grand ceremony is held at Baba Mandir Sikkim to pay tribute to him.

The Old Baba Mandir and New Baba Mandir

This revered shrine has two spots in two different sites in the district. The old one is located near Chhokya Chho, where you will have to climb 50 stairs to reach the temple. This Old Baba Mandir is marked as the original temple built near Harbhajan Singh’s posting place. However, for the safety and convenience of tourists, the Samadhi of Baba Harbhajan Singh has been reconstructed at the junction of Kupup Gnathang Road.

How to reach Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple Gangtok

The temple is located on the popular Nathula Pass, approx. 60 km away from Gangtok in Sikkim. You can take a private or shared vehicle to reach Baba Harbhajan Singh temple. Local jeeps can also take you to the temple.

Note: Before visiting, you must get a Protected Area Permit as Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple is located close to the Indo-China border.

Go through the Gangtok tour guide to get details on how to reach, the best month to visit, and the tourist attractions of the charming city.