Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a different kind of temple that is not dedicated to a particular religion but selflessness and bravery. Baba Harbhajan Singh was a soldier of the Indian Army, often regarded as 'Hero of Nathula. This is because he sacrificed his life at the young age of 26 years. 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 when he was 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.
Harbhajan Singh used to warn the team about any attacks at least three days before they actually occurred. Even the Chinese regarded him with special respect and arranged a special chair for him during the flag meeting of 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, 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.
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.
