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Baba Mandir
Everything You Should Know About Baba Mandir│Sikkim Attraction
Description: Discover interesting facts about Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple in Sikkim. Learn its captivating history, learn how to reach this iconic site, and explore nearby attractions
In the tranquil hills of Sikkim lies a temple unlike any other. It doesn't revere a god or a deity from ancient mythology. Instead, it honors a modern-day hero, a martyr soldier considered a deity by many. Welcome to Baba Mandir, where people honor a brave soldier who sacrificed his life for others.
Hidden amidst the majestic landscapes of Sikkim Baba Mandir is a popular attraction to explore..Also called Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, it's a sacred place full of tranquility. Many visit it on their way to the iconic Nathu La Pass. With many legends surrounding it, Baba Mandir holds a special allure.
Read the blog to learn more about Baba Mandir in Sikkim. And get intrigued by the fascinating story behind this iconic pilgrimage site.
CONTENTS:
Interesting Things to Know About Baba Mandir
Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Day
Best Time to Visit Baba Mandir
Best Places to Visit Near Baba Mandir
Want to Explore the Highly Revered Baba Mandir in Sikkim?
Interesting Things to Know About Baba Mandir
Baba Mandir is a heartfelt tribute to the brave soldier Baba Harbhajan Singh, revered by the Indian Army for his unwavering service along the Indo-China border.
You'll find two shrines dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh. The old shrine marks the spot where Baba Harbhajan served at the bunker during his time in the Indian Army, while the new shrine is located near Changu Lake.
Old Baba Mandir
When traveling from Gangtok to Nathula Pass, keep an eye out for the Old Baba Mandir. It's situated along the route, accessible via a road from Tukla near Kupup Valley. This is where you'll find Baba Harbhajan's samadhi, known as the Old Baba Mandir.
Story of Baba Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh, born on August 30, 1946, in the Sadrana village of Gujranwala district (now in Pakistan), served as a sepoy in the Punjab Regiment of the Indian Army. Tragically, he drowned after slipping into a nullah while escorting a mule column in 1968, and his body went missing. After some days, he appeared in dreams of his fellow soldier, revealing the location of his body and expressing a strong desire to have a samadhi built in his honour.
Surprisingly, his body was discovered at the very place he had mentioned in a fellow soldier's dream, leading to the construction of the samadhi near Chhokya Chho at an elevation of around 4,000 metres. The Old Baba Mandir is situated where Baba served during his time in the Indian army. To reach the bunker, you’ll need to climb 50 stairs. Due to this inconvenience, the place is less popular among tourists.
New Baba Mandir
To make it more convenient for tourists, another shrine was constructed in 1982 at the crossroads of Kupup Gnathang Road and the trail leading to Menmecho Lake. This shrine, known as New Baba Mandir, draws many devotees each year.
Inside, you’ll find three rooms. The main room has a large portrait of Baba, surrounded by Sikh Gurus and Hindu deities. In Baba's personal room, you'll find his everyday essentials, like neatly pressed uniforms and shiny boots. Another room serves as an office and storage space, filled with offerings such as slippers and water bottles.
Fascinating Folklore
There are many legends surrounding Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. It's said that his spirit still watches over the Indo-China border and guides soldiers. Even after his mysterious disappearance years ago, Baba is protecting all who visit there.
Another belief revolves around the healing properties of the temple's water. If a bottle filled with water is kept inside the temple, it transforms into sacred water that can cure different illnesses. However, to benefit from its healing power, it should be consumed within 21 days, and during this time, the patient's family is urged to avoid non-vegetarian food.
Another intriguing belief is that the slippers placed in the temple have the power to treat gout and other foot problems. It's indeed fascinating things to know about Baba Mandir, isn't it?
Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Day
Every year, on September 11th, a grand ceremony is held at Baba Mandir to celebrate Baba Harbhajan Singh's memorial. Soldiers pay tribute by meticulously maintaining his uniform and belongings, showing utmost respect and reverence.
Best Time to Visit Baba Mandir
The best time to visit Baba Mandir Sikkim is between September and November or March to May for the most enjoyable experience. These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the area. It's best to avoid visiting Baba Mandir during the monsoon season, as heavy rainfall can disrupt your travel plans.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
How to Reach Baba Mandir
From Gangtok, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is around 58 kilometres away. Many travellers visit the temple on their way to the iconic Nathu La Pass. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Gangtok. Jeeps are also available since the shrine is popular. Throughout the journey, you’ll witness the stunning views of Sikkim's natural attractions and rugged terrain.
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Best Places to Visit Near Baba Mandir
Hangu Lake
If you enjoy discovering hidden gems, you'll love this offbeat destination in Sikkim - Hangu Lake. Situated at an impressive altitude of 13,000 feet above sea level and stretching up to 1 kilometer, this recently formed lake is a sight to behold.
Nestled among barren mountain slopes, scattered with rocks and pebbles, and devoid of vegetation, Hangu Lake resembles a scene from another world. Fed by glacial waters, the lake reflects the shadows of the nearby mountains, creating a breathtaking and surreal landscape.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: 2.3 kilometres
Timings: Throughout the day
Memencho Lake
Another stunning place to visit near Baba Mandir is Menmecho Lake—one of the most beautiful lakes in Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, it's surrounded by pristine pine forests and steep slopes. The lake is famous for its ever-changing colours. It remains frozen from January to May.
The best time to visit Memencho Lake is between June and September when the weather is pleasant, offering opportunities for birdwatching, admiring exotic flora, and capturing mesmerizing photographs amidst its beautiful surroundings.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: 3.4 kilometres
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Nathula Pass
Nathu La Pass, an iconic destination in Sikkim, is a high-altitude mountain pass linking India and China. It offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. This pass once served as a crucial corridor between India and Tibet, adding historical significance to its status as one of the top historical places to visit in Sikkim.
Distance from Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: 8 kilometres
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Want to Explore the Highly Revered Baba Mandir in Sikkim?
Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is one of the most visited tourist spots in Sikkim. It's filled with intriguing folklore and surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes. Its heartwarming story adds to its charm. But that's not all! There are many attractions near Baba Mandir where you can enjoy an adventurous journey.
If you want to take a break from adventure and seek tranquility, visit Baba Mandir in Sikkim for a spiritual experience. Book your Sikkim travel package today and explore popular attractions, indulge in cultural excursions, and enjoy adventurous activities in the land of the Himalayas.