Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a holy shrine situated at the distance of 60 km from Gangtok and between Nathula and Jelepla pass. Popularly known as Old Baba Mandir, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Sikkim.

Constructed to pay homage to the brave Indian Soldier who lost his life during the Indo-China War in 1962, the temple is now maintained by Indian Army and is being visited by thousands of tourists every year.

In the year of 1868, when Harbajan Singh was escorting a mule column from Tuku La, he suddenly slipped and fell into a stream and drowned. His body was found nowhere. According to the legend, he then came in the dream of a fellow soldier and asked to make a memorial here on his name.

Interesting Facts and History of Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Built near Chhokya Chho at an altitude of around 4,000 meters, one has to climb 50 stairs to reach the bunker, the site where the samadhi was actually constructed. There are lots of legends can be heard about the Sepoy Harbhajan Singh.

It is believed that his spirit is still alive and does his duty. A bed is kept for him, his boots are polished and uniform kept ready as everyone treats him as a living being. It is said that his bed gets crumbled every morning and the boots get muddy. The interesting part is that even the Chinese soldiers have reported of seeing Harbhajan Singh doing rounds in the night.

What to See in Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir?

After entering Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, you will first get to see a huge photo of Harbhajan Singh. Devotees usually leave a bottle full of water here to collect after somedays. It is believed that this worshipped water has great power to fulfil anyone's wishes.

There is Harbhajan Singh's Office at the one side of the temple where he is believed to be carrying out his day to day work. Adjacent to it, there is a dining room. There is another room where his bed, shoes and uniform can be seen.

How to Visit Old Baba Mandir

Falls under a restricted area, to visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, one has to opt a protected area permit. Most of the renowned tour operators usually help to get it. One has to show just a photo Id proof and two passport size photos.

Cars are available to hire from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, NJP, the closest Railway Station and from Bagdogra Airport, the nearest airport to reach Old Baba Mandir aka Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.