Temple Story
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
“Two strangers meet on a train journey to Jalandhar. A middle-aged woman who is frustrated with her mother-in-law and a 22-year-old army soldier “Baba” Harbhajan Singh. They start a conversation and the thoughts of the soldier on life lead to the woman’s character pondering over the “plus-minus” of her husband which eventually changes her thought process.
She thanks the soldier for listening and helping her. They also discover that they both are going to Kapurthala and the woman gladly invites the soldier to meet her husband. Upon reaching Jalandhar other 2 soldiers board the train and take the luggage of Harbhajan Singh.
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The woman tells her husband about the soldier and asks him to meet Harbhajan Singh. Not finding him anywhere on the station, she inquires about him only to realize that “Baba” Harbhajan Singh died years ago”.
This is the plot of an award-winning Indian short film “Plus-Minus” starring Bhuvan Bam and Divya Dutta which is loosely based on the story of Harbhajan Singh Temple. Except for the woman talking to the ghost of Baba Harbhajan Singh, everything in the film is based on real-life events.
Yes, the army reserves a seat every year for Harbhajan Singh and carries his luggage to his hometown when the dead soldier is on leave. Still confusing? Well, let me start with the complete life story of this “ghost soldier” and the story behind the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple at Nathu-La in Sikkim.
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 block 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.
Conclusion
A visit to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is not just a pilgrimage. It’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the spirit of courage and sacrifice. As you stand amidst the tranquil Himalayan vistas, surrounded by the whispers of legends. And the echoes of a hero’s valor, you can’t help but feel a profound sense of reverence for the man. Who gave his life for his comrades and his country. Truly, Baba Harbhajan Singh’s legacy shines as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
