Have you ever wondered how a Sikh gurudwara came to be in the heart of Buddhist Ladakh? The answer lies in the legend of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, and his encounter with a demon. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a sacred shrine that commemorates this event and attracts devotees from both religions. Located about 25 km from Leh, the gurudwara is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the spiritual and cultural diversity of Leh Ladakh.
How to Reach Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
The easiest way to reach Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is by road from Leh. You can either take a public bus, a taxi, or a bike to reach the gurudwara. The distance is about 25 km and the time taken is about 40 minutes. The route is scenic and passes through the Indus River valley and the Srinagar-Leh Highway. You can also stop at some of the nearby attractions along the way, such as Magnetic Hill, Sangam Point, and Hall of Fame.
Best Time to Visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Leh Ladakh is known for its extreme weather and climate, which can affect the accessibility and visibility of the gurudwara. The winter months from November to March are very cold and snowy, and the roads may be blocked or slippery. The summer months from June to September are the best time to visit the gurudwara, as the weather is pleasant and the roads are clear. You can also witness the Hemis Festival in June, which is a colorful and vibrant celebration of the Buddhist culture and heritage.
Facts and Legend of Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib was built in 1517 by the Lamas of Ladakh to honor Guru Nanak, who visited the region during his third Udasi (spiritual journey). The gurudwara is named after the stone (pathar) that bears the imprint of Guru Nanak and the demon.
According to the legend, Guru Nanak was meditating near the Indus River, when a demon who lived on a nearby hill tried to crush him with a huge boulder. However, the boulder melted like wax and became soft as cotton when it touched Guru Nanak. The demon was astonished and realized his mistake. He apologized to Guru Nanak and became his disciple. The Lamas, who witnessed this miracle, preserved the boulder and built a gurudwara around it. The gurudwara is revered by both Sikhs and Buddhists, who worship the boulder as a symbol of Guru Nanak and the demon.
Tips and Things to Remember While Visiting Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Here are some useful and practical tips and things to remember while visiting Gurudwara Pathar Sahib:
Carry warm clothes, as the temperature can drop suddenly in the evening and night.
Respect the religious sentiments of the locals and the army personnel, who maintain and guard the gurudwara.
Enjoy the langar (free community meal) served by the gurudwara, which is delicious and nutritious.
The gurudwara is open from 6 am to 7 pm every day. There is no entry fee or parking fee.
You can also buy some souvenirs, such as books, CDs, and handicrafts, from the gurudwara shop.
Nearby Attractions to Visit Along With Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
There are some nearby attractions that you can visit along with Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, such as:
Magnetic Hill: A natural phenomenon that defies gravity, where vehicles appear to move uphill on their own. The hill is located about 4 km from the gurudwara and is a popular spot for tourists and bikers.
Sangam Point: The confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, which have different colors and flow patterns. The point is located about 10 km from the gurudwara and offers a stunning view of the rivers and the mountains.
Hall of Fame: A museum and memorial dedicated to the brave soldiers of the Indian Army, who sacrificed their lives in the wars and operations in Ladakh. The hall is located about 12 km from the gurudwara and displays weapons, uniforms, equipment, and photographs of the martyrs.
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a sacred shrine that celebrates the harmony and diversity of Leh Ladakh. It is a place where you can witness the history, legend, and culture of the region, and feel the peace and spirituality of the gurudwara. Whether you are a Sikh, a Buddhist, or a traveler, you will find something to admire and appreciate at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. We hope this article has given you all the information you need to visit the gurudwara and enjoy your trip to Leh Ladakh.
