Search Indian Maps, Pincodes, Local Info and more...
Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Nanak Lama
Gurdwara Nanaklama Sahib is a famous structure in the northern part of Sikkim. It is alleged that Guru Nanak Dev actually visited the place during his voyage to Tibet and China. He dug a spot with his walking stick where ultimately the stick has developed into a big tree. The tree has massive trunks in the shape of stick. Below the curved trunks there are unique leaves which resemble handle of stick. At the same time, amrit kund was also developed by Guru Ji. He visited the location during 3rd Udasi so as to give support to Karma Pa Nying division being thrown out from Tibet. It is also speculated that Guru Nanak Sahab on his journey with his followers came across this spot and defeated two demons before proceeding further. At the same time, footprints of that encounter were left on that barricaded rock.
It is alleged that Chungthang is derived from Punjabi word "Changa sthan" or proper place, which Nanak Sahab had granted on it. However, it appears a little implausible. Several individuals from Karma pa Nying sect were actually followers of Nanak Sahab, as their main Lama in fact became Guru Nanak's disciple in Kailash ManSarovar region after being immensely impressed by Nanak Sahab's conversations with the renowned Sidhas of that age. This division had shifted from Tibet to Himalayan area of northern India. The area comprised Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Nepal.
Architecture and Covered Area
The current Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji structure was constructed by officers and soldiers of Assam Rifles and other army employees with the assistance from local lepcha clan in the early 80s. The region was restricted or limited to army personnel and local individuals due to its tactical location close to the international border with China from 1980s to 2005. On the other hand, Assam Rifles were transferred from the premises in September 2004 due to increasing problems for the maintenance of the Gurdwara. However, in April 2005, a local newspaper wrote that Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji is opened to common public and pilgrims for services. Moreover, the gurdwara was built after full governmental inquiries from chief lamas of Buddhist monasteries at Fudong, Lachen, Chungthang, Thangu and Lachung. All the local people contributed a lot towards the construction of Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
People from all caste, religions and sects thronged the Gurudwara, however, the Buddhists have their customary fair on the structure and adjoining lake. They always pay reverence at the Gurdwara with full devotion. There was absolutely no question of ill will. At the same time, a Hindu temple was made in 1989 very close to the Gurdwara, although it was removed after reciprocated consultations. Guru Nanak Sahab's footprints, water carrying utensil and robe are preserved and protected in Lachen Gompha, remembering his visit to the spot.
Visitors Info
Best Time to Visit
It is best to travel during summer season. March to June is the best season to visit Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It will not be possible to visit during winter season. It gets very cold with heavy snowfall from November to February. At the same time, travelers should not visit the shrine during monsoon. It gets very tough to travel during monsoon period.
Travelling to Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji
By Air
The closest airport for Sikkim state is Bagdogra. It is close to Siliguri located in North Bengal. The airport is 125 km and roughly 4hour drive from Gangtok. Go Air, SpiceJet, Indian Airlines, Kingfisher, Jet Airways etc have their flights connected to Bagdogra.
By Road
The Sikkim administration has set rate along with permanent schedule buses running between Gangtok and Siliguri. After 45 years of closure, the famous Nathu La route to Tibet - an essential part of the significant Silk Road - reopened again in July. There are elaborate plans for a Lhasa-Gangtok bus service.
By Train
Construction of a new 50 km rail network from Sevoke to Rangpo in Sikkim began in 2009; however it is not anticipated to be completely ready until 2015. For the moment, the closest railway stations are New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri.
Photo Gallery