Gurudwara Pather Sahib Leh

Historic importance of this Gurudwara keeps it into limelight in day today. This Sikh temple cum shrine is located at a distance of mere 25 miles away from the Leh city. As this area comes under Ladakh region of J&K state, it is the place where large number of Sikh inhabits and makes a base for Sikhism. The Gurudwara is known for its contribution in the spreading of the message of Sikh religion into the nearby areas.

History

The Indian Army team has maintained this Gurudwara since the day of its existence. This Gurudwara has been built after the first tour of the Guru Nanak ji from 1515 to 1518. It is remained important period of time to spread the faith. The history of this Gurudwara is centuries old with respect to J&K. It is believed that Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak had visited this location. Present day area of the Gurudwara cum shrine is the place where the spiritual leader of Sikhism has spent some time.

As Guru Nanak is the founder of Sikhism & being the first Guru his arrival at this place is considered to be a highly respectful visit. That is why this Gurudwara has been dedicated to the founder person of Sikh religion. The shrine is highly revered one today and is always rushed by hundreds & thousands of worshippers.

Location and Surroundings

Interestingly, although the Leh area is dominated by the Buddhist community, the presence of Gurudwara Pathar Sahib seems to be a unique place for worship but the more interesting fact is that besides Sikhs good chunk of the Buddhists do offer respect to the Sikh founder, Guru Nanak and arrive at this Sikh temple for worship.

The historic details explain that large number Tibetan Buddhists who give due respect to Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak consider him the Guru Gompka Maharaj and in many cases Nanak Lama. That is why presence of this Sikh temple in the Leh region is not only exclusive for the Sikhs but also for large number of Buddhists as well who are among the regular visitors of this shrine.

This shrine is located at the huge tract of land and has been developed through regular expansions over the period of time. Being a large followership center for many religions followers, this place maintains to keep itself into limelight.

Celebrations

The location of Gurudwara Pathar Sahib in Leh and its visitors being Sikhs and Buddhists as well both these conditions propagate the celebrations of the multi-religious culture here. Although the domination of Sikhs is still greater and the festivals mainly leaned upon a regular event timing which leads to variation in the festival period, depending on these factors festivals and religious events both are being organized here. The Gurudwara has proper arrangement for 'langer' or free food distribution to the worshippers. It an important place for Sikh community therefore, events related to the first Sikh Guru are being celebrated with great zeal.

Visitors info

Best Time to Visit

Don't plan a visit to Leh in the time of winter when the entire area is covered with snow. Although even summertime remains comparatively warmer with hardly any heat in the temperature and weather condition, you may carry warm clothes while arriving here. Do study about the weather conditions prior to visiting this place.

Traveling To Leh

By Air

Leh Airport is the nearest airport from where flights operate for Delhi besides connecting Jammu and Srinagar cities. The Indian Air Forces have their full-fledged base here and often remain ready for any type of assistance in case of emergency due to the strategic location of Leh.

By Train

As this area is not suitable for the trains to operate there is no train service is available in Leh. Trains though run to Jammu and other nearby locations.

By Road

Buses operate from various parts of the state and nearby state of Himachal Pradesh when Leh is open and considered to be a suitable by road journey. Local commuting options are being made available for the travellers.

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