Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a spiritual sanctuary located on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It stands as a testament to Guru Nanak Dev's divine confrontation with a demon. The Gurudwara is maintained by the Indian Army and captivates visitors with a boulder imprinted by Guru Nanak's form. It is a place where faith and history intertwine. The Gurudwara attracts travellers and devotees alike to experience its serene ambience and rich legacy., make sure to include this place on your Ladakh tour.
Located on the scenic Leh-Kargil Highway, the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara is an important religious gem dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. In addition to commemorating his visit to Ladakh in the 16th century, the Gurudwara is also home to a rock boulder, which carries the imprints of his head, shoulders and back, along with the imprint of a demon’s foot, who was defeated by Guru Nanak.
What makes this gurudwara more significant is the fact that besides Sikh and Hindu devotees, many Tibetans also come here to pay their respects and seek blessings from the presiding deity known as Guru Gompa Maharaj or Lama Nanak. The gurudwara also has a very rich history, which begins with Guru Nanak’s visit to this place in 1517-18, during his journey to Punjab via Srinagar, after visiting Sikkim, Nepal as well as Tibet.
Located along the mountain ridges and snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, the Gurudwara stands as a tranquil and peaceful structure, with Buddhist prayer flags surrounding it. Besides seeking blessings here, you can also spend some time soaking in the surrounding natural beauty, or meditating in the spiritual ambience here.
As of today, the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara is protected, looked after and maintained by the Indian Army.
Highlights
• Pay your respects and seek blessings from Guru Nanak Dev at the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, considered to be one of the most revered places of worship for Sikhs.
• Learn about the rich and interesting history of how the gurudwara was founded and came into existence.
• Catch a glimpse of the huge rock that gives the gurdwara its name, and watch as you see the imprints of Guru Nanak’s shoulders, back and head, along with footprints of the demon that he said to have vanqushed.
• Take part in the Seva and help the devotees by distributing food, cooking, washing the dishes and other activities.
• Participate in the communal langar, experiencing unity and devotion.
How To Reach
By Bus: Local buses run by the Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) operate between Leh and the area near Gurdwara Pathar Sahib. However, these services may not be very frequent. Therefore, it is advisable to check the current schedule. The journey takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Taxi or Private Car: Taxis and private cars can be hired from Leh city. This is the most convenient way to reach the Gurdwara. The drive takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes via the Leh-Kargil road.
By Bike: Motorbiking is a popular way to explore Ladakh. Gurdwara Pathar Sahib is a common stop for bikers travelling from Leh towards Kargil or vice versa. Biking offers an adventurous journey, with the route offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Gurudwara Patthar Sahib is between June and October, during the summer and autumn months. With rather pleasant weather, devoid of rain and snowfall, these months are best to visit the gurudwara without having to worry about blocked or closed routes.
Other Essential Information
Places to Stay near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara:
1. Ananda Ladakh: (24.4 kilometres from Gurudwara Patthar Sahib)
Boasting of facilities like a garden, an in-house restaurant and some of the best views of the surrounding snowclad mountains, Ananda Ladakh is one of the best places to stay near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara. All of the rooms here come equipped with a private balcony, along with all the necessary amenities required for a comfortable stay.
2. Nimmu House Ladakh: (11.6 kilometres from Gurudwara Patthar Sahib)
A heritage camping eco-resort, Nimmu House Ladakh is one place where you can experience a surreal blend of comfort and luxury. In addition to various types of accommodation, such as tents and rooms, the resort also has a separate yoga retreat space and other modern amenities.
3. The Silk Route Ladakh: (21.9 kilometres from Gurudwara Patthar Sahib)
This is one of the best places to stay near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, and is known for its unmatched hospitality and service. In addition to spacious rooms, the hotel also has free private parking spaces, a restaurant and bar, as well as a garden.
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Places to Wat near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara:
1. Sangam Café: (10.1 kilometres from Gurdwara Patthar Sahib)
Located along the Zanskar River, in close proximity to the Gurudwara, this cafe is famous amongst locals and tourists alike. Some of their notable dishes in the menu include momos, soups and a variety of chinese delicacies.
2. The Takshos Hotel: (10.6 kilometres from Gurdwara Patthar Sahib)
If you wish to try traditional Ladakhi dishes with a modern twist, The Takshos Hotel would be your best bet. From comfortable seatings and prompt service, to freshly made dishes this restaurant has it all. It even offers serene natural views of the surrounding landscapes to the visitors.
3. Palkhang Restaurant: (24.5 kilometres from Gurdwara Patthar Sahib)
Another one of the top restaurants near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, the Palkhang Restaurant is one place where you can indulge in a wide variety of dishes from Indian, Chinese and Tibetan cuisine. They maintain proper hygiene and provide quick service of freshly prepared food to their customers.
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Places to visit near Gurudwara Pathar Sahib:
1. Sangam: (10.1 kilometres): Amongst the most popular places to visit near the Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, Sangam is the confluence point of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers in Ladakh. It is located along the Leh: Srinagar Highway, and you can actually see the two rivers separately here, with the Indus River being of a shiny blue colour, while the Zanskar river being a muddy green colour.
2. Magnetic Hill: (4.1 kilometres): Magnetic Hill is one of the most unique places in the world where you can see vehicles defy the force of gravity. When parked at a marked spot, the vehicles begin to move upwards on the hill here all on their own.
3. Alchi Monastery: (43 kilometres): Amongst the oldest and most famous of all Buddhist shrines in the region, the Alchi Monastery is a complex of temples. In addition to a traditional style of architecture, this gompa is also home to other separate temples, namely Sumstek and the Temple of Manjushri, along with an Assembly Hall.
4. Likir Gompa: (32.8 kilometres): Said to be the oldest monastery in Ladakh, Likir Gompa belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. One of the main attractions of this monastery is the 75 feet large seated gold-plated statue of the Maitreya Buddha. It also serves as the seat of Ngari Rinpoche, who is the youngest brother of the Dalai Lama.
5. Hall of Fame Leh: (25 kilometres): Located on the Leh-Kargil Road, Hall of Fame is a museum that was built in the memory of the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives whilst fighting for the country in the Indo-Pakistan War. The museum is maintained by the Indian Army, and has several galleries and exhibits whcih showcase the arms and ammunitions used by the soldiers, their biographies, photographs and more.
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