Harbhajan Singh was an Indian Army soldier of the 23rd Punjab Regiment who went missing in 1968 near the Nathula Pass.
The Indian Army maintains a permanent living quarters for the deceased soldier, including a bed, uniform, and boots which are polished daily.
Soldiers stationed in the region believe the spirit of the 'Baba' warns them of impending enemy activity or danger.
Despite his death in 1968, the Army continued to promote Harbhajan Singh in rank annually until his formal retirement, granting him leave days periodically.
The shrine is one of two sites dedicated to him; this 'Old' shrine is the original location, distinct from the newer, more accessible temple located closer to Nathula Pass.
Military personnel often place water bottles at the shrine to be blessed before deployment in the harsh border conditions.
Old Harbhajan Babaji Mandir is a shrine dedicated to Harbhajan Singh, a fallen soldier of the Indian Army who serves as a local cultural icon. The site commemorates the legend of the 'Hero of Nathang,' who is believed by locals and army personnel to protect soldiers stationed at the high-altitude borders. It is situated in the remote Nathang Valley of Sikkim at an elevation exceeding 13,000 feet. The shrine is maintained by the Indian Army, who consider the site a place of active military duty rather than a traditional temple. Visitors encounter personal items of the soldier kept inside the shrine as a memorial. The location is characterized by its stark, high-altitude landscape and historical significance in the context of the Indo-China border history.
The entrance gate area provides the best perspective of the shrine against the backdrop of the rugged Himalayan peaks.
Carry heavy winter clothing regardless of the time of year, as extreme wind and rapid temperature drops are common at this altitude.
Consult with local authorities or your driver about road accessibility, as border region permits are subject to sudden closure due to snow or military activity.
Stay hydrated and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms, as the thin air at Nathang Valley can affect visitors quickly.
Attempting to visit without the necessary Inner Line Permits for North/East Sikkim, which are mandatory for all travelers in this zone.
The site may become inaccessible during heavy winter snowfall from December through March.
Remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum and maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor as this is considered a site of active military duty.
