How to Get There

Gurdwara Pathar Sahib is located 25 km from Leh on the Leh–Kargil Highway (NH1), just before Magnetic Hill. It takes about 30–40 minutes by car or bike. Roads are excellent year-round. No permits are needed to visit.

What to Expect

This is a peaceful, well-kept Sikh shrine maintained by the Indian Army. Built in memory of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, it stands at the site where he is believed to have meditated during his journey through Ladakh in the early 1500s. Inside the gurdwara is the famous boulder (pathar) said to bear the imprint of Guru Nanak’s back, and a dent from a footprint, central to the local legend.

For the Curious (Local Story)

According to Ladakhi and Sikh tradition, when Guru Nanak Dev Ji was meditating here, a demon (or local evil spirit) tried to kill him by rolling a massive boulder down the hill. But when the rock touched the meditating Guru, it softened like wax, leaving the imprint of his body instead of harming him. When the demon saw this, he repented. Guru Nanak blessed him and continued his journey westward. The original rock with the imprint is still preserved inside the shrine and can be viewed by visitors.

Good to Know

• No entry fee. Open 6 AM – 7 PM daily.

• Managed by the Indian Army; langar (free community meal) often available.

• Head covering required to enter. Scarves are provided at the entrance.

• Clean facilities, parking, and washrooms on site.

• Combine with Magnetic Hill, Indus–Zanskar confluence, and Alchi for a full-day loop.

• Visitors of all faiths are welcome.