The state of Himachal Pradesh is located in the northern part of India. This state has convoluted topography of interlocking mountain chains, snowy peaks and plunging river valleys. Such a geographical terrain offers ample opportunity for trekking, rafting, paragliding and skiing. It is for this reason that tourists are drawn to this state, which is also known as India"s outdoor adventure playground. Gurudwaras of Himachal Pradesh are no exception in this regard. They also serve as spots that have the potential to catch the attention of tourists visiting this state.
Gurudwara Paonta Sahib
Gurudwara Paonta Sahib is located in Paonta Sahib in the district of Sirmaur. This Gurudwara was constructed in the memory of the tenth guru of Sikhs namely, Guru Gobind Singh ji. A temple dedicated to goddess Yamuna is attached to the Gurudwara. This Gurudwara is involved in serving langar (parshada) to the needy.
Gurdwara Toka Sahib
Gurdwara Toka Sahib is situated in a village of Sirmour district. This Gurudwara was established in honor of Guru Gobind Singh ji. In the vicinity of this Gurdwara is another smaller Gurudwara called "Tapp Asthaan", where the Guru used to meditate. This Gurudwara is also involved in serving the "Guru ka Langar" (community kitchen) to the needy.
Gurdwara Rawalsar Sahib
Gurdwara Rawalsar Sahib is located on the hillside above the Rawalsar Lake in the town of Rawalsar in Mandi district. The site where the Gurdwara is located was once visited by Guru Gobind Singh on the occasion of Baisakhi. He wanted to meet Raja Siddh Sen of Mandi and some other local hill chiefs to discuss their problems with Aurangzeb. This Gurudwara was built in the year 1930 to commemorate the visit of Guru Gobind Singh ji. Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi is credited with the establishment of this Gurudwara. This Gurudwara is made up of stone and is reachable by climbing 108 stairs.
Chail Gurudwara
Chail Gurudwara is located in Chail. It was established in the year 1907. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala is credited with the establishment of this Gurudwara. Baisakhi and Gurupurab are the two festivals celebrated in Chail Gurudwara. The task of renovating this Gurudwara was undertaken by Chail Heritage Foundation, an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) formed by ex-students of Chail Military School. In the year 2007, the renovated Gurudwara was inaugurated.
Other Gurudwaras of Himachal Pradesh
Some of the other Gurudwaras of Himachal Pradesh are Gurdwara Guru Gobind Singh Sahib, Baru Sahib, Gurudwara Shri Paur Sahib, Gurudwara Shri Triveni Sahib, Gurudwara Sehra Sahib, Gurudwara Shri Bhuda Sahib and Gurudwara Shri Pathshahi Dasvi.