- Pradeep Khanal completed a ten-day spiritual pilgrimage across Pakistan, visiting historic Hindu temples including the revered Hinglaj Mata Shakti Peeth in Balochistan.
- He celebrated his birthday at Nankana Sahib and visited other significant Sikh shrines like Kartarpur Sahib and Panja Sahib for spiritual blessings.
- The author performed ritual baths at Katas Raj Kund and explored Taxila, reflecting on South Asia’s shared heritage and intellectual history.
- The trip concluded with a diplomatic meeting in Islamabad, fostering cultural relations and appreciation for the region's diverse religious and historical landscapes.
By: Pradeep Khanal
Pakistan is a land of immense historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. Long before modern political boundaries were drawn, this region was home to ancient Hindu, Buddhist, and Sikh civilizations. The sacred rivers, temples, Gurudwaras, and centers of learning spread across present-day Pakistan continue to preserve the shared heritage of South Asia.
From 19 June 2024 to 28 June 2024, I undertook a remarkable pilgrimage across Pakistan. This journey was not merely a religious tour but a profound spiritual experience involving Darshan, Pujan, Snan, historical exploration, and cultural understanding. During these ten days, I visited some of the most sacred Hindu temples, revered Sikh Gurudwaras, holy Kunds, and the ancient Taxila University—one of the world’s oldest centers of learning.
This journey became even more memorable as my birthday, 26 June, was celebrated at the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Nankana Sahib—a blessing I consider one of the greatest fortunes of my life.
Beginning the Journey in Karachi
My pilgrimage began in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and economic hub. Karachi is also home to several important Hindu temples that have survived through centuries of history.
One of the first sacred places I visited was the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman in his five-faced form, symbolizing strength, devotion, wisdom, courage, and protection. Standing before the deity and offering prayers filled my heart with devotion and gratitude.
I then visited the historic Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple. Situated near the Arabian Sea, this sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva carries a unique spiritual atmosphere. The sound of ocean waves combined with the serenity of the temple created an unforgettable experience. I offered prayers and sought blessings from Mahadev for peace and spiritual growth.
Another important stop was the Swaminarayan Temple, one of Karachi’s most prominent Hindu temples. It stands as a symbol of the perseverance and faith of the Hindu community in Pakistan.
I also visited the Kali Temple located near the historic Ramaswamy Cremation Ground. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, it represents divine power and protection. Offering prayers there reminded me of the eternal strength of Shakti.
My visit to Karachi also included the famous Jhulelal Temple, also known as the Varun Dev Temple, situated near the Arabian Sea. Revered especially by Sindhi Hindus, Jhulelal symbolizes harmony, devotion, and protection. Standing before the temple overlooking the sea was a deeply uplifting spiritual experience.
The Sacred Pilgrimage to Hinglaj Mata
The most significant part of my journey in Pakistan was the pilgrimage to Hinglaj Mata in Balochistan.
Located approximately 250 kilometers from Karachi, Hinglaj Mata is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in the Hindu tradition. The road from Karachi to Hinglaj is well maintained, passing through beautiful mountains and desert landscapes.
For this sacred journey, I was accompanied by my respected Mamashree Shri Ramnath Mishra Ji, along with my Moushi (Sanima and Sanaba) and my cousin Kabir. Their presence made the journey both joyful and spiritually enriching.
As we approached the shrine, I felt a powerful mix of excitement, devotion, and awe. Being present at one of the holiest Shakti Peethas in such a remote region was an indescribable emotional experience.
According to Hindu tradition, Hinglaj Mata is one of the sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati’s body fell when Lord Shiva carried her across the universe. For thousands of years, devotees have traveled through difficult terrain to seek the blessings of the Divine Mother.
Upon reaching the shrine, I performed Darshan and Pujan and prayed for world peace, harmony among nations, and the welfare of humanity.
Holy Snan at Anil Kund
Approximately one kilometer from the main Hinglaj Mata Temple lies the sacred Anil Kund.
Pilgrims traditionally perform ritual purification here before proceeding to the main shrine. I had the opportunity to perform holy Snan at Anil Kund, which brought deep peace and spiritual satisfaction.
The natural surroundings and sacred atmosphere made it one of the most memorable moments of the pilgrimage.
Chandra Kund (Chandrakup)
Another important stop on the Hinglaj pilgrimage route is Chandra Kund, also known as Chandrakup.
This sacred mud volcano has been revered by pilgrims for centuries. According to tradition, devotees confess their mistakes and seek forgiveness before continuing toward Hinglaj Mata.
Standing before this unique natural formation inspired deep reflection on life, faith, and self-improvement.
Journey Through Punjab: Sikh and Hindu Heritage
After completing my pilgrimage in Karachi and Balochistan, I continued my journey independently through Punjab and other regions of Pakistan.
One of my first destinations was Gurudwara Shaheed Ganj in Lahore. This sacred site commemorates Sikh martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect their faith and principles. Paying my respects there was both emotional and inspiring.
From Lahore, I proceeded to Kartarpur Sahib, one of the holiest sites in Sikhism, where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final years of his life.
The atmosphere at Kartarpur Sahib is truly divine. Pilgrims from across the world visit this sacred site to seek blessings and connect with Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings. Bowing my head there was one of the most memorable moments of my journey.
A Birthday Blessing at Nankana Sahib
The most unforgettable day of my pilgrimage was 26 June 2024—my birthday.
On this day, I arrived at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. At around 3:30 AM, I became the first pilgrim of the day to enter and bow before the sacred shrine.
This moment remains one of the greatest blessings of my life.
Standing at the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji on my birthday was deeply emotional and spiritually uplifting. I felt immense gratitude and divine grace.
The experience became even more special when the Head Granthi arranged special prayers and blessings in my honor. Receiving such blessings at this sacred site on my birthday remains an unforgettable memory.
Malji Gurudwara and Sacha Sauda
On the same day, I visited Malji Gurudwara and Sacha Sauda Gurudwara.
At both places, I offered my respects. As it was my birthday, the Granthis also extended special prayers and blessings.
Sacha Sauda holds special significance as it marks Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s act of feeding the hungry instead of engaging in business, which he described as the “True Business.”
This teaching continues to inspire humanity with its message of service, compassion, and generosity.
Katas Raj Kund: A Sacred Birthday Snan
The blessings of my birthday continued at Katas Raj.
Katas Raj is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Pakistan. According to tradition, the sacred Kund was formed from the tears of Lord Shiva after the death of Goddess Sati.
On my birthday, I had the rare opportunity to perform holy Snan in this sacred Kund.
The experience was deeply moving and reflective, filled with devotion and gratitude.
Offering Sacred Waters and Rudraksha at Katas Raj
After the Snan, I visited the Katas Raj Mahadev Temple.
This moment became one of the most spiritually significant parts of my journey.
I offered sacred waters carried from Kailash Mansarovar, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Muktinath as an act of devotion to Lord Shiva. I also offered a 108-bead Rudraksha Mala brought from Kathmandu.
This symbolic offering created a spiritual connection between some of the most sacred pilgrimage sites across South Asia.
Krishna Temple, Rawalpindi
I also visited the historic Krishna Temple in Rawalpindi.
The temple remains an important center of worship and reflects the enduring Hindu heritage of the region.
I offered prayers to Lord Krishna and reflected on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, particularly the principles of righteousness and devotion.
Panja Sahib and Holy Snan
On 27 June 2024, I visited Panja Sahib, one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites in the world.
Before entering the Gurudwara, I performed holy Snan in the sacred Kund.
The serene atmosphere created a deeply spiritual experience.
I then bowed at Gurudwara Panja Sahib, a site associated with a miracle of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Taxila: Exploring an Ancient University
After Panja Sahib, I traveled to Taxila in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Taxila was one of the world’s oldest centers of learning over two thousand years ago.
Scholars from across the ancient world studied medicine, philosophy, politics, military science, and linguistics here. Great thinkers such as Chanakya and Panini are associated with its intellectual legacy.
Walking through these ruins offered deep insight into South Asia’s rich academic history.
Meeting the Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan
Later that evening, I returned to Islamabad and had the honor of meeting His Excellency Tapas Adhikari, Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan, at his residence.
He warmly welcomed me and hosted a dinner in my honor. We discussed my pilgrimage, cultural relations between Nepal and Pakistan, and the shared heritage of South Asia.
Return to Nepal
On 27 June at around 11:00 PM, I departed for Islamabad International Airport and began my journey home via Dubai.
I arrived safely in Kathmandu on 28 June 2024, carrying unforgettable memories, spiritual blessings, and a deeper appreciation of South Asia’s shared heritage.
Conclusion
My pilgrimage across Pakistan from 19 to 28 June 2024 was far more than a journey between sacred places. It was a journey of faith, learning, reflection, and cultural understanding.
From Hinglaj Mata in Balochistan to Nankana Sahib in Punjab; from Anil Kund, Katas Raj Kund, and Panja Sahib to the ancient ruins of Taxila; every place enriched my spiritual and intellectual life.
Celebrating my birthday at Nankana Sahib, performing Snan at Katas Raj, offering sacred Himalayan waters and a Rudraksha at Katas Raj Mahadev Temple, and concluding the journey with a meeting with the Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan made this pilgrimage truly extraordinary.
This journey strengthened my belief that the spiritual heritage of South Asia transcends borders and continues to unite people through faith, history, culture, and mutual respect.
Pradeep Khanal
Kathmandu
