Jhanda Sahib
About
Jhanda Sahib Ji, a famous religious site of Sikhs, is situated 5 km away from Dehradun ISBT. The history of Jhanda Sahib Ji spans 350 years, established by Baba Ram Rai Ji, the eldest son of the 7th Guru of Sikhs 'Guru Har Rai' in the mid 17th century. The architectural design of Darbar Sahib is splendid, largely influenced by the Islamic Architecture. Baba Ram Rai ji arrived in Dehradun in 1675, and since then, in his honour, his followers started organizing a fair on the fifth day of Panchami (fall on the fifth day of Holi).
It is believed that Guru Ram Rai ji possessed supernatural power from childhood, granting him immense knowledge in his early life. After acknowledging his power, Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb bestowed him with the title of Maharaj (a Hindu Pir). Living a renunciate life since childhood, when Maharaj ji reached Dehradun, his horse foot got stuck in the ground, prompting him to camp at the site. For camp, he shot arrows in all directions and instructed their followers to camp the places wherever the arrows landed. Legend has it that, area came to be known as ‘Dera-dun’ after his camp, later changed to Dehradun.
Maharaj ji was very fond of birds, especially eagles. Perhaps this could be the reason why an eagle is often seen circling the flag after the flag hoisting ceremony.
How to Reach
Located in the center of the city, this place is easily accessible by road, just 5 km away from Dehradun ISBT and 1 km from the railway station. Services such as bus, vikram, auto, e-rickshaw, magic, and rapido are readily available from ISBT and Railway station. The nearest airport is located 29 km away in Jolly grant, from where you can easily reach by bus or taxi.
Best Time to Visit
Devotees can take the blessings of the Maharaj ji throughout the year, but the ideal time is considered to be during the fair organized on the fifth day of Panchami in the month of March. However, the presence of thousands of devotees often leads to overcrowding at this site.
Height from Sea Level
It is located at an altitude of 636 meters (approximately), which is around 2100 feet from sea level.