From 19 to 28 June, Nepalese spiritual traveller and interfaith advocate Pradeep Khanal undertook an extraordinary pilgrimage across Pakistan, visiting some of the country’s most revered Hindu temples, Sikh Gurudwaras and sacred heritage sites. More than a religious journey, the pilgrimage served as a powerful expression of faith, cultural preservation and interfaith harmony, highlighting the shared spiritual heritage that connects the people of South Asia beyond political borders.

The pilgrimage began in Karachi, where Khanal offered prayers at the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Swaminarayan Temple, Kali Temple and the historic Jhulelal (Varun Dev) Temple. These visits showcased the resilience of Pakistan’s Hindu heritage and the devotion of local communities who continue to preserve these centuries-old places of worship.

One of the most significant moments of the journey was Khanal’s visit to Hinglaj Mata in Balochistan, one of Hinduism’s most sacred Shakti Peethas. Accompanied by his Mamashree Shri Ramnath Mishra Ji, Moushi Sanima and Sanaba, and cousin Kabir, he performed darshan and prayers for peace, harmony and the welfare of humanity.

He also visited Anil Kund, where pilgrims traditionally take a holy bath, and Chandra Kund (Chandrakup), the sacred mud volcano where devotees seek forgiveness and spiritual purification through self-reflection. Continuing into Punjab, Khanal paid homage at Gurudwara Shaheed Ganj in Lahore before visiting Kartarpur Sahib, where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final years of his life.

On 26 June, which coincided with his birthday, Khanal reached Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, at around 3:30 a.m., becoming the first pilgrim of the day to offer prayers. The Head Granthi arranged special blessings in his honour, making the occasion deeply memorable. He also visited Malji Gurudwara and Sacha Sauda
Gurudwara, reflecting on Guru Nanak’s enduring message of compassion and selfless service.

The pilgrimage concluded with visits to Katas Raj, where Khanal performed a holy bath and offered sacred waters collected from Kailash Mansarovar, Gangotri, Yamunotri and Muktinath, along with a 108-bead Rudraksha mala from Kathmandu, symbolically linking the sacred traditions of Nepal, India and Pakistan. He also visited the historic Krishna Temple in Rawalpindi before concluding the journey at Panja Sahib, one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines.

Through this inspiring pilgrimage, Pradeep Khanal reaffirmed that shared sacred heritage, mutual respect and spiritual joumeys have the power to strengthen peace, cultural understanding and interfaith coexistence, demonstrating that faith can serve as a lasting bridge across South Asia.

PLACES HE HAS VISITED
Muktinath, Nepal
Muktinath is a revered pilgrimage site in the Himalayas, respected by both Hindus and Buddhists. Known for its spiritual significance and peaceful surroundings, it attracts devotees from around the world seeking blessings and inner peace.

During his spiritual journey, Pradeep Khanal visited Muktinath, offered prayers, participated in the temple rituals, and spent time in meditation. He also interacted with local priests and pilgrims, reflecting his commitment to promoting spirituality, harmony, and shared cultural values.

Gangotri Dham
Gangotri Dham is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India and is revered as the sacred origin of Maa Ganga. Surrounded by the Himalayas, it is a place where devotees come to seek blessings, purity, and spiritual renewal.

During his visit to Gangotri Dham, Pradeep Khanal immersed himself in the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine by offering prayers and seeking the blessings of Maa Ganga. The visit strengthened his connection with India’s ancient spiritual traditions and reinforced his message of faith, peace, and cultural unity.

Patna Sahib Gurudwara
Patna Sahib Gurudwara is one of the most sacred Sikh pilgrimage sites and the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. The shrine holds immense historical and spiritual significance, drawing devotees from across the world.

At Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Pradeep Khanal offered his prayers and spent time understanding the rich spiritual legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The experience inspired him to embrace the Sikh ideals of humility, service, and compassion while strengthening his vision of fostering interfaith respect and unity.