Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: 10 iconic Gurudwaras and their inspiring histories

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar, Punjab

The holiest shrine in Sikhism, this iconic golden-domed temple sits in the center of a sacred pool. It’s known for its stunning architecture, spiritual atmosphere, and the world’s largest free community kitchen, serving over 100,000 meals daily.

Bangla Sahib, New Delhi

This prominent white-domed Gurudwara in the heart of Delhi is associated with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan. It features a large pond, known as the “Sarovar,” whose water is considered holy by Sikhs and is believed to have healing properties.

Gurudwara Mattan Sahib, Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir

Located in the picturesque Kashmir Valley, this Gurudwara is built at the site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji is said to have held a discourse with local pundits. It’s surrounded by beautiful springs and offers a serene atmosphere for meditation.

Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, Bidar, Karnataka

 This Gurudwara commemorates Guru Nanak’s visit to Bidar during his southern travels. Legend has it that he miraculously created a spring here to quench the thirst of locals during a drought, which still flows today.

Takhat Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, Nanded, Maharashtra

One of the five Takhts (seats of authority) in Sikhism, this Gurudwara is where Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his final days. It houses many of the Guru’s personal weapons and other relics.

Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Patna, Bihar

This is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. The Gurudwara complex includes a museum showcasing the Guru’s childhood relics and Sikh historical artifacts.

Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib, Chamoli, Uttarakhand

Situated at an altitude of 4,329 meters in the Himalayas, this Gurudwara is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in his previous life. It’s surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks and a glacial lake.

Gurudwara Sri Ber Sahib, Sultanpur Lodhi, Punjab

Located on the bank of the Kali Bein river, this Gurudwara marks the spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji meditated under a Ber (plum) tree for 14 years. It’s also where he is said to have received enlightenment.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Leh, Ladakh

 Situated 25 miles from Leh at an altitude of 12,000 feet, this Gurudwara commemorates Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s visit to Ladakh. It’s revered by both Sikhs and local Buddhists, who refer to the Guru as Nanak Lama.

Gurudwara Sri Reetha Sahib, Champawat, Uttarakhand

This Gurudwara is known for a miraculous event where Guru Nanak Dev Ji turned bitter soap nuts (reetha) sweet. The tree under which this occurred still stands, and its fruits are considered sacred by devotees.