Every year, Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated on the occasion of Kartik Purnima, the full moon day in the month of Kartik, and is also known as Gurpurab or Prakash Utsav. This year, Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on November 15. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who was born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, near Lahore in present-day Pakistan. This village is now known as Nankana Sahib. Guru Nanak Dev Ji wrote several hymns that were later compiled by Guru Arjan Dev Ji into the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
Why It’s Called the “Festival of Light”
Guru Nanak Jayanti is also referred to as Prakash Utsav, or the “Festival of Light,” because Guru Nanak Dev Ji spread the light of knowledge and truth throughout society. He dedicated his life to uplifting humanity, advocating that all people are created by one God and that divisions based on caste or social status are meaningless. Through his teachings, he illuminated the path of compassion, unity, and equality for all, which is why his birthday is celebrated as a festival of enlightenment.
Devotion from a Young Age
From a young age, Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed a deep devotion to God. Throughout his life, he journeyed across India and parts of Asia, visiting many spiritual sites and spreading messages of equality and tolerance. His teachings promote selfless service to humanity, a principle central to Sikhism. The opening verse of Guru Granth Sahib is based on the belief that the Creator of the universe is one. On Guru Nanak Jayanti, Sikhs honor these teachings by reciting the Guru Granth Sahib in a continuous reading known as Akhand Path. Two days before the festival, Prabhat Pheris (morning processions) are organized where devotees sing hymns and visit local areas to spread Guru Nanak’s message. Here is a list of the top 10 most famous gurudwaras in India that are highly revered and worth visiting during Guru Nanak Jayanti.
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1. Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar, Punjab
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the most famous Sikh shrine in the world and a symbol of spiritual freedom. Located in Amritsar, it was founded by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru. Covered in gold, the temple shines brightly, especially during festivals, and is surrounded by a sacred lake known as the Amrit Sarovar. Visiting Harmandir Sahib during Guru Nanak Jayanti is a mesmerizing experience as thousands of devotees gather to participate in the celebrations.
Best Things to Do:
Attend Palki Sahib Ceremony: Night ritual for holy scripture.
Explore Jallianwala Bagh: Historic memorial nearby.
Tour the Partition Museum: Learn about the 1947 Partition.
Watch Wagah Border Ceremony: Patriotic parade near the India-Pakistan border.
Shop & Eat Local: Try Amritsari kulcha, lassi, and shop for handicrafts.
- Distance: From Delhi – 450 km; From Chandigarh – 230 km
- How to Reach: Amritsar is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, about 13 km from the Golden Temple. Amritsar Junction is the closest railway station.
2. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, New Delhi
Located in the heart of Delhi, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance. This gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Har Krishan Ji, the eighth Sikh Guru, who served people during a cholera and smallpox epidemic. The sacred water (Amrit) of Bangla Sahib is believed to have healing powers. On Guru Nanak Jayanti, the gurudwara is decorated with lights and flowers, and a large langar is organized.
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Best Things to Do:
Visit India Gate: A prominent war memorial nearby.
Explore Connaught Place: Famous for shopping, cafes, and restaurants.
National Museum: Discover ancient artifacts and Indian history.
Agrasen ki Baoli: An ancient stepwell with unique architecture.
Jantar Mantar: Visit this historical astronomical observatory.
Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum: Learn about India’s former Prime Minister.
- Distance: Centrally located in Delhi; from Chandigarh – 240 km
- How to Reach: Accessible by metro (nearest station: Rajiv Chowk) and other forms of local transport.
3. Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Patna, Bihar
One of the five Takhts, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is located in Nanded, Maharashtra. It marks the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his last days and took his last breath. The gurudwara complex has stunning architecture and includes the room where Guru Gobind Singh Ji lived. On Gurpurab, the gurudwara is illuminated beautifully, and the Akhand Path is held, attracting numerous pilgrims.
Best Things to Do
Visit Patna Museum: Explore artifacts showcasing Bihar’s history and culture.
Explore Golghar: A historic granary offering panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Bihar Museum: A modern museum with rich collections of art and history.
Patna Zoo: Spend time in the city’s zoo, home to a variety of animals.
Ganga Ghat: Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Ganges river and witness evening aarti.
Shri Krishna Science Centre: A great place for science lovers with interactive exhibits.
- Distance: From Mumbai – 590 km; From Hyderabad – 275 km
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Nanded, and Hazur Sahib Nanded is the closest railway station.
4. Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand
Located in the scenic Himalayas, Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Situated at an altitude of 4,632 meters, it is one of the highest gurudwaras in the world. The journey to Hemkund Sahib is challenging, but the serene lake and mountains surrounding it create an awe-inspiring experience. Although it closes during winter, it remains a top pilgrimage site for Sikhs and travelers alike.
Best Things to Do
Trekking to Hemkund Sahib: Experience the challenging yet scenic trek through forests and alpine meadows.
Visit Valley of Flowers: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its vibrant, rare flowers.
Explore Lokpal Lake: A serene, small lake located near Hemkund Sahib, surrounded by stunning views.
Enjoy the Beauty of Auli: A popular hill station known for skiing and breathtaking mountain views.
Visit Joshimath: A historic town with beautiful temples and stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Distance: From Rishikesh – 300 km; from Haridwar – 315 km
- How to Reach: Reachable by trekking from Govindghat, which is accessible by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
5. Gurudwara Sri Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, Punjab
This gurudwara, located in Talwandi Sabo, is one of the five Takhts and is known as the “Seat of Temporary Abode.” It is where Guru Gobind Singh Ji stayed and prepared the final version of the Guru Granth Sahib. On Guru Nanak Jayanti, special prayers and kirtans are held, and the langar here is one of the highlights of the celebrations.
Best Things to Do:
Visit the Bathinda Fort: Explore the historic fort offering a glimpse of Punjab’s past.
Explore the Rose Garden, Bathinda: Relax and enjoy a walk in this beautiful garden with various species of roses.
Visit Qila Mubarak: A heritage site in Bathinda, known for its architectural beauty.
Go to Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib: A historic gurdwara near Talwandi Sabo, associated with Baba Buddha Ji.
Take a Boat Ride at Bathinda Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride at this scenic lake.
- Distance: From Bathinda – 30 km; From Chandigarh – 230 km
- How to Reach: Talwandi Sabo is accessible by road from Bathinda, the nearest railway station.
6. Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the Parvati Valley near Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib is known for its hot springs, which are considered sacred. The gurudwara is dedicated to both Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Lord Shiva. During Guru Nanak Jayanti, pilgrims come here to pray, bathe in the hot springs, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Best Things to Do
Take a dip in the Hot Springs: Experience the famous hot springs known for their therapeutic properties.
Explore Parvati Valley: Enjoy trekking, nature walks, and stunning views of the Parvati River and surrounding mountains.
Visit the Manikaran Temple: A famous Hindu temple near the gurudwara, known for its hot water springs.
Trek to Kheerganga: A popular trek offering breathtaking views and natural hot springs.
Explore Kasol: A nearby village known for its scenic beauty, vibrant cafes, and trekking opportunities.
- Distance: From Kullu – 45 km; From Manali – 85 km
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, and it’s accessible by road from Manali and Kullu.
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7. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, Amritsar, Punjab
Gurudwara Baba Atal Sahib, located near the Golden Temple in Amritsar, is dedicated to Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind Ji. This nine-story structure represents the nine years of Baba Atal’s life. The gurudwara has a unique charm and offers panoramic views of Amritsar. During Gurpurab, it becomes a site of pilgrimage for devotees visiting the Golden Temple complex.
Best Things to Do
Visit the Golden Temple: A must-see spiritual landmark in Amritsar, just a short distance away.
Explore Jallianwala Bagh: A historic site commemorating the 1919 massacre.
Shop at Hall Bazaar: A vibrant market offering traditional Punjabi goods and souvenirs.
Try Amritsari Kulcha: Taste this famous stuffed bread at local eateries.
Visit Partition Museum: A museum dedicated to the stories of the 1947 Partition.
- Distance: From Bathinda – 30 km; From Chandigarh – 230 km
- How to Reach: It’s within walking distance from the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
8. Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded, Maharashtra
One of the five Takhts, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is located in Nanded, Maharashtra. It marks the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his last days and took his last breath. The gurudwara complex has stunning architecture and includes the room where Guru Gobind Singh Ji lived. On Gurpurab, the gurudwara is illuminated beautifully, and the Akhand Path is held, attracting numerous pilgrims.
Best Things to Do
Visit the Nanded Fort: Explore this historic fort offering great views of the city.
Explore Godavari River: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river and visit nearby ghats.
Nanded Zoo: Visit the local zoo to see various animal species and enjoy the green surroundings.
Ravi River: Take a boat ride or simply enjoy the scenic beauty of this river near the gurudwara.
Hazur Sahib Museum: Learn about Sikh history and the significance of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib.
- Distance: From Mumbai – 590 km; From Hyderabad – 275 km
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Nanded, and Hazur Sahib Nanded is the closest railway station.
9. Gurudwara Sri Nanak Jhira Sahib, Bidar, Karnataka
This gurudwara is located in Bidar, Karnataka, and is dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s miraculous deeds. It is believed that during a visit to this drought-prone region, Guru Nanak Ji miraculously provided water to the people by moving a stone, which created a natural spring. The gurudwara is especially popular in southern India and sees an influx of devotees during Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Best Things to Do
Visit Bidar Fort: Explore this historic fort with impressive architecture and stunning views.
Explore the Rangin Mahal: A beautifully decorated palace inside the Bidar Fort, showcasing Persian-style architecture.
Visit the Bahmani Tombs: Explore the tombs of the Bahmani rulers, offering insight into Bidar’s history.
See the Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan: A historic Islamic educational institution with beautiful architecture.
Visit the Guru Nanak Jhira Waterfall: A natural waterfall located near the gurudwara, adding a peaceful touch to your visit.
- Distance: From Hyderabad – 130 km; From Bangalore – 700 km
- How to Reach: Bidar has a railway station and is accessible by road. The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.
10. Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Delhi
Situated in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is a historical shrine commemorating the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru. The gurudwara is a symbol of sacrifice and courage. During Guru Nanak Jayanti, it hosts special kirtans and Ardas (prayers), drawing large crowds of devotees.
Best Things to Do:
Explore Chandni Chowk: A bustling market perfect for shopping traditional goods, street food, and local snacks.
Visit Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a peek into India’s Mughal history and stunning architecture.
Try Paratha Wali Gali: Taste delicious parathas in this famous narrow street filled with old-world charm.
Explore Jama Masjid: Visit one of India’s largest and most beautiful mosques, just a short walk away.
Rashtrapati Bhavan & India Gate: Visit these iconic landmarks of Delhi to experience India’s political and historical grandeur.
- Distance: Located in Old Delhi; from Chandigarh – 250 km
- How to Reach: Located in Old Delhi, it’s accessible via Chandni Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
What is the story of Guru Nanak?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, was born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). From a young age, he displayed deep spiritual insight and a desire to seek the truth. He shared his teachings through his travels across South Asia, emphasizing equality, compassion, devotion to one God, and rejection of caste divisions and superstitions.
When was the last day of Guru Nanak?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji passed away on September 22, 1539, in Kartarpur, Punjab (now in Pakistan).
Who founded Sikhism?
Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century.
Who is God in Sikhism?
In Sikhism, God is known as “Waheguru,” meaning “Wonderful Teacher.” Sikhs believe in one, all-pervading, formless God who is both creator and sustainer.
What is the birthplace of Guru Nanak known as?
The birthplace of Guru Nanak is known as Nankana Sahib, located in present-day Pakistan.