# Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura u.p. - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Visit Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura, Pilibhit, UP — a revered Nanaksar tradition gurdwara serving the Sikh community of the Terai region. # Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura u.p. Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura is a Sikh place of worship located in Barapura village, Pilibhit district, Uttar Pradesh, India, situated at coordinates 28.788437°N, 79.720812°E. It is a community gurdwara affiliated with the Nanaksar tradition — a deeply devotional branch of Sikhism founded by Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji of Kaleran, Punjab, in the early twentieth century. The Nanaksar movement is renowned for its emphasis on intense meditation, strict vegetarianism, Akhand Path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), and an unwavering focus on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. Pilibhit district holds a distinctive place in the story of Sikhism in Uttar Pradesh. Known locally as 'Mini Punjab,' the district received thousands of Sikh refugees and farmers following the Partition of India in 1947, when the government allocated agricultural land in the fertile Terai belt to displaced families from West Punjab. Today, Sikhs constitute approximately 4.17% of Pilibhit's population of over two million — one of the highest concentrations of Sikhs in any district of Uttar Pradesh — and the community has established dozens of gurdwaras across the district to serve its spiritual and social needs. Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura stands as a beacon of the Nanaksar sampradaya (tradition) in this region, offering the congregation a serene environment for kirtan, prayer, and reflection. Like all Nanaksar gurdwaras, it observes a strict code of conduct (maryada) that includes continuous recitation of Gurbani, vegetarian langar, and an atmosphere of quiet devotion. The gurdwara serves not only as a place of worship for the local Sikh community but also as a spiritual refuge for pilgrims and visitors travelling through the Pilibhit region. The gurdwara is open to people of all faiths, as is the tradition in Sikhism, and welcomes visitors who come to partake in the langar (community kitchen), listen to kirtan (devotional music), and seek the blessings of the Guru Granth Sahib. Its location in the Terai foothills region of northern Uttar Pradesh, not far from the more celebrated Gurdwara Nanakmata Sahib, places it within a corridor of significant Sikh religious heritage in this part of India. The gurdwara plays a vital role in preserving Sikh identity and culture in the diaspora communities of western Uttar Pradesh. ## Significance Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura derives its religious and cultural significance from two primary sources: its affiliation with the revered Nanaksar tradition, and its role as a community anchor for the Sikh population of Pilibhit district. The Nanaksar sampradaya is one of the most respected devotional movements within Sikhism, founded on the teachings and spiritual legacy of Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji. Gurdwaras in the Nanaksar tradition are known for their atmosphere of deep contemplative devotion, uninterrupted recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib (Akhand Path), and soulful kirtan. The movement places Guru Nanak Dev Ji at the centre of its spiritual practice, and followers observe a strict maryada (code of conduct) that includes abstaining from meat, fish, and eggs — an approach to worship that sets Nanaksar gurdwaras apart. For the Sikh community of Barapura and surrounding villages of Pilibhit, this gurdwara is more than a place of prayer. It is a cultural institution that preserves the language, traditions, and identity of a community rooted in post-Partition migration. The gurdwara provides langar (free communal meals) to all visitors regardless of religion, embodying the Sikh principle of sewa (selfless service). On major Sikh festivals such as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Baisakhi, and the anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus, the gurdwara becomes a vibrant gathering place for the entire community. The presence of this and other gurdwaras in the Pilibhit Terai has helped make the region one of the most significant centres of Sikh faith and culture in Uttar Pradesh. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Nanak Mata India 19 km away Open daily from early morning (approxima... Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Nanak Mata is a historically revered Sikh shrine located within the sacred complex of Nanakmatta in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, northern India. Positioned approximately one to one-and-a-half kilometres from the main Gurdwara Nanak Mata Sahib, it forms an integral part of one of the most spiritually significant Sikh pilgrimage sites in the entire Himalayan foothills region. The name 'Chhevin Patshahi' translates literally to 'Sixth Reign' or 'Sixth Throne,' directly commemorating a visit by the Sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who came to Nanakmatta to restore the shrine from the hands of rival yogic sects in the early seventeenth century. Nanakmatta itself is a small but deeply sacred town that takes its name from Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith, who visited the site during his third Udasi (spiritual journey) around 1514 AD. This rich dual association with both the First and the Sixth Gurus makes Nanakmatta — and each of the eight historic gurdwaras within its broader complex — exceptionally important to Sikhs across the world. Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Nanak Mata stands as a living monument to Guru Hargobind's courage and devotion, marking the precise spot where the Guru is traditionally said to have tethered his horse before undertaking his mission to reclaim the site for the Sikh panth (community). The gurdwara draws thousands of pilgrims and devout Sikhs throughout the year, with major surges of visitors during Sikh festivals including Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Baisakhi, and the Gurpurab of Guru Hargobind Sahib. The broader Nanakmatta complex is recognised as one of three principal Sikh holy shrines in Uttarakhand, alongside the iconic Gurdwara Hemkunt Sahib and Gurdwara Reetha Sahib. Beyond purely Sikh pilgrims, the site attracts spiritual seekers and tourists drawn by the extraordinary natural beauty of the Terai region, the serene Nanak Sagar reservoir that borders the township, and the timeless atmosphere of collective prayer and community service. As with all gurdwaras, no pilgrim is ever turned away, and the tradition of langar — a free community kitchen serving meals to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or social standing — operates here as a living expression of the Sikh values of equality and selfless service. The gurdwara is managed under the broader administration of the Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Nanakmatta Sahib, which oversees the entire cluster of eight historic shrines in the area. Situated on the road between Khatima and Sitarganj and accessible from major north Indian cities, Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Nanak Mata offers both the devout and the curious a profound encounter with one of Sikhism's most layered and storied sacred landscapes. Historical ### Gurdwara Nanak Mata Sahib India 20 km away Open all days, 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM; main... Gurdwara Nanak Mata Sahib, also known as Gurdwara Nanakmatta Sahib, is one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites in northern India, situated in the town of Nanakmatta in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand. The town itself derives its name from this sacred shrine, a testament to the spiritual gravity the gurdwara commands in the region. Nestled on the banks of the Deoha stream — now part of the scenic Nanak Sagar reservoir — the gurdwara stands as one of three major Sikh holy sites in Uttarakhand, alongside Gurdwara Hemkunt Sahib and Gurdwara Reetha Sahib. The site is believed to mark the ground upon which Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, rested and engaged in profound spiritual discourse during his Third Udasi (journey) around 1514 CE. Before the arrival of Guru Nanak, the location was known as Gorakhmata — a prominent centre of Siddh-yogis who followed the traditions of the great yogi Gorakhnath. The transformation of this place from a Gorakhpanthi stronghold to a Sikh shrine is central to its historical and spiritual identity. Located approximately 15 kilometres west of Khatima Railway Station and 12 kilometres from Sitarganj town, Nanakmatta Sahib is accessible to pilgrims from across India. The gurdwara complex is expansive, encompassing the main prayer hall, the langar hall (community kitchen), a parikrama (circumambulatory path), a sarovar (sacred pool), and several subsidiary shrines that commemorate specific events and personages connected to the site's storied history. A 100-room sarai known as Guru Hargobind Niwas — with 50 rooms featuring attached bathrooms — provides comfortable accommodation for the thousands of pilgrims who visit throughout the year. The gurdwara is managed by the Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee Nanakmatta Sahib, which oversees day-to-day administration, the running of the langar, and the upkeep of the complex. Throughout the year, the shrine draws devotees especially during Gurpurabs — Sikh festivals commemorating the anniversaries of the Gurus — as well as Baisakhi and other major Sikh occasions. The sarovar at Nanakmatta Sahib is notable for housing a population of colourful fish considered sacred by pilgrims, and ritual bathing in its waters is regarded as spiritually purifying. Gurdwara Nanak Mata Sahib holds a distinguished place within both mainstream Sikh and Udasi tradition. The ancient pipal tree under which Guru Nanak Dev Ji is believed to have sat during his visit remains an object of great reverence, standing between the main building and the Gurdwara Patshahi Sixth. This living link to Sikh antiquity makes the gurdwara not merely a house of worship but a living museum of Sikh heritage, drawing historians, scholars, and pilgrims alike. Historical ### Gurudawara Guru Singh Sabha , Bigwara Rudrapur, India 34 km away Gurudawara Guru Singh Sabha , bigwara is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Gurudawara Guru Singh Sabha , bigwara welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community ### Gurudwara Amrit Sagar Rudrapur, India 36 km away Gurudwara Amrit Sagar is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Gurudwara Amrit Sagar welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura is deeply intertwined with two significant threads: the founding and expansion of the Nanaksar movement across India, and the resettlement of Sikh communities in Pilibhit district following the traumatic Partition of 1947. The Nanaksar tradition was founded by Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji (traditionally dated 1869–1943), a highly revered Sikh saint from Kaleran village near Jagraon in Punjab. After years of intense meditation and mystical experiences including divine visions of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Baba Nand Singh Ji established a spiritual seat at Nanaksar, which became the fountainhead of a major devotional movement within Sikhism. In 1927, he was joined by Baba Isher Singh Ji, who became his most devoted successor and, after Baba Nand Singh Ji's passing on 29 August 1943, expanded the movement dramatically by establishing Nanaksar gurdwaras across India and abroad. The Sikh presence in Pilibhit district took a transformative turn in 1947 with the Partition of British India. Thousands of Sikh families from West Punjab — many of whom had been farmers for generations — were displaced and compelled to leave their ancestral lands. The Indian government resettled a significant number of these families in the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh, including Pilibhit, granting approximately 12 acres of agricultural land per family beginning in 1952. These settlers brought with them their deep Sikh faith and quickly established places of worship in the villages and towns where they settled. Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura is believed to have been established by the local Sikh community, most likely descended from these post-Partition settlers, as an expression of their devotion to the Nanaksar tradition. The gurdwara has served as a centre of Sikh religious life in Barapura and the surrounding villages, hosting regular prayers, Akhand Path, and community gatherings. Over the decades, the gurdwara complex has been maintained and developed by the congregation. The broader Pilibhit region is also closely associated with Sikh heritage through the nearby Gurdwara Nanakmata, associated with the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji during his third Udasi in 1514 AD, and the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, reinforcing the deep roots of Sikhism in this part of northern India. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall housing the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Sikh scripture. The hall features a raised palki (palanquin) where the holy scripture is installed and is decorated with floral offerings and religious motifs. Continuous kirtan is performed here, and the congregation gathers for daily prayers (Nitnem), Akhand Path, and special programmes. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors throughout the day. In keeping with the Nanaksar tradition, the langar strictly follows a pure vegetarian menu. During festivals, the langar hall serves hundreds of visitors and pilgrims. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The main entrance to the gurdwara complex, typically featuring traditional Sikh architectural elements. Shoe storage facilities and provision of head covers for visitors are maintained here. The gateway marks the threshold between the outer world and the sacred space of the gurdwara. ### Sarovar (Sacred Pool) sarovar A sacred water body or bathing tank within or adjacent to the gurdwara complex, in keeping with the tradition of many Sikh gurdwaras. Devotees use the sarovar for ritual cleansing and as a place of quiet reflection and spiritual renewal. ### Accommodation for Pilgrims museum Ancillary rooms and resting areas within the gurdwara compound providing accommodation for visiting pilgrims and sangat members who travel from distant villages to attend special programmes or festivals. Free accommodation is traditionally offered as part of the gurdwara's seva. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering is mandatory for all visitors; shoes must be removed before entering; modest clothing required; scarves/head covers are available at the entrance ### Photography Generally permitted in outer areas; seek permission before photographing inside the Darbar Sahib; always respectful and discreet ### Etiquette Maintain silence or speak softly; bow before the Guru Granth Sahib upon entering; avoid turning your back to the holy scripture; do not bring alcohol, tobacco, or non-vegetarian food; participate respectfully in langar ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves the local congregation and visitors daily; capacity expands significantly during festivals and Gurpurab celebrations Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura follows the characteristic architectural style found in Nanaksar tradition gurdwaras across northern India. The complex typically features a whitewashed or marble-clad main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) crowned with a distinctive dome, reflecting the influence of both traditional Sikh sacred architecture and the serene aesthetic favoured by the Nanaksar movement. The Nishan Sahib — the tall flagpole bearing the Khanda emblem — is traditionally not flown at Nanaksar gurdwaras in keeping with the movement's non-political ethos, which is a distinctive architectural and symbolic feature distinguishing Nanaksar shrines from mainstream Sikh gurdwaras. The complex includes a langar hall for the preparation and serving of community meals, an ablution area for ritual washing, and ancillary rooms for the resident granthi (priest) and visiting pilgrims. The gurdwara maintains a sarovar (sacred pool) area for ritual bathing as per Sikh tradition. The interior of the Darbar Sahib is adorned with religious texts from the Guru Granth Sahib, floral designs, and devotional artwork consistent with Nanaksar aesthetic conventions. The overall compound is designed to provide a calm and spiritually conducive environment for meditation and worship. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall housing the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Sikh scripture. The hall features a raised palki (palanquin) where the holy scripture is installed and is decorated with floral offerings and religious motifs. Continuous kirtan is performed here, and the congregation gathers for daily prayers (Nitnem), Akhand Path, and special programmes. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors throughout the day. In keeping with the Nanaksar tradition, the langar strictly follows a pure vegetarian menu. During festivals, the langar hall serves hundreds of visitors and pilgrims. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The main entrance to the gurdwara complex, typically featuring traditional Sikh architectural elements. Shoe storage facilities and provision of head covers for visitors are maintained here. The gateway marks the threshold between the outer world and the sacred space of the gurdwara. ### Sarovar (Sacred Pool) sarovar A sacred water body or bathing tank within or adjacent to the gurdwara complex, in keeping with the tradition of many Sikh gurdwaras. Devotees use the sarovar for ritual cleansing and as a place of quiet reflection and spiritual renewal. ### Accommodation for Pilgrims museum Ancillary rooms and resting areas within the gurdwara compound providing accommodation for visiting pilgrims and sangat members who travel from distant villages to attend special programmes or festivals. Free accommodation is traditionally offered as part of the gurdwara's seva. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Guru Nanak Gurpurab The most important celebration at the gurdwara, marking the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the founder of Sikhism and the central figure of the Nanaksar tradition. Celebrations include Akhand Path (48-hour continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan, nagar kirtan procession, and a large community langar. The gurdwara is beautifully illuminated and the sangat (congregation) gathers in large numbers. #### Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab The birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru and founder of the Khalsa, is observed with special Akhand Path, kirtan darbars, and community langar. Sangat from surrounding villages attends in large numbers to mark this auspicious occasion. ### festival #### Baisakhi Celebrated on April 13 or 14, Baisakhi marks the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699 and is one of the most joyous Sikh festivals. The gurdwara organises special prayers, kirtan, and a community langar. For Pilibhit's agricultural Sikh community, it also coincides with the harvest season, making it a doubly significant celebration. #### Hola Mohalla Celebrated the day after Holi, Hola Mohalla is a Sikh festival instituted by Guru Gobind Singh Ji emphasising martial arts and community spirit. The gurdwara organises kirtan and langar on this day. ### historical #### Shahidi Gurpurab of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji The martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, is commemorated with special prayers and Akhand Path. As Uttar Pradesh is home to many gurdwaras associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's travels through the region, this event carries particular significance for Sikh communities across the state. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura is generally open from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, following the Nanaksar tradition of early morning prayers and continuous Gurbani recitation throughout the day. Langar is served during the main hours. Timings may vary during festivals and Gurpurab celebrations when the gurdwara remains open for extended hours. Yes. Like all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura serves free langar (community meals) to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background. The Nanaksar tradition strictly follows a vegetarian menu in the langar. Main meals are typically served around midday, and the langar is open throughout the day. Everyone is welcome to participate and also to volunteer for seva (service). All visitors must cover their head before entering — scarves or head covers are usually available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed at the langar hall or main entry point. Modest clothing is expected. Visitors should wash their hands and feet before entering the Darbar Sahib. Alcohol and tobacco are strictly prohibited on the premises. The gurdwara observes all major Sikh festivals including Guru Nanak Gurpurab (birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, celebrated in October/November), Baisakhi (April 13/14, marking the founding of the Khalsa in 1699), Hola Mohalla, and the Gurpurabs of other Sikh Gurus. During these occasions, the gurdwara is decorated, Akhand Path is conducted, nagar kirtan processions may be organised, and a larger community langar is served. Absolutely. Gurdwaras welcome visitors of all faiths, nationalities, and backgrounds. The only requirements are that visitors cover their head, remove their shoes, and conduct themselves respectfully. The langar is open to everyone free of charge. Non-Sikh visitors are welcome to sit in the Darbar Sahib, listen to kirtan, and participate in any congregation activities. ### history Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura belongs to the Nanaksar tradition founded by Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji of Kaleran, Punjab (1869–1943). The Sikh community in Pilibhit largely descends from refugees resettled after the 1947 Partition of India, when thousands of Sikh families from West Punjab were granted agricultural land in the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh. The gurdwara was established to serve this community's devotional needs within the Nanaksar sampradaya. The Nanaksar tradition is a devotional movement within Sikhism founded by Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji. It places special emphasis on intense meditation, continuous Akhand Path (uninterrupted recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib), strict vegetarianism (including abstinence from eggs and fish), and a contemplative atmosphere. Notably, Nanaksar gurdwaras do not fly the Nishan Sahib (the traditional Sikh flagpole), reflecting the movement's non-political character. ### transport Barapura is located in Pilibhit district, Uttar Pradesh. The nearest railway station is Pilibhit Junction (approximately 10–15 km away). The nearest airport is Bareilly Airport (approximately 90 km) or Pantnagar Airport (approximately 80 km). From Pilibhit city, local auto-rickshaws and shared transport are available to Barapura. By road, Pilibhit is approximately 300 km from Delhi and 250 km from Lucknow. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib Barapura u.p. Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit