# Gurdwara Sahib, Varanasi - GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Sahib 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, Gurdwara Sahib 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). # Gurdwara Sahib Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Sahib 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, Gurdwara Sahib 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). ## Significance The gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual and community center. In Sikh tradition, a gurdwara is not merely a place of worship but a center for learning, community service, and social equality. The institution of Langar (community kitchen), Sangat (congregation), and Pangat (eating together in rows) are practiced here, reinforcing the Sikh values of equality and brotherhood. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurudwara Sri Guru Nanak Dev Gurubagh Varanasi, India 4.7 km away Gurudwara Sri Guru Nanak Dev Gurubagh 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 Sri Guru Nanak Dev Gurubagh 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 ### Gurdwara Badi Sangat Varanasi India 5.9 km away 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily Gurdwara Badi Sangat, formally known as Gurdwara Bari Sangat Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, is one of the most historically revered Sikh shrines in the ancient city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Situated at CK 58/2, Bulanala Maidagin Road in the Nichibag area of Govindpura — opposite the Sri Aas Bhairav Mandir — this sacred gurdwara is widely regarded as the oldest and most important Sikh congregation (sangat) in Benaras, a distinction affirmed by the remarkable collection of historical hukamnamas and priceless relics preserved within its walls. The name 'Badi' meaning 'great' or 'large' distinguishes it from the nearby Gurdwara Choti Sangat, and the gurdwara more than lives up to its name in terms of spiritual and historical significance. The shrine commemorates the extended visit of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, who came to Varanasi in 1666 CE during his spiritual tours of eastern India. The Guru stayed at the home of a devout Sikh named Bhai Kalyan Mall — the very site on which the gurdwara now stands — where he spent several months in meditation, spiritual discourse, and communion with the local Sikh sangat. This stay transformed the site into one of the holiest locations associated with the ninth Guru's inner spiritual journey. What truly distinguishes Gurdwara Badi Sangat from many Sikh shrines is the presence of two extraordinary sacred features within its main congregation hall. The Tap Asthan is an intimate meditation chamber preserved as it was when Guru Tegh Bahadur practiced solitary tapasya (deep meditation and austerity) here — 'tap' referring to the practice of austere spiritual discipline. Adjacent to it is the Baoli Ganga Pargat, a narrow sacred well believed to have miraculously sprung forth with holy Ganges water through the Guru's divine blessing. This well is preserved to this day inside the main hall, and its water is revered by pilgrims and used for drinking. The gurdwara also safeguards an irreplaceable treasury of sacred relics: 17 original Hukamnamas (formal decrees addressed by Sikh Gurus to the Varanasi sangat), two Cholas (robes) worn by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a pair of shoes belonging to the ninth Guru, and a pair of shoes belonging to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who also visited this site in 1670 while traveling from Patna to Lakhnaur. These artifacts make Gurdwara Badi Sangat not merely a place of worship but a living museum of Sikh heritage. Every year, Sikh pilgrims from across India and the diaspora travel to this gurdwara, particularly during the Gurpurab and Martyrdom Day (Shaheedi Diwas) of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Its location in Varanasi — the spiritual capital of Hinduism and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities — places this gurdwara at a unique confluence of India's diverse sacred traditions, embodying the Sikh ideal of universal reverence and peaceful coexistence. The gurdwara welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, offering langar (free community meals) and a space for reflection and prayer. Historical ### Old Gurudwara India 27 km away Open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to... Old Gurudwara is a community Sikh place of worship situated in the historically rich region of Uttar Pradesh, India, near the sacred Ganga corridor at coordinates 25.0213422°N, 83.0278224°E. As one of the oldest Sikh religious establishments in the area, it serves as a spiritual anchor for the local Sikh community and welcomes devotees and visitors of all faiths without distinction. The gurdwara operates in accordance with the core tenets of Sikhism as established by the ten Gurus, offering daily congregational prayers (Diwan), kirtan (devotional singing), and the recitation of Gurbani from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs. The gurdwara functions as much more than a house of worship — it is a community institution providing langar (free community kitchen), religious education, and social support to those in need regardless of caste, creed, or religion. Located in a region of Uttar Pradesh with deep historical ties to India's composite spiritual heritage, Old Gurudwara stands as a testament to the Sikh principle of Sarbat da Bhala — the well-being of all humanity. The gurdwara is managed by a local committee of sewadars (volunteers) who maintain the premises, organise religious programmes, and ensure the smooth running of the langar. Daily nitnem (prayers) are observed at dawn and dusk, and the Akhand Path (unbroken reading of the entire Guru Granth Sahib) is held on special occasions and Gurpurabs (anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus). The complex is believed to include a main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib), a langar hall, accommodation facilities for visiting pilgrims, and a sarovar (sacred pool) or ablution facilities. The broader region surrounding the gurdwara has been a crossroads of Indian civilisation for millennia, lying close to the sacred city of Varanasi and the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath. Sikh Gurus, particularly Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, are known to have travelled extensively through this part of the Gangetic plain, spreading the message of Ik Onkar — the oneness of God. Old Gurudwara is believed to have been established in memory of or inspired by these sacred journeys, serving as a beacon of the Sikh faith in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Community ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Modest clothing covering arms and legs. Head must be covered at all times inside the Gurdwara. ### Head Covering Free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance for all visitors. ### Shoe Storage Remove shoes before entering. Free shoe storage (Jora Ghar) is available at the entrance. ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises. Please be respectful inside the main prayer hall. ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering. Sit on the floor facing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Do not point feet towards the Guru Granth Sahib. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The Gurdwara operates a free community kitchen (Langar) serving vegetarian meals to all visitors. Langar embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat) regardless of background. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Vaisakhi Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This major Sikh festival celebrates the creation of the Sikh community of initiated men and women. Special prayers, processions (Nagar Kirtan), and extended Langar are organized. April 14 #### Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru who created the Khalsa. Special prayers, Kirtan, Akhand Path, and community celebrations mark this important day. January (varies by lunar calendar) #### Maghi Commemorates the martyrdom of the Chali Mukte (40 Liberated Ones) who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705. Special Kirtan and prayers honour these brave Sikhs who returned to fight alongside Guru Gobind Singh Ji. January 14 #### Hola Mohalla A Sikh festival of martial arts and valor, established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji as an alternative to the Hindu festival of Holi. Features martial arts displays (Gatka), mock battles, music, poetry, and community feasts. March (day after Holi) #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Akhand Path (48-hour continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib Ji) is held, followed by Nagar Kirtan, special Kirtan Darbars, and extended Langar Seva. November (varies by lunar calendar) #### Bandi Chhor Divas The Sikh Festival of Liberation, celebrated on the same day as Diwali. It commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 Hindu kings from Gwalior Fort. The Gurdwara is illuminated with lights and candles. October/November (varies by lunar calendar) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting No, there is no entry fee at Gurdwara Sahib. Like all Gurdwara Sahibs, it is open to everyone free of charge, regardless of faith, caste, or background. Visitors are welcome to attend prayers, participate in Langar, and explore the premises. When visiting Gurdwara Sahib, wear modest clothing that covers your arms and legs. All visitors must cover their head inside the Gurdwara — free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance. Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall; shoe storage is provided. Absolutely! Gurdwara Sahib warmly welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. Sikh Gurdwaras are open to everyone. Non-Sikh visitors are encouraged to attend prayers, enjoy Langar (free community meal), and learn about Sikh traditions. Just follow basic etiquette: cover your head and remove shoes. Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises of Gurdwara Sahib. However, please be respectful inside the main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) and avoid using flash. Video recording during prayer services should be done discreetly. Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Gurdwara Sahib is generally open from early morning (around 4:00-5:00 AM) until late evening (9:00-10:00 PM). The morning prayers (Amrit Vela) begin at dawn, and evening prayers (Rehras Sahib) are held at sunset. Langar timings may vary. For exact hours, please contact the Gurdwara management. ### langar Yes, Gurdwara Sahib serves free vegetarian meals through Langar, the Sikh community kitchen. Langar is available to all visitors regardless of background. Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat), embodying the Sikh principle of equality. The food is prepared by volunteers as an act of selfless service (Seva). ### logistics Gurdwara Sahib typically has parking facilities for visitors. During major events and festivals, additional parking arrangements are usually made. For specific parking information, it is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management directly or visit during non-peak hours for easier parking. Gurdwara Sahib is located, India. The GPS coordinates are 25.2659°N, 82.9878°E. You can use map navigation apps for precise directions. Local auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses can help you reach the Gurdwara. ### accessibility Accessibility features vary at Gurdwara Sahib. Many Gurdwara Sahibs in India are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Gurdwara Sahib management directly for the most current accessibility information and any special arrangements that can be made. ### accommodation Many Gurdwara Sahibs offer basic accommodation (Sarai) for travellers and pilgrims at no charge or minimal cost. Availability at Gurdwara Sahib may vary. It is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management in advance to check current accommodation facilities and make any necessary arrangements. 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