# Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi, Pulwama, Kashmir — sacred site of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji with a historic Chinaar tree. Timings, history & visitor guide. # Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi, also known as Gurdwara Sri Shadimarg Sahib, is a revered Sikh shrine located near the village of Shadimarg (meaning Shah Ji Marg, or 'Path of the Guru-King') in the Klampora area of Pulwama district, Jammu & Kashmir, India. Situated in the picturesque Kashmir Valley of South Kashmir, this gurdwara holds extraordinary historical and spiritual significance as the site where Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji — the sixth Sikh Guru and the first Guru to take up the sword in defense of faith and justice — rested and blessed devotees during his historic tour of Kashmir in the early seventeenth century. The name 'Chhatti Patshahi' literally translates to 'the Sixth Paatshah (Sovereign),' a title of deep reverence for Guru Hargobind Sahib. The gurdwara stands as a living memorial to the Guru's blessed footsteps in this valley and draws Sikh pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers from across India and abroad. A historic Chinaar (Oriental Plane) tree — one of the most iconic trees of Kashmir — still stands within the complex, under whose shade Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji is believed to have rested, meditated, and met with the local Sangat (congregation). The gurdwara is celebrated for its unique communal harmony: during the annual Baisakhi festival preparations, members of the local Muslim community traditionally assist in painting, washing, and preparing Langar (community kitchen) alongside Sikh devotees, making it a symbol of Kashmir's composite culture and interfaith brotherhood. The complex attracts particularly large gatherings during the annual Gurmat Samagam in January and during Baisakhi in April. The site is managed by a local Gurdwara Committee with ties to the broader Sikh administration in Jammu & Kashmir. A new marble gurdwara structure is believed to have been constructed on the original plinth, blending traditional Sikh architectural elements with Kashmiri craftsmanship. The gurdwara serves as one of the most important historical Sikh shrines in the Kashmir Valley, alongside other significant Chhatti Patshahi gurdwaras that mark Guru Hargobind Sahib's extensive travels through the region. Pilgrims travel here not merely for prayer but to connect with a moment in Sikh history when the sixth Guru walked these very grounds, spreading the message of righteousness, compassion, and devotion. ## Significance Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi occupies a place of deep spiritual and cultural reverence within the Sikh community. As a 'Chhatti Patshahi' gurdwara — one of several in Kashmir marking sites associated with the sixth Guru — it represents a direct connection to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who is venerated as the 'Bandi Chhod Baba' (Liberator of the captives) and the warrior-saint who armed the Sikh community for righteous self-defense. The ancient Chinaar tree within the complex is considered especially sacred, believed to be the same tree under which Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji sat during his visit. Devotees consider darshan of this tree an act of spiritual merit. The site is associated with teachings of humility, service, and inclusivity — as illustrated by the story of Bhai Katu Shah and the honey offering. The gurdwara is also a symbol of Kashmir's celebrated tradition of communal harmony. The participation of local Muslim residents in Baisakhi preparations alongside Sikh devotees exemplifies the 'Kashmiriyat' spirit of shared religious identity and mutual respect. This makes Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi not merely a pilgrimage destination but a living institution of interfaith brotherhood. The annual Gurmat Samagam (spiritual gathering) held in January draws large congregations from across Jammu & Kashmir and other states, featuring Kirtan (devotional singing), Katha (scriptural exposition), and Langar. The gurdwara holds pilgrimage status for Sikhs throughout the Kashmir Valley and serves as an important spiritual anchor for the local Sikh community, which has maintained its presence in the region through historically challenging periods. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Avantipora India 22 km away Open 24 hours daily, 7 days a week Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Avantipora, also reverently known as Charan Asthhan Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, is a historically significant Sikh shrine situated on the banks of the Jhelum River in Awantipora town, Pulwama district, Jammu & Kashmir, India. Nestled along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway approximately 30 kilometres south of Srinagar, the gurdwara stands as a sacred testament to the spiritual journey of Guru Nanak Dev Ji—the founder of Sikhism—through the Kashmir Valley during the early sixteenth century. The name 'Charan Asthhan' (meaning 'the place of the sacred footsteps') encapsulates the deep devotional significance this site holds for Sikh pilgrims, marking the very ground upon which Guru Nanak Dev Ji is traditionally believed to have rested and preached during his travels. The gurdwara is set amidst lush, verdant surroundings that lend the complex a sense of serenity and spiritual calm. Its cream-coloured exterior walls and entrance doors richly adorned with intricate Kashmiri wooden carvings create a striking visual impression, seamlessly blending traditional Sikh religious architecture with the distinctive artistic heritage of the Kashmir Valley. Spacious hallways within are decorated with holy scriptures from the Guru Granth Sahib and portraits of the ten Sikh Gurus and other revered spiritual figures, creating an atmosphere of profound reverence for all who enter. Open around the clock, the gurdwara warmly welcomes devotees, pilgrims, and curious visitors of all faiths, backgrounds, and nationalities. In keeping with the universally inclusive Sikh tradition, the management provides free accommodation and a fully functioning community kitchen (langar) to all who visit, without regard to caste, creed, or religion. A well-maintained garden within the complex adds to its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection. The gurdwara occupies a unique position in the religious landscape of the Kashmir Valley, where Sikh shrines and gurdwaras are closely associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's famous northern udasi (spiritual journey) through the Himalayas and Central Asia. The town of Awantipora itself is historically rich, already renowned for the 9th-century Hindu temple ruins of Avantiswami and Avantisvara, built during the reign of King Avantivarman of the Utpala dynasty. The gurdwara thus sits at the confluence of centuries of layered spiritual heritage, making it a compelling destination for pilgrims, historians, and cultural travellers alike. Historical ### Guru Nanak Gurudawara Avantipora, India 22 km away Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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, Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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 Sahib Badgam, India 23 km away Gurudwara 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, Gurudwara 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). Community ### Gurdwara Bijbehara India 26 km away 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (approximate; v... Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Bijbehara, also known as Gurdwara Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Pehli Padshahi Bijbehara, is a historically revered Sikh shrine located in the town of Bijbehara in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Perched majestically on a small hillock along the left bank of the Jhelum River, close to the iconic Bijbehara bridge and flanking the Anantnag–Srinagar highway (NH 44), the gurdwara stands as a living testament to the spiritual footprint left by Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the founder of Sikhism — during his legendary missionary journeys through the Kashmir Valley in the early sixteenth century. Bijbehara, known affectionately as the "Town of Chinars" for its majestic chinar tree avenues and gardens, is a town of considerable antiquity. The name is believed to derive from the Sanskrit word "Vijayeshwar," pointing to the town's pre-Islamic identity as a centre of Shaivite worship. The town finds mention in the twelfth-century Sanskrit chronicle Rajatarangini by the historian Kalhana. Today, amid its ancient heritage and natural beauty, the gurdwara serves as the town's foremost Sikh pilgrimage destination, drawing devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir, the Punjab, and from the Sikh diaspora worldwide. The gurdwara commemorates the historic occasion on which Guru Nanak Dev Ji, accompanied by his devoted companion Bhai Mardana, visited the home of Pandit Brahm Das — a learned local scholar — and engaged him in profound spiritual discourse. This encounter, which led to a remarkable transformation in Pandit Brahm Das, is treasured in Sikh tradition as an embodiment of the Guru's universal message of humility, selfless love, and the dissolution of ego. The site was formally consecrated as a gurdwara in 1894 when Maharaja Pratap Singh of the Dogra dynasty commissioned its construction in honour of Guru Nanak's visit. Today, it is managed by the local Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Anantnag, and remains open to pilgrims and visitors throughout the year. The gurdwara complex features a central prayer hall (Darbar Sahib), a large langar hall (community kitchen), and tranquil gardens that afford a serene view of the surrounding Kashmir landscape. Visitors from all faiths are warmly welcomed. The peaceful hilltop setting, combined with the spiritually charged atmosphere of kirtan (devotional hymns) and the scent of incense, creates an experience of quiet contemplation. The gurdwara is particularly crowded during major Sikh festivals such as Guru Nanak Gurpurab and Baisakhi, when thousands of pilgrims gather for celebrations, ardas (communal prayers), and langar. As one of the few functioning Sikh shrines in the Kashmir Valley, Gurdwara Bijbehara holds a uniquely important place in the fabric of Kashmiri interfaith heritage. Historical ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi is inseparable from the life of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (1595–1644), the sixth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism. Guru Hargobind Sahib was a transformative figure who introduced the concept of 'Miri-Piri' — the twin sovereignty of temporal and spiritual authority — symbolized by his wearing of two swords. He was the first Sikh Guru to maintain a standing army and emphasized that faith must be defended with righteousness. Around 1616–1620 CE, Guru Hargobind Sahib undertook an extensive tour of Kashmir, traveling through Goindwal, Wazirabad, Hamirpur, and into the Kashmir Valley. During this journey, he arrived at the village of Shadimarg in what is present-day Pulwama district of South Kashmir. The Guru is said to have rested beneath a large Chinaar tree at this location, and word of his presence spread quickly. Devotees and local Sangat began gathering to seek his blessings and Darshan (sacred sight). One of the most celebrated incidents associated with this gurdwara involves a bowl of honey. The local Sangat, wishing to offer a precious gift to the Guru, brought a bowl of honey — but when they opened it, they found it swarming with ants. It emerged that on the way, a Muslim holy man named Bhai Katu Shah had asked them for some honey, but they had refused because it was meant as an offering for Guru Sahib. Guru Hargobind Sahib immediately instructed the Sangat to take the honey back and first offer it to Bhai Katu Shah, teaching a profound lesson about the universality of seva (selfless service) and that no offering is truly worthy unless given without discrimination. Another account tells of Emperor Jahangir, who was hunting in the nearby forests and felt thirsty. Guru Sahib is said to have struck the ground with his spear (barcha), causing fresh water to spring forth — a miracle widely recounted in the oral traditions of the region. The Guru's cordial relations with Emperor Jahangir during this period are well documented in historical records. Over the centuries, the original site was maintained by local Sikh families and later the Gurdwara management bodies. A new marble structure is believed to have been constructed on the old plinth in modern times to better serve the growing number of pilgrims. The gurdwara survived the turbulent decades of insurgency in Kashmir and continues to be actively maintained. It gained renewed national attention when the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir visited to pay obeisance on the occasion of Guru Hargobind Sahib's birth anniversary in recent years. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed and revered. The hall is constructed on the historic plinth believed to mark the site of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji's visit, and features the traditional elements of a Sikh prayer hall including a raised platform (takhat) for the Granth Sahib, a canopy (palki), and seating for the congregation. ### Sacred Chinaar Tree museum The ancient Chinaar (Oriental Plane) tree within the complex is the most historically distinctive feature of the gurdwara. Traditionally believed to be the tree under which Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji rested during his Kashmir visit in the 17th century, it is preserved as a living historical relic and is a focal point of pilgrimage. Guru Ji is said to have tied his horse to this tree. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining area where free meals are prepared and served to all visitors regardless of religion or background. During major festivals, the Langar Hall sees participation from both Sikh and Muslim community volunteers, symbolizing the gurdwara's spirit of interfaith service. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall triangular flag post bearing the sacred Sikh Khanda emblem, installed prominently within the gurdwara complex. The saffron-colored Nishan Sahib is visible from a distance and serves as a beacon marking the gurdwara's presence for approaching pilgrims. ### Entrance Gateway entrance The main gateway to the gurdwara complex, where visitors remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the sacred precinct. The entrance typically features inscriptions from Gurbani (Sikh scriptures) and provides access to the shoe storage area and washrooms. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering (chunni or handkerchief) is mandatory for all visitors; shoes must be removed before entering the complex; modest and respectful attire required ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in outer areas; avoid photography inside the Darbar Sahib during prayers; always seek permission before photographing individuals in prayer ### Etiquette Bow respectfully before Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in the Darbar Sahib; maintain silence and reverence inside the prayer hall; do not bring tobacco, alcohol, or non-vegetarian food into the complex; participate in Langar with humility; do not touch the Nishan Sahib pole without permission ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves the local congregation and visiting pilgrims; capacity significantly expanded during major events such as Baisakhi and Gurmat Samagam Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi reflects a blend of traditional Sikh architectural idioms and regional Kashmiri craftsmanship. The main Darbar Sahib (prayer hall) is constructed on the original historical plinth and is believed to have been rebuilt in marble in modern times, presenting a clean, white facade characteristic of many contemporary Sikh shrines. The complex features the distinctive Nishan Sahib — a tall triangular flag bearing the Sikh Khanda emblem — visible from a distance and marking the gurdwara's sacred space. The revered Chinaar tree, a towering and ancient specimen of the Oriental Plane species native to Kashmir, remains the most architecturally and spiritually distinctive feature of the complex, preserved and protected as a living relic of the Guru's visit. A Langar Hall serves the community kitchen operations, providing free meals to all visitors irrespective of faith. The complex likely includes separate areas for ablution, shoe storage, and seating for devotees. Given its location in the Kashmir Valley, the surrounding landscape of rolling meadows and distant mountain ranges adds a natural grandeur to the gurdwara's setting. The compound walls enclose the main prayer hall, the sacred Chinaar tree area, and service areas, with the overall complex maintaining a humble yet dignified character befitting a community gurdwara of historical importance. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed and revered. The hall is constructed on the historic plinth believed to mark the site of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji's visit, and features the traditional elements of a Sikh prayer hall including a raised platform (takhat) for the Granth Sahib, a canopy (palki), and seating for the congregation. ### Sacred Chinaar Tree museum The ancient Chinaar (Oriental Plane) tree within the complex is the most historically distinctive feature of the gurdwara. Traditionally believed to be the tree under which Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji rested during his Kashmir visit in the 17th century, it is preserved as a living historical relic and is a focal point of pilgrimage. Guru Ji is said to have tied his horse to this tree. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining area where free meals are prepared and served to all visitors regardless of religion or background. During major festivals, the Langar Hall sees participation from both Sikh and Muslim community volunteers, symbolizing the gurdwara's spirit of interfaith service. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall triangular flag post bearing the sacred Sikh Khanda emblem, installed prominently within the gurdwara complex. The saffron-colored Nishan Sahib is visible from a distance and serves as a beacon marking the gurdwara's presence for approaching pilgrims. ### Entrance Gateway entrance The main gateway to the gurdwara complex, where visitors remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the sacred precinct. The entrance typically features inscriptions from Gurbani (Sikh scriptures) and provides access to the shoe storage area and washrooms. ## Events & Celebrations ### festival #### Gurmat Samagam A major annual spiritual gathering held in January at the gurdwara, featuring continuous Kirtan (devotional singing), Katha (scriptural discourse), and large-scale Langar. The event draws pilgrims from across Jammu & Kashmir and other states, turning the gurdwara into a hub of devotional activity for several days. #### Baisakhi The harvest festival and commemoration of the founding of the Khalsa is celebrated with great enthusiasm at Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi. Uniquely, members of the local Muslim community traditionally participate in painting, cleaning, and Langar preparations alongside Sikh devotees, making it a celebrated example of interfaith cooperation in Kashmir. ### gurpurab #### Gurpurab of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji The birth anniversary (Gurpurab) of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji — the patron Guru of this gurdwara — is observed with special Akhand Path (continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib), Kirtan, processions, and Langar. The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir has been among those who have paid obeisance here on this occasion. #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab The birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, is celebrated with devotional programs, Kirtan, and community Langar. This is observed at all gurdwaras across the world, including Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi, usually in October or November. ### historical #### Bandi Chhod Divas Bandi Chhod Divas, which coincides with Diwali and commemorates the day Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji secured the release of 52 kings from Gwalior Fort, holds special significance at this gurdwara dedicated to the sixth Guru. Lamps are lit and special prayers are offered. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi is generally open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. During major festivals such as Baisakhi and the annual Gurmat Samagam in January, the gurdwara remains open for extended hours to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. Langar (free community meals) is served throughout the day, with main sittings typically around noon and in the evening. No, there is no entry fee. All Gurdwaras follow the Sikh principle that the house of the Guru is open to everyone, free of charge. Langar (community meals) is also served free of cost to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background. Donations (offerings) are entirely voluntary. ### history Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi commemorates the visit of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, to this site during his Kashmir tour around 1616–1620 CE. The Guru rested under a historic Chinaar tree here, and local Sangat gathered for his blessings. A famous incident involving a bowl of honey and a saint named Bhai Katu Shah took place here, teaching a lesson about universal service. The ancient Chinaar tree is still preserved within the gurdwara complex. The name 'Chhatti Patshahi' means 'the Sixth Sovereign,' referring to Guru Hargobind Sahib. The ancient Chinaar (Oriental Plane) tree within the gurdwara complex is considered one of its most sacred features. According to tradition, it is the very tree under which Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji rested and tied his horse during his visit to this site in the early 17th century. The tree is preserved as a living relic of the Guru's blessed presence and is venerated by pilgrims as a symbol of the Guru's spiritual connection to this land. ### transport The gurdwara is located near Klampora village in Pulwama district, approximately 30–40 km from Srinagar. The nearest airport is Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar (about 40–45 km). The nearest railway station is Awantipora, about 10–12 km away. From Srinagar, you can take NH44 southward toward Pulwama; buses, shared taxis (sumos), and private cabs are readily available from both Srinagar and Pulwama town. ### culture In a beautiful tradition reflecting Kashmir's spirit of communal harmony, members of the local Muslim community at Shadimarg traditionally assist in painting, cleaning, and Langar preparations ahead of the Baisakhi festival at this gurdwara. This practice exemplifies the centuries-old tradition of 'Kashmiriyat' — the shared cultural and religious identity of Kashmiris — and stands as a powerful symbol of interfaith brotherhood at this historically significant Sikh shrine. ### events The major events celebrated at Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi include the annual Gurmat Samagam in January (a large spiritual congregation with Kirtan and Katha), Baisakhi in April (with community participation from both Sikh and Muslim residents), the Gurpurab of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (birth anniversary), and Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab in November. These occasions draw pilgrims from across Jammu & Kashmir and neighboring states. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Shadimarg Chhatti Patshahi Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit