# Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, Bahadurgarh, Patiala — sacred site of the 9th Sikh Guru's 3-month sojourn in 1675. History, timings & visitor guide. # Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib is a revered Sikh shrine situated in Bahadurgarh, Patiala district, Punjab, India, approximately 6 kilometres northeast of Patiala city along the Patiala–Rajpura main road. This historically significant gurdwara stands as a sacred memorial to the visit of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, who sojourned at this very site for approximately three months in 1675 — the final year of his earthly life before his martyrdom in Delhi. The gurdwara complex is located roughly 200 metres northeast of the historic Bahadurgarh Fort, with which it shares an intimate historical bond. The locale was formerly known as Saifabad, named after Nawab Saif Ali Khan, a Muslim nobleman who was a devout admirer of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and who invited the Guru to rest and hold discourse at his garden estate during the rainy season of 1675. The Guru's prolonged presence at Saifabad transformed the place into a site of profound sanctity, and it was this very association that led Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala to rename the fort and surroundings 'Bahadurgarh' — a tribute to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji — when he reconstructed the fort in 1837. Today the gurdwara complex comprises both a modern outer structure and the original historic gurdwara built by Maharaja Karam Singh, which remains one of the most cherished relics of the site. The original building, with its elegant radiating arches and graceful lotus dome, continues to serve as the spiritual heart of the complex, drawing pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and devout Sikhs who come to receive the blessings of the Guru's sacred memory. Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib is a community gurdwara of considerable regional importance. Pilgrims from across the Malwa region of Punjab, as well as from farther afield, visit the shrine to pay homage to one of Sikhism's most revered martyrs. The gurdwara serves as a spiritual focal point during major Sikh celebrations, most notably Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's Gurpurab (birth anniversary) and Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day, 24 November), when large congregations gather for kirtan (devotional music), ardas (prayer), and langar (community meal). As with all gurdwaras, the community kitchen — langar — operates regularly, welcoming visitors of every faith, background, and social standing to partake in a free meal served with devotion and humility. The ethos of seva (selfless service) that pervades the gurdwara reflects the teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who championed equality, compassion, and the righteous defense of the vulnerable. For visitors to the Patiala region, this gurdwara represents an unmissable confluence of Sikh history, spirituality, and architectural heritage set within the living tradition of a practicing Sikh community. ## Significance Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib holds deep religious and cultural significance within the Sikh tradition, serving as one of the important memorials to the Ninth Sikh Guru's passage through the Malwa region. The gurdwara marks the spot where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji spent three months in 1675 — the final year of his earthly life — in contemplation, prayer, and service to his congregation. Because of this direct personal association with the Guru himself, the site is considered especially sanctified ground. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji occupies an exalted position in Sikh theology and history. Revered as 'Hind di Chadar' — the Shield of India — he laid down his life in Delhi in November 1675 to protect the religious freedom of the Hindu Kashmiri Pandits from the forced conversion policies of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. His 115 hymns are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal living scripture of the Sikhs, and their themes of equanimity (sehaj), detachment (vairag), and fearlessness in the face of death continue to inspire millions worldwide. The gurdwara also embodies a remarkable testament to interfaith harmony: the fact that a Muslim nawab, Saif Ali Khan, honored and sheltered the ninth Sikh Guru — and that the Guru reciprocated with prolonged teachings and blessings — is held up as an expression of the Sikh ideal of universal brotherhood (sarbat da bhala). For the Sikh community of the Malwa region, this gurdwara functions as a vital pilgrimage site, particularly during the Guru's birth anniversary (Gurpurab) and Shaheedi Diwas on 24 November, when thousands of devotees converge to honour the Guru's supreme sacrifice. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurudwara Bahadurgarh Patshahi Nauvi India 156 m away Open daily, approximately 4:00 AM to 10:... Gurudwara Bahadurgarh Patshahi Nauvi, formally known as Gurudwara Shri Patshahi Nauvin Sahib Qila Bahadurgarh, is a historically significant Sikh shrine located within the precincts of the ancient Bahadurgarh Fort in Patiala district, Punjab, India. The name 'Patshahi Nauvi' translates to 'the Ninth Sovereign,' a reverential title for Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth of the ten Sikh Gurus, who is believed to have meditated and rested at this very site during his travels across the Punjab region in the 17th century. The gurdwara stands as both a place of living worship and a monument to the immense courage and sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who is venerated in Sikhism as 'Hind di Chadar' — the Shield of India — for his martyrdom in defense of religious freedom. Situated on the Patiala–Rajpura main road, the gurdwara is part of a broader fort complex that has witnessed centuries of political and spiritual history. Pilgrims and visitors from across Punjab and beyond make their way here to seek the blessings of the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal living scripture of the Sikhs, which is ceremonially installed in the sanctum sanctorum and continuously recited by trained granthis. The atmosphere within the gurdwara premises is one of serene devotion, with the fragrance of incense, the resonant strains of kirtan (sacred hymn-singing), and the murmur of ardas (communal prayer) creating an immersive spiritual environment. The gurdwara is administered by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body responsible for managing Sikh shrines in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Under SGPC stewardship, the shrine maintains high standards of cleanliness, community service, and religious observance. The langar (community kitchen) operates daily, serving free meals to all visitors regardless of faith, caste, or background — a practice central to Sikh values of equality and selfless service (seva). The gurdwara complex also hosts bi-annual melas (fairs) that draw large congregations from the surrounding region, reinforcing its role as both a religious sanctuary and a community gathering place. For Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike, a visit to Gurudwara Bahadurgarh Patshahi Nauvi is an opportunity to engage with living Punjabi heritage and the universal ideals of compassion, equality, and devotion that Sikhism espouses. Community ### Gurdwara Sahib Patiala, India 2.1 km away Gurdwara Sahib is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Patiala, 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). Community ### Gurdwara Sahib Patiala, India 2.5 km away 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). Community ### Gurdwara Dera Akali Phoola Singh Patiala India 3.5 km away Approximately 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily; ... Gurdwara Dera Akali Phoola Singh, situated in Urban Estate Phase II, Patiala, Punjab, India, is a community Sikh shrine dedicated to the memory of Shaheed Akali Phula Singh Ji (1761–1823), one of the most revered Nihang Sikh warriors and martyrs in Sikh history. Known at various times as Gurdwara Shaheed Akali Baba Phoola Singh Ji, the shrine occupies a spiritually significant position in the Patiala urban landscape, marking a site traditionally associated with the early life of Akali Phula Singh, who is said to have resided in Patiala from approximately one year of age. The gurdwara serves the Sikh congregation of Urban Estate Phase II and surrounding neighbourhoods, functioning as a centre for daily worship, kirtan recitation, community gatherings, and the free communal kitchen known as langar. Patiala, the city in which the gurdwara stands, is one of Punjab's most historically rich cities, founded in 1763 by Baba Ala Singh of the Phulkian dynasty and long a seat of Sikh royal power. The city is home to the famous Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib, the grand Qila Mubarak fort, and numerous heritage structures, making it a significant destination for Sikh pilgrims and cultural tourists alike. Against this backdrop, Gurdwara Dera Akali Phoola Singh holds particular appeal for devotees who revere the legacy of the Nihang warriors and the Budha Dal tradition. The shrine draws regular visitors from Patiala city and the broader Punjab region, especially on Gurpurab celebrations, the Martyrdom Day of Akali Phula Singh Ji (March 14), and the festival of Baisakhi. Devotees come to offer ardas (prayer), listen to kirtan, and partake in langar. The gurdwara is managed by a local management committee under the broader oversight and guidance of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex Sikh religious body headquartered in Amritsar. The shrine's name itself carries a notable recent history. In 2018, a factional dispute within its management committee over control of the golak (donation collection) led to one group controversially renaming it from a 'gurdwara' to a 'dera' — a terminology with very different implications in Sikh religious culture. The SGPC intervened, declared the renaming inappropriate, and directed that the institution be restored to its rightful status as a Gurdwara Sahib. This episode highlighted the importance of transparent and community-accountable governance in Sikh shrines and underscored the congregation's deep attachment to the institution and its identity. The gurdwara today stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual and community life of Patiala's Sikh population, offering an accessible and welcoming space for worship, reflection, and service to all who visit, regardless of background or faith. Historical ## Detailed History The story of Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib is inseparable from the sacred journey of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, through the Malwa region of Punjab in 1675. During his extensive travels across northern India — aimed at comforting his followers and spreading the message of Waheguru — Guru Tegh Bahadur arrived at the settlement then known as Saifabad on 16 Har 1732 Bikrami (14 June 1675). The settlement bore the name of Nawab Saif Ali Khan, its Muslim ruler, who was a profoundly pious man and a dedicated admirer of the Guru. At the heartfelt request of Nawab Saif Ali Khan, Guru Tegh Bahadur stayed on in the Nawab's garden estate throughout the rainy season — an unusually prolonged sojourn of approximately three months. During this period, the Guru held diwans (religious congregations) inside the Bahadurgarh fort, enabling the Nawab's household and the local community to benefit from the Guru's darshan (sacred sight) and spiritual discourses. The Guru finally departed on 17 Assu 1732 Bikrami (17 September 1675), continuing his journey toward Samana with a stopover at what is today Gurdwara Sri Moti Bagh Sahib in Patiala. Tragically, only months after leaving Bahadurgarh, Guru Tegh Bahadur was arrested on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and executed in Delhi on 24 November 1675, becoming a martyr for the cause of religious freedom — defending the rights of Kashmiri Hindu Pandits against forced conversion to Islam. He earned the revered titles of 'Hind di Chadar' (Shield of India) and 'Dharam di Chadar' (Protector of Faith). The territory of Saifabad passed through several royal hands over the following century. In 1774, Raja Amar Singh (1748–1782) of the Patiala princely state acquired the fort. Later, Maharaja Karam Singh (1798–1845) undertook a grand reconstruction of the fort in 1837 and renamed it Bahadurgarh in honour of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. To perpetuate the Guru's memory at this sacred site, Maharaja Karam Singh constructed two gurdwaras: one outside the fort walls — the present Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib — and one inside the fort, known as Gurdwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Bahadurgarh Qila. The gurdwara outside the fort has since been expanded with a modern outer structure, though the original 19th-century historic building commissioned by Maharaja Karam Singh remains intact at its core, serving as an enduring monument to this sacred chapter of Sikh history and drawing devotees who seek to connect directly with the Guru's living legacy. ## Structures in the Complex ### Original Historic Gurdwara (Karam Singh's Building) prayer_hall The original 19th-century gurdwara constructed by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala around 1837 — the historic core of the complex. Features distinctive radiating arches on each of its four sides and a graceful lotus-shaped dome. This building marks the exact spot in the Nawab's garden where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stayed in 1675 and remains the most prized spiritual and architectural element of the site. ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The contemporary main prayer hall that forms the outer modern structure of the gurdwara complex. Houses the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Sikh scripture, which is installed and venerated daily with morning and evening prayers (nitnem and rehras sahib). The hall accommodates the congregation for kirtan and religious programs. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining area where free meals (langar) are prepared and served to all visitors without distinction of religion, caste, or background. The langar hall embodies the Sikh principle of equality and seva (selfless service), a tradition established by the Sikh Gurus. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The entrance to the gurdwara complex features the traditional Sikh Nishan Sahib (triangular saffron flag on a tall flagpole) which identifies the site as a Sikh place of worship. The entrance area includes facilities for removing shoes and covering one's head before entering the sacred premises. ### Parikrama (Circumambulatory Courtyard) prayer_hall The open courtyard surrounding the historic gurdwara building allows devotees to perform parikrama (circumambulation) as an act of devotion. The courtyard also serves as a gathering space during large congregations on festivals and Gurpurabs, accommodating the overflow of devotees. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering (rumal or dupatta) required for all visitors; shoes must be removed before entering the premises; modest and respectful clothing recommended ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the outer complex and grounds; always seek permission before photographing inside the darbar sahib and be respectful of ongoing prayers ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering the darbar sahib; bow before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji on entering; refrain from tobacco, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food within the premises; maintain silence and reverence in the prayer hall; sit cross-legged on the floor in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves the local community and visiting pilgrims daily; capacity significantly expands during Gurpurabs and special occasions when thousands of devotees are served Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Bahadurgarh presents a harmonious blend of historic 19th-century Sikh architecture and contemporary construction. At the heart of the complex stands the original gurdwara built by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala around 1837 — a structure of elegant restraint featuring radiating arches on each of its four sides and a graceful lotus-shaped dome (gumbad) crowning its summit. This architectural style reflects the aesthetic sensibilities of the Sikh period of the early 19th century, combining elements of Mughal, Rajput, and indigenous Punjabi craftsmanship. Surrounding this historic core is a modern outer structure that houses the main darbar sahib (prayer hall), a langar hall for the community kitchen, and administrative facilities. The complex is situated approximately 200 metres northeast of the Bahadurgarh Fort on the Patiala–Rajpura road. The gurdwara's open courtyard (parikrama) provides ample space for congregational gatherings. The newer sections of the complex are believed to incorporate white marble and traditional Sikh religious motifs consistent with contemporary gurdwara construction conventions across Punjab. ## Structures in the Complex ### Original Historic Gurdwara (Karam Singh's Building) prayer_hall The original 19th-century gurdwara constructed by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala around 1837 — the historic core of the complex. Features distinctive radiating arches on each of its four sides and a graceful lotus-shaped dome. This building marks the exact spot in the Nawab's garden where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stayed in 1675 and remains the most prized spiritual and architectural element of the site. ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The contemporary main prayer hall that forms the outer modern structure of the gurdwara complex. Houses the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Sikh scripture, which is installed and venerated daily with morning and evening prayers (nitnem and rehras sahib). The hall accommodates the congregation for kirtan and religious programs. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining area where free meals (langar) are prepared and served to all visitors without distinction of religion, caste, or background. The langar hall embodies the Sikh principle of equality and seva (selfless service), a tradition established by the Sikh Gurus. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The entrance to the gurdwara complex features the traditional Sikh Nishan Sahib (triangular saffron flag on a tall flagpole) which identifies the site as a Sikh place of worship. The entrance area includes facilities for removing shoes and covering one's head before entering the sacred premises. ### Parikrama (Circumambulatory Courtyard) prayer_hall The open courtyard surrounding the historic gurdwara building allows devotees to perform parikrama (circumambulation) as an act of devotion. The courtyard also serves as a gathering space during large congregations on festivals and Gurpurabs, accommodating the overflow of devotees. ## Events & Celebrations ### historical #### Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Observed annually on 24 November, this commemoration of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's martyrdom in 1675 is the most significant annual event at this gurdwara. Large congregations gather for special path (scriptural recitation), kirtan, ardas, and langar. Nagar kirtans (processions) may also be organized in the Bahadurgarh and Patiala area. ### gurpurab #### Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Gurpurab (Birth Anniversary) Celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (born 1 April 1621). Akhand path (continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji), kirtan darbar, and grand langar are organized. Devotees from across the Malwa region attend. #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab The birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, is celebrated with great devotion across all gurdwaras. At Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, special akhand path, prabhat pheris (early morning processions), kirtan, and langar mark the occasion. ### festival #### Baisakhi Celebrated every year on 13–14 April, Baisakhi marks both the Punjabi harvest festival and the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. Special religious programs, kirtan, and langar are held at the gurdwara for this joyous occasion. #### Hola Mohalla Observed the day after Holi, Hola Mohalla is a uniquely Sikh festival instituted by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Celebrated with martial arts demonstrations, kirtan, and community langar, it is observed at gurdwaras across Punjab including Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib in Bahadurgarh, Patiala is generally open daily from early morning (around 4:00 AM) to late evening (around 10:00 PM). Hours may be extended on Gurpurabs, Shaheedi Diwas (24 November), and other major Sikh festivals. Visitors are advised to confirm current timings by contacting the gurdwara directly at 0175-238-0629. Yes, langar (free community kitchen) is available at Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib throughout the day. It is open to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background — a core Sikh tradition of equality and hospitality. Special grand langars are organized during Gurpurabs, Shaheedi Diwas, and Baisakhi. All visitors must cover their head (scarves or head coverings are available at the entrance) and remove their shoes before entering. Tobacco, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food are not permitted inside. Modest, respectful clothing is recommended. Visitors should bow respectfully before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and sit cross-legged on the floor in the darbar sahib. Photography inside the prayer hall should be done with permission and sensitivity. Yes, several important gurdwaras are located nearby. Gurdwara Shri Patshahi Nauvin Sahib is approximately 1 km away. Within the Bahadurgarh Fort itself is Gurdwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Bahadurgarh Qila (~200 metres). Gurdwara Sri Dukh Niwaran Sahib, Patiala (a major Sikh shrine) is about 10 km away, and Gurdwara Sri Moti Bagh Sahib, Patiala is approximately 11 km away. ### history The gurdwara commemorates the three-month sojourn (June–September 1675) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, at the invitation of Nawab Saif Ali Khan. The site was then known as Saifabad. Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala built the original gurdwara here in 1837, simultaneously renaming the fort and locality 'Bahadurgarh' in honour of the Guru. The gurdwara is now a modern complex enclosing the original 19th-century historic structure. This gurdwara marks the spot where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji — the ninth Sikh Guru and martyr revered as 'Hind di Chadar' (Shield of India) — stayed for about three months in 1675, just months before his execution in Delhi by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The site also illustrates the interfaith harmony between the Guru and his Muslim host Nawab Saif Ali Khan. It is one of the important Guru-linked historical shrines in the Malwa region of Punjab. ### transport The gurdwara is located on the Patiala–Rajpura main road, approximately 6 km northeast of Patiala city. The nearest railway station is Patiala (about 9 km away). The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport (~70 km). Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available from Patiala city and railway station. Regular Punjab Roadways buses also ply along the Patiala–Rajpura road. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit