# Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary, founded 1968, is one of Calgary's oldest Sikh temples at 739 81 St SW. Free entry, daily prayers & langar served. ![Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Sikh%20Society%20Calgary-2.jpg&w=1200) Historical regional # Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: The Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary, officially known as the Gurdwara Guru Nanak Sikh Centre, stands as one of Calgary's oldest and most historically significant Sikh places of worship. Situated at 739 81st Street SW in the West Springs and Cougar Ridge area of southwest Calgary, Alberta, this community gurdwara has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of Calgary's Sikh community for more than four decades. Occupying a five-acre site that was deliberately chosen and purchased by early community members in 1972, the gurdwara has grown from a small hall into a fully functioning complex that serves thousands of worshippers and visitors each year. Managed by the Sikh Society of Calgary — itself one of the oldest registered Sikh organizations in the province — the gurdwara welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds, embodying the core Sikh principles of equality, hospitality, and selfless service (seva). Whether one comes to participate in daily prayers, attend the vibrant Sunday diwan, share a meal in the langar hall, or simply experience the peaceful environment of Sikh worship, visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as serene and welcoming. The gurdwara serves as far more than a place of weekly prayer. It houses the Guru Nanak Punjabi School, founded in 1979, which teaches the Punjabi language and Sikh culture to younger generations; Santhia classes for adults learning the correct recitation of Gurbani; and a robust schedule of community programs, festivals, and charitable outreach initiatives. The organization has been recognized across Calgary's diverse multicultural landscape as a model institution for community cohesion and interfaith engagement. Located near Canada Olympic Park and the Paskapoo Slopes in southwest Calgary, the gurdwara is accessible by road and public transit from across the city. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from nearly 200 public reviews, it is widely regarded as a well-maintained, inclusive, and spiritually enriching destination for both the Sikh community and curious visitors alike. The gurdwara's enduring presence on Calgary's religious map reflects the deep roots of Sikhism in Alberta — roots that stretch back more than a century to the first Sikh pioneers who made the prairies their home. ## Significance The Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary holds profound religious and cultural significance as one of the founding Sikh institutions in Calgary and among the first in Alberta. It represents the culmination of decades of community effort, sacrifice, and devotion by Sikh pioneers who sought to preserve their faith and culture in a new land far from Punjab. Spiritually, the gurdwara is consecrated by the continuous presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs — whose recitation, kirtan, and katha (exposition) form the cornerstone of daily and weekly worship. The Sunday diwan, featuring Asa Di Vaar recitation, Gurbani Kirtan, and religious discourse, draws hundreds of congregants from across Calgary and the surrounding region. Culturally, the gurdwara functions as the primary custodian of Punjabi Sikh heritage in southwest Calgary. Through the Guru Nanak Punjabi School and regular Santhia classes, it transmits the Punjabi language, Gurbani, and Sikh values to new generations born in Canada who may otherwise lose their ancestral connections. It also serves as a community anchor for the South Asian diaspora, hosting life-cycle ceremonies such as Anand Karaj (wedding), Naam Karan (naming), and Antim Ardas (funeral prayers). The gurdwara's langar hall, which serves free vegetarian meals prepared by volunteers, is a living expression of the Sikh principle of equality — where all people, regardless of faith, race, or social standing, sit and eat together. This tradition of selfless service (seva) has earned the gurdwara widespread admiration from Calgary's multicultural community and made it a model for interfaith engagement. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ![Gurdwara Darbar Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Darbar%20Shri%20Guru%20Granth%20Sahib%20JI%20Calgary-2.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Darbar Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Canada 17 km away 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily Gurdwara Darbar Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a prominent Sikh place of worship situated in the northeast quadrant of Calgary, Alberta, Canada—a city that is home to an estimated 70,000 Sikhs, one of the largest Sikh communities in Canada. Located at 8730 45 Street NE, the gurdwara serves as a spiritual, cultural, and community hub for Sikhs and seekers of all backgrounds across the Calgary metropolitan area. The gurdwara takes its name from the eternal Sikh scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the living Guru of the Sikhs. This choice of name reflects the institution's core mission: to spread the universal, loving message of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji to all of humanity, regardless of race, religion, caste, or creed. The gurdwara is part of an international network of congregations operating under the Darbar Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji name, with locations spanning Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, India, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond—a testament to the global reach of this Sikh outreach mission. Situated in Calgary's Northeast sector, the gurdwara serves the densely Sikh-populated neighbourhoods of Taradale, Martindale, Coral Springs, and Saddle Ridge, communities where Sikhs account for over 20% of the population in some areas. Calgary's Northeast has become one of Canada's most vibrant Punjabi-Canadian corridors, and this gurdwara plays an integral role in the spiritual lives of thousands of families. Open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, the gurdwara provides a welcoming sanctuary for early morning prayers (Amrit Vela), daytime kirtan (devotional singing), and evening ardas (communal prayers). The facility is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and ground-level entry points ensuring that all members of the congregation, regardless of physical ability, can participate fully in the sangat. Central to the gurdwara's daily life is the langar—a free community kitchen that serves nutritious vegetarian meals to all visitors without distinction. This ancient Sikh institution of free communal dining embodies the principles of equality, generosity, and service (seva) at the heart of Sikhism. Volunteers from the congregation dedicate countless hours each week to preparing and serving langar, carrying on a 500-year tradition established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The gurdwara also hosts educational and cultural programs, including Punjabi language classes, Gurbani kirtan training, and youth initiatives that help young Sikh-Canadians connect with their heritage. It participates actively in interfaith dialogue through its listing with the Calgary Interfaith Council, demonstrating its commitment to harmony among the diverse religious communities of Calgary. The gurdwara is also known locally through its association with the Gobind Marg congregation. Whether you are a devout Sikh, a curious visitor, or someone simply seeking a warm meal and a moment of peace, Gurdwara Darbar Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji extends its doors to all. Historical ### Dashmesh Cultural Center Canada 18 km away Open daily; the Gurdwara is accessible t... The Dashmesh Culture Centre stands as one of Calgary's most prominent Sikh institutions and a cornerstone of Alberta's Sikh community. Located at 135 Gurdwara Sahib Blvd NE in Calgary's northeast, the centre serves not only as a house of worship but as a comprehensive cultural, educational, and social services hub for the region's Sikh diaspora. Its name "Dashmesh" honours the Tenth Guru of Sikhism, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the revered spiritual leader whose legacy of courage, service, and devotion continues to inspire millions worldwide. Established in 1987, the centre has grown from a small community initiative into a formidable institution that today serves a membership of over 15,000 registered members, while its programmes and services reach a broader community estimated at more than 100,000 individuals across Calgary and beyond. This remarkable growth is a testament to the dedication and selfless service of countless volunteers, donors, and leaders who have guided the centre through decades of expansion. As a Gurdwara—the Sikh place of worship—the Dashmesh Culture Centre is anchored by its Darbar Sahib, the sacred hall where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed and where congregants gather for Nitnem (daily prayers), Ardas (supplication), Kirtan (devotional hymns), and Katha (spiritual discourse). The centre holds multiple daily services and observes all major Gurpurabs with great reverence and community participation. Beyond religious services, the centre actively fulfills the Sikh tenet of Sewa (selfless service) through a wide array of community programmes. Its 24-hour community kitchen—the Langar Hall—provides hot, nutritious meals to anyone who visits, regardless of faith, background, or circumstance, embodying the Sikh principle of equality and unconditional giving. The centre also operates food security programmes, transitional housing assistance for women and children in need, educational programmes including the Khalsa School Calgary, and youth development initiatives. Spiritual education forms a central pillar of the centre's mission. Programmes such as Santheya (scriptural study under the guidance of Giani Baljit Singh Ji), Vaheguru Simran sessions (meditative practice held on Tuesdays and Fridays), and Amrit Sanchar preparation programmes help community members deepen their connection to Sikh teachings and traditions. Punjabi language classes and Kirtan training ensure that cultural heritage is preserved and transmitted to younger generations growing up in Canada. The Dashmesh Culture Centre also plays a vital civic role in Calgary, fostering interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and civic engagement. As the Sikh community continues to grow in Alberta, the centre has announced plans for a new, expanded Gurdwara facility in the Martindale neighbourhood of northeast Calgary, reflecting the community's growing needs and ambitions for the future. Community ![Gurdwara Dasmesh Cultural Center Calgary](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Dashmesh%20Cultural%20Center%20Calgary-2.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Dasmesh Cultural Center Calgary Canada 18 km away 3:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily. Religious serv... The Dashmesh Culture Centre, also widely known as Gurdwara Dasmesh Cultural Center Calgary, is one of the most prominent Sikh places of worship and community hubs in Western Canada. Situated at 135 Gurdwara Sahib Blvd NE in the Martindale neighbourhood of northeast Calgary, Alberta, this institution stands as a spiritual anchor for the city's estimated 70,000-strong Sikh population and a welcoming gathering point for people of all faiths and backgrounds. The centre takes its name from 'Dashmesh,' meaning 'the Tenth,' a revered title for Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, whose legacy of courage, selfless service, and devotion permeates every aspect of the institution's mission. Operating under the guiding principle of 'Selfless Service in Remembrance of God,' the Dashmesh Culture Centre functions simultaneously as a Gurdwara Sahib — a house of prayer — and as a vibrant community services organization. Its membership exceeds 15,000 registered individuals, and its outreach extends to a broader community of over 100,000 people. The facility is open to the public from 3:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, offering an extraordinary breadth of daily religious services that begin with the Parkash (opening) of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at 3:20 AM and conclude with the Sukhasan (closing) ceremony at approximately 8:45 PM each evening. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the centre has become deeply embedded in the social fabric of Calgary. It operates a 24/7 langar (community kitchen) that provides free, vegetarian meals to anyone who walks through its doors, regardless of religion, race, or economic status. The institution has mobilized its community for major relief efforts, including fundraising for victims of the September 11 attacks, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfires, in addition to supporting the Alberta Children's Hospital and the Calgary Food Bank. The centre also runs a Khalsa School, Gurmat studies programs for youth, transitional housing for women and children, community gardens, and food security projects — underscoring its dual identity as both a house of worship and a comprehensive social services provider. Predominantly volunteer-operated, the institution embodies the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) in its daily operations. Its extraordinary civic contribution was formally recognized in April 2018 when the City of Calgary, at the initiative of Mayor Naheed Nenshi, renamed a stretch of road between Martindale Gate and Falconridge Boulevard NE as Gurdwara Sahib Boulevard. With plans for a second, larger facility under development approximately 6.5 kilometres north, the Dashmesh Culture Centre continues to grow alongside the Sikh diaspora community it proudly serves. Historical ## Detailed History The story of the Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary is inseparable from the broader history of the Sikh community in Alberta. The first Sikh family to settle in the Calgary area was that of Sardar Harnam Singh Hari, who made Alberta his family home in 1910, becoming a pioneering figure for the province's Sikh community. In the early 1930s, Sardar Berama Singh and Sardarni Dhun Kaur relocated from Pincher Creek to Calgary, becoming the second Sikh family in the city. As immigration from Punjab increased through the 1950s and 1960s, the growing Sikh community in Calgary began holding informal religious gatherings — diwans — at private residences. The desire for a formal place of worship became increasingly urgent. A landmark moment came in 1967, when the first public diwan was held at the Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurb, signaling the community's readiness to organize itself formally. On March 18, 1968, the society was officially registered under the name "Singh Society," with its founding executive comprising Gurcharanjit S. Attariwala as President, Sunder K. Grewal as Vice President, Teja Singh as Secretary, Gulzar S. Sahota as Joint Secretary, and Ranjit S. Dhaliwal as Treasurer. The society's primary objective from the outset was to build a dedicated gurdwara for Calgary's Sikh community. In 1972, five acres of land were purchased at the current site on 81st Street SW. A ceremonial foundation event was held on April 13, 1976 — the auspicious occasion of Vaisakhi — and construction formally commenced in August of that year. Despite significant challenges faced by the relatively small community in raising funds and resources, the building was completed by late 1978. The official opening ceremony was held on April 13, 1979, once again on the day of Vaisakhi — a deeply symbolic choice reflecting the importance of that date in Sikh history. Also in 1979, the Guru Nanak Punjabi School was established within the gurdwara complex, with Sardar Sulakhan Singh Chopra serving as its founding principal. On October 3, 1979, the organization's name was formally changed from "Singh Society" to "Sikh Society," reflecting a broader and more inclusive identity. Over the following decades the gurdwara expanded its programs, facilities, and community services, establishing itself as one of the most active and respected Sikh institutions in Western Canada. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central prayer hall where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is ceremonially installed under a canopy (Palki Sahib). The hall is carpeted for congregational sitting and is used for all daily prayers, Sunday diwan, and life-cycle ceremonies including Anand Karaj (Sikh wedding). ### Langar Hall langar_hall A dedicated community dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors by volunteer seva workers. The langar hall is a cornerstone of Sikh hospitality and embodies the principle that all people are equal regardless of background. ### Guru Nanak Punjabi School Building museum A dedicated schoolhouse on the gurdwara grounds, established in 1979, where Punjabi language, Gurbani, and Sikh culture are taught to children and adults. Sunday drop-in classes, registered Friday evening classes, and adult Santhia sessions are held here. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall saffron-colored triangular flag on a flagpole that marks the gurdwara as a Sikh place of worship. It is visible from surrounding roads and serves as a landmark for the West Springs neighborhood. ### Entrance and Shoe Storage Area entrance The main entrance features a designated area for removing and storing shoes, as is required before entering any Sikh gurdwara. Head coverings are available here for visitors who do not bring their own. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering is mandatory (scarves or patkas available at the entrance). Remove shoes before entering. Modest, respectful clothing recommended. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. ### Photography Photography policies are not publicly specified; visitors are advised to ask staff before taking photos inside the Darbar Sahib out of respect. ### Etiquette Bow respectfully before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji upon entering the Darbar Sahib. Sit on the floor with legs crossed (not pointing toward the Guru Granth Sahib Ji). Do not bring alcohol or tobacco onto the premises. All are welcome regardless of faith. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall can accommodate a significant number of diners; exact capacity is not publicly specified. Major Gurpurabs see several hundred people served. Seating Capacity ## Architecture The Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary occupies a five-acre site in southwest Calgary and features a complex designed to accommodate the full range of Sikh community life. The main building houses the Darbar Sahib — the primary prayer hall — where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed under a canopy and where daily and weekly religious services are conducted. The prayer hall is carpeted and arranged for congregational sitting, consistent with Sikh tradition. The complex also includes a dedicated langar hall where free community meals are served to all visitors, a school building that houses the Guru Nanak Punjabi School and adult Santhia classes, and administrative offices. The gurdwara's exterior features architectural elements common to Sikh places of worship in the North American diaspora, including a prominent dome and the Nishan Sahib — the triangular saffron-colored flag on a tall flagpole — which serves as a visible marker of the Sikh faith visible from surrounding roads. The building was constructed beginning in August 1976 and completed in late 1978, with subsequent expansions over the years to accommodate the growing congregation. Ample parking is available on the five-acre grounds, and the facility includes restroom facilities and a foyer where shoes are removed before entering the prayer hall. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central prayer hall where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is ceremonially installed under a canopy (Palki Sahib). The hall is carpeted for congregational sitting and is used for all daily prayers, Sunday diwan, and life-cycle ceremonies including Anand Karaj (Sikh wedding). ### Langar Hall langar_hall A dedicated community dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors by volunteer seva workers. The langar hall is a cornerstone of Sikh hospitality and embodies the principle that all people are equal regardless of background. ### Guru Nanak Punjabi School Building museum A dedicated schoolhouse on the gurdwara grounds, established in 1979, where Punjabi language, Gurbani, and Sikh culture are taught to children and adults. Sunday drop-in classes, registered Friday evening classes, and adult Santhia sessions are held here. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall saffron-colored triangular flag on a flagpole that marks the gurdwara as a Sikh place of worship. It is visible from surrounding roads and serves as a landmark for the West Springs neighborhood. ### Entrance and Shoe Storage Area entrance The main entrance features a designated area for removing and storing shoes, as is required before entering any Sikh gurdwara. Head coverings are available here for visitors who do not bring their own. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab The birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is celebrated with extended prayers, Akhand Path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan programs, and a special langar. In 1967, the very first public diwan held by Calgary's Sikh community was organized to commemorate this Gurpurb at the Jubilee Auditorium. #### Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab The birthday of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is observed with Akhand Path, special kirtan, religious discourses, and langar. This Gurpurab is one of the most widely celebrated in the Sikh calendar. ### festival #### Vaisakhi Vaisakhi, celebrated on April 13 each year, holds special significance at this gurdwara — the foundation ceremony was held on April 13, 1976, and the gurdwara's official opening was on April 13, 1979. The annual celebration includes nagar kirtan, special prayers, and community festivities. #### Bandi Chhor Divas (Diwali) Bandi Chhor Divas, coinciding with Diwali, commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji's release from Gwalior Fort. The gurdwara marks this occasion with special prayers, illumination, and community gatherings. ### weekly #### Sunday Diwan Every Sunday the gurdwara holds its main congregational program: Asa Di Vaar recitation by the Raghi Jatha from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by Katha (religious discourse) from 10:45 AM to 11:40 AM, and Gurbani Kirtan from 11:40 AM to 12:30 PM, concluding with Ardas and langar. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting The gurdwara holds daily prayers in the morning and evening. The main weekly program is on Sunday, featuring Asa Di Vaar from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM, Katha from 10:45 AM to 11:40 AM, and Gurbani Kirtan from 11:40 AM to 12:30 PM. For weekday timings, contact the gurdwara at info@sikhsocietyofcalgary.org or +1 403-246-1776. Yes, entry is completely free. This is the tradition at all Sikh gurdwaras worldwide. Free vegetarian meals (langar) are also served to everyone without charge. All visitors must cover their head before entering — scarves or head coverings are typically available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed. Modest, respectful clothing is recommended; avoid shorts or sleeveless tops. Alcohol and tobacco are not permitted on the premises. Absolutely. All people, regardless of faith, nationality, or background, are welcome at the gurdwara. The gurdwara also welcomes student groups and organizations for tours of religious services — contact info@sikhsocietyofcalgary.org to arrange a visit. ### history The Sikh Society of Calgary was officially registered as 'Singh Society' on March 18, 1968. In 1972, the community purchased five acres of land on 81st Street SW. Construction began on April 13, 1976, and the gurdwara officially opened on April 13, 1979. The name was changed to 'Sikh Society' on October 3, 1979. It is one of the first and oldest gurdwaras in Calgary. The society was officially registered as 'Singh Society' on March 18, 1968. The physical gurdwara building opened on April 13, 1979. The name 'Sikh Society of Calgary' was adopted on October 3, 1979. ### transport The gurdwara is located at 739 81st Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 4C6. By road from downtown, take Bow Trail SW westbound and head south toward West Springs. Calgary Transit buses serve the area — use the Calgary Transit trip planner for current routing. Rideshare and taxis are also available. Ample on-site parking is provided. ### general Yes. The Guru Nanak Punjabi School was established in 1979 with Sardar Sulakhan Singh Chopra as founding principal. It offers Sunday drop-in classes and Friday evening registered classes for children. Adult Santhia classes (correct Gurbani recitation) are held every Sunday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Sikh Society Calgary Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. 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