# Gurdwara Singh Sabha Den Haag, Netherlands > Gurdwara Singh Sabha in The Hague, Netherlands — a Sikh centre for worship, langar, and community service since 1985. All visitors welcome. # Gurdwara Singh Sabha Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Singh Sabha, located in The Hague (Den Haag), Netherlands, is one of the most prominent Sikh places of worship in the country and serves as a spiritual and cultural anchor for the Sikh diaspora across the South Holland region. Situated at Scheepersstraat 54 in Den Haag, the gurdwara stands as a beacon of the Sikh faith in the heart of the Netherlands, welcoming worshippers, seekers, and curious visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs without discrimination. As a gurdwara in the fullest sense of the Punjabi term — meaning 'Gateway to the Guru' — this institution embodies the core Sikh principles of Seva (selfless service), Sangat (holy congregation), and Pangat (communal sharing of food). The gurdwara hosts daily prayers including the Nitnem (daily liturgy), Ardas (supplication), and Kirtan (devotional hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji), ensuring that the spiritual rhythms of Sikhism are maintained for the community far from the Punjab. The Sikh community in the Netherlands numbers approximately 15,000 individuals, with a significant concentration in and around Den Haag and Amsterdam. Gurdwara Singh Sabha serves as a vital hub for this community, offering not only religious services but also cultural programming, Punjabi language classes, and social welfare activities. The gurdwara plays a particularly important role in preserving Sikh heritage and traditions for second and third-generation Dutch-Sikhs who may otherwise have limited connection to their ancestral roots. The institution is managed by a committed body of volunteers and elected representatives from the local Sikh sangat, reflecting the democratic and egalitarian governance model that is characteristic of Sikh institutions worldwide. Regular programmes include Akhand Path (uninterrupted reading of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji), Sehaj Path, and celebration of Gurpurabs — anniversaries marking significant events in Sikh history. The langar (community kitchen) operates daily, providing free meals to all who visit regardless of faith, nationality, or social standing, upholding the timeless tradition established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century. ## Significance Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Den Haag carries profound spiritual and cultural significance for the Sikh diaspora in the Netherlands and beyond. For Sikhs living in the Low Countries, the gurdwara represents an unbroken connection to their faith tradition and the teachings of the ten Sikh Gurus, with the eternal Guru Granth Sahib Ji enshrined and venerated at its heart. The gurdwara's langar — the free community kitchen that has fed countless individuals since its founding — embodies the Sikh ideal of equality and compassion in action. The langar makes no distinction between rich or poor, believer or non-believer, serving as a living demonstration of Sikh values that resonates deeply in multicultural Dutch society. Beyond its religious function, the gurdwara serves as a cultural institution preserving Punjabi language, music, and traditions for younger generations of Dutch-Sikhs. It is a space where Sikh identity is nurtured and where community bonds are forged and maintained. During festivals such as Vaisakhi, Diwali (Bandi Chhor Divas), and Gurpurabs, the gurdwara becomes a vibrant gathering place that reinforces communal solidarity. For non-Sikh visitors and the broader Dutch public, Gurdwara Singh Sabha offers a unique window into one of the world's great faith traditions, fostering cross-cultural understanding in one of Europe's most cosmopolitan cities. Its open-door policy embodies the universal message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Shri Guru Ravidass Temple 's-Gravenhage, Netherlands 348 m away Generally open daily for morning and eve... Shri Guru Ravidass Temple in 's-Gravenhage (The Hague), Netherlands, is a prominent place of worship dedicated to Guru Ravidass, the revered 15th–16th century saint-poet of the Bhakti movement whose teachings form the spiritual foundation of the Ravidassia community. Located at Delftselaan 105, 2512 RC, The Hague, the temple serves as a vital religious and cultural hub for the South Asian diaspora settled in the greater Den Haag region and across the Netherlands. The temple follows the Ravidassia tradition, venerating the sacred scripture known as the Amritbani Guru Ravidass Ji and conducting daily prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and community gatherings in accordance with the spiritual teachings of Guru Ravidass. His philosophy of equality, compassion, and the rejection of caste discrimination resonates deeply with the immigrant congregation that has worked to preserve its cultural and spiritual identity in the Netherlands. Shri Guru Ravidass Temple welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, reflecting the universal and inclusive spirit that defines gurdwara tradition. The temple organizes regular religious programs, gurpurabs (commemorative celebrations of the Guru's birth and other significant occasions), and social welfare activities that strengthen community bonds. It is one of several Sikh and Ravidassia temples operating in the Netherlands, alongside those in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other Dutch cities. The temple functions as much more than a house of worship — it is a community center where newcomers receive guidance and support, where cultural events are held to keep the Punjabi heritage alive, and where the langar (community kitchen) offers free meals to all who visit. This ethos of seva (selfless service) and sarbat da bhala (well-being of all) is central to life at the temple. Contact can be made via SikhsInHolland@gmail.com for information about services and events. Community ### Siri Guru Singh Sabha Den Haag, Netherlands 1.4 km away Siri Guru Singh Sabha is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Netherlands. It is situated in Netherlands. As with all gurdwaras, Siri Guru Singh Sabha 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 Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Rotterdam, Netherlands 25 km away Gurdwara Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Rotterdam, Netherlands. It is situated in Netherlands. As with all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji 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 Maan Sarovar Sahib Amsterdam, Netherlands 50 km away Open daily for morning and evening praye... Gurdwara Maan Sarovar Sahib is the principal Sikh place of worship serving the Sikh community of Amsterdam, Netherlands, located at Baarsjesweg 281 in the Baarsjes-West district of the city. The name 'Maan Sarovar' is a reverential reference to Lake Mansarovar, the sacred Himalayan lake believed in Sikh and Hindu traditions to be the abode of spiritual purity and divine grace, reflecting the congregation's aspiration to create a space of deep devotion and inner peace within the heart of Amsterdam. The gurdwara functions as a fully operational Sikh religious and community institution, offering daily Nitnem prayers, Gurbani kirtan (devotional hymn singing), Akhand Path (uninterrupted readings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji), and Ardas (congregational prayer) services in accordance with the Sikh Rehat Maryada — the official Sikh Code of Conduct established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). As a beacon of Sikh faith in the Netherlands, Gurdwara Maan Sarovar Sahib is managed under the stewardship of the Guru Nanak Mission Committee The Netherlands, a dedicated body that oversees the spiritual and administrative operations of the institution. The gurdwara is open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, embodying the core Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) and the tradition of langar — a free community kitchen that provides nourishment to all, regardless of religion, caste, or social standing. The surrounding Baarsjes-West neighborhood is a culturally diverse area of Amsterdam, making the gurdwara an integral fixture of the multicultural urban fabric of the Dutch capital. The institution observes all major Sikh gurpurabs (commemorative anniversaries linked to the Sikh Gurus), including the birthdays of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, as well as the martyrdom days of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Special extended congregations and nagar kirtan processions are believed to be organised during these occasions, drawing Sikh devotees from across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The gurdwara also serves as a resource centre for the Punjabi diaspora community, supporting language and cultural preservation through religious education classes, Gurbani learning programmes, and community outreach initiatives. Through its open-door policy and ongoing seva activities, Gurdwara Maan Sarovar Sahib stands as a vital spiritual and social anchor for the growing Sikh population in Amsterdam and the broader Benelux region. Community ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Singh Sabha in The Hague reflects the broader story of Sikh migration to Western Europe in the latter half of the 20th century. The first wave of Sikh settlers arrived in the Netherlands during the 1960s and 1970s, primarily from the Punjab region of India, drawn by economic opportunities in Dutch industry and trade. As the community grew, the need for a formal place of worship became increasingly apparent. Gurdwara Singh Sabha was believed to have been formally established in 1985, making it one of the earliest Sikh institutions in The Hague and a pioneering presence in Dutch Sikh religious life. In its early years, the congregation is believed to have gathered in rented halls and private homes before acquiring a permanent premises — a common trajectory for diaspora religious communities building themselves from the ground up. A landmark moment in the gurdwara's history came in 2006, when the community purchased the building on Scheepersstraat 54. Over the following year, the building underwent extensive renovation to transform it into a fully functioning gurdwara, complete with a darbar sahib (main prayer hall), langar hall, and ancillary facilities. The gurdwara moved into its current home in 2007, marking a new chapter of stability and growth for the institution. Since its relocation, Gurdwara Singh Sabha has expanded its programmes and outreach, becoming an increasingly visible part of The Hague's diverse religious landscape. The gurdwara has participated in interfaith dialogues and civic events, building bridges with Dutch society and other faith communities. Today it stands as one of nine gurdwaras in the Netherlands, a testament to the growth and vitality of the Dutch Sikh community over recent decades. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) Prayer Hall The central hall of the gurdwara where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is enshrined on a decorated takht (throne) beneath a canopy. The congregation sits on the floor as equals, listening to Kirtan and participating in prayers. The hall is oriented to place the Guru Granth Sahib Ji at the focal point. ### Langar Hall Community Kitchen and Dining Hall The langar hall houses both the community kitchen and the dining area where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors. It is a central feature of any gurdwara and embodies the Sikh principle of equality — all sit and eat together on the floor regardless of status. ### Nishan Sahib (Sikh Flag) Religious Marker The triangular saffron-coloured flag bearing the Khanda symbol, erected outside the gurdwara. The Nishan Sahib is present at all gurdwaras worldwide and serves as a visual identifier of a Sikh place of worship, visible from a distance to guide visitors and worshippers. ### Shoe Storage and Entry Area Entrance Facility At the entrance to the gurdwara, visitors remove their shoes and wash their hands before proceeding inside. Head coverings are made available here for those who do not bring their own, ensuring all can enter the darbar sahib respectfully. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head must be covered at all times inside the gurdwara; scarves or head coverings are available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed before entering. Modest, respectful clothing is recommended. ### Photography Photography should be done respectfully and with permission; avoid photographing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji without prior approval from gurdwara management. ### Etiquette Remove shoes at the entrance and wash hands before entering the langar hall. Cover your head before entering the darbar sahib. Bow before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji upon entering the prayer hall. Sit on the floor in the congregation; avoid pointing feet towards the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Refrain from alcohol or tobacco on the premises. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall is believed to accommodate several dozen diners at a time, with a continuous seating arrangement ensuring all visitors are fed. Seating Capacity ## Architecture The gurdwara occupies a converted building at Scheepersstraat 54 in Den Haag, adapted from its original structure through careful renovation completed in 2007. While it does not feature the grand marble domes and gilded exteriors of historic gurdwaras in the Punjab, the building has been thoughtfully adapted to reflect Sikh architectural and spiritual requirements. The exterior is believed to display the Sikh Khanda symbol and the Nishan Sahib — the triangular saffron-coloured flag that marks all gurdwaras worldwide — making it recognisable to Sikhs and visitors alike. Internally, the darbar sahib (main prayer hall) is arranged according to tradition, with the Guru Granth Sahib Ji elevated on a takht (throne) beneath a canopy, and seating arranged on the floor to emphasise equality among the congregation. The langar hall and kitchen facilities are housed separately, enabling the continuous operation of the community kitchen. The building reflects the pragmatic yet dignified approach of diaspora gurdwaras in Northern Europe, where function and community need take precedence over ornate exterior design. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) Prayer Hall The central hall of the gurdwara where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is enshrined on a decorated takht (throne) beneath a canopy. The congregation sits on the floor as equals, listening to Kirtan and participating in prayers. The hall is oriented to place the Guru Granth Sahib Ji at the focal point. ### Langar Hall Community Kitchen and Dining Hall The langar hall houses both the community kitchen and the dining area where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors. It is a central feature of any gurdwara and embodies the Sikh principle of equality — all sit and eat together on the floor regardless of status. ### Nishan Sahib (Sikh Flag) Religious Marker The triangular saffron-coloured flag bearing the Khanda symbol, erected outside the gurdwara. The Nishan Sahib is present at all gurdwaras worldwide and serves as a visual identifier of a Sikh place of worship, visible from a distance to guide visitors and worshippers. ### Shoe Storage and Entry Area Entrance Facility At the entrance to the gurdwara, visitors remove their shoes and wash their hands before proceeding inside. Head coverings are made available here for those who do not bring their own, ensuring all can enter the darbar sahib respectfully. ## Events & Celebrations ### Religious Festival #### Vaisakhi Celebrations Vaisakhi, marking the Sikh New Year and the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, is one of the most joyous celebrations at the gurdwara. The day features extended Kirtan, Ardas, Nagar Kirtan processions, and a large community langar open to all. #### Bandi Chhor Divas Celebrated alongside Diwali, this festival commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 prisoners from Gwalior Fort. The gurdwara marks the occasion with evening prayers, Kirtan, and the lighting of lamps. ### Religious Observance #### Gurpurab — Guru Nanak Dev Ji Prakash Divas The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of Sikhism, is celebrated with Akhand Path (48-hour continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji), dawn prayers, Kirtan, and langar. The gurdwara is beautifully illuminated and the sangat gathers in large numbers. ### Religious Ceremony #### Akhand Path Regular Akhand Path — the unbroken, continuous reading of the entire Guru Granth Sahib Ji over approximately 48 hours — is undertaken at the gurdwara for significant occasions, family events, and community milestones. ### Cultural Programme #### Punjabi Language and Culture Classes The gurdwara is believed to offer Punjabi language and Sikh heritage classes for children and young adults of the community, helping to preserve cultural identity and language skills among the Dutch-Sikh diaspora. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Visitor Information Yes, absolutely. Like all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Singh Sabha welcomes visitors of all faiths, backgrounds, and nationalities. You are encouraged to visit, observe prayers, and partake in the free langar (community meal). ### Etiquette Yes, all visitors — regardless of faith or gender — are required to cover their head before entering the darbar sahib (prayer hall). Head coverings such as scarves or patkas are typically available at the entrance for those who do not bring their own. ### Langar Yes. The langar serves free vegetarian meals to all visitors without exception. No payment, donation, or religious affiliation is required. Simply wash your hands and sit in the langar hall to be served. ### History The gurdwara is believed to have been established in 1985. It moved to its current building at Scheepersstraat 54 in 2007 after the community purchased and renovated the premises in 2006. ### Services Prayers and Kirtan are conducted primarily in Punjabi and Gurmukhi script, as is traditional in Sikh worship worldwide. Community announcements and conversations may also take place in Dutch, Hindi, and English. ### Transport The gurdwara is accessible from Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS railway stations via HTM tram and bus services. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is approximately 12 km away, and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is around 55 km away with direct train connections to Den Haag. ### Events Yes. The gurdwara celebrates all major Sikh festivals including Vaisakhi (the Sikh New Year and harvest festival), Gurpurabs (anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus), Bandi Chhor Divas (Sikh Diwali), and Hola Mohalla. These occasions feature expanded Kirtan, Akhand Path, and special langar. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Singh Sabha Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit