# Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib, Goindwal Sahib — home of Guru Amar Das & birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Timings, history & visitor guide. # Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib stands as one of the most historically layered and spiritually significant shrines in all of Sikhism. Located in the sacred town of Goindwal Sahib within Tarn Taran District of Punjab, India, this revered gurdwara occupies the very site of the family home of Guru Amar Das Ji — the third Sikh Guru — and holds the extraordinary distinction of being the birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru. The word 'chubara' (also spelled 'chaubara') refers to an upper-floor room or chamber, evoking the intimate domestic setting in which world-shaping events in Sikh history unfolded. The gurdwara is positioned adjacent to the equally celebrated Gurdwara Sri Baoli Sahib and sits at the spiritual heart of Goindwal Sahib — a town often described as the 'axis of Sikhism' because it served as the first major center for the propagation of Sikh teachings. Pilgrims and visitors who arrive at Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib encounter a structure of quiet grandeur rooted in classical Sikh architectural tradition. Inside the main prayer hall, the Guru Granth Sahib is enshrined on a portable canopied throne whose doors are adorned in silver. Among the gurdwara's most remarkable relics is the Killi Sahib — a small wooden peg fixed into the exterior front wall, now encased in silver, upon which Guru Amar Das Ji would lean while performing meditation in a standing posture. The gurdwara also preserves sacred hair and robes of Guru Amar Das Ji, and the historic Palki Sahib, the palanquin once used to transport the sacred scriptures between Goindwal and Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar. The gurdwara is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims annually, particularly during major Sikh festivals and gurpurabs. Situated approximately 50 kilometres from Amritsar, Goindwal Sahib is a day-pilgrimage destination that offers a deeply moving encounter with the earliest chapters of Sikh history. The combination of multiple gurdwaras within walking distance of each other, the serene ambiance of the Beas River nearby, and the town's unbroken tradition of langar and seva make this an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the roots of the Sikh faith. Whether you are a devout Sikh tracing the steps of the Gurus or a curious traveller exploring South Asia's spiritual heritage, Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib offers an unmatched window into the founding era of one of the world's great religions. ## Significance Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib occupies a position of exceptional reverence in the Sikh religious tradition for reasons that span three successive Gurus. It is one of the very rare shrines in the Sikh world associated simultaneously with the lives, spiritual acts, and final departures of multiple Gurus. For Sikhs, the Chubara Sahib represents the domestic heart of the early Sikh community — the home from which Guru Amar Das Ji administered the faith, welcomed all castes and communities at his langar, and transformed Goindwal into a beacon of egalitarian spirituality. The birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji within this complex gives Chubara Sahib additional significance. Guru Arjan Dev Ji compiled the Adi Granth (the precursor to the Guru Granth Sahib), commissioned the construction of Harimandir Sahib (the Golden Temple), and became the first Sikh martyr in 1606 CE — making his birthplace a site of immense emotional and devotional importance for millions. The Killi Sahib relic, preserved at the gurdwara, holds particular spiritual significance. Guru Amar Das Ji would meditate standing while holding this peg for support, a practice that symbolises steadfastness and devotion. For pilgrims, beholding this artifact is an act of direct connection with the Guru's spiritual discipline. The gurdwara is also considered a Jyoti Jot Asthan — a site where two Gurus merged with the divine — a category of shrine that carries supreme sanctity in Sikh pilgrimage tradition. Goindwal Sahib, home to this gurdwara, is celebrated as the first organised centre of Sikhism, and visiting Chubara Sahib is considered an essential act of devotion on any Goindwal pilgrimage circuit. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurdwara Bauli Sahib Goindval Sahib, India 189 m away Gurdwara Bauli 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 Bauli 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 Baoli Sahib Goindwal Sahib](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurudwara%20Goindwal%20Sahib.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Baoli Sahib Goindwal Sahib India 198 m away 3:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily Gurdwara Baoli Sahib Goindwal Sahib stands as one of the most revered and historically significant pilgrimage sites in all of Sikhism, located in the town of Goindwal Sahib in the Tarn Taran district of Punjab, India, approximately 48 kilometres from Amritsar on the banks of the sacred river Beas. Enshrined within its complex is the legendary Baoli — a sacred stepwell with 84 covered steps that descend underground to a blessed reservoir of holy water — constructed under the direct orders of Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, in the sixteenth century. This is widely recognised as the first official Sikh pilgrimage site, a distinction that sets Goindwal Sahib apart among the numerous holy shrines of the Punjab. The gurdwara draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims annually from across India and from Sikh diaspora communities around the world. The central spiritual practice observed here is profoundly unique: devotees descend each of the 84 steps while reciting Japji Sahib, the sacred hymn composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and considered the foundational prayer of Sikhism, before bathing in the sacred waters of the Baoli. According to Sikh tradition and oral history, completing this practice with a sincere heart and pure devotion grants Moksha — liberation from the 84 lakh (8.4 million) cycles of birth, death, and rebirth — and ultimate union with the Divine. It is further believed to liberate seven generations of one's ancestors and descendants. Goindwal Sahib holds a layered significance in Sikh history beyond the Baoli alone. It was here that Guru Amar Das Ji resided for 33 years, developing and institutionalising key pillars of the Sikh faith, including the communal practice of Langar (free community kitchen), the Manji system of regional Sikh preaching, and the composition of the Anand Sahib bani. The town is also the birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (born 15 April 1563), the fifth Sikh Guru and the first Sikh martyr. Today the gurdwara is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and provides all traditional facilities including free langar, accommodation assistance, and prayer services around the clock. Pilgrims seeking both spiritual liberation and a deep encounter with the living history of Sikhism regard Goindwal Sahib as an unmissable destination on any sacred journey through the Punjab. Historical ### Guruduara Sri Amb Sahib India 7.4 km away 24 hours daily

Gurdwara Sri Amb Sahib: A Sacred Shrine of Divine Miracles

Gurdwara Sri Amb Sahib stands as one of Punjab's most revered Sikh shrines, located in Sector 62, Mohali (SAS Nagar district), approximately 12 kilometers from Chandigarh. The word 'Amb' means mango in Punjabi, deriving from the legendary miracle performed by Guru Har Rai Ji, the seventh Sikh Guru, in the 17th century. This gurdwara commemorates a unique spiritual event where a mango tree miraculously bore fruit during the winter months, fulfilling the devotion of a humble devotee named Bhai Kuram.

The gurdwara is situated on Mohali Stadium Road, opposite Gurdwara Sant Mandal Angitha Sahib, serving as a beacon of faith for thousands of pilgrims annually. Its location in the modern city of Mohali blends seamlessly with contemporary Punjab while maintaining its historical and spiritual essence. The shrine exemplifies the Sikh principle of hospitality, offering free meals through its community kitchen (Langar) and providing accommodation for devotees from around the world.

Key Facts:

Community ### Gurdwara Sahib India 7.9 km away Open daily, typically from early morning... Gurdwara Sahib stands as a revered place of Sikh worship and community service situated in the heartland of Punjab, India — the state that forms the spiritual and cultural epicentre of Sikhism worldwide. The name 'Gurdwara Sahib' is among the most traditional designations given to Sikh houses of worship, combining the Punjabi words 'Gur' (a reference to the Sikh Gurus) and 'Dwara' (gateway), with the honorific 'Sahib' derived from an Arabic term meaning companion or lord. Together, the name signifies the gateway through which the eternal Guru may be reached. Located in Hoshiarpur district, Punjab, this gurdwara serves the spiritual needs of the local Sikh community and welcomes devotees and visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, adhering to the foundational Sikh principle that the doors of the Guru's house are open to all without distinction of caste, creed, or gender. The gurdwara complex centres on the Darbar Sahib — the main hall of congregation — where the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal and living scripture of the Sikhs, is ceremonially installed upon a beautifully adorned throne (takht) under a canopy (palki). Daily religious services including Nitnem (morning prayers), Rehras Sahib (evening prayers), and Kirtan Sohila (night prayers) are conducted with regularity, anchoring the community's spiritual rhythm. Trained ragis (sacred musicians) perform shabads (hymns) from the Guru Granth Sahib throughout the day, filling the air with devotional music that lies at the heart of Sikh worship. Beyond its role as a place of worship, Gurdwara Sahib functions as a living institution of community welfare. The langar (community kitchen) operates daily, providing free vegetarian meals to all who come — a practice that powerfully embodies the Sikh values of sewa (selfless service), equality, and compassion. Volunteers from the local sangat (congregation) contribute their time and effort to prepare and serve langar, making this one of the most visible expressions of Sikh social philosophy in action. The gurdwara also serves as a venue for the celebration of Gurpurabs — auspicious anniversaries marking the births and events in the lives of the Sikh Gurus — as well as for community events such as Akhand Paths (uninterrupted readings of the Guru Granth Sahib), Amrit Sanchar (initiation ceremonies), and anand karaj (Sikh wedding ceremonies). Educational and outreach activities organised by the gurdwara help preserve Punjabi language, Sikh history, and Gurmat (the Guru's teachings) among younger generations. As a living institution rooted in the Punjab soil, Gurdwara Sahib remains a pillar of spiritual sustenance, social cohesion, and humanitarian service for its local community. Community ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib is inseparable from the formative decades of Sikhism itself. The story begins around 1552 CE, when Guru Amar Das Ji — then 73 years of age — was appointed as the third Sikh Guru by Guru Angad Dev Ji. Following his appointment, Guru Amar Das Ji relocated from Khadoor Sahib to Goindwal, accompanied by his family and a growing community of followers. He would reside in Goindwal for approximately 33 years, transforming the modest settlement into the first major preaching headquarters of the Sikh faith. It was in this family home — the chubara, or upper chamber — that Guru Amar Das Ji conducted his daily devotions, received disciples, and administered the spiritual affairs of the growing Sikh community. In 1563 CE, within these very premises, Bibi Bhani Ji — the daughter of Guru Amar Das and wife of Jetha Sodhi (later Guru Ram Das Ji) — gave birth to a son named Arjan. This child would grow up to become Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, compiler of the Adi Granth, and the first Sikh martyr. The significance of this birth within the Chubara Sahib made the site doubly sacred in Sikh tradition — as both the dwelling of the third Guru and the birthplace of the fifth. In 1574 CE, a pivotal moment in Sikh succession history took place at this site. Guru Amar Das Ji, in the presence of the sangat (congregation), formally bestowed the Gurgadi — the spiritual headship of Sikhism — upon his son-in-law Jetha Sodhi, who thenceforth became known as Guru Ram Das Ji. In the same year, 1574, Guru Amar Das Ji attained Jyoti Jot — his spiritual merger with the divine — at this location. A few years later, in 1581, Guru Ram Das Ji also achieved Jyoti Jot at the same site, passing the Guruship to his youngest son Arjan. In recognition of the extraordinary events that transpired here, a gurdwara was established on the site of the original family home. The structure has been renovated and maintained over the centuries, with the SGPC taking over formal administration in the modern era. Today, the gurdwara's sacred relics — including the Killi Sahib, the robes of Guru Amar Das Ji, and the historic Palki Sahib — provide a tangible, physical link to the events of the sixteenth century. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib (Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central prayer hall houses the Guru Granth Sahib enshrined upon an ornate portable canopied throne (palki) with silver-adorned doors. The hall is built in classical Sikh architectural style with a central dome and gilded pinnacle. Devotees gather here for daily prayers, kirtan, and ardas. ### Killi Sahib Shrine museum A uniquely significant feature of the gurdwara — a small wooden peg (killi) fixed in the exterior front wall of the chubara, now housed in a decorative silver case. This is the peg upon which Guru Amar Das Ji would lean while performing standing meditation. It is a major focal point for pilgrims seeking a direct connection to the Guru's spiritual practice. ### Sacred Relics Chamber museum A dedicated space preserving the sacred relics associated with Guru Amar Das Ji, including his historic robes and hair, and the Palki Sahib — the ceremonial palanquin once used to carry the holy scriptures between Goindwal and Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The langar hall serves free community meals to all visitors throughout the day. As part of the Goindwal Sahib gurdwara complex, it has the capacity to feed large numbers of pilgrims. The langar tradition of Guru Amar Das Ji — who is credited with institutionalising the practice of all sitting together to eat regardless of caste — is particularly honoured here. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The gurdwara's entrance gateway marks the boundary of the sacred precinct. Facilities for removing shoes, washing hands and feet, and collecting head coverings are provided at the entrance. The gateway opens onto the gurdwara courtyard, from which both Chubara Sahib and the adjacent Baoli Sahib complex can be accessed. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head covering is mandatory for all visitors; shoes must be removed before entering the premises; modest, respectful clothing required; avoid short or revealing attire ### Photography Generally permitted in outer areas; avoid flash photography or disruptive behaviour inside the Darbar Sahib; always ask before photographing during religious services ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering; do not turn your back to the Guru Granth Sahib; bow respectfully before the holy scripture; maintain silence and decorum inside the Darbar Sahib; mobile phones should be kept on silent; alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited on the premises ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The langar hall at Goindwal Sahib's gurdwara complex serves a large number of pilgrims daily; capacity significantly increases during gurpurabs and special occasions to accommodate thousands of visitors Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib follows the classical tradition of Sikh sacred architecture, with its design reflecting both historical authenticity and the aesthetic language developed across centuries of gurdwara construction. The complex is built predominantly in white marble, a material associated with purity and timeless sanctity in the Punjabi religious tradition. The main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) features a central dome surmounted by a gilded pinnacle (kalash), flanked by smaller cupolas at the corners that echo the form of the main dome — a hallmark of Sikh architectural composition. The projected windows and arched cornices add visual depth to the facade. Inside the Darbar Sahib, the Guru Granth Sahib rests upon an ornate, portable canopied throne (palki), with the doors of the throne covered in embossed silver. The interior is decorated with traditional Sikh motifs. On the exterior front wall, the celebrated Killi Sahib — the wooden meditation peg of Guru Amar Das Ji — is mounted, now encased in a silver sheath and framed to honour its sacred status. The complex is situated adjacent to Gurdwara Sri Baoli Sahib and the two shrines together form an integrated pilgrimage precinct. The langar hall accommodates large numbers of pilgrims, particularly during gurpurabs and festivals, and the complex includes sarai (pilgrim rest facilities) to support visiting devotees. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib (Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central prayer hall houses the Guru Granth Sahib enshrined upon an ornate portable canopied throne (palki) with silver-adorned doors. The hall is built in classical Sikh architectural style with a central dome and gilded pinnacle. Devotees gather here for daily prayers, kirtan, and ardas. ### Killi Sahib Shrine museum A uniquely significant feature of the gurdwara — a small wooden peg (killi) fixed in the exterior front wall of the chubara, now housed in a decorative silver case. This is the peg upon which Guru Amar Das Ji would lean while performing standing meditation. It is a major focal point for pilgrims seeking a direct connection to the Guru's spiritual practice. ### Sacred Relics Chamber museum A dedicated space preserving the sacred relics associated with Guru Amar Das Ji, including his historic robes and hair, and the Palki Sahib — the ceremonial palanquin once used to carry the holy scriptures between Goindwal and Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The langar hall serves free community meals to all visitors throughout the day. As part of the Goindwal Sahib gurdwara complex, it has the capacity to feed large numbers of pilgrims. The langar tradition of Guru Amar Das Ji — who is credited with institutionalising the practice of all sitting together to eat regardless of caste — is particularly honoured here. ### Main Entrance Gateway entrance The gurdwara's entrance gateway marks the boundary of the sacred precinct. Facilities for removing shoes, washing hands and feet, and collecting head coverings are provided at the entrance. The gateway opens onto the gurdwara courtyard, from which both Chubara Sahib and the adjacent Baoli Sahib complex can be accessed. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Gurpurab of Guru Arjan Dev Ji The birth anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji — born within the precincts of Chubara Sahib in 1563 — is observed with particular devotion at this gurdwara. Akhand Path (continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan programs, nagar kirtan processions, and extended langar mark the celebrations. The martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (Shaheedi Gurpurab, typically in May–June) is also observed with great solemnity. #### Gurpurab of Guru Amar Das Ji The birth and ascension anniversaries of Guru Amar Das Ji — the gurdwara's primary historical figure — are observed with special religious programs, kirtan, and langar. As Jyoti Jot Asthan of Guru Amar Das Ji, the gurdwara sees large congregations on this day. Devotees from across Punjab and beyond make pilgrimage to Goindwal Sahib for this occasion. #### Guru Nanak Gurpurab The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji — founder of Sikhism — is celebrated at Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib with three-day Akhand Path, nagar kirtan, and all-night kirtan programs. This is the most widely observed Sikh festival and draws large congregations to all gurdwaras including Chubara Sahib. #### Gurpurab of Guru Ram Das Ji The birth anniversary of Guru Ram Das Ji — whose sons were born at Chubara Sahib and who himself attained Jyoti Jot here in 1581 — is commemorated with special prayers, kirtan, and langar. Guru Ram Das Ji is also the founder of the city of Amritsar, making this gurpurab particularly significant in the Punjab region. ### festival #### Baisakhi Baisakhi (Vaisakhi), celebrated every year on 13–14 April, is one of the most important Sikh festivals and is observed with great enthusiasm at Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib. The festival commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 and is celebrated with kirtan, langar, and community gatherings. Large numbers of pilgrims visit Goindwal Sahib's gurdwara circuit during Baisakhi. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib is open to visitors daily from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Morning prayers (Nitnem) begin before sunrise. Langar is typically served from around 6:00 AM until late evening. During major gurpurabs and festivals, the gurdwara may remain open through the night. Yes, langar (free community meals) is served throughout the day at the gurdwara complex in Goindwal Sahib. All visitors regardless of caste, religion, or nationality are welcome to partake in langar as an expression of Sikh egalitarianism. The langar facility serves a large number of pilgrims daily, with capacity greatly expanded during gurpurabs and festivals. Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body responsible for managing historical Sikh gurdwaras in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh. The SGPC operates under the directives of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and is often referred to as the 'Parliament of Sikhs'. Goindwal Sahib hosts several important gurdwaras within walking distance of each other. Directly adjacent to Chubara Sahib is Gurdwara Sri Baoli Sahib, built around the famous 84-step sacred baoli (stepwell) initiated by Guru Amar Das Ji. Gurdwara Sri Akal Chalana Sahib marks the place where Guru Amar Das Ji's final rites were performed. Together, these gurdwaras form a complete pilgrimage circuit within the town. ### history Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib is built on the site of the family home of Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, who resided in Goindwal from around 1552 CE. It is the birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (born 1563 CE), the fifth Sikh Guru. The Guruship was formally passed from Guru Amar Das to Guru Ram Das at this site in 1574, and both Guru Amar Das (1574) and Guru Ram Das (1581) attained Jyoti Jot (spiritual merger with God) here, making it a site of extraordinary historical and spiritual significance. The gurdwara preserves several historically significant relics including the Killi Sahib — a small wooden peg (now encased in silver) fixed into the exterior wall, which Guru Amar Das Ji used for support during standing meditation. Other relics include the sacred hair and robes of Guru Amar Das Ji, and the Palki Sahib — the historic palanquin used to transport the Guru Granth Sahib between Goindwal and Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar. This gurdwara is uniquely significant because it is associated with three Sikh Gurus in pivotal moments. It was the home of Guru Amar Das Ji (3rd Guru), the birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (5th Guru, born 1563), and the site where Guru Ram Das Ji (4th Guru) received the Guruship in 1574. Both Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Ram Das Ji also attained Jyoti Jot here. It is considered a Jyoti Jot Asthan — among the most sacred categories of Sikh pilgrimage sites. ### transport Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib is located in Goindwal Sahib town in Tarn Taran District, Punjab. The nearest airport is Amritsar's Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, approximately 50 km away. The nearest railway station is Goindwal Sahib Halt on the Amritsar–Jalandhar rail line, or Khadur Sahib station about 6 km away. By road, the gurdwara is approximately 50 km from Amritsar via NH54 and about 22 km from Tarn Taran. Local auto-rickshaws and taxis are available within Goindwal Sahib. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Sri Chubara Sahib Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit