# Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Anandpur Sahib - GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh 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 Takht Sri Kesgarh 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). # Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib ਤਖਤ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਕੇਸਗੜ੍ਹ ਸਾਹਿਬ Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh 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 Takht Sri Kesgarh 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). ## Significance The gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual and community center. In Sikh tradition, a gurdwara is not merely a place of worship but a center for learning, community service, and social equality. The institution of Langar (community kitchen), Sangat (congregation), and Pangat (eating together in rows) are practiced here, reinforcing the Sikh values of equality and brotherhood. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara Complex Anandpur Sahib, India 78 m away Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara Complex 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, Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara Complex 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 ### Ananpur Sahib Gurudwara Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, India 172 m away 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily; open all days ... Ananpur Sahib Gurudwara, more widely known as Anandpur Sahib — the 'City of Bliss' — stands as one of the holiest and most historically significant places in Sikhism, located in Rupnagar (Ropar) district of Punjab, India, near the foothills of the Shiwalik Hills. Revered as second in sanctity only to Amritsar's Golden Temple, this sacred complex draws millions of Sikh pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across India and around the world every year. Situated approximately 80 kilometres north-east of Chandigarh along the banks of the River Sutlej, the Anandpur Sahib complex is anchored by the magnificent Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib — one of Sikhism's five supreme temporal and spiritual thrones (Takhts). The complex encompasses several historically important gurdwaras, open courtyards, and community spaces that together form the living heart of the Khalsa Panth's origin. The town was founded in 1665 by Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, and later became the seat of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and final human Guru, who transformed Sikhism here in momentous ways. It was on the sacred soil of Anandpur Sahib, on Baisakhi day in 1699, that Guru Gobind Singh baptised the Panj Pyaras — the Five Beloved Ones — and gave birth to the Khalsa, the community of initiated Sikhs that continues to define Sikh identity worldwide. The gurdwara complex is not merely a place of prayer; it is a living historical monument and a hub of communal life. Visitors are welcomed irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or nationality. The langar (community kitchen), maintained through voluntary seva (service), serves thousands of free meals daily, embodying the Sikh ideals of equality and selfless service. The atmosphere is one of profound serenity punctuated by the continuous recitation of Gurbani (sacred hymns). Beyond its spiritual role, the complex sits adjacent to the world-class Virasat-e-Khalsa museum, inaugurated in 2011, which narrates the history and culture of the Sikh faith. During the annual Hola Mohalla festival — celebrated the day after Holi — Anandpur Sahib transforms into a spectacular arena of Sikh martial arts, music, poetry, and devotion, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims. The surrounding landscape of hills, rivers, and forests lends the site a natural grandeur that enhances its spiritual gravity, making Ananpur Sahib Gurudwara an unmissable destination for anyone seeking to understand Sikh heritage and faith. Community ### Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib Anandpur Sahib, India 269 m away Open 24 hours; main diwan (prayers) held... Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, India, is one of the most sacred Sikh shrines in the holy city of Anandpur Sahib. The gurdwara marks the hallowed spot where the severed head of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was cremated on November 17, 1675, after his martyrdom in Delhi. When the Guru was executed in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, on November 11, 1675, by the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam and championing the rights of the Kashmiri Pandits, his devoted disciple Bhai Jaita (later honoured as Bhai Jiwan Singh) retrieved the Guru's sacred head and carried it over several hundred kilometres to Chakk Nanaki — the town founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur himself, now revered as Anandpur Sahib. The head was received with deep reverence and was cremated at this spot with full honours. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru and son of Guru Tegh Bahadur, personally oversaw the cremation rites and later caused a memorial shrine to be constructed over the sacred ashes at this very site. The gurdwara stands as an enduring testimony to the supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who is revered in Sikh tradition as 'Hind di Chadar' — the Shield of India — for laying down his life to protect freedom of religion and the rights of the oppressed. Today, Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib Anandpur Sahib serves as an important pilgrimage destination within the sacred complex of Anandpur Sahib, drawing thousands of devotees annually who come to pay homage to the Guru's ultimate sacrifice. The gurdwara provides all traditional Sikh services including daily prayers (Nitnem), Gurbani kirtan, and the free communal kitchen (langar), fostering the Sikh values of seva (selfless service) and sangat (congregation). The shrine is managed under the authority of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body governing historical Sikh shrines in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Community ### Gurdwara Gurgaddi Patshahi Tenth India 322 m away Open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to... Gurdwara Gurgaddi Patshahi Tenth is a revered Sikh shrine located near Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, India, commemorating the sacred Guru Gaddi — the spiritual throne — of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Tenth and final human Guru of the Sikhs. The name 'Gurgaddi' refers to the seat of Guruship, and this gurdwara marks a site of profound religious importance where the Tenth Guru is believed to have held court, delivered spiritual guidance, and exercised his temporal and spiritual sovereignty. Situated in the Shivalik foothills of Punjab along the banks of the Sutlej River, this sacred site exists within one of the holiest geographical regions of Sikhism, in close proximity to Anandpur Sahib, which Guru Gobind Singh Ji made his principal seat of power and devotion for over three decades. The gurdwara serves the dual purpose of a place of congregational worship (sangat) and a living memorial to the life and mission of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who transformed the Sikh Panth by founding the Khalsa on Vaisakhi in 1699. Devotees and pilgrims travel from across India and around the world to seek the blessings of the Tenth Guru and to connect with the spiritual energy believed to permeate the grounds. Daily religious activities at the gurdwara include Nitnem (recitation of daily prayers), Kirtan (devotional hymn singing), Ardas (communal prayer), and the distribution of langar (free community meals) to all visitors irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. The gurdwara is managed under the auspices of a local Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee and operates in accordance with the Sikh Rehat Maryada, the official Sikh code of conduct as prescribed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The premises maintain a serene and disciplined environment where the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji are continuously recited. The institution also plays an active role in the social fabric of the surrounding community, offering educational programs, charitable services, and support for the underprivileged. As one of the gurdwaras in the spiritually charged landscape of the Anandpur Sahib region, Gurdwara Gurgaddi Patshahi Tenth stands as a symbol of the Sikh ideals of equality, service, and devotion to the one eternal Creator. Community ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Modest clothing covering arms and legs. Head must be covered at all times inside the Gurdwara. ### Head Covering Free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance for all visitors. ### Shoe Storage Remove shoes before entering. Free shoe storage (Jora Ghar) is available at the entrance. ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises. Please be respectful inside the main prayer hall. ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering. Sit on the floor facing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Do not point feet towards the Guru Granth Sahib. ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) The Gurdwara operates a free community kitchen (Langar) serving vegetarian meals to all visitors. Langar embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat) regardless of background. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Vaisakhi Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This major Sikh festival celebrates the creation of the Sikh community of initiated men and women. Special prayers, processions (Nagar Kirtan), and extended Langar are organized. April 14 #### Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru who created the Khalsa. Special prayers, Kirtan, Akhand Path, and community celebrations mark this important day. January (varies by lunar calendar) #### Maghi Commemorates the martyrdom of the Chali Mukte (40 Liberated Ones) who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705. Special Kirtan and prayers honour these brave Sikhs who returned to fight alongside Guru Gobind Singh Ji. January 14 #### Hola Mohalla A Sikh festival of martial arts and valor, established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji as an alternative to the Hindu festival of Holi. Features martial arts displays (Gatka), mock battles, music, poetry, and community feasts. March (day after Holi) #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab Celebrates the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Akhand Path (48-hour continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib Ji) is held, followed by Nagar Kirtan, special Kirtan Darbars, and extended Langar Seva. November (varies by lunar calendar) #### Bandi Chhor Divas The Sikh Festival of Liberation, celebrated on the same day as Diwali. It commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 Hindu kings from Gwalior Fort. The Gurdwara is illuminated with lights and candles. October/November (varies by lunar calendar) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting No, there is no entry fee at Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. Like all Gurdwara Sahibs, it is open to everyone free of charge, regardless of faith, caste, or background. Visitors are welcome to attend prayers, participate in Langar, and explore the premises. When visiting Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, wear modest clothing that covers your arms and legs. All visitors must cover their head inside the Gurdwara — free head coverings (rumaals) are available at the entrance. Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall; shoe storage is provided. Absolutely! Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib warmly welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. Sikh Gurdwaras are open to everyone. Non-Sikh visitors are encouraged to attend prayers, enjoy Langar (free community meal), and learn about Sikh traditions. Just follow basic etiquette: cover your head and remove shoes. Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises of Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. However, please be respectful inside the main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) and avoid using flash. Video recording during prayer services should be done discreetly. Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib is generally open from early morning (around 4:00-5:00 AM) until late evening (9:00-10:00 PM). The morning prayers (Amrit Vela) begin at dawn, and evening prayers (Rehras Sahib) are held at sunset. Langar timings may vary. For exact hours, please contact the Gurdwara management. ### langar Yes, Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib serves free vegetarian meals through Langar, the Sikh community kitchen. Langar is available to all visitors regardless of background. Everyone sits together on the floor (Pangat), embodying the Sikh principle of equality. The food is prepared by volunteers as an act of selfless service (Seva). ### logistics Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib typically has parking facilities for visitors. During major events and festivals, additional parking arrangements are usually made. For specific parking information, it is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management directly or visit during non-peak hours for easier parking. Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib is located, India. The GPS coordinates are 31.2351°N, 76.4990°E. You can use map navigation apps for precise directions. Local auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses can help you reach the Gurdwara. ### accessibility Accessibility features vary at Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. Many Gurdwara Sahibs in India are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib management directly for the most current accessibility information and any special arrangements that can be made. ### accommodation Many Gurdwara Sahibs offer basic accommodation (Sarai) for travellers and pilgrims at no charge or minimal cost. Availability at Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib may vary. It is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management in advance to check current accommodation facilities and make any necessary arrangements. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit