# Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati, Maharashtra — a historic site marking Guru Nanak's visit to central India. Free entry, daily langar, open to all. # Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati is a historically significant Sikh place of worship located in Amravati city, in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, India (coordinates: 20.941812°N, 77.760937°E). Situated on the northern bank of the Tapti River, this gurdwara stands as a living testament to Guru Nanak Dev Ji's extensive southern travels (Dakshin Desh Udat), during which he traversed the Deccan plateau spreading the message of Ik Onkar—the oneness of God—to communities far beyond the Punjab heartland. The gurdwara draws pilgrims from across Maharashtra and beyond, particularly from Sikh communities rooted in the Vanjara tradition, who have historically maintained a devout connection to this sacred site. A striking feature of the gurdwara's cultural identity is its management by a Maharashtrian Vanjara Sikh priest, reflecting the deep entrenchment of Sikhism among indigenous communities of central India. The Vanjara people hold a revered place in Sikh history as Lakhi Shah Vanjara, a prominent Vanjara leader, cremated the body of Guru Teg Bahadur following his martyrdom in Delhi. The gurdwara is administered under the wider umbrella of the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee of Abchal Nagar (Nanded), which oversees several historically important Sikh sites in Maharashtra. Almost all pilgrims travelling to pay obeisance at Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded—one of the five supreme seats of Sikh authority—make a point of also visiting this gurdwara, weaving it into the established pilgrimage circuit of Sikh Maharashtra. The natural scenery surrounding the gurdwara, near the Tapti's banks, is described in historical Sikh accounts as particularly beautiful, adding a contemplative dimension to visits. The gurdwara serves as a vibrant community centre, offering langar (free community kitchen), prayer services, and religious education to the local Sikh population and the broader interfaith community of Amravati. It remains a cherished spiritual landmark in a region that bridges the historic routes connecting Punjab, central India, and the Deccan. ## Significance Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati holds deep religious and cultural significance within Sikh tradition. As a site directly associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's presence and teachings, it is considered a 'charan-sparsh' (footstep) gurdwara—places where the Guru physically visited and blessed the land. Such sites are regarded with particular reverence by Sikh pilgrims, as they represent tangible links to the living Guru. The gurdwara's significance is further heightened by the recorded spiritual dialogues that took place here: Guru Nanak's discussions with Sufi masters and the Bhakti poet-saint Parmanand represent the historical foundation of India's pluralistic spiritual heritage. The collection of Parmanand's verses by Guru Nanak at this location connects Amaravati directly to the textual history of the Guru Granth Sahib. The gurdwara also plays a critical role in the Sikh pilgrimage circuit of Maharashtra. As pilgrims journey to the exalted Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, a stop at Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati is considered an integral part of the spiritual journey, extending the sanctified trail through central India. For the Vanjara Sikh community of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, this gurdwara carries additional ancestral and communal importance, as the Vanjara people count among the earliest communities to embrace Sikhism. The gurdwara serves as a living centre of Sikh identity in central India, sustaining a community far from the traditional Sikh heartland of Punjab and reminding devotees of Guru Nanak's universal spiritual mission. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurunanak Gurudwara India 4 m away Open daily, approximately 4:00 AM to 10:... Gurunanak Gurudwara is a Sikh place of worship located in Amravati, Maharashtra, India — a city in the Vidarbha region situated at approximately 20.9418°N, 77.7609°E. Named in honor of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, the gurdwara stands as a spiritual and community landmark for the Sikh diaspora settled in central Maharashtra. The institution embodies the core Sikh principles of seva (selfless service), sangat (holy congregation), and pangat (sitting together in equality), and is open to people of all faiths, nationalities, and backgrounds without distinction. Amravati, historically significant as a major city in the Vidarbha belt, has a modest but devout Sikh community whose roots trace back several generations. The Sikh presence in this region is believed to be connected to the historic movements of traders, soldiers, and settlers who migrated from Punjab and other northern Indian states during the colonial era and the post-independence period. The gurdwara became the spiritual home for these communities, providing not merely a religious sanctuary but also a social institution fostering unity, mutual support, and cultural continuity. Central to the gurdwara's daily life is the Guru Ka Langar — a free community kitchen that serves meals to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, religion, or economic standing. This practice, instituted by Guru Nanak Dev Ji himself in the fifteenth century, remains one of the most visible expressions of Sikh egalitarianism and compassion. The langar at Gurunanak Gurudwara is operated through voluntary contributions and the selfless labor of sewadars (volunteers) from the congregation, serving hundreds of individuals each day. The gurdwara also plays an active role in celebrating major Sikh festivals such as Gurpurab (the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji), Baisakhi, and the shaheedi (martyrdom) anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus. During these occasions, the premises are illuminated with lights and flowers, and extended programs of kirtan (devotional music), katha (religious discourse), and community service are organized for the sangat. Nagar kirtan processions, in which the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is carried through the streets accompanied by devotional singing, are a highlight of the major festival calendar. Governance of the gurdwara is believed to be managed by a local Sikh management committee composed of elected members from the congregation. This community-led model ensures the gurdwara remains responsive to the spiritual and social needs of the local Sikh population while upholding the traditions and teachings enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. In addition to its religious programming, the gurdwara contributes to social welfare through health camps, educational support for underprivileged children, and relief efforts during times of local need, earning goodwill and respect from the wider Amravati community. Community ### Rai Sahab Mandir India 59 m away Open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to... Rai Sahab Mandir is a Sikh gurdwara situated in the Amravati region of Maharashtra, India, serving as a spiritual and community anchor for the local Sikh population in this part of central India. The gurdwara bears the name 'Rai Sahab,' a title of honour historically conferred upon distinguished individuals in the Indian subcontinent, reflecting the deep respect the founding community held for the Sikh tradition and its revered figures. The gurdwara stands as a testament to the widespread presence of Sikhism beyond the Punjab heartland, representing the faith's universal message of equality, service, and devotion to the Waheguru — the Timeless Creator. Like all gurdwaras, Rai Sahab Mandir is centred on the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal, living Guru of the Sikhs, which is enshrined with full reverence in the main prayer hall, known as the Darbar Sahib. Daily prayers, including the Nitnem — comprising Japji Sahib in the morning, Rehras Sahib in the evening, and Kirtan Sohila at night — are observed without fail. The congregation gathers for Amrit Vela (pre-dawn prayer), and on special occasions the gurdwara resonates with the devotional singing of Gurbani, the sacred hymns composed by the Sikh Gurus and various saints. The gurdwara also maintains the cherished Sikh institution of the Langar — a free community kitchen — which serves wholesome vegetarian meals to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, gender, or social standing. This practice, introduced by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the fifteenth century, powerfully embodies the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) and the equality of all human beings. Volunteers from the sangat (congregation) dedicate their time and resources to preparing, serving, and cleaning up after every meal, making the Langar a living expression of Sikh values. Beyond its religious functions, Rai Sahab Mandir plays an active role in the social fabric of the surrounding community. It is believed to support local welfare initiatives including educational programmes, assistance for the underprivileged, and outreach during times of natural calamity or hardship. The gurdwara welcomes Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike, providing a space of peace, prayer, and communion in the heart of Maharashtra. Community ### Gurdwara Sahib India 303 m away Open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to... Gurdwara Sahib is a Sikh place of worship and community service located in Amravati, Maharashtra, India, situated at coordinates 20.9438464°N, 77.758993°E within the Vidarbha region of central India. The name 'Gurdwara' derives from the Punjabi words 'Gur' (referring to the Sikh Gurus) and 'Dwara' (gateway), meaning 'the gateway through which the Guru can be reached,' while 'Sahib' is an honorific of Arabic origin denoting respect and reverence. As a gurdwara, this sacred institution embodies the core Sikh principles of seva (selfless service), sangat (holy congregation), and pangat (communal dining), welcoming people of all faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life without discrimination. Gurdwara Sahib serves as the spiritual and social heart of the local Sikh community in Amravati. The Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal living Guru and holy scripture of the Sikhs, is enshrined at the centre of the main prayer hall, known as the Darbar Sahib. Daily prayers including Nitnem (morning prayers), Rehras Sahib (evening prayers), and Kirtan Sohila (night prayers) are recited, and the congregation gathers for Gurbani Kirtan — the devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib — throughout the day. Situated in Maharashtra, a state with a historically significant Sikh presence, this gurdwara is believed to have been established by early Sikh settlers and migrants to the Vidarbha region. The Sikh community in Maharashtra includes groups such as the Vanajara Sikhs and Sikligar Sikhs, whose ancestors settled across the Deccan Plateau over generations. Gurdwara Sahib caters to this diverse local Sikh community and also serves the broader population through its open-door langar (community kitchen) and outreach programmes. The institution offers a wide range of community services including free meals through langar, religious education classes for children and youth, Gurbani learning sessions, and social welfare activities. Major Sikh festivals such as Gurpurabs — anniversaries commemorating the Sikh Gurus — are celebrated with great devotion and festivity at the gurdwara, drawing large numbers of Sikh and non-Sikh attendees from across the region. Baisakhi, Diwali (celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas), and Hola Mohalla are among the key occasions marked with special prayers, processions, and extended langar services. Community ### Gurudwara Amaravti, India 1.9 km away Open daily, typically from 4:00 AM to 10... The Gurudwara in Amravati, Maharashtra, India, stands as a spiritual beacon for the Sikh community in the Vidarbha region. Located in Amravati — a historic city in eastern Maharashtra — this place of worship serves as a vital center of Sikh religious life, culture, and social service for Sikhs who have settled in and around the city over generations. The Gurudwara embodies the core principles of Sikhism: Seva (selfless service), Simran (meditation on the divine), and Sangat (holy congregation), offering a sacred space where devotees gather daily for prayer, reflection, and community fellowship. The Gurudwara is managed by the local Sikh congregation and operates in accordance with the Sikh Rehat Maryada, the official code of conduct established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The institution welcomes people of all faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life, reflecting the fundamental Sikh tenet that the doors of the Guru's house are open to all humanity without discrimination. At the heart of the Gurudwara's daily life is the continuous recitation and singing of Gurbani — the sacred scripture from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs. Kirtan (devotional music) sessions are held regularly, filling the Darbar Sahib with the uplifting strains of hymns composed by the Sikh Gurus and revered saints. The Gurudwara also conducts Akhand Path (uninterrupted reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) on auspicious occasions and Gurpurabs (anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus). The Langar (community kitchen) is one of the most cherished institutions of this Gurudwara, providing free meals to all visitors regardless of their religion, caste, or socioeconomic status. This practice, instituted by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, embodies the principle of equality and the spirit of sharing. The Gurudwara also engages in charitable activities including educational support, medical assistance, and community outreach programs for the underprivileged in the Amravati district. The Sikh community of Amravati, though a minority within Maharashtra's predominantly Hindu and Muslim population, has long maintained a vibrant presence in the city. Sikhs in Amravati are believed to have been involved in trade, agriculture, and the armed forces, contributing meaningfully to the social and economic fabric of the region. The Gurudwara serves as the cultural and spiritual anchor for this diaspora community, preserving Punjabi traditions, language, and religious identity far from the Sikh heartland of Punjab. Community ## Detailed History The history of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati is rooted in the udasis (spiritual journeys) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539), the founder of Sikhism. During his southern udasi—believed to have taken place in the early sixteenth century—Guru Nanak traversed vast stretches of central and southern India, visiting towns, engaging with saints, scholars, and Sufi mystics, and composing hymns that were later compiled into the Guru Granth Sahib. During this journey, he visited Amravati (along with nearby towns of Akola, Malikapur, and Buldana) and is traditionally said to have stayed in the region for approximately four months. During his extended stay, he is recorded to have attended the fairs of Kartik Poornima and Ram Naumi—important religious festivals—demonstrating his inclusive spiritual engagement with local Hindu traditions. At or near this location, Guru Nanak held spiritual discourses with Sheikh Braham and other Sufi scholars of the region, as well as with the poet-saint Parmanand (1483–1593), whose devotional verses Guru Nanak collected and included in his 'pothee' (anthology), which eventually formed the basis of the Guru Granth Sahib. This dialogue between Sikhism, Sufism, and the Bhakti movement at Amravati embodies the ecumenical spirit of early Sikhism. The site also carries a later Sikh historical connection: Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and final human Guru, is believed to have halted near this area on his journey to Nanded, where he spent his final years at what is now Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib (Abchal Nagar). The area around the Tapti River near Amravati also holds broader historical significance—the nearby city of Burhanpur is the site where Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, died in 1631, her body later being taken to Agra where the Taj Mahal was built in her memory. Over the centuries, the local Vanjara Sikh community has been the primary custodian of this gurdwara, maintaining its traditions and spiritual atmosphere. Management of the gurdwara has been formalized under the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee of Abchal Nagar, which administers multiple historical Sikh sites across Maharashtra. The exact founding date of the formal gurdwara structure is not definitively recorded in available sources, though the site's sanctity dates back to the era of Guru Nanak's travels. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central sanctum of the gurdwara where the Guru Granth Sahib is installed and venerated. The hall hosts daily prayers (nitnem), kirtan programmes, and congregational worship. Worshippers enter after covering their heads and removing shoes, and pay obeisance by bowing before the holy scripture. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free meals are prepared and served to all visitors daily. Operating on the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) and equality, the langar hall has no distinction of caste, religion, or social status among those who dine together on the floor. ### Nishan Sahib (Flagpole) tower The tall flagpole bearing the triangular Khanda (Sikh emblem) flag, known as the Nishan Sahib, which marks the gurdwara's presence in the cityscape. It is a universal symbol of a Sikh place of worship and signals that shelter and langar are available to all. ### Entrance Gateway (Deori) entrance The main entrance to the gurdwara complex, where visitors leave their shoes at the shoe repository and collect head coverings if needed. It marks the transition from the secular to the sacred space and typically features religious inscriptions and floral decorations. ### Sarovar / Ablution Area sarovar A water facility within the gurdwara complex used by pilgrims for ritual cleansing before prayer, reflecting the Sikh tradition of purity of body alongside purity of mind. Given the gurdwara's proximity to the Tapti River, water has always held spiritual significance at this location. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head must be covered at all times (scarves/rumals available at entrance); remove shoes before entering; modest clothing required; no shorts or sleeveless tops ### Photography Generally permitted in outer areas; photography inside the Darbar Sahib should be done respectfully and with awareness of worshippers ### Etiquette Bow before the Guru Granth Sahib upon entering; maintain silence in the Darbar Sahib; refrain from bringing tobacco, alcohol, or non-vegetarian food into the premises; wash hands before entering the langar hall ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves the local Sikh community and all visiting pilgrims; capacity details not publicly documented Seating Capacity ## Architecture Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati features architectural elements characteristic of gurdwaras in the Maharashtra and Deccan tradition, blending the classic Sikh architectural vocabulary with local building styles. The main prayer hall (Darbar Sahib) serves as the spiritual centre of the complex, housing the Guru Granth Sahib under a ceremonial canopy (palki). The structure is believed to include a distinctive white-painted facade topped with a nishan sahib (triangular Sikh flag), visible from a distance and marking the gurdwara's presence in the cityscape. The langar hall, an essential element of every gurdwara, adjoins the main building and is designed to accommodate community gatherings and the daily preparation and serving of free meals. The gurdwara's setting on the northern bank of the Tapti River enhances its aesthetic appeal, with the river providing a serene natural backdrop traditionally valued in Sikh sacred geography. The complex includes facilities for pilgrims including ablution areas, shoe-keeping facilities, and resting spaces. Architectural embellishments such as floral motifs, religious inscriptions from the Guru Granth Sahib, and the distinctive golden dome or sikhar characteristic of Sikh religious architecture are believed to be present, though detailed architectural documentation of this specific structure is limited in currently available records. ## Structures in the Complex ### Darbar Sahib (Main Prayer Hall) prayer_hall The central sanctum of the gurdwara where the Guru Granth Sahib is installed and venerated. The hall hosts daily prayers (nitnem), kirtan programmes, and congregational worship. Worshippers enter after covering their heads and removing shoes, and pay obeisance by bowing before the holy scripture. ### Langar Hall langar_hall The community kitchen and dining hall where free meals are prepared and served to all visitors daily. Operating on the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service) and equality, the langar hall has no distinction of caste, religion, or social status among those who dine together on the floor. ### Nishan Sahib (Flagpole) tower The tall flagpole bearing the triangular Khanda (Sikh emblem) flag, known as the Nishan Sahib, which marks the gurdwara's presence in the cityscape. It is a universal symbol of a Sikh place of worship and signals that shelter and langar are available to all. ### Entrance Gateway (Deori) entrance The main entrance to the gurdwara complex, where visitors leave their shoes at the shoe repository and collect head coverings if needed. It marks the transition from the secular to the sacred space and typically features religious inscriptions and floral decorations. ### Sarovar / Ablution Area sarovar A water facility within the gurdwara complex used by pilgrims for ritual cleansing before prayer, reflecting the Sikh tradition of purity of body alongside purity of mind. Given the gurdwara's proximity to the Tapti River, water has always held spiritual significance at this location. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Guru Nanak Gurpurab The most important annual celebration at the gurdwara, marking the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (observed on Kartik Poornima, typically in October or November). Festivities include akhand path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), nagar kirtan (procession through the city), kirtan programmes, and extended langar. The occasion is especially significant here as Guru Nanak is believed to have personally attended the Kartik Poornima fair at this very location. #### Baisakhi Celebrated on April 13/14 each year, Baisakhi commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699 and is one of the most joyous festivals in Sikhism. The gurdwara holds special path, kirtan, and langar on this day, with the local Sikh community gathering in large numbers. #### Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab Celebrating the birth anniversary of the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji (typically in December or January), this event holds added local meaning as Guru Gobind Singh is believed to have passed near Amravati on his journey to Nanded. Special prayers, kirtan, and langar are organised. ### historical #### Martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur Observed in November to commemorate the martyrdom of the ninth Guru, Guru Teg Bahadur, who was executed in Delhi in 1675. This date has particular resonance for the Vanjara Sikh community, who take great pride in the role of Lakhi Shah Vanjara in respectfully cremating the Guru's body. Special ardas and path mark this solemn occasion. ### weekly #### Sangrand and weekly Sehaj Path Sangrand (the first day of each Sikh lunar month) is observed with special prayers and path. Weekly Sunday divans (congregational services) feature kirtan, katha (religious discourse), and langar, providing a regular focal point for the local Sikh community throughout the year. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati is generally open from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. On major Gurpurabs such as Guru Nanak Gurpurab and Baisakhi, the gurdwara may remain open for extended hours with special programmes. Visitors are advised to confirm current timings with the gurdwara management or local Sikh community before travelling. Yes, langar (free community meal) is served daily at the gurdwara as per Sikh tradition. It is open to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background. Langar is typically served during the morning and evening, with continuous service on major festival days. Visitors are welcome to partake and also to contribute kar seva (voluntary service) in the langar kitchen. The gurdwara is managed by the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee of Abchal Nagar (headquartered in Nanded), which oversees multiple historically significant Sikh sites in Maharashtra. Day-to-day management involves the local Maharashtrian Vanjara Sikh community, who have historically been the gurdwara's primary caretakers. All visitors must cover their head before entering the gurdwara (scarves are available at the entrance). Shoes must be removed and left at the designated shoe storage area. Modest clothing is required; shorts and sleeveless tops are discouraged. Tobacco, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food must not be brought into the premises. Inside the Darbar Sahib, visitors should bow before the Guru Granth Sahib and maintain a respectful, quiet demeanour. ### history The gurdwara commemorates the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Amravati during his southern udasi (spiritual journey) in the early sixteenth century. Guru Nanak is traditionally said to have stayed in the region for approximately four months, held discourses with local Sufi saints and the poet-saint Parmanand, and attended the fairs of Kartik Poornima and Ram Naumi. Guru Gobind Singh is also believed to have passed near this area on his journey to Nanded. The gurdwara is currently managed by the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee of Abchal Nagar. This gurdwara is a 'charan-sparsh' site associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's physical presence during his southern udasi. It is also a site where Guru Nanak held spiritual dialogues with Sufi saints and the poet-saint Parmanand, whose verses were collected into what later became the Guru Granth Sahib. The gurdwara lies on the Maharashtra Sikh pilgrimage circuit connecting to Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, one of the five supreme seats of Sikh authority. ### transport By air, the nearest major airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, about 150 km away; Amravati Airport at Belora (15 km) handles limited flights. By rail, Amravati Railway Station and Badnera Junction (10 km) provide connections to Mumbai, Nagpur, and Pune. By road, Amravati lies on NH-6 (NH-53), approximately 150 km from Nagpur. MSRTC buses connect Amravati to major Maharashtra cities. Within the city, auto-rickshaws and taxis are available. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Guru Nanak Gurdwara Amaravati Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit