# Guru Nanak Gurudawara, Avantipora - GurdwaraSahib.in > Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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, Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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). # Guru Nanak Gurudawara Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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, Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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 ### Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Avantipora India 8 m away Open 24 hours daily, 7 days a week Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Avantipora, also reverently known as Charan Asthhan Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, is a historically significant Sikh shrine situated on the banks of the Jhelum River in Awantipora town, Pulwama district, Jammu & Kashmir, India. Nestled along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway approximately 30 kilometres south of Srinagar, the gurdwara stands as a sacred testament to the spiritual journey of Guru Nanak Dev Ji—the founder of Sikhism—through the Kashmir Valley during the early sixteenth century. The name 'Charan Asthhan' (meaning 'the place of the sacred footsteps') encapsulates the deep devotional significance this site holds for Sikh pilgrims, marking the very ground upon which Guru Nanak Dev Ji is traditionally believed to have rested and preached during his travels. The gurdwara is set amidst lush, verdant surroundings that lend the complex a sense of serenity and spiritual calm. Its cream-coloured exterior walls and entrance doors richly adorned with intricate Kashmiri wooden carvings create a striking visual impression, seamlessly blending traditional Sikh religious architecture with the distinctive artistic heritage of the Kashmir Valley. Spacious hallways within are decorated with holy scriptures from the Guru Granth Sahib and portraits of the ten Sikh Gurus and other revered spiritual figures, creating an atmosphere of profound reverence for all who enter. Open around the clock, the gurdwara warmly welcomes devotees, pilgrims, and curious visitors of all faiths, backgrounds, and nationalities. In keeping with the universally inclusive Sikh tradition, the management provides free accommodation and a fully functioning community kitchen (langar) to all who visit, without regard to caste, creed, or religion. A well-maintained garden within the complex adds to its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection. The gurdwara occupies a unique position in the religious landscape of the Kashmir Valley, where Sikh shrines and gurdwaras are closely associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's famous northern udasi (spiritual journey) through the Himalayas and Central Asia. The town of Awantipora itself is historically rich, already renowned for the 9th-century Hindu temple ruins of Avantiswami and Avantisvara, built during the reign of King Avantivarman of the Utpala dynasty. The gurdwara thus sits at the confluence of centuries of layered spiritual heritage, making it a compelling destination for pilgrims, historians, and cultural travellers alike. Historical ### Gurdwara Sant Bhai Daya Singh Ji (Deri Sahib) Tral, India 7.4 km away Gurdwara Sant Bhai Daya Singh Ji (Deri Sahib) is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Tral, 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 Sant Bhai Daya Singh Ji (Deri 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 ### Gurudwara Singh Sabha Tral, India 8.2 km away Gurudwara Singh Sabha 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, Gurudwara 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 ### Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Diwer Tral, India 9.4 km away Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Diwer is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Tral, India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Diwer 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 ## 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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara. 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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara, 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! Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara. 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. Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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, Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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. Guru Nanak Gurudawara is located, India. The GPS coordinates are 33.9128°N, 75.0173°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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara. Many Gurdwara Sahibs in India are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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 Guru Nanak Gurudawara 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) Guru Nanak Gurudawara Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit