# Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib - History, Timings & Visitor Guide | GurdwaraSahib.in > Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab — sacred shrine of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, 19 km from Patiala on Sirhind Road. Timings & visitor info. # Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is a historically significant Sikh shrine situated in the village of Naulakha, Fatehgarh Sahib district, Punjab, India. The gurdwara stands on the sacred ground where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, and Mata Gujri Ji — his revered mother — once rested during Guru Sahib's extensive missionary tour of the Malwa region in the late seventeenth century. The village itself lies on the Patiala–Sirhind Road, approximately 19 kilometres from Patiala and 13 kilometres from Sirhind, making it conveniently accessible for pilgrims travelling between these two historic Punjab cities. The gurdwara's very name is inseparable from the legend that gave birth to the village of Naulakha. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stayed here, a local devotee named Lakhi Shah Banjara (also referred to as Wanjara) lost his bull. He vowed that should he find the animal, he would present nine takas as an offering to the Guru. His prayer was answered, and he faithfully brought the nine takas before Guru Sahib. The Guru, in a moment of profound grace, declined to personally touch the coins but passed them on to the congregation. Thinking the Guru was displeased with such a modest sum, Lakhi Shah humbly apologised for not being wealthier. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji replied with characteristic compassion: 'No, my beloved — even your nine takas are equivalent to nine lakhs.' From that divine utterance, the village came to be called Naulakha, meaning 'nine lakhs' in Punjabi. Today, Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib commemorates this transformative episode and serves as a living testament to the Guru's teaching that sincerity of devotion far surpasses the size of any material offering. The gurdwara is managed by a local Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee operating under the authority of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body overseeing Sikh shrines in India. Pilgrims, historians, and spiritual seekers visit the gurdwara throughout the year, drawn by its peaceful atmosphere and its intimate connection to the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The facility offers langar (community kitchen), prayer services, and a welcoming environment for all who wish to offer their respects at this blessed site. It occupies an important place on the Sikh pilgrimage circuit of the Fatehgarh Sahib district, a region dense with shrines commemorating the Gurus and their noble families. ## Significance Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib holds a place of quiet but deep significance within the Sikh tradition, primarily because of its direct association with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, known as 'Hind ki Chadar' — the Shield of India. The ninth Guru occupies a singular place in Sikh devotion: he sacrificed his life in 1675 refusing to convert to Islam under Mughal coercion, an act of supreme courage that protected the religious freedom not only of Sikhs but also of Hindus and other communities across the subcontinent. Any site connected to his life and travels therefore carries profound spiritual weight for Sikh pilgrims. The story enshrined at Naulakha also carries a universal spiritual message: the Guru's pronouncement that Lakhi Shah Banjara's nine takas were equivalent to nine lakhs encapsulates the Sikh value of sincere, heartfelt devotion over material wealth. This teaching resonates with the Gurbani (scriptural wisdom) recorded in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and continues to inspire devotees who come to the gurdwara seeking to internalise the same spirit of humble offering. The gurdwara is also significant as part of the broader pilgrimage circuit of the Fatehgarh Sahib district — a region whose very name honours the sahibzadas (sons) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji who were martyred at Sirhind. Pilgrims travelling to the major shrines of Fatehgarh Sahib and Sirhind frequently include Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib in their yatra (spiritual journey). The institution reinforces community cohesion through its regular services, Gurpurab celebrations, and open langar, embodying the Sikh principles of seva (selfless service) and sangat (community worship). ## Nearby Gurdwaras ![Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=Gurdwara%20Fatehgarh%20Sahib.jpg&w=600) ### Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib India 9.8 km away 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib is one of the most revered and historically significant Sikh shrines in the Punjab region of India, situated in the city of Fatehgarh Sahib, formerly known as Sirhind. Standing as an enduring testament to the supreme sacrifice made by two of the youngest martyrs in Sikh history, this gurdwara draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, devotees, and visitors each year from across India and around the world. The site holds a place of exceptional sanctity within the Sikh faith, commemorating the courageous martyrdom of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, aged nine, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, aged seven — the two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last human Guru of the Sikhs. The gurdwara is situated at a prominent elevation within the city, its gleaming white and gold dome visible from considerable distances across the flat plains of Punjab. It serves not only as a place of prayer and worship but also as a living repository of Sikh heritage and sacrifice, preserving the physical remnants of events that irrevocably shaped the course of Sikh history. Within the complex, visitors may enter the associated Gurdwara Bhora Sahib, which enshrines the historical wall in which the young Sahibzadas were believed to have been immured alive upon steadfastly refusing to convert to Islam — a wall preserved across more than three centuries as a solemn and humbling monument to unmatched devotion to faith. Beyond its association with the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas, Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib is also closely linked to a landmark Sikh military triumph. In 1710, under the command of the warrior-saint Banda Singh Bahadur, Sikh forces captured Sirhind, avenged the martyrdoms, and razed the Mughal-era fort that had stood in the city since the time of Ferozshah Tughlaq. This dual legacy — of immense grief and triumphant resolve — makes Fatehgarh Sahib unique among Sikh pilgrimage destinations. The gurdwara complex encompasses several associated shrines, each connected to distinct aspects of the events of 1705 and the subsequent Sikh victory of 1710. The entire city of Fatehgarh Sahib takes its name from Sahibzada Fateh Singh, the younger of the two martyred sons. Every December, the complex becomes the focal point of the Shaheedi Jor Mela, one of the largest annual Sikh gatherings in the world, during which millions of devotees converge to pay homage to the Sahibzadas and to Mata Gujri Ji, grandmother of the two boys. Administered by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex statutory body governing historic Sikh shrines in India, Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib offers full langar (community kitchen) services and extensive facilities for pilgrims of all backgrounds. The complex is open to visitors of all faiths, reflecting the universal and inclusive ethos of Sikhism. Located approximately 50 kilometres from Chandigarh and connected by road, rail, and air, it remains one of the most accessible major Sikh pilgrimage sites in northern India. Historical ### Gurdwara Sahib Sirhind, India 9.8 km away Gurdwara 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 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 India 9.8 km away Open daily, typically from 4:00 AM to 10... Gurudwara is a community Sikh place of worship situated in the Punjab region of India, near the historically revered area of Fatehgarh Sahib. Positioned at coordinates 30.6159° N, 76.3776° E, the gurdwara stands in a part of India that carries profound significance in Sikh history and tradition. Punjab, often called the heartland of Sikhism, is home to hundreds of historic gurdwaras and continues to be a living center of Sikh faith, culture, and community service. As a gurdwara — a word derived from the Punjabi 'Gur' (Guru) and 'Dwara' (door or gateway), meaning 'Gateway to the Guru' — this sacred site serves as far more than a house of prayer. It is a living institution that embodies the core Sikh principles of Seva (selfless service), Sangat (holy congregation), and Pangat (communal sharing of food). The Gurudwara operates as a spiritual anchor for the local Sikh community and extends its doors unconditionally to visitors of every faith, caste, gender, and background. At the heart of the gurdwara is the Darbar Sahib, where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs — is enshrined on a raised Takht (throne) and reverently draped in resplendent robes called Rumallas. The recitation of Gurbani (sacred hymns) fills the hall throughout the day, and Ardas (congregational prayer) is offered at prescribed times. Sangat (congregation members) sit in humility on the floor before the Guru Granth Sahib, symbolizing equality before the Divine. The gurdwara's Langar (community kitchen) operates daily, providing free vegetarian meals to all who arrive, regardless of their status or background. This institution of Langar, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century, remains one of Sikhism's most powerful expressions of human equality and compassion. On weekends and festive occasions, hundreds of devotees and visitors partake in Langar together. Beyond its spiritual role, the Gurudwara actively engages in social welfare — offering educational support, medical aid, and community outreach in line with the Sikh commitment to Sarbat da Bhala (the well-being of all humanity). It also serves as a cultural venue where Sikh arts, music (Kirtan), and heritage are preserved and transmitted to younger generations. The gurdwara thus represents not merely a building but a vibrant community institution woven into the social fabric of the region. Community ### Gurdwara Tokha Sahib Patiala, India 10 km away Gurdwara Tokha Sahib is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Patiala, 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 Tokha 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 ## Detailed History The history of Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is rooted in the extensive missionary journeys of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675), the ninth of the ten Sikh Gurus and one of the most revered martyrs in Sikh tradition. During the mid-to-late seventeenth century, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji undertook prolonged tours of the Malwa region of Punjab to visit local sangats (congregations), consolidate the Sikh faith, and provide spiritual guidance to communities across the region. These tours, which also took him through villages such as Ugani, Jakhwali, Tehlpura, Aakar, Lang, and Chalela, left an indelible mark on the religious landscape of Punjab. It was during one such journey, traditionally said to have occurred in the 1660s–1670s, that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Mata Gujri Ji halted for a day and night in what would come to be called Naulakha. The defining moment of the village's history — and of the gurdwara's founding legend — centres on Lakhi Shah Banjara, a devout member of a community of grain traders. He lost his bull while Guru Sahib was present in the village and earnestly vowed nine takas as an offering if the animal were returned to him. Upon finding the bull in the forest, he presented his offering with humility. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's blessing — that the nine takas were equal to nine lakhs — was not only a generous spiritual gesture but also a powerful lesson in the equality of all sincere devotion before the Divine. This episode gave the village its enduring name, Naulakha. Following Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's martyrdom in Delhi in 1675 — he gave his life defending the freedom of religious practice in the Mughal era — the memory of his blessed visits to villages like Naulakha became precious to local Sikh communities. A gurdwara was established on the site to perpetuate the Guru's memory and provide a place of worship and community gathering for generations of Sikhs. Over the following centuries, the shrine has been maintained and periodically renovated by the Sikh community of the region. In more recent times, management passed to a local Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee affiliated with the SGPC, ensuring the institution continues to serve pilgrims, observe religious ceremonies, and uphold the tradition of langar. The exact construction date of the present building is not definitively recorded, but the site has been venerated continuously since Guru Sahib's visit. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall of the gurdwara complex where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is reverently installed. Continuous kirtan (devotional hymns) is performed here by granthis and ragis. The hall is topped by a white fluted dome, a classic feature of Sikh sacred architecture. Devotees enter to offer ardas (prayer) and receive karah prasad (sacred offering). ### Langar Hall langar_hall A dedicated community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors without distinction of caste, religion, or social status, embodying the core Sikh principle of equality and seva (selfless service). The langar operates throughout the day and expands capacity during major Gurpurabs. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall steel mast bearing the triangular saffron-coloured Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) emblazoned with the Khanda symbol stands at the entrance to the gurdwara complex. It is visible from the Patiala–Sirhind Road and serves as a spiritual beacon for pilgrims approaching the shrine. ### Main Gateway and Courtyard entrance The entrance gateway to the gurdwara complex leads into a paved courtyard with facilities for shoe storage and hand washing. The courtyard provides a transitional sacred space between the outside world and the Darbar Sahib, maintained to the high cleanliness standards upheld at SGPC-affiliated gurdwaras. ### Pilgrim Rest Area museum A covered rest and waiting area within the gurdwara complex where pilgrims and visitors can sit, read scriptures, or rest after the journey. Basic amenities including drinking water and washrooms are provided for the comfort of devotees visiting from Patiala, Sirhind, and beyond. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Head must be covered (scarves/rumāls available at entrance); shoes must be removed before entering the premises; modest, full-coverage clothing is recommended ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the outer courtyard and langar area; photography inside the Darbar Sahib during prayers is to be done respectfully and with permission ### Etiquette Wash hands and feet before entering the Darbar Sahib; bow before the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji upon entering; avoid smoking, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food within the complex; switch mobile phones to silent mode; sitting cross-legged on the floor is customary during prayer ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Serves all visitors free of charge; capacity expands significantly during Gurpurabs and special occasions to accommodate larger congregations Seating Capacity ## Architecture Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib follows the characteristic architectural vocabulary of Sikh religious buildings found across the Punjab plains. The main Darbar Sahib, where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed and continuous kirtan (devotional singing) is performed, is housed in a white-washed structure capped by a fluted dome — a hallmark of classical Sikh sacred architecture. A tall Nishan Sahib, the triangular saffron-coloured Sikh flag on a steel mast, rises prominently at the entrance to the complex, visible from a distance on the Patiala–Sirhind Road and guiding pilgrims to the shrine. The complex traditionally includes a langar hall where free meals are served to all visitors without distinction of faith, caste, or background. The approach to the main hall is through a paved courtyard maintained in keeping with the cleanliness standards upheld at all SGPC-managed gurdwaras. The overall aesthetic is modest and devotional rather than ornate, reflecting the rural and community character of this shrine. Seating areas, shoe stands, and covered rest spaces for pilgrims have been provided within the complex in keeping with standard gurdwara facilities across the region. ## Structures in the Complex ### Main Darbar Sahib prayer_hall The central prayer hall of the gurdwara complex where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is reverently installed. Continuous kirtan (devotional hymns) is performed here by granthis and ragis. The hall is topped by a white fluted dome, a classic feature of Sikh sacred architecture. Devotees enter to offer ardas (prayer) and receive karah prasad (sacred offering). ### Langar Hall langar_hall A dedicated community kitchen and dining hall where free vegetarian meals are prepared and served to all visitors without distinction of caste, religion, or social status, embodying the core Sikh principle of equality and seva (selfless service). The langar operates throughout the day and expands capacity during major Gurpurabs. ### Nishan Sahib tower The tall steel mast bearing the triangular saffron-coloured Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) emblazoned with the Khanda symbol stands at the entrance to the gurdwara complex. It is visible from the Patiala–Sirhind Road and serves as a spiritual beacon for pilgrims approaching the shrine. ### Main Gateway and Courtyard entrance The entrance gateway to the gurdwara complex leads into a paved courtyard with facilities for shoe storage and hand washing. The courtyard provides a transitional sacred space between the outside world and the Darbar Sahib, maintained to the high cleanliness standards upheld at SGPC-affiliated gurdwaras. ### Pilgrim Rest Area museum A covered rest and waiting area within the gurdwara complex where pilgrims and visitors can sit, read scriptures, or rest after the journey. Basic amenities including drinking water and washrooms are provided for the comfort of devotees visiting from Patiala, Sirhind, and beyond. ## Events & Celebrations ### gurpurab #### Gurpurab of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (Shaheedi Diwas) The martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, observed in November–December, is the most significant event at this gurdwara given the shrine's direct association with the ninth Guru. Special akhand paths (continuous readings of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan diwans, and langar are held. Pilgrims from surrounding villages and towns gather in large numbers. #### Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is celebrated in November with prabhat pheris (morning processions), akhand path, kirtan, and special langar. This Gurpurab is observed with great devotion at all gurdwaras including Naulakha Sahib. ### festival #### Baisakhi Baisakhi, observed on 13–14 April, marks the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699 and is celebrated as a major Sikh festival. Special prayers, kirtan programmes, and community langar are organised at the gurdwara, with many pilgrims also visiting the nearby shrines of Fatehgarh Sahib on this occasion. #### Hola Mohalla Hola Mohalla, the Sikh martial arts and community festival held in March (a day after Holi), is observed at gurdwaras across Punjab. Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib holds special kirtan and langar on this occasion, and local Sikh youth participate in devotional activities in the tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. ### historical #### Fatehgarh Sahib Shaheedi Jor Mela Held annually in late December at the nearby Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib to commemorate the martyrdom of the younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, this regional mela (gathering) sees a large influx of pilgrims to the entire Fatehgarh Sahib district, including Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib, which experiences heightened religious activity during this period. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### visiting Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The gurdwara is accessible every day of the year, including public holidays. Early morning hours (Amrit Vela, 4:00–6:00 AM) and evening prayer times are particularly serene for a visit. Yes, entry to Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is completely free of charge, as is the tradition at all Sikh gurdwaras. The langar (community kitchen) also serves free meals to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background. Visitors must cover their head before entering the gurdwara — scarves or rumāls (head coverings) are usually available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed before stepping inside the premises. Modest, full-coverage clothing is recommended. Smoking, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food are not permitted within the complex. Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is managed by a local Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee operating under the authority of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body that oversees the management of historical Sikh gurdwaras in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. ### history Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib commemorates the visit of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, and Mata Gujri Ji to the village during his Malwa missionary tour in the late 17th century. During this stay, a devotee named Lakhi Shah Banjara offered nine takas to the Guru after his lost bull was recovered. Guru Sahib blessed the offering by saying it was equal to nine lakhs, giving the village its name 'Naulakha'. The gurdwara was established to honour this sacred visit. Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru, and his mother Mata Gujri Ji. The devotee Lakhi Shah Banjara (Wanjara), whose nine-taka offering was blessed as being worth nine lakhs by the Guru, is also central to the gurdwara's founding legend. The name 'Naulakha' means 'nine lakhs' in Punjabi. According to Sikh tradition, when Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji visited the village, a devotee named Lakhi Shah Banjara offered nine takas (a small amount) to the Guru after his lost bull was found. Guru Sahib, in a gesture of great compassion, declared that the sincere devotee's nine takas were equal to nine lakhs, and the village has been called Naulakha ever since. ### transport Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib is located on the Patiala–Sirhind Road in Naulakha village, Fatehgarh Sahib district. By road, it is 19 km from Patiala and 13 km from Sirhind. The nearest railway station is Sirhind (approximately 13 km). The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport (approximately 65 km). Regular buses from Patiala and Sirhind bus stands run along this highway. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available from both cities. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurudwara Naulakha Sahib Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit