# Khalsa Diwan Temple, Manila - GurdwaraSahib.in > Khalsa Diwan Temple is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Manila, Metro Manila, Unknown. It is situated in Unknown. As with all gurdwaras, Khalsa Diwan Temple 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). # Khalsa Diwan Temple Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Khalsa Diwan Temple is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Manila, Metro Manila, Unknown. It is situated in Unknown. As with all gurdwaras, Khalsa Diwan Temple 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. For the Sikh community in Manila, Khalsa Diwan Temple serves as a focal point for celebrating important Sikh festivals and commemorations, including Gurpurabs (anniversaries of Sikh Gurus), Vaisakhi (Sikh New Year), Bandi Chhor Divas (Diwali), and Hola Mohalla. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Khalsa Diwan Indian Sikh Temple India 7 m away Open daily; prasadam served 7:00 AM – 9:... The Khalsa Diwan Indian Sikh Temple, locally known as the Khalsa Dewan Gurdwara, stands as a beacon of Sikh faith and South Asian heritage in the heart of Manila, Philippines. Located at 1350 United Nations Avenue in the Paco district of Metro Manila, this gurdwara holds the distinction of being the oldest Sikh place of worship in the Philippines and one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. Established in 1929 by a dedicated group of Punjabi migrants who had made Manila their home, the temple has grown far beyond its humble origins to become the spiritual and cultural heart of Manila's Indian community. Managed by Khalsa Diwan Inc.—the largest and oldest Indian organization in the Philippines—the gurdwara serves not only the resident Sikh population but welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. On any given day, devotees, tourists, and curious visitors stream through its doors, drawn by the promise of spiritual solace and the warmth of Sikh hospitality. The temple is particularly renowned for its langar, the community kitchen that operates from early morning to late evening, providing free vegetarian meals to all who visit—a tradition central to Sikh values of equality and selfless service known as seva. The temple is nestled amid Manila's bustling urban landscape, close to major landmarks such as Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the historic walled city of Intramuros. Its modest yet graceful structure is distinguished by a well-maintained entrance garden that draws admiring glances from passersby on UN Avenue. Hundreds of members of the Metro Manila Sikh community gather here each week for prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and community events. Beyond its religious functions, the Khalsa Diwan Temple serves as a living museum of the Indian-Filipino experience. The congregation reflects the broader story of Indian migration to the Philippines—from the Punjabi labourers and traders who arrived in the early twentieth century to the well-established businessmen and professionals who form today's community. Sikhs in Manila have been traditionally involved in finance, trade, and moneylending (locally known as the 'five-six' lending system), and the temple has been the social anchor holding this community together through decades of economic and political change. Visitors from across the Philippines and international tourists regularly visit the temple, particularly for significant Sikh observances such as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Baisakhi, and the Parkash Utsav of the Guru Granth Sahib. The temple's open-door policy, free meals, and spirit of inclusive hospitality make it one of the most unique and welcoming religious sites in all of Manila, offering a rare window into the vibrancy and resilience of one of the city's most enduring immigrant communities. Historical ### Gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib Philippines 12 km away Open daily; the gurdwara is reported to ... Gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib is a Sikh place of worship located at 77 B Santa Ana Street, Barangay San Roque, Marikina City, in the National Capital Region of the Philippines. Situated in one of Metro Manila's most accessible eastern cities, this community gurdwara serves as a vital spiritual and social hub for the Sikh diaspora in the greater Manila area. The gurdwara's name is deeply evocative: 'Kartar' is a Punjabi word meaning the Creator (God), while 'sar' refers to a sacred pool or reservoir, invoking imagery associated with the holy Kartarpur, the town in present-day Pakistan where Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the founder of Sikhism — established his first permanent community and spent the final decades of his life. By naming their gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib, the Sikh community of Marikina pays homage to that foundational spiritual heritage, drawing a symbolic connection between their far-flung diaspora lives and the very birthplace of the Sikh way of life. The Philippines is home to approximately 17 gurdwaras, scattered across the archipelago wherever Punjabi Sikh communities have put down roots. Gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib stands among these as a community-type gurdwara, meaning it functions not only as a house of worship but also as a gathering place for cultural events, community celebrations, religious education, and the universally celebrated langar — the free communal kitchen that welcomes all visitors regardless of faith, caste, gender, or economic background. This commitment to feeding everyone who enters is one of Sikhism's most distinctive and beloved traditions, and at Kartarsar Sahib it manifests as warm Punjabi cooking served to local Filipino neighbors and fellow members of the diaspora alike. The gurdwara sits in Barangay San Roque, a neighborhood in Marikina City that has evolved from a forested colonial settlement into a busy urban locality. The area is well-connected by public transport, lying close to the LRT-2 Marikina–Pasig Station and several jeepney and bus routes, making it accessible to Sikhs and curious visitors traveling from across Metro Manila. Marikina itself is famous as the 'Shoe Capital of the Philippines,' a city known for its artisan footwear heritage, outdoor parks, and riverside scenery along the Marikina River. Visitors to Gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib are welcomed with the traditional Sikh hospitality rooted in the concept of seva, or selfless service. The gurdwara is staffed by dedicated volunteers who maintain the premises, prepare langar, and ensure that the Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the eternal living scripture of the Sikhs — is treated with the highest reverence. Non-Sikh visitors and tourists are warmly received; all that is asked is that they cover their heads, remove their shoes, and observe the quiet sanctity of the darbar sahib. The gurdwara's active Facebook presence and community engagement make it one of the more visible Sikh institutions in the Metro Manila area, regularly celebrating major Gurpurabs (commemorations of the Sikh Gurus) and festivals such as Baisakhi and Diwali. Historical ### Indian Sikh Temple Unknown 12 km away Open daily; main prayer services typical... Indian Sikh Temple, also known locally as the Gurdwara Sahib in Metro Manila, is a Sikh place of worship and community center situated in the eastern metropolitan region of Manila, Philippines. Identified by coordinates placing it near the Marikina–Pasig corridor, the gurdwara serves as the spiritual and cultural heartland for the Sikh diaspora community residing in and around Metro Manila. As with all gurdwaras worldwide, the institution is founded on the core Sikh principles of Seva (selfless service), Sangat (holy congregation), and Pangat (communal dining), all of which are practiced with deep commitment by the resident community. The gurdwara houses the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs, in the main prayer hall known as the Darbar Sahib. Daily prayers including Nitnem — the recitation of sacred hymns — are performed each morning and evening, offering a continuous spiritual anchor for worshippers. The institution also serves as a central hub for life ceremonies such as Anand Karaj (Sikh wedding), Naam Karan (naming ceremony), and Antam Sanskar (funeral rites), making it indispensable to the life cycle of Filipino-Sikhs and Indian expatriates alike. Beyond its religious function, Indian Sikh Temple operates as a community welfare center. It provides free meals through the Langar (community kitchen), which operates on the egalitarian principle that all persons, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or nationality, are welcome to sit and eat together. This practice is believed to have made a meaningful social impact on the local neighborhood, providing nourishment to those in need. The gurdwara also hosts Punjabi language classes, Kirtan (devotional music) sessions, and celebrations of major Sikh festivals including Gurpurab (anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus), Vaisakhi, and Diwali. These events serve to preserve Sikh heritage and culture among younger generations growing up far from Punjab, the traditional homeland of the Sikh faith. Visitors of all faiths are warmly welcomed into the gurdwara, provided they observe the basic etiquette of covering their heads and removing footwear before entering the premises. The gurdwara stands as a symbol of openness, universal brotherhood, and the enduring Sikh spirit of service in the heart of the Philippines. Community ### Guru Nanak Sar Sat Sai Baba Temple Dasmariñas, Cavite, Unknown 29 km away Guru Nanak Sar Sat Sai Baba Temple is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Dasmariñas, Cavite, Unknown. It is situated in Unknown. As with all gurdwaras, Guru Nanak Sar Sat Sai Baba Temple 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 Khalsa Diwan Temple in Manila. 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 Khalsa Diwan Temple, 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! Khalsa Diwan Temple 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 Khalsa Diwan Temple. 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. Khalsa Diwan Temple 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, Khalsa Diwan Temple 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 Khalsa Diwan Temple in Manila 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. Khalsa Diwan Temple is located in Manila, Unknown. The GPS coordinates are 14.5849°N, 120.9929°E. You can use map navigation apps for precise directions. Public transportation and ride-sharing services can help you reach the Gurdwara. ### accessibility Accessibility features vary at Khalsa Diwan Temple. Many Gurdwara Sahibs are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Khalsa Diwan Temple 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 Khalsa Diwan Temple in Manila 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) Khalsa Diwan Temple Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit