# Sangat, Rajauli - GurdwaraSahib.in > Source: https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/sangat-w885364201 Sangat 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, Sangat 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 Sri Guru Nanak Sheetal Kund India 42 km away Open daily; typically 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM... Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Sheetal Kund is a sacred Sikh shrine located in the ancient city of Rajgir in Nalanda district, Bihar, India. Situated in the village of Nimal, Rajgir (coordinates: 25.0124°N, 85.4203°E), this gurdwara commemorates one of the most celebrated miracles associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder and first Guru of Sikhism. The name 'Sheetal Kund' translates to 'cool pond' in Hindi and Sanskrit, directly referencing the miraculous transformation of a naturally occurring hot sulphurous spring into a cool, pure water source — a transformation believed to have been brought about by Guru Nanak's divine blessing during his visit to Rajgir around 1506 CE. Rajgir is itself a city of profound spiritual importance, revered across multiple faiths. Known in antiquity as Rajagriha — 'City of Kings' — it is mentioned in both Hindu epics and Buddhist scriptures as a location where the historical Buddha spent several monsoon seasons and where the First Buddhist Council was convened after his passing. Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, also spent significant time in Rajgir. This multi-faith heritage makes Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Sheetal Kund part of an extraordinary spiritual landscape where the legacies of Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, and Sikhism converge in a single valley encircled by five ancient hills. The principal attraction within the complex is the Sheetal Kund itself — a cool-water spring or pond that contrasts strikingly with the numerous hot sulphurous thermal springs for which Rajgir has been historically famous. According to tradition, all 22 natural springs in the area once ran hot with high sulphur content, and Guru Nanak's blessing transformed one into this cool, clear source, which continues to flow cold to this day even as neighbouring springs remain hot. The kund is registered in local revenue records at Khata No. 332, Khatauni No. 7690 of Mauza Rajgir, District Nalanda. In recent years, the gurdwara has undergone significant development. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar laid the foundation stone for a new, larger gurdwara complex at the site, planned on 1.25 acres at an estimated cost of approximately ₹3 crore — recognition at the highest levels of state government of the site's historical and religious importance. The existing complex includes a darbar sahib, langar hall, and about ten air-conditioned rooms for pilgrim accommodation. Holding a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 332 reviews, the gurdwara is widely celebrated as a spiritually enriching destination, drawing Sikh pilgrims from across Bihar, eastern India, and the wider Sikh diaspora, especially during Gurpurab celebrations and Baisakhi. The surrounding mountain landscape and serene atmosphere make it a profoundly peaceful place of worship and reflection. Historical](https://gurdwarasahib.in/gurdwara/gurdwara-sri-guru-nanak-sheetal-kund-q60580647) ## 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 Is there an entry fee at Sangat? No, there is no entry fee at Sangat. 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. What should I wear when visiting Sangat? When visiting Sangat, 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. Can non-Sikhs visit Sangat? Absolutely! Sangat 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. Can I take photos at Sangat? Photography is generally permitted in the outer premises of Sangat. 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. What are the visiting hours of Sangat? Sangat 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 Is free food available at Sangat? Yes, Sangat 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 Where can I park at Sangat? Sangat 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. How do I reach Sangat? Sangat is located, India. The GPS coordinates are 24.6425°N, 85.5009°E. You can use map navigation apps for precise directions. Local auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses can help you reach the Gurdwara. ### accessibility Is Sangat wheelchair accessible? Accessibility features vary at Sangat. Many Gurdwara Sahibs in India are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Sangat management directly for the most current accessibility information and any special arrangements that can be made. ### accommodation Is accommodation available at Sangat? Many Gurdwara Sahibs offer basic accommodation (Sarai) for travellers and pilgrims at no charge or minimal cost. Availability at Sangat may vary. It is recommended to contact the Gurdwara management in advance to check current accommodation facilities and make any necessary arrangements.