# Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara, Gillingham - GurdwaraSahib.in > Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Gillingham, United Kingdom. It is situated in the United Kingdom, which has one of the largest Sikh diaspora communities in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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). # Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Gillingham, United Kingdom. It is situated in the United Kingdom, which has one of the largest Sikh diaspora communities in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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 Gillingham, Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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 ### Kent Ramgarhia Darbar Sikh Temple Gillingham, United Kingdom 1.1 km away Kent Ramgarhia Darbar Sikh Temple is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in United Kingdom. It is situated in the United Kingdom, which has one of the largest Sikh diaspora communities in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Kent Ramgarhia Darbar Sikh 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 ### Siri Guru Ravidass Bhawan Medway, England, United Kingdom 4.2 km away Generally open daily for morning and eve... Siri Guru Ravidass Bhawan is a Ravidassia place of worship and community centre situated in Medway, Kent, United Kingdom, serving the local Ravidassia and wider South Asian community in this part of south-east England. The bhawan is dedicated to the life, teachings, and spiritual legacy of Guru Ravidass (c. 1450–1520), the revered saint-poet of the Bhakti movement whose forty-one shabads and one salok are enshrined in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal scripture of the Sikhs. The name 'Bhawan', meaning 'sacred abode' or 'house', reflects the devotional character of the institution, which functions simultaneously as a spiritual sanctuary, a community meeting place, and a hub of social welfare activity. The congregation at Siri Guru Ravidass Bhawan gathers for regular religious programmes including kirtan (devotional singing), path (recitation of sacred scripture), and katha (exposition of Gurbani). The institution upholds the core Ravidassia and Sikh values of seva (selfless service), simran (meditation on the Divine Name), and satsang (holy congregation). The langar (community kitchen) remains one of the most cherished expressions of these values, providing free vegetarian meals to all visitors without regard to caste, creed, or background, embodying the egalitarian philosophy that Guru Ravidass championed throughout his life. Medway, encompassing the historic towns of Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Strood, and Rainham, is home to a modest but deeply rooted South Asian diaspora, many of whom trace their origins to the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. The bhawan serves as a cultural anchor for this community, offering a space where Punjabi language, music, and tradition are preserved and passed down to younger generations born in the United Kingdom. Programmes for children and youth are believed to be an important part of the bhawan's outreach. Beyond its liturgical function, the bhawan engages in charitable activities aligned with Guru Ravidass Ji's teachings on social justice, human dignity, and the upliftment of marginalised communities. The saint himself challenged the oppressive caste hierarchy of medieval India, and this reformist ethos continues to animate the institution's work in a contemporary British context. Visitors of all faiths and backgrounds are warmly welcomed to attend services, share langar, and learn about the rich spiritual heritage of Guru Ravidass Ji. Community ![Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara](https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/thumb.php?f=GravesendGurdwara3436.JPG&w=600) ### Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara Gravesend, United Kingdom 14 km away Open daily; the Gurdwara is accessible f... The Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara, located on Saddington Street in Gravesend, Kent, is the largest Gurdwara in Europe and one of the largest Sikh places of worship outside India. Rising majestically above the town centre, its five gleaming marble domes are visible from the River Thames, making it an architectural landmark of national significance as well as the spiritual heart of one of Britain's most established Sikh communities. The Gurdwara takes its name from Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, whose teachings of equality, selfless service, and devotion to the one God infuse every aspect of life within its walls. Inaugurated on 19 November 2010—the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak's birthday (Gurpurab)—the current building was constructed at a cost of £18 million, funded entirely through voluntary donations from the local Sikh community. This extraordinary act of collective generosity reflects the deep roots and faith of Gravesend's Sikh diaspora, which has called the town home since the 1950s. The complex is a comprehensive facility by any measure. It can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers at one time across its three prayer halls (Darbar Sahib), and features two langar halls where free communal meals are served daily to all visitors without distinction. Beyond the religious spaces, the Gurdwara houses a fully equipped lecture theatre seating 140 people, an ICT suite, a library, Punjabi language classrooms, and a day centre for elderly community members. Outdoor sports facilities, including a football pitch used by Guru Nanak Football Club, occupy the surrounding grounds. Gravesend is home to an estimated 15,000 Sikhs—more than 15 per cent of the total population of the Borough of Gravesham—making it one of the most significant Sikh communities in the UK outside London. The Gurdwara serves as the community's cultural, religious, educational, and social hub, welcoming worshippers and curious visitors alike seven days a week, free of charge. Guided tours are available for schools, community groups, and individual visitors wishing to learn about Sikh history and traditions. The only requirements for entry are a covered head and removal of shoes before entering the prayer halls. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gurdwara demonstrated the Sikh principle of sewa (selfless service) by providing over 60,000 free meals to NHS hospital staff, isolated residents, and people in need across the borough—an act of community solidarity that earned widespread admiration. Whether you come to participate in worship, share the langar, attend a cultural event, or simply admire one of the most architecturally striking religious buildings in the United Kingdom, Siri Guru Nanak Darbar in Gravesend offers a profound, inclusive, and deeply welcoming experience to all who visit. Historical ### Shri Guru Ravidass Gurdwara Gravesend, United Kingdom 14 km away Shri Guru Ravidass Gurdwara is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Gravesend, United Kingdom. It is situated in the United Kingdom, which has one of the largest Sikh diaspora communities in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Shri Guru Ravidass Gurdwara 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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara in Gillingham. 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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara, 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! Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara. 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. Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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, Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara in Gillingham 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. Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara is located in Gillingham, United Kingdom. The GPS coordinates are 51.3773°N, 0.5461°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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara. Many Gurdwara Sahibs are working to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Please contact Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara 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 Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara in Gillingham 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) Siri Guru Nanak Gurudwara Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit