Gurdwara Janam Asthan (Nankana Sahib)

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AttractionType

Sikh Gurdwara, Heritage Site

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District

Nankana Sahib

City

Nankana Sahib

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   Photo Credit:
    Muhammad Ibrahim

Attraction Type

Sikh Gurdwara
Heritage Site

Description

Gurdwara Janam Asthan, also known as Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, is one of the holiest sites in Sikhism, located in Nankana Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan. It marks the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, born on April 15, 1469. This revered shrine, part of an ensemble of nine gurdwaras in the city, attracts thousands of Sikh pilgrims (yatris) and tourists worldwide for its spiritual significance and historical legacy. The gurdwara complex, with its majestic architecture, serene sarovar (sacred pond), and rich history, offers a profound experience of faith, equality, and community.

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What To Do

  • Participate in Prayers and Kirtan: Attend the daily prayers and listen to Gurbani (Sikh hymns) to immerse in the spiritual ambiance.

  • Join the Langar: Experience the Sikh tradition of langar, a free community meal served to all visitors, symbolizing equality and service.

  • Explore the Complex: Visit key areas like the main sanctum, Jand Sahib (a historic tree linked to the 1921 massacre), and the sarovar for reflection.

  • Learn Sikh History: View historical artifacts, paintings, and inscriptions, including those depicting the 1921 Nankana Sahib Massacre and the five articles of Sikh faith (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan).

  • Photography: Capture the stunning architecture and serene courtyards (with permission, as photography inside the main shrine may be restricted).

  • Attend Festivals: Plan your visit during Gurpurab (Guru Nanak’s birthday in November) or Baisakhi (April) for vibrant celebrations and spiritual gatherings.

What To Buy

  • Religious Items: Purchase Sikh religious artifacts like Kara (iron bracelet), small Kirpans, or prayer beads from local shops near the gurdwara.

  • Books on Sikhism: Buy books on Guru Nanak’s teachings or Sikh history available at the gurdwara’s bookstore or nearby stalls.

  • Handicrafts: Look for Punjabi handicrafts, such as embroidered phulkari dupattas or traditional juttis (footwear), in Nankana Sahib’s markets.

  • Souvenirs: Pick up miniature replicas of the gurdwara or framed images of Guru Nanak from local vendors.

  • Sikh Symbols: Items like Khanda (Sikh emblem) pendants or posters are popular keepsakes.

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What is Around

  • Nankana Sahib City: A small city with a population of approximately 130,041 (2023 census), known for its Sikh heritage and interfaith harmony.

  • Main Square: Features pink sandstone buildings and green parks, offering a serene setting near the gurdwara.

  • Local Markets: Bustling with shops selling religious items, Punjabi clothing, and local snacks.

  • Rai Bular’s Estate: Historical area linked to the city’s founder, Rai Bhoi, and later renamed Nankana Sahib in honor of Guru Nanak.

Nearby Tourist

  • Gurdwara Bal Lilah (300 m): Commemorates Guru Nanak’s childhood play area, a serene site for reflection. Get Directions (Google Map)

  • Gurdwara Patti Sahib (350 m): Associated with Guru Nanak’s early education, showcasing his spiritual wisdom. Get Directions (Google Map)

  • Gurdwara Mal Ji Sahib (1.5 km): Marks an incident where Guru Nanak’s cattle were unharmed despite wandering into fields. Get Directions (Google Map)

  • Gurdwara Kiara Sahib (2.8 km): Linked to a miracle where Guru Nanak protected crops, located east of Janam Asthan. Get Directions (Google Map)

  • Gurdwara Tambu Sahib (500 km): Commemorates Guru Nanak hiding under a tree resembling a tent. Get Directions (Google Map)

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Best Season to visit

April
December
February
January
March
November
October
September

  • Spring (March–April): Pleasant weather (15–25°C) ideal for outdoor exploration and festivals like Baisakhi.

  • Autumn (September–November): Comfortable temperatures (20–30°C) and major events like Guru Nanak’s Gurpurab in November.

  • Winter (December–February): Cool weather (10–20°C) suitable for visiting, though mornings can be chilly.

  • Avoid Summer (May–August): Hot and humid (30–40°C), which can make travel uncomfortable.

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How to Reach


  • By Air:

    • Nearest Airport: Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore, 96 km from Nankana Sahib. From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Nankana Sahib (1.5–2 hours).

  • By Train:

    • Nearest Train Station: Nankana Sahib Railway Station (1.7 km from the gurdwara).

      • From Lahore (91 km): Trains like the Lahore-Nankana Express or local trains take 1–1.5 hours. Check Pakistan Railways for schedules.

      • From Islamabad (350 km): Take a train from Islamabad/Rawalpindi to Lahore (4–5 hours), then transfer to a Nankana Sahib-bound train (1–1.5 hours).

      • From Karachi (1,200 km): Take a long-distance train like the Karakoram Express to Lahore (18–20 hours), then a local train to Nankana Sahib (1–1.5 hours).

  • By Road:

    • From Islamabad (336 km): Travel via the M2 Motorway to Lahore, then M3 to Nankana Sahib (5–6 hours). 

    • From Lahore (91 km): Take the M3 Motorway or Grand Trunk Road (1.5–2 hours). 

    • From Karachi (1,200 km): Drive via the M9 and M2 Motorways through Hyderabad and Lahore (18–20 hours). 

  • For International Pilgrims (Indian Pilgrims):

    • Indian pilgrims can enter via the Wagah Border (100 km from Nankana Sahib, 1.5 hours by road) with a valid Pakistan visa or through organized group tours under the 1974 Protocol on V

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Where to Eat / Stay

Where to Eat

  • Langar at Gurdwara Janam Asthan: Free vegetarian meals (dal, roti, sabzi) served daily at the langar khana, open to all visitors, embodying the Sikh principle of equality.

  • Langar at Gurdwara Mal Ji Sahib: Offers pure vegetarian Punjabi food in the langar khana, ideal for pilgrims seeking a spiritual dining experience.

  • Local Restaurants: Many quality restaurants are available in Nankana Sahib, offering a variety of Punjabi and Pakistani dishes. Check the NTP Tourism Portal's booking section for available quality restaurants.

Where to Stay

  • Gurdwara Janam Asthan Guesthouse: Offers basic accommodations (approx. 500 rooms) for pilgrims, free or at nominal cost, with shared facilities, managed by the langar khana staff.

  • Local Hotels: Numerous quality hotels are available in Nankana Sahib and nearby areas, catering to various budgets and preferences. For options, check the NTP Tourism Portal's booking section for available quality hotels.

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Emergency Contact Numbers


  • Hospitals:

    • District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ), Nankana Sahib (1.2 km): Offers 24/7 emergency services, general medicine, and surgery. Get Directions (Google Map)

    • Nankana General Hospital (1.3 km): Offers 24/7 emergency services, general medicine, and surgery Get Directions (Google Map)

  • Ambulance Services:

    • Edhi Ambulance Service: Available across Nankana Sahib. Contact: 115 

    • Rescue 1122: Free emergency ambulance service. Contact: 1122.

  • Police Station:

    • Nankana Sahib Police Station (1.6 km): Located near the city center for immediate assistance. Contact: 15  Get Directions (Google Map)

    • Note: Foreign tourists may be accompanied by police escorts for safety, especially during large gatherings.

  • Fire Brigade:

    • Rescue 1122: Contact Rescue 1122 for fire emergencies (1122).

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Location on Google Map

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Youtube Video