Gurdwara Nankana Sahib

Location: Nanakan Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Approximately 75 km (47.5 miles)

Gurdwara Nankana Sahib is the sacred birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. This revered site holds deep spiritual significance for Sikhs worldwide and attracts countless pilgrims annually.

The Gurdwara’s architecture and serene surroundings offer a profound spiritual experience, while nearby shrines, including Gurdwara Janam Asthan, add to its importance. Festivals like Baisakhi and Guru Nanak Gurpurab transform the site into a vibrant hub of devotion, featuring kirtans, langars, and colorful processions.

Nankana Sahib stands as a testament to Pakistan’s rich heritage and commitment to preserving sacred spaces, symbolizing peace, unity, and spiritual harmony.

Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib

Location: Kartarpur, Narowal District, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Approximately 120 km (74.5 miles)

Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, located in the Narowal District of West Punjab, Pakistan, is one of the holiest sites in Sikhism. The first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, constructed the first gurdwara here in 1521 on the banks of the Ravi River. This sacred site is where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final years of his life, creating a community founded on the principles of equality, love, and peace. Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib is also the historic location where Guru Nanak established the first langar (free kitchen), a practice that continues to embody Sikh values of service and self-self-effacement. The Gurdwara stands as a significant pilgrimage destination, reflecting Guru Nanak’s teachings and the essence of Sikh spirituality.

Gurdwara Panja Sahib

Location: Hassan Abdal, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Islamabad: Approximately 45 km (28 miles)

Gurdwara Panja Sahib is one of the most revered Sikh sites, home to the sacred handprint of Guru Nanak Dev Ji on a rock. This mark is believed to have been left when Guru Nanak performed a miracle to provide water to his followers, further exemplifying his divine power and compassion.

The Gurdwara is especially significant during Baisakhi, which marks both the harvest season and the founding of the Khalsa in 1699. Sikhs from across the globe gather at Panja Sahib during Baisakhi to commemorate the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, as well as the values of selflessness, equality, and devotion to service. The festival sees large gatherings, prayers, kirtans, and langar to celebrate the spirit of unity and bliss.

Baisakhi at Gurdwara Panja Sahib is not only a time to celebrate agricultural prosperity but also a deep spiritual occasion for Sikhs to reflect on Guru Nanak’s message of peace, equality, and devotion to God. The sacred site is a focal point of religious rituals, where devotees experience a strong sense of community and connection to their faith.

Gurdwara Dera Sahib

Location: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Located within the city of Lahore

Gurdwara Dera Sahib is a sacred site, particularly significant as the Samadhi (tomb) of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire. This Gurdwara holds deep religious value, serving as a place for Sikhs to pay tribute to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s contributions to the Sikh community. The site is also known for its peaceful ambiance and historical connection to the Sikh empire.

Gurdwara Rori Sahib

Location: Eminabad, Gujranwala District, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Approximately 145 km (90 miles)

Gurdwara Rori Sahib is historically significant as it is believed to be the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji stayed while traveling through the area. Sikhs visit this Gurdwara to commemorate the teachings and events of Guru Nanak’s life. The Gurdwara stands as a testament to Guru Nanak’s spiritual journey and contributions to Sikhism, promoting the values of unity and humility.

Gurdwara Sacha Sauda

Location: Farooqabad, Sheikhupura District, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Approximately 170 km (105.6 miles)

This Gurdwara is closely associated with an event from Guru Nanak’s life when he is believed to have bought goods for the poor with the wealth he earned. It stands as a symbol of selflessness, charity, and justice. Sikhs revere the Gurdwara for promoting humanitarian values and the spirit of helping others, aligning with the core teachings of Guru Nanak.

Samadhi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh

Location: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan

Distance from Lahore: Located within the city of Lahore

The Samadhi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is situated near Gurdwara Dera Sahib and marks the final resting place of the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. Maharaja Ranjit Singh played a crucial role in preserving Sikh traditions, and his leadership helped shape the Sikh community’s future. Sikhs visit the Samadhi to honor his legacy and contributions to Sikhism and its preservation during challenging times.