Introduction to Nankana Sahib
Nankana Sahib, located approximately 75 kilometres southwest of Lahore in Punjab, Pakistan, is one of the holiest cities in Sikhism. It is the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith, born on April 15, 1469. Every year, thousands of Sikh pilgrims from India, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and around the world travel to this sacred city to pay their respects and connect with the roots of their faith.
Top Gurdwaras to Visit in Nankana Sahib
1. Gurdwara Janam Asthan
Gurdwara Janam Asthan (the "Birthplace Shrine") is the most sacred site in Nankana Sahib. Built on the exact location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born, this magnificent white marble complex is the centrepiece of any pilgrimage to the city. The main hall features breathtaking architecture, a sarovar (holy tank) for ritual bathing, and a langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to all visitors regardless of religion.
2. Gurdwara Bal Leela
This Gurdwara marks the area where Guru Nanak Dev Ji played as a child (bal leela means "childhood games"). It is a serene and relatively quiet site that offers pilgrims a chance to reflect on the early life of the Guru.
3. Gurdwara Patti Sahib
Gurdwara Patti Sahib commemorates the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji received his early education. The Gurdwara contains the original stone tablet (patti) on which Guru Nanak Dev Ji is said to have written.
4. Gurdwara Tambu Sahib
Located near the town, Gurdwara Tambu Sahib marks the site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji used to meditate under a tree. Pilgrims come here to sit quietly and meditate.
5. Gurdwara Kiara Sahib
This Gurdwara is associated with one of the famous miracles attributed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the story of the shade provided by a cobra to protect him from the sun while he slept in the fields as a child.
When to Visit Nankana Sahib
The most significant time to visit Nankana Sahib is during Gurpurab — the anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's birth, typically celebrated in October or November. During this time, the city transforms into a sea of devotion with:
- Non-stop kirtan (devotional music) for 48 hours
- Nagar kirtan processions through the city streets
- Langar serving thousands of pilgrims daily
- Special prayers and religious discourses
The best months to visit are October through March when the weather in Punjab is pleasant (15 to 25 degrees Celsius). Avoid May through August when temperatures can exceed 40 degrees.
Visa Requirements for Sikh Pilgrims
Sikh pilgrims from India can visit on a PPPC (Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines) visa. The process involves:
- Applying through SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee)
- Providing a valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Submitting a pilgrimage group list to Indian authorities
- Receiving visa clearance via Pakistan High Commission
Travel Tips for Visiting Nankana Sahib
Dress modestly and cover your head before entering any Gurdwara. Remove your shoes at the entrance. This is a sacred space deserving of deep respect.
- Stay: Several dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) are available near the Gurdwaras at minimal cost. Lahore (75km away) has excellent hotel options.
- Food: Langar is freely available at all Gurdwaras. Halal restaurants and vegetarian options are found throughout the city.
- Transport: Nankana Sahib is easily accessible by road from Lahore. Buses run regularly from Lahore's Gajjumata bus stand.
- Currency: Pakistani Rupees only. ATMs are available in Lahore; carry sufficient cash.
- Photography: Permitted in most areas of the complex but always be respectful during prayers.
Why Choose Sikh Tour Pakistan
At Sikh Tour Pakistan, we specialise in creating meaningful, hassle-free pilgrimage experiences. Our Nankana Sahib tour packages include visa assistance, air-conditioned transportation, expert Punjabi and English-speaking guides, and comfortable hotel accommodation.
