Pakistan is home to some of the most sacred Gurudwaras in the world, deeply connected to the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and other Sikh Gurus. Every year, thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the globe visit Pakistan to perform Yatra, celebrate Vaisakhi, and reconnect with the roots of Sikhism.

This blog highlights the major Gurudwaras in Pakistan, their history, locations, and why they hold spiritual significance.

Why Pakistan Is Important in Sikh History

Before partition, Punjab was one cultural and spiritual region. Many major events of Sikh history took place on land that is now in Pakistan, including:

• Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

• Several places where Guru Nanak preached and meditated

• Sites connected with Sikh rulers and the Sikh Empire

• Martyrdom sites of Sikh leaders

Thus, Pakistan remains a top pilgrimage destination for the Sikh community.

Top Gurudwaras in Pakistan

1. Gurdwara Janam Asthan (Nankana Sahib)

Location: Nankana Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan
Significance: Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Gurdwara Janam Asthan is one of the holiest Sikh temples, built at the exact birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1469. The complex hosts major events like Guru Nanak Gurpurab and attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims every year.

Highlights

• Massive white-marble complex

• Sacred pool (Sarovar)

• Museum and prayer halls

• Annual celebrations and Nagar Kirtan

2. Gurdwara Panja Sahib (Hassan Abdal)

Location: Hassan Abdal (near Islamabad)
Significance: Sacred stone with Guru Nanak’s handprint

According to Sikh tradition, Guru Nanak stopped a boulder hurled by Wali Qandhari with his hand. The imprint of his palm remains on the stone.

Highlights

• The holy rock with handprint

• Freshwater spring (believed to be blessed)

• Large prayer hall

Panja Sahib hosts thousands of pilgrims during Vaisakhi celebrations.

3. Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur

Location: Narowal District
Significance: Final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur is one of Pakistan’s grandest Sikh heritage sites. This is where Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life.

Highlights

• World’s largest Gurdwara complex

• Kartarpur Corridor enables visa-free travel for Indians

• Resting place and meditation site of Guru Nanak

Kartarpur is considered the Mecca of Sikhism due to its unparalleled significance.

4. Gurdwara Dera Sahib (Lahore)

Location: Near Lahore Fort, Walled City
Significance: Martyrdom site of Guru Arjan Dev Ji

Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, was martyred here in 1606 under Mughal rule. The site is revered as a symbol of sacrifice and resilience.

Highlights

• Situated next to Badshahi Mosque

• Adjacent to Ranjit Singh Samadhi

• Historic Sikh Empire architecture

5. Samadhi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh (Lahore)

Though not a traditional Gurdwara, this is one of the most significant Sikh heritage monuments in Pakistan.

Significance: Final resting place of the founder of the Sikh Empire.

Highlights

• Unique blend of Sikh, Mughal, and Hindu architecture

• Frescoes, murals & historic relics

• Located in the heart of old Lahore

6. Gurdwara Bal Lila (Nankana Sahib)

Significance: Childhood site of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

This Gurdwara marks the place where young Nanak played with children. It is one of the nine Gurdwaras within Nankana Sahib.

7. Gurdwara Patti Sahib (Nankana Sahib)

This commemorates the site where Guru Nanak learned Persian and mathematics from local teachers.

8. Gurdwara Sacha Sauda (Farooqabad)

Significance: Site where Guru Nanak fed hungry people with the money given to him by his father.

The term Sacha Sauda means “true bargain”, symbolizing charity and compassion.

Gurdwaras in Pakistan Open for Pilgrimage

Pakistan opens major Gurdwaras under a special visa program every year, especially for:

• Guru Nanak Gurpurab

• Vaisakhi Festival

• Nankana Sahib Yatra

• Saka Nankana Sahib anniversary

The Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) manages all Sikh shrines.

Travel Tips for Visiting Gurudwaras in Pakistan

✔ Dress modestly

✔ Head must be covered inside Gurdwaras

✔ No smoking, alcohol, or drugs allowed

✔ Respect local customs

✔ Photography allowed only in designated areas

Why Visit Gurudwaras in Pakistan?

• Reconnect with the roots of Sikh history

• Explore spiritual, cultural, and architectural heritage

• Experience the hospitality of local communities

• Visit beautifully restored historical sites

Pakistan provides a profound and emotional journey for Sikhs worldwide.

Conclusion

The Gurudwaras in Pakistan are not just religious monuments—they are living chapters of Sikh history. From the sacred birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to the serene Kartarpur Sahib, these places offer spirituality, peace, and a deep sense of connection.Pakistan is making significant efforts to preserve Sikh heritage, making it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts.check out Sikh Heritage Tours Pakistan