5 Gurudwaras in Varanasi You Can Visit
Gurudwaras in Varanasi stand as beacons of Sikh faith and devotion. These sacred places of worship, known as "Gurudwaras," serve as sanctuaries for Sikhs seeking spiritual solace and enlightenment in the heart of Varanasi. Amidst this historic city's labyrinthine alleys and ancient temples, one can also find serene sanctuaries of Sikh worship - Gurudwaras.
With their distinct architecture, tranquil ambience, and inclusive ethos, these Gurudwaras offer a haven for prayer, meditation, and community service.
List of Most Famous Gurudwaras in Varanasi
Following is the list of renowned Gurudwaras in Varanasi that is conveniently accessible via the nearby Manduadih, Kashi, Bhulanpur, Mughal Sarai Junction, and Sarnath Railway Stations, Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi Cantt Bus Station:
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5 Famous Gurudwaras to Visit in Varanasi
The following are the top 5 Gurudwaras in Varanasi, each offering a unique blend of tranquillity, spirituality, and Sikh heritage:
1. Gurudwara Guru-Ka-Bagh | Sidhgiribagh
Gurudwara Guru-Ka-Bagh is devoted to Guru Nanak, who conversed with Pandit Chattar Das there. Here is a magnificent Gurudwara dedicated to the memory of the founder of the Sikh faith. Varanasi, a sacred city, was also visited by the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur.
- Best Time to Visit: October to November
- Timings: Opens daily from 4:15 am to 9:45 pm
- Nearby Places: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Darbhanga Ghat, and Assi Ghat
2. Gurudwara Bari Sangat Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur | Govindpura
According to ancient Hukamnamas and other artifacts it has, the Gurudwara in the Nichi Bagh neighborhood is the oldest and most significant sangat in Benaras. Bhai Jawehri lal, the masand, was leading the Sangat during the time of Guru Tegh Bahadur's arrival.
- Best Time to Visit: November to January
- Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 10 pm
- Nearby Places: Ashoka Pillar, Triveni Sangam Allahabad, and Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Gurudwara Chhoti Sangat | Dashashwamedh Road
A minor Sikh community known as the "chhoti sangat" is reported to meet there, and both Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh are said to have visited. The structure resembles a serial book with two stories of rooms encircling a square compound.
- Best Time to Visit: September to December
- Timings: Opens daily from 7 am to 8 pm
- Nearby Places: Ramnagar Fort, Manikarnika Ghat, and Alamgir Masjid
4. Gurudwara Sri Chetan Math | Bisheshwarganj
Guru Gobind Singh had dispatched the first five Sikhs to study Sanskrit in Benaras, and they had stayed, presently connected to Sampurnanand Sanskrit University Varanasi, it is presently known as Sri Guru Nanak Nirmal Sanskrit Vidyalaya, a residential college.
- Best Time to Visit: November to December
- Timings: Opens for 24 hrs
- Nearby Places: Nehru Park, Shivala Ghat, and Varanasi Fun City
5. Gurudwara Nirmal Mir Ghat | Ganges bank
Sikh Sangat, on the Ganges bank, is currently a study hub for Udasi students at Udasin Sanskrit Vidyalaya. The Guru Granth Sahib and the Bhagavad Gita are still seated in this location, although palanquins now separate them in a rectangular hall.
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
- Timings: Opens daily for 24 hrs
- Nearby Places: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Shivala Ghat, and Ganga River
FAQs about Gurudwaras in Varanasi, India
What is the history of Guru Ka Bagh Gurduwara?
A hallowed Sikh shrine, Guru Ka Bagh Gurdwara was built in honour of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, who made his way to the location in 1585 and had a significant influence on the development of Sikhism.
What is the history of Gurudwara Badi Sangat?
The Gurudwara is the location where, in 1708, Guru Gobind Singh and Emperor Bahadur Shah stopped while travelling south.
Who introduced Guru Ka Langar in Gurudwara?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, established the Langar institution.
Which is the Oldest gurudwara in Varanasi?
Gurudwara Sri Badi Sangat Sahib Varanasi - The Gurudwara in Nichi Bagh area is the oldest and most important sangat at Benaras.
What are the rules before entering Gurudwara?
The temple will not permit you to enter without a head scarf. Avoid visiting Gurudwaras when intoxicated or under the influence of other drugs. The Sikh faith prohibits the use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and other intoxicating substances.
What do I need to know before going to Gurudwara?
In order to maintain a clean floor and to show respect, kindly take off your shoes. It is requested of guests visiting the prayer hall to show reverence for the Guru Granth Sahib by bowing and refraining from pointing their feet in that direction while seated.
What is the history of Gurubagh in Varanasi?
The location where Guru Nanakdevji had resided in 1506 is marked by the exquisite Gurubagh. Guru Teg Bahadurji meditated at Gurudwara Neechibagh in the Aas Bhairav area in 1666.
Can I spend the night in Gurudwara?
The lodging options in Gurudwara are commonly referred to as "Sarai" or "Dharamshala." These are simple accommodation arrangements that offer guests visiting the Gurudwara a secure and cosy area to unwind, sleep, and rejuvenate.
How to dress for Gurudwara?
Sikh men normally wear a Turban. Women/Girls will need to wear a headscarf.
What happens daily in a Gurudwara?
The sangat listens to speeches and sermons while singing hymns. Any Sikh who knows the contents of the Guru Granth Sahib can lead worship.
What is inside Gurudwara?
The Guru Granth Sahib, a book of Sikh scripture, is the centre of attention and the only item revered in the main hall (also known as Darbar Sahib). It is honoured with the same respect as a human Guru.