5 Takhts of Sikhism to Explore in India
India is home to some of the most revered sites in Sikhism, known as the Panj Takhts or the Five Seats of Authority. These Takhts hold immense religious significance for Sikhs worldwide, representing the temporal and spiritual authority of Sikhism.
Pilgrimage to these sacred sites, known as Panj Takht Darshan, is a vital part of Sikh religious practice, offering devotees the opportunity to pay homage to the Sikh Gurus and seek spiritual enlightenment.
List of Most Famous Panj Takhts in India
5 Famous Takhts of Sikhism in India
Explore the spiritual sanctuaries revered by Sikh devotees across India as we delve into the list of 5 Popular Panj Takhts:
1. Akal Takht Sahib | Amritsar
Akal Takht Sahib, located within the premises of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, is one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites. It serves as the highest temporal seat of Sikh authority, where important decisions concerning Sikhism are deliberated upon. The Akal Takht stands as a symbol of justice, equality, and Sikh sovereignty.
- Gurudwara Timings: 3:00 AM to 10:00 PM - Everyday.
- Best Time to Visit: October to January.
- Total Time Required to Visit: Around 2-3 hours.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
- Nearest Airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport.
- Nearest Train Station: Amritsar Junction Railway Station.
- Nearest Bus Station: Amritsar Bus Stand.
- Nearby Places: Jallianwala Bagh, Partition Museum, Durgiana Temple.
2. Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib | Nanded
Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib, situated in Nanded, Maharashtra, holds immense significance as the final resting place of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is revered as one of the holiest Sikh shrines. Its complex comprises the main shrine, known as Sachkhand, and various other historical buildings.
- Gurudwara Timings: 24 hours - Everyday.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Total Time Required to Visit: Around 4 -5 hours.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
- Nearest Airport: Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport.
- Nearest Train Station: Hazur Sahib Nanded Railway Station.
- Nearest Bus Station: Nanded Bus Stand.
- Nearby Places: Kandhar Fort, Nandgiri Fort, Vishnupuri Dam.
3. Takht Shri Damdama Sahib | Talwandi Sabo
Takht Shri Damdama Sahib, located in Talwandi Sabo, Punjab, commemorates the visit of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. It holds historical significance as Guru Gobind Singh Ji finalised the compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib here. The Gurudwara houses several shrines and a sarovar called Gurusar.
- Gurudwara Timings: 24 hours - Everyday.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Total Time Required to Visit: Around 2-3 hours.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
- Nearest Airport: Bhatinda Airport.
- Nearest Train Station: Bathinda Junction Railway Station.
- Nearest Bus Station: Talwandi Sabo Bus Stand.
- Nearby Places: Qila Mubarak, Rose Garden, Chetak Park.
4. Takht Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib | Patna
Takht Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, located in Patna, Bihar, is revered as the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. The Gurudwara complex comprises the main shrine, known as Patna Sahib, along with several other historical buildings and a sarovar. It holds significant historical and religious importance.
- Gurudwara Timings: 2:30 AM to 8:00 PM - Everyday.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Total Time Required to Visit: Around 2-3 hours.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
- Nearest Airport: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport.
- Nearest Train Station: Patna Saheb Railway Station.
- Nearest Bus Station: Mangal Talab Bus Stand.
- Nearby Places: Buddha Smriti Park, Kangan Ghat, Golghar.
5. Takht Shri Kesgarh Sahib Ji | Anandpur Sahib
Takht Shri Kesgarh Sahib Ji, situated in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, is where Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa Panth in 1699. The Gurudwara stands at the site where the initiation ceremony of the Khalsa took place, known as the Amrit Sanchar. It holds immense history, symbolising the birth of the Khalsa brotherhood.
- Gurudwara Timings: 24 hours - Everyday.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Total Time Required to Visit: Around 1 day.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
- Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport.
- Nearest Train Station: Anandpur Sahib Railway Station.
- Nearest Bus Station: Anandpur Sahib Bus Stand.
- Nearby Places: Virasat-e-Khalsa, Veer Garh Fort, 8th Wonder.
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Embarking on a pilgrimage to the Panj Takhts in India offers devotees a profound spiritual experience and a deeper connection to Sikh heritage. Each Takht holds its unique significance and history, enriching the journey of Sikhs and spiritual seekers alike. Visiting these sacred sites not only strengthens one's faith but also fosters unity and brotherhood among the Sikh community worldwide.
FAQs about Panj Takhts, India
What are the 5 Takhts in Sikhism?
The five Takhts in Sikhism are Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Takhat Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib in Nanded, Takht Shri Patna Sahib in Patna, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo.
Where is the Panj Takht located?
The Panj Takhts are located in different parts of India, including Amritsar, Nanded, Patna, Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo.
Which is the oldest takht of Sikhism?
The oldest Takht of Sikhism is Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, established by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in 1609.
Who built the 5 Takhts?
The Sikh Gurus built the five Takhts which hold immense religious significance in Sikhism.
Who is called the mother of Khalsa?
Mata Sahib Kaur is revered as the mother of the Khalsa for her contributions and devotion to Sikhism.
Who were the first 5 Khalsa?
The first five Khalsa, known as the Panj Pyare, were Bhai Daya Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Himmat Singh, Bhai Mohkam Singh, and Bhai Sahib Singh.
What is the difference between Akal Takht and Harmandir Sahib?
Akal Takht is the highest temporal seat of authority in Sikhism, representing the political and justice system, while Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is the spiritual and religious centre.
Is Harmandir Sahib a takht?
No, Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is not considered one of the Takhts.
Can you see Akal Takht from the Golden Temple?
No, Akal Takht is situated opposite Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar and cannot be seen from inside the Golden Temple complex.
Can we go inside the Akal Takht?
Yes, visitors can go inside Akal Takht Sahib to pay their respects and attend religious ceremonies.
Who constructed the Akal Takht near the Golden Temple?
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji constructed Akal Takht near the Golden Temple in the 17th century to serve as a place of justice and decision-making.
What is a Takht in a gurdwara?
In a Gurdwara, a Takht refers to a throne or seat of authority, often symbolising a place of spiritual and temporal leadership.
Who is the chief of Akal Takht?
The chief of Akal Takht is known as the Jathedar, who holds significant religious and administrative responsibilities.