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Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Sikhs worldwide celebrate the 555th birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji on 15th November 2024. A Gurudwara, meaning "gateway to the guru," warmly welcomes people of all faiths. As the primary place of Sikh worship, Gurudwaras hold immense significance. Although key sites associated with Guru Nanak's life are now in Pakistan, India is home to several notable Gurudwaras closely linked to his journey. These sacred sites serve as vital pilgrimage destinations, offering a glimpse into the guru's life and teachings. Visitors from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to explore and experience the rich history and spiritual essence of these revered Gurudwaras, embodying the values of unity and inclusivity.

Below is the list of top 5 Gurudwaras linked to Baba Nanak:

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: 5 Famous Gurudwaras Closely Associated With Guru Nanak Dev Ji

1. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Located 25 miles from Leh, Gurdwara Pathar Sahib stands at 12,000 ft on the Leh-Kargil road. Built in 1517 AD, it commemorates Guru Nanak Dev Ji's visit to Ladakh. During his travels, Guru Nanak reached Tibet, where he's revered by Tibetans as Guru Gopka Maharaj, a Buddhist monk. The Dalai Lama acknowledges this shared heritage, highlighting the guru's profound influence across cultures and regions.

2. Gurudwara Shri Pehli Patshahi

Gurdwara Shri Pehli Patshahi, meaning "Gurdwara of the First Master," is situated near Lakhpat, Gujarat. This sacred site honors Guru Nanak Dev Ji's visits during his first and fourth missionary journeys, including his journey to Mecca. The Gurdwara treasures rare personal belongings of the Guru, making it a revered pilgrimage site. Devotees consider it a must-visit destination, offering a unique connection to Guru Nanak's life and teachings. Its historical significance and spiritual importance make it a cherished landmark in Sikh heritage.

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Gurudwaras embody Sikhism's heart, offering spiritual refuge, unity, and inclusivity, honouring Guru Nanak's teachings and timeless legacy forever. (Image Source: Freepik) 

3. Gurudwara Khand Sahib

Khand Sahib Gurudwara, situated at Kandhli Gate in Batala, Punjab, owes its name to a humble mud wall (Kachi Khandh) that once stood on the site during Guru Nanak Dev Ji's wedding. According to local tradition, the Guru waited beside this wall for his hosts, calming an old lady's concerns about its stability. This ordinary wall became extraordinary, revered by devotees who later built a memorial in its honour. Today, a meticulously preserved mud wall replica, encased in glass, sits alongside the sacred Guru Granth Sahib. This poignant symbol commemorates Guru Nanak's wisdom, humility, and reassuring presence, serving as a lasting testament to his enduring legacy and spiritual significance.

4. Gurudwara Shri Ber Sahib

Gurdwara Ber Sahib, located on the River Kali Bein's banks near Sultanpur Lodhi, Punjab, holds immense significance. Guru Nanak Dev Ji meditated under a Ber tree here for 14 years, performing daily ablutions in the river. Legend says he vanished into the waters, re-emerging three days later as the enlightened Guru, proclaiming "There is no Hindu, no Muslim." The Gurdwara's grounds mark where he entered the river. Built by the Maharaja of Kapurthala in the mid-20th century, the stunning three-storey structure features a marble sanctum, octagonal pillars, and intricate stucco designs. This sacred site commemorates Guru Nanak's transformative spiritual journey, symbolising unity and equality, and attracting devotees worldwide.

5. Gurudwara Shri Reetha Sahib

Gurudwara Reetha Sahib, nestled near Diyuri village in Uttarakhand's Champawat district, is a sacred site for Sikhs. This revered location was blessed with the presence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and his loyal companion, Bhai Mardana. Under a reetha (soapnut) tree, Guru Nanak asked Bhai Mardana to eat the typically bitter fruit, which miraculously tasted sweet. Witnessing this extraordinary feat, nearby ascetics were amazed. Later, it was discovered that all reetha on the tree where Guru Nanak sat had transformed into sweet ones. This divine phenomenon is commemorated at Gurudwara Reetha Sahib, symbolising Guru Nanak's spiritual power and divine presence, attracting devotees seeking inspiration and solace.