The heart of Sikhism in Eastern India 

India is known for its many stunning and legendary spiritual landmarks that have captivated the hearts and souls of devotees for centuries. Regarding Gurudwaras, the Panj Takht should be at the top of your itinerary. Panj Takht translates to "five thrones," which comprises five Gurudwaras known for their religious significance within Sikhism. For followers of the faith, visiting all these pilgrimage destinations at least once in a lifetime is considered imperative. 

And within Patna lies one of the revered Panj Takht, a Gurudwara consecrated by the touch of three Sikh Gurus—the Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as Patna Sahib. It is a vast and serene sacred site clad in white marble, reflecting a sense of purity and devotion.

At the heart of this hallowed sanctuary lies the birthplace of the revered Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, the tenth Sikh Guru whose legacy of unwavering courage, wisdom, and devotion has inspired generations of followers. 

Commissioned in the early 19th century by the visionary Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, the Takht Sri Patna Sahib has weathered the passage of time, its timeless grandeur and spiritual essence enduring through the centuries. Today, the shrine continues to draw countless seekers who come to pay homage to the revered Guru. 

Spiritual experiences to nourish the mind, body, and soul

As the first golden rays of dawn slowly illuminate the precincts of Takhat Sri Harimandir Sahib, the air is filled with devotion. In the stillness of the morning, devotees gather here to seek the blessings of the divine, singing the stirring tones of the Ardaas (traditional Sikh prayer). If visiting in the morning is challenging, you can also attend this prayer in the evening. 

As the day progresses, the Gurdwara comes alive with the spirit of the Langar, the communal kitchen that serves free, freshly prepared meals to all who enter its doors. The faithful find fulfilment in volunteering for this selfless service, believing it to be an offering to the divine. And when the Prakash Parv, the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is celebrated each December, the place is enveloped with divine energy as devotees from far and wide gather to honour the legacy of this transformative spiritual leader.

Here, the faithful find solace, inspiration, and a renewed dedication to the values of courage, compassion, and unwavering devotion that have come to define the Sikh way of life.

Of priceless relics and delightful souvenirs

The precincts of Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib preserve and celebrate the heritage of the Sikh faith. Housed within the Gurdwara's premises, a captivating museum serves as a window into the life and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the formative years of the Sikh tradition in Eastern India.

The museum's collection is a treasure trove of artefacts, including handwritten Hukumnamas (orders) penned by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his predecessor, Guru Tegh Bahadur. Alongside these priceless manuscripts, the museum proudly displays a sacred sword, a pair of ivory sandals, four iron arrows, and a gilded cradle - all imbued with the spirit of the Sikh faith.

Beyond the museum's walls, the shops lining the Harmindar Gali offer an array of bamboo and leather items that reflect the region's artistry and craftsmanship. These unique souvenirs are tangible reminders of the rich heritage permeating every corner of this revered Gurdwara, inviting you to carry a piece of Sikh history. 

Takht-Sri-Harmandir-Sahib-or-Patna-Sahib

Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 05:00 PM

Where next?

Beyond Takhat Sri Harimandir Sahib, the other attractions of Patna beckon you to explore the rich culture of eastern India. From the historic Patna Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Mauryan-era artefacts, to the serene Mahavir Mandir, a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the capital city of Bihar offers a rich insight into the historical and spiritual side of the region. Don't forget to visit the Golghar, a massive granary built by the British, and the scenic Gandhi Ghat along the Ganga River, further enriching your exploration. 

So, come to Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib and witness the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, who lives on as a beacon of inspiration and continues to guide all who seek solace in the transformative power of the divine. 