Gurdwara Ghat Sahib

The Nangal district in Punjab, India is home to two prominent Gurudwaras - Gurudwara Vibhor Sahib and Gurudwara Ghat Sahib. It is believed that Guru Gobind Singh boarded a boat on the bank of the river Sutlej to reach the Gurudwara Vibhor Sahib. That spot is immortalized by building the Gurudwara Ghat Sahib. Sikhism recognizes 10 spiritual leaders, Guru Gobind Singh, the final Guru felt that the Holy book, Sri Guru Granth Sahib would be the best guide for the Sikhs and hence, appointed it as the Eleventh and the eternal Guru. The Sri Guru Granth Sahib is installed in every Gurudwara.

History

The Gurudwaras of Nangal have gained prominence due to Guru Gobind Singh's visit at this place. His contribution to the Sikh culture is of great importance as he founded the principle of Khalsa which signifies purity. This principle implores the display of the 5 articles of faith – Kesh (uncut, long hair), Kirpan (Ceremonial Sword), Karaa (steel or iron bracelet), Kachcha (a type of cotton underwear), and Kangha (a wooden comb). Men and women who strictly adhere to this are considered to be the soldier-saints of Sikhism. Apart from this, secularism and equality are one of the core ideas of Sikhism. This is best displayed at Guru Ghat Sahib as the Gurudwara shares a wall with the Hindu temple of Laxmi-Narayan.

Architecture and Covered Area

As per the writings on Chaupai sahib, Guru Maharaj completed the book here while he stayed on the banks of river Sutlej. The Gurudwara is artistically made with white marble stones. It is relatively older than other Gurudwaras covering big area of land. The entire prayer area is marbled, domed roofs, supporting pillars makes it a monument of the then rich and prosperous Mughals.

Location and Surroundings

Nangal gets its name from the conjoining of nearby villages during the project of the Bhakra dam on river Sutlej in November 1935. It is one of the highest straight gravity concrete dams in the world. With Himalayas in the backdrop and a river running through the township, it makes an ideal tourist destination. Apart from Gurudwara Guru Ghat Sahib, there are many more attractions in this place.

One can visit the Dharamshalas, the Julfa Devi Mandir, and few other places of worship which are popular among travelers. Due to Dam on the Sutlej, the backwaters have formed a lake where one can enjoy various water sports. This lake is also home to a wide range of migratory birds making it a treat for bird-watchers. Lodging and accommodation facilities are also easily accessible. The Bhakra Nangal Dam lays on the border of 2 Indian states namely Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Nangal is well connected to the major cities in Himachal Pradesh like Kullu and Shimla. You can visit this region throughout the year as it has a pleasant climate.

Celebrations

An important event celebrated here is Baisakhi. This day marks the establishment of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh. Agriculture is the prime occupation in this region and famers observe this day in order to thank god for the good crop. It also marks the beginning of spring season.

The colour yellow is prominent during this festival. In Punjabi yellow is called "basanti" which roughly translates to "spring season".

Visitors info

Best time to visit this region is during the month of December as Gurudwaras in Nangal hold a 3-day long annual festival. It highlights Sikh traditions and culture of the region and this is the best time to visit Gurudwara Ghat Sahib.

Traveling To Amritsar

By Air

Amritsar International airport is the nearest airport to Nangal which is at a distance of 22 kms.

By Road

It is at a distance of 4km away from the Nangal bus station. However public and private buses are frequently available from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar etc.

By Train

Amritsar railway station is about 10.4 km away from Kathu Nangal where the Gurudwara is located. Apart from this there are many train services from major metros around the state.

Services

While visiting Gurudwara one can contribute towards the noble cause either by donating money or by offering their whole hearted service towards the upkeep of the Gurudwara and attending to the visitors.

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