Nankana Sahib
(The City of Guru Nanak)
Nankana Sahib, located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, holds profound spiritual significance as the birthplace of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the Sikh Gurus.
Revered by millions worldwide, Nankana Sahib is a sacred pilgrimage site for Sikhs, attracting devotees and visitors who come to pay homage to the revered Guru and immerse themselves in the spiritual aura of this historical city.
Beyond its religious importance, Nankana Sahib boasts architectural gems such as Gurdwara Janam Asthan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, making it a site of cultural and historical significance.
Key Info About Nankana Sahib
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Nankana Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Population | Approximately 80,000 |
| Area | 1,376 square kilometers (531 sq mi) |
| Coordinates | 31.4475° N latitude, 73.6978° E longitude |
| District | Nankana Sahib District |
| Language | Punjabi, Urdu, and English |
| Religious Significance | Birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism |
| Economy | Agriculture, small-scale trade, and commerce |
| Major Crops | Wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and rice |
| Transportation | Road connectivity, with the N-35 highway passing through |
| Education | Educational institutions, including schools and colleges |
| Healthcare | Hospitals and medical facilities |
| Notable Places | Gurdwara Janam Asthan, a prominent Sikh shrine; other gurdwaras and historical sites |
| Local Festivals | Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Baisakhi, and other Sikh religious festivals |
| Culture | A rich Sikh cultural heritage with traditional music, religious processions, and festivals |
| Administration | Nankana Sahib is divided into several Union Councils for local governance |
| Industries | Agriculture, retail, and small-scale businesses |
| Tourism | Significant religious tourism due to the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Climate | Hot and arid, with extreme temperatures in summer |
| Major Highways | N-35 (also known as the Grand Trunk Road) is a prominent highway |
| Nearest Airport | Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore (around 85 km away) |
Guru Nanak (Founder of Sikh Religion)
Baba ji Guru Nanak was born on 21st November 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-Di-Talwandi Nankana Sahib. He was born to a mathematician family.
His father’s name was Kalyan Das Ji and the alias was Kalu Ji. His cast was Khatri, tribe Badi, and his family profession was farming. He was not interested in Business. He learned Hindi, Sanskrit, and Persian.
On 12th September 1487, he married Mulchand’s daughter Mata Salakhni of Gurdaspur. She gave birth to two sons. In 1497, he detached from the Worldliness and started tourism with three of his friends. He was a saint who was engaged in meditation.
He was a true believer in one God. He hated idolatry. He was against Racism. Baba Guru Nanak led the foundation of the Sikh religion and most of his teachings were in accordance with Islam.
According to his teachings, Allah is one. He is the Sole Creator of everything, Al-Mighty, and All-Knowing. We should worship only one Allah. The persons who find Allah are blessed with eternal life.
It is said that he went for Hajj two times. He was a great poet. He combined and collected the poetry of Baba Fareed Ganj Shahkar and Bhagat Kabeer.
His poetry and sayings are included in the religious book of Sikhs “Granth Sahib”. in 1504, he settled a town near the river Ravi named it “Kartarpur”. In his old age, he used to live in Kartarpur and died there.
The Gurdwara
Baba Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion was born to mathematician Kalu Khatri in 1469 in the Talundi district of Punjab which is 16 km away from Faisalabad Road, 32 km from Sheikhupura.
He was against idolatry and discrimination. He believed in monotheism and believed in the oneness of one God. He had deep love and devotion toward Islam and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He had admired him (ﷺ, Peace be upon him) in many Janam Sakhis.
A beautiful building is constructed at his birthplace and the religious book of Sikh (Granth Sahib) is placed there. This place is called “Harmandir Sahib”.
Muslims use the word “Sharif” with their sacred books and places, Hindus use “Shiri” with holy places, and Sikhs use the word “Sahib” with their religious books and sites.
The Gurdwara built at the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak is “Gurdwara Janam Asthan”. This area is transformed into a spacious building. There are seven Gurdwaras related to the early life and miracles of Baba Guru Nanak.
Their names are Hall ji, Sacha Suda, Tanbu Sahib, Panchiwi Badshahi, Nihanga, Bal Lela, and Janam Asthan. That’s why Nankana Sahib is called the “City of Gurdwaras”.
There is a big festival organized on the fourteenth day of the rising moon in the month of Baba’s birthday in Nankana Sahib.
Sikhs walk around the city in procession, barefoot, with drummers, singing religious hymns with tongs. Fireworks are displayed at the end of the festival.
Famous Places in Nankana Sahib
Gurdwara Janam Asthan
The heart of Nankana Sahib, Gurdwara Janam Asthan is the birthplace of Guru Nanak. Pilgrims and devotees gather here to pay homage to the revered Guru and absorb the spiritual energy that permeates the surroundings.
Gurdwara Bal Leela
Situated in close proximity to Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Gurdwara Bal Leela is where Guru Nanak spent his childhood. The gurdwara encapsulates the divine innocence of Guru Nanak’s early years, making it a cherished site for visitors.
Nankana Sahib Railway Station
Beyond its spiritual sites, Nankana Sahib boasts the historical Nankana Sahib Railway Station. This station played a role in the life of Guru Nanak and serves as a testament to the historical development of the region.
Gurdwara Malji Sahib
Another significant gurdwara in Nankana Sahib, Gurdwara Malji Sahib is associated with Guru Nanak’s early education. Pilgrims visit this place to connect with the educational journey of Guru Nanak.
Gurdwara Tambu Sahib
Gurdwara Tambu Sahib is dedicated to Guru Nanak’s marriage. The site holds historical and cultural importance, and visitors can explore the surroundings to learn more about this aspect of Guru Nanak’s life.
Panj Tirath
Panj Tirath is a historical site in Nankana Sahib associated with the five Pirs (Muslim saints) who were impressed by the divine aura of Guru Nanak. The site symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of different faiths.
Bhai Lalo’s Shrine
Bhai Lalo was a close companion of Guru Nanak, and his shrine is a place of reverence. Pilgrims visit to pay their respects to Bhai Lalo, who exemplified Guru Nanak’s teachings through his way of life.
Shrine of Pir Buddhu Shah
Pir Buddhu Shah was a Muslim saint who supported Guru Gobind Singh during the Battle of Chamkaur. His shrine in Nankana Sahib is a symbol of the unity that transcends religious boundaries.
Educational Institutions
- Guru Nanak College of Education
- Nankana Sahib Public School
- Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College
- Khalsa College, Nankana Sahib
- Government High School, Nankana Sahib
Healthcare Facilities
- Guru Nanak Dev Hospital
- Civil Hospital Nankana Sahib
- Fateh Memorial Hospital
- Nankana Sahib Dental Clinic
- Guru Nanak Charitable Hospital
Restaurants and Eateries
- Langar Hall (At Gurdwara Janam Asthan)
- Desi Zaika Restaurant
- Nankana Zaika
- Guru Nanak Restaurant
- Friends Food Point
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the significance of Nankana Sahib in Sikhism?
Nankana Sahib is the birthplace of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. It holds immense religious importance and is a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide.
How many gurdwaras are there in Nankana Sahib?
Nankana Sahib is home to several gurdwaras, with Gurdwara Janam Asthan and Gurdwara Bal Leela being the most prominent ones associated with Guru Nanak’s life.
Are there educational institutions in Nankana Sahib?
Yes, Nankana Sahib has several educational institutions, including colleges and schools, fostering both modern and traditional education.
What are some popular restaurants in Nankana Sahib?
Visitors can enjoy local and traditional cuisine at places like Langar Hall (at Gurdwara Janam Asthan), Desi Zaika Restaurant, and Nankana Zaika.
Are there healthcare facilities in Nankana Sahib?
Nankana Sahib is equipped with healthcare facilities such as Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Civil Hospital, and other medical centers to cater to the health needs of the community.
How can I reach Nankana Sahib?
Nankana Sahib is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest major city is Lahore, and from there, one can travel by road or train to reach Nankana Sahib.
Are there historical sites to explore in addition to gurdwaras?
Yes, besides gurdwaras, Nankana Sahib has historical sites like the Nankana Sahib Railway Station, adding to the city’s cultural and historical charm.
What festivals are celebrated in Nankana Sahib?
Nankana Sahib celebrates various religious festivals with great enthusiasm, including those associated with Sikhism. The city comes alive with vibrant festivities during these occasions.
Wind Up Lines
Nankana Sahib is not just a city; it’s a spiritual haven, a repository of history, and a cultural gem. It welcomes visitors with open arms, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond the physical and enters the realm of the spiritual. As pilgrims and tourists traverse the streets of Nankana Sahib, they are not just traversing physical landscapes; they are embarking on a journey of the soul.