Kartarpur

Kartarpur offers a spiritually enriching experience, blending the rich legacy of Sikh history with modern-day peace initiatives. The visit is not only a pilgrimage but also a reminder of Guru Nanak’s teachings of compassion, tolerance, and unity across cultures.

Kartarpur is a village in the Punjab province of Pakistan, home to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, a significant Sikh holy site and the second-largest Gurdwara in the world, beautifully restored with white marble and intricate designs. It features grand domes, minarets, and spacious prayer halls. The architecture blends traditional and modern styles, reflecting the spiritual significance of the site.
This Gurdwara marks the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, spent the final years of his life, teaching and promoting a message of equality, unity, and devotion to God. Kartarpur is located near the Ravi River, about 4 kilometers from the Indian border, making it a focal point for Sikh pilgrims from both India and across the world.

Good To Know

Country

Pakistan

Visa Requirements

Visa in needed

Languages spoken

Urdu, English

Currency used

Pak Rupee, Pounds, Dollars

Area (km2)

9.8 million km2

Final Resting Place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji: Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life in Kartarpur.
Historical Significance: After Guru Nanak’s death, it is believed that both Hindus and Muslims wished to perform his last rites according to their customs. However, when they lifted the cloth from his body, only flowers were found, which were later divided among his followers from both communities.
Cultural Harmony: Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib is a living example of cultural and religious harmony. Besides Sikhs, Muslims also revere the site and many muslims come and pay their respects, reflecting Guru Nanak’s inclusive message of brotherhood and peace.
Facilities: The Gurdwara complex has prayer rooms, rest areas, and clean washrooms for pilgrims. Pilgrims are also welcome to stay in the complex’s guest rooms.
Kartarpur Corridor: In November 2019, the Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated, creating a visa-free route between Dera Baba Nanak in India and Kartarpur in Pakistan. This corridor allows Sikh pilgrims from India to visit the holy site without a visa.
Guru Nanak’s Teachings: Kartarpur represents the essence of Guru Nanak’s teachings—service, humility, and community living. The Gurdwara runs langar (free community meals) where thousands of pilgrims are fed daily, continuing the tradition started by Guru Nanak.
Annual Celebrations: Every year, thousands of Sikhs from across the world, especially from India, gather here to celebrate Guru Nanak Gurpurab, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Travel Tips

Visa and Permits: If you are traveling from India, you will need a visa via the High Commission in India. If non-resident Indian, a pilgrim visa can be applied via the Pakistan Government Visa portal.
Passports: Ensure to carry your passports with you as these are mandatory for entry.
Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kartarpur Sahib is between September and May when the weather is cooler. However, Kartarpur Sahib is open all year round.
Getting There: Kartarpur is a 3 hour drive from Lahore by road.
Dress Code and Etiquette: As with any religious site, modest clothing is essential.
- Both men and women are required to cover their heads with a scarf or handkerchief.
- Remove shoes before entering the shrine.
- Wash hands and feet before entering
Accommodation: Kartarpur has on-site guest rooms, which can be booked in advance.
Entry Fees: There is a service fee of around $20 (USD), which must be paid at either the Pakistani side of the border or the Kartarpur entrance (Pakistan). During certain festivals, this fee may be waived.
Currency: The local currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). ATMs are available. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in local markets.
Langar (Free Meals): As per Sikh tradition, the Gurudwara provides free meals to all visitors, known as langar.
- This is a core part of the Sikh community service ethos, and visitors are encouraged to partake in the meals, which are vegetarian and simple.
Respect the Spirituality: The atmosphere in Kartarpur Sahib is one of extreme inner peace and spiritual. Pilgrims often engage in prayers, singing Kirtan (devotional hymns), and reading from the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Be mindful of this sacred environment, and maintain silence or speak softly.
- Keep your head covered.
Shopping: There is a small market located within the grounds of Kartarpur Sahib
Photography: Photography is allowed in certain areas of the complex, but avoid taking pictures in the prayer halls or other places of worship unless permitted.
Language: While Punjabi is widely spoken, the staff at the Gurdwara are also fluent in Urdu and English, making communication easier for international visitors.