Anandpur Sahib Fort is a historic fort located in the city of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, India. It is one of the most important sites in Sikh history, as it played a significant role during the times of the Sikh Gurus.
The fort has a profound historical significance as it was founded by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur and later expanded by his son, Guru Gobind Singh. It served as the site where Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth in 1699, which is a collective body of initiated Sikhs.
The best time to visit the fort is from October to March when the weather is relatively cooler and pleasant. However, visiting during the festival of Hola Mohalla, usually in March, can be particularly rewarding due to the colorful celebrations and various Sikh martial traditions on display.
Typically, there are no entry fees for visiting historical religious sites such as Anandpur Sahib Fort. However, it is always best to check for the most current information before planning your visit.
The visiting hours may vary, but the fort is generally open to visitors during daylight hours. It's recommended to check with local tourist information centers for the current schedule.
Official tour guide services may not be available at the fort itself. Visitors can either explore the site on their own or arrange for a guide through a travel agency or local services in Anandpur Sahib.
Apart from the fort, visitors can explore other historical gurdwaras in Anandpur Sahib, such as Gurudwara Sisganj Sahib, Gurudwara Parivar Vichora Sahib, and Gurudwara Keshgarh Sahib, the latter being one of the five temporal authorities (Takhts) in Sikhism.
Yes, the most significant festival celebrated at Anandpur Sahib is Hola Mohalla, which coincides with the Hindu festival of Holi. It features processions, mock battles, Sikh martial arts (Gatka), music, and poetry.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and drinking water are usually available. For accommodations and more amenities, visitors can find options in the city of Anandpur Sahib.
Photography is generally allowed, but it is advisable to respect the religious sentiments of the place and avoid photographing at sensitive locations or during prayer times. Always check for any signs indicating photography restrictions or ask for permission if in doubt.
