Anandpur Sahib (Punjab) FAQs In 2024

What is Anandpur Sahib and why is it significant?

Anandpur Sahib is a city in the Rupnagar district (Ropar) of Punjab, India. Known as the 'City of Bliss', it is one of the most important sacred places for Sikhs due to its historical significance. It was founded in 1665 by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and it is the site where his son, Guru Gobind Singh, established the Khalsa Panth in 1699, thereby shaping the present-day Sikh religion.

The main attractions in Anandpur Sahib include Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, which is one of the five temporal authorities (Five Takhts) of Sikhism; Virasat-e-Khalsa, a museum that narrates Sikh history and culture; and various other gurudwaras like Gurudwara Sisganj Sahib and Gurudwara Anandpur Sahib. The town is also famed for its beautiful landscapes and surrounding Shivalik Hills.

The best time to visit Anandpur Sahib is during the cooler months from October to March. However, to experience the vibrant festivities, one should visit during the annual Hola Mohalla festival, usually held in March, which features mock battles, martial arts displays, and processions, attracting tourists and devotees from all over the world.

Anandpur Sahib is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport, about 85 kilometers away. One can then take a train to the Anandpur Sahib Railway Station or opt for buses and taxis from various towns and cities across Punjab and neighboring states.

Anandpur Sahib offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guest houses, and dharamshalas (community-run lodgings) that serve the needs of pilgrims and tourists alike. Some accommodations are managed by the Gurudwara Board, offering basic facilities at nominal costs.

Visitors can enjoy local Punjabi cuisine that includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Traditional meals like Makki di Roti (cornbread) and Sarson da Saag (mustard greens curry), Amritsari kulcha, Chole puri, and various sweetmeats are popular. One can also partake in the langar, a community kitchen meal provided for free at the gurudwaras.

While there are no official guided tours available in Anandpur Sahib, local guides can be found, especially during peak tourist seasons like Hola Mohalla. The management of various gurudwaras may also assist visitors on request.

Tourists should be respectful of local customs and etiquette. It is essential to remove shoes and cover one's head before entering any gurudwara. Clothing should be modest, and it is advisable to avoid smoking and drinking within the religious and cultural precincts. Visitors are encouraged to partake in Seva (community service) at the gurudwaras if interested.