15 Famous Gurudwaras in Delhi: History, Locations and Important Facts

Delhi is home to several important Sikh religious sites connected with the visits, teachings and history of the Sikh Gurus. Some of these Gurudwaras commemorate significant events, including the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, while others are associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

The most prominent historical shrines include Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, Sis Ganj Sahib, Rakab Ganj Sahib, Nanak Piao Sahib and Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib. Along with these, Delhi has several community Gurudwaras that serve local Sikh congregations and organise prayers, kirtan and langar.

This guide covers 15 Gurudwaras and Sikh memorial sites in Delhi, with their historical significance, locations and useful visitor information. The list separates major historical shrines from other community Gurudwaras because not all 15 have the same historical status. The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) directory is used to verify the names of the Gurudwaras it lists.

• Suggest Tour: Delhi Gurudwara Tour

1. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most recognised Sikh religious places in Delhi. It is located near Connaught Place and is associated with the visit of the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, to Delhi in 1664. At that time, the site was the bungalow of Raja Jai Singh. During an epidemic in the city, Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji is remembered for serving people who were suffering from illness and providing them with water and support.

The sacred sarovar, the golden dome and the peaceful prayer hall make this Gurudwara an important place for devotees as well as visitors interested in Sikh heritage. The langar kitchen serves free meals to people, regardless of religion or background. The water of the sarovar is regarded as sacred by devotees; traditional beliefs about its healing qualities should be understood as matters of faith rather than medical claims.

Important facts:

• Location: Ashoka Road, near Connaught Place, New Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Patel Chowk or Shivaji Stadium, depending on the route.

• Historical association: Visit of Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji in 1664.

• Main attractions: Golden dome, sarovar, prayer hall and langar.

• Entry: Open to visitors; there is no general entry ticket.

• Visitor tip: Cover your head, remove your shoes and maintain silence inside the prayer areas.

2. Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib

Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the most significant historical Sikh shrines in Old Delhi. It stands in Chandni Chowk, opposite the Red Fort, and commemorates the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. He was executed in 1675 on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to abandon his faith and for defending religious freedom.

The original shrine was constructed in 1783 by Sikh leader Baghel Singh. The present structure was added in 1930, and its prominent gold domes were installed in later years. The site is an important place of remembrance for Sikhs and a major landmark in the historic area of Chandni Chowk.

Important facts:

• Location: Chandni Chowk, opposite the Red Fort, Old Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Chandni Chowk Metro Station.

• Metro distance: The National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities records it at approximately 250 metres from the station.

• Historical association: Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1675.

• Original construction: 1783; present structure added in 1930.

• Main attractions: Prayer hall, historical memorials and community langar.

• Visitor tip: Chandni Chowk is often crowded. Walking from the metro station is generally more convenient than taking a car into the market lanes.

3. Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib is located near Parliament House and is associated with the cremation of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji after his martyrdom in 1675. According to Sikh tradition, Bhai Lakhi Shah Vanjara brought the Guru’s body to his home and cremated it there by setting the house on fire, so that the final rites could be performed without attracting the attention of Mughal authorities.

The shrine commemorates this act of courage and devotion. Its location near important government buildings also makes it one of the notable Sikh heritage landmarks in central Delhi. Historical accounts differ in how they describe the early memorial and the later construction of the present Gurudwara. Delhi Tourism mentions 1732 and Lakkhi Banjara, while the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities records the present building as constructed in 1783 by Sardar Baghel Singh. It is better not to present either date as the unquestioned date of the site’s origin.

Important facts:

• Location: Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Road, near Parliament House, New Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat.

• Historical association: Cremation of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1675.

• Associated personality: Bhai Lakhi Shah Vanjara.

• Main attractions: White-marble structure, domes and prayer complex.

• Visitor tip: Parliament-area security and traffic arrangements may affect access, so check local conditions before visiting.

4. Gurdwara Nanak Piao Sahib

The Gurudwara represents the Sikh values of hospitality, equality and selfless service. It is located in north Delhi and is included in the DSGMC’s official Gurudwara contact directory.

Important facts:

• Location: Rana Pratap Bagh, north Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Model Town is one of the metro stations serving the wider area; check the onward road route.

• Historical association: Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

• Meaning of the name: Piao refers to offering drinking water.

• Main attractions: Prayer hall and the tradition associated with water service.

• Visitor tip: Confirm local prayer and langar timings before planning a visit.

5. Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib

Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib is a historic Sikh shrine in north Delhi, near the Yamuna River. It is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who is traditionally believed to have met a devoted ascetic known as Majnu at this location. The name Majnu Ka Tilla is linked with the story of this ascetic, whose devotion and service are remembered in local Sikh tradition.

The site is also associated with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who is recorded in DSGMC’s historical account as having stayed here. Today, Majnu Ka Tilla is known both for its Gurudwara and for the Tibetan settlement and market in the surrounding neighbourhood.

Important facts:

• Location: Majnu Ka Tilla, near the Outer Ring Road and the Yamuna, north Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Vidhan Sabha or Vishwavidyalaya; the onward journey depends on the route.

• Historical association: Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.

• Local significance: Connected with the traditional story of Majnu.

• Main attractions: Historic shrine and prayer hall.

• Visitor tip: The surrounding neighbourhood can be busy, especially on weekends.

6. Gurdwara Moti Bagh Sahib

Gurdwara Moti Bagh Sahib is associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s visit to Delhi in 1707. Sikh historical tradition connects the shrine with the period when Guru Gobind Singh Ji was in Delhi during the Mughal succession struggle and met Prince Muazzam, who later became Emperor Bahadur Shah I.

The Gurudwara is situated in the Moti Bagh area and is one of the historical Sikh sites maintained under the Delhi Sikh religious heritage network. Stories about Guru Gobind Singh Ji displaying exceptional archery skills from this location are sometimes repeated in popular accounts, but they should not be presented as established fact without a reliable historical reference.

Important facts:

• Location: Moti Bagh, Ring Road area, New Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus is a possible metro option; check the road connection.

• Historical association: Visit of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1707.

• Related historical figure: Prince Muazzam, later Bahadur Shah I.

• Main attractions: Prayer hall and historical association.

• Visitor tip: Check the current route and local access arrangements before travelling.

7. Gurdwara Damdama Sahib

Gurdwara Damdama Sahib is a historical Sikh shrine in the Nizamuddin area of Delhi. It is associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s visit to the city in 1707 and his meeting with Prince Muazzam, who later became Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah I. The meeting is an important part of the historical association of the shrine.

The Gurudwara offers a quieter setting compared with some of the crowded religious landmarks in Old Delhi. Its location also makes it possible to explore other heritage sites in the Nizamuddin area, although visitors should plan separate time for each destination.

Important facts:

• Location: Nizamuddin area, near Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: JLN Stadium or Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station area, depending on the route.

• Historical association: Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s visit and meeting with Prince Muazzam in 1707.

• Main attractions: Prayer hall and historical Sikh setting.

• Visitor tip: Combine the visit with nearby heritage attractions only after checking their separate entry and opening arrangements.

8. Gurdwara Bala Sahib

Gurdwara Bala Sahib is an important Sikh religious site in south-east Delhi. It is associated with the final rites of Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, Mata Sundri Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur Ji. These associations make it an important place of remembrance in Sikh history.

The wider Bala Sahib complex is also known for charitable and healthcare services connected with DSGMC. The committee’s directory separately identifies the Gurudwara and the Guru Harkrishan Hospital at Bala Sahib. Visitors should therefore distinguish the religious complex from the hospital facilities when planning their visit.

Important facts:

• Location: Near Ashram, Ring Road, south-east Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Ashram Metro Station is a convenient option for the area.

• Historical association: Final rites of Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, Mata Sundri Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur Ji.

• Other significance: DSGMC-linked healthcare services operate in the complex.

• Main attractions: Gurudwara and prayer hall.

• Visitor tip: Follow signboards to reach the religious area rather than assuming hospital and Gurudwara entrances are the same.

9. Gurdwara Mata Sundri Ji

Gurdwara Mata Sundri Ji is dedicated to Mata Sundri Ji, the wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. She played an important role in guiding and supporting the Sikh community after the passing of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The shrine honours her contribution to Sikh religious and community history.

Located in central Delhi, the Gurudwara is an important place for devotees who wish to learn about the role of Sikh women in the development and preservation of the Sikh community. It is listed in the official DSGMC directory.

Important facts:

• Location: Mata Sundri Road, central Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: ITO or Delhi Gate, depending on the approach.

• Historical association: Mata Sundri Ji, wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

• Significance: Remembers her leadership and service to the Sikh community.

• Main attractions: Prayer hall and religious gatherings.

• Visitor tip: Check the local schedule for special programmes and observances.

10. Gurdwara Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, Mehrauli

The Gurdwara Baba Banda Singh Bahadur in Mehrauli commemorates Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, an important Sikh military and political leader who challenged Mughal authority in the early eighteenth century. He was captured and executed in Delhi in 1716, along with several Sikh companions. The memorial is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the early Sikh community.

This site is particularly significant for visitors interested in the history of Banda Singh Bahadur and the early Sikh struggle. DSGMC includes the Mehrauli Gurudwara in its official directory.

Important facts:

• Location: Mehrauli, south Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar Metro Station is a possible option; check the onward road route.

• Historical association: Baba Banda Singh Bahadur and the events of 1716.

• Significance: Memorial to an important figure in Sikh history.

• Main attractions: Religious memorial and prayer space.

• Visitor tip: Verify the exact entrance and local access before travelling, as Mehrauli has several historic religious sites.

11. Gurdwara Sahib, Karol Bagh

Gurdwara Sahib in Karol Bagh serves the Sikh community in one of Delhi’s well-known commercial and residential neighbourhoods. It is included in the DSGMC’s official directory and is also mentioned among the major Gurudwaras in a Delhi Police advisory issued for Gurpurab arrangements.

Unlike the older memorial shrines, its importance for visitors is primarily as a place of worship and community service. Devotees visit for daily prayers, kirtan and religious occasions.

Important facts:

• Location: Karol Bagh, central-west Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Karol Bagh Metro Station; confirm the exact onward route.

• Type: Community Gurudwara.

• Religious activities: Prayer, kirtan and community gatherings.

• Management listing: Included in the DSGMC contact directory.

• Visitor tip: Check the local programme schedule before visiting for a particular event.

12. Gurdwara Sahib, Darya Ganj

Gurdwara Sahib in Darya Ganj is another Sikh place of worship in the older part of Delhi. Darya Ganj is close to several historic neighbourhoods, markets and religious landmarks, making the Gurudwara part of the wider religious and cultural landscape of Old Delhi.

The DSGMC’s current contact directory lists Gurdwara Sahib, Darya Ganj, along with its contact numbers. However, detailed historical information about the shrine is not provided in that directory, so it is more appropriate to describe it as a community place of worship rather than assign it an unverified connection with a particular Sikh Guru.

Important facts:

• Location: Darya Ganj, Old Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: Delhi Gate Metro Station is a possible option; check the onward route.

• Type: Community Gurudwara.

• Main purpose: Daily worship and Sikh community activities.

• Management listing: Included in the DSGMC directory.

• Visitor tip: Old Delhi traffic can be congested, so public transport may be more convenient.

13. Gurdwara Baikunth Dham, Punjab Khor

For visitors, it is best approached as a local religious destination rather than a major historical monument.

Important facts:

• Location: Punjab Khor, north-west Delhi.

• Nearest Metro: There is no nearby station that should be assumed to be within walking distance; check the route before travelling.

• Type: Community Gurudwara.

• Main purpose: Prayer and local religious gatherings.

• Management listing: Listed by DSGMC.

• Visitor tip: Confirm the exact address and local timings before setting out.

14. Gurdwara Pahari Dhiraj

Gurdwara Pahari Dhiraj is identified in secondary Sikh reference material as one of the other Gurudwaras in Delhi. It is associated with the Pahari Dhiraj locality in the Sadar Bazaar area. Unlike the major historical shrines, detailed and independently verified information about its foundation, architectural history and specific historical associations is limited.

It is included here as a neighbourhood Sikh place of worship, not as a confirmed historical site associated with one of the ten Sikh Gurus. Before publishing precise visitor directions or management details, the current address and local status should be checked with the Gurudwara itself.

Important facts:

• Location: Pahari Dhiraj area, near Sadar Bazaar, Delhi.

• Type: Local Sikh community Gurudwara.

• Historical details: A specific Guru-related association has not been established from the cited official sources.

• Visitor information: Confirm the exact location and access locally.

• Visitor tip: Do not rely on an approximate locality name alone for navigation.

15. Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Tilak Nagar

Best Time to Visit Gurudwaras in Delhi

Gurudwaras in Delhi can generally be visited throughout the year. However, the experience may vary depending on the season, religious calendar and local events.

• October to March: The weather is usually more comfortable for visiting several religious sites in a day.

• Gurpurab: Important Sikh festivals attract large numbers of devotees. Bangla Sahib, Sis Ganj Sahib and other major Gurudwaras may be especially busy.

• Weekdays: Visiting on a regular weekday can be more convenient if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.

• Early morning: Morning prayers can offer an opportunity to experience the devotional environment, but timings differ from one Gurudwara to another.

There is no single visiting timetable that applies to every Gurudwara. Confirm the current schedule directly with the relevant shrine before travelling.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting a Gurudwara

Visitors of every faith are welcome at Sikh Gurudwaras. A few basic practices help maintain respect for the religious environment.

• Cover your head: Use a scarf, handkerchief or head covering before entering the prayer area.

• Remove your shoes: Leave footwear at the designated shoe-storage area.

• Dress respectfully: Wear modest and comfortable clothing.

• Maintain cleanliness: Wash your hands and follow the instructions displayed at the premises.

• Respect the prayer area: Avoid loud conversations and keep your phone on silent.

• Langar: Community meals are served free of charge at many Gurudwaras. Follow the instructions of the volunteers.

• Photography: Ask before taking photographs, particularly inside the prayer hall.

• Follow local instructions: Security checks, access rules and timings may change during major religious events.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the most famous Gurudwara in Delhi?

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is among the most recognised Gurudwaras in Delhi. Its association with Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, golden dome and sarovar make it an important religious and visitor destination.

2. Which Gurudwara in Delhi is associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?

Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, while Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib is associated with the cremation of his body in 1675.

3. Which Delhi Gurudwaras are associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji?

Gurdwara Nanak Piao Sahib and Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib are traditionally associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s visits to Delhi.

4. Is entry free at Gurudwaras in Delhi?

There is generally no entry ticket for visiting a Gurudwara. Visitors can offer donations voluntarily, but donations are not a condition of entry.

5. Can non-Sikhs visit Gurudwaras in Delhi?

Yes. People from all religions and backgrounds are welcome. Visitors should cover their heads, remove their shoes and follow the rules of the premises.

6. Is langar available at Delhi Gurudwaras?

Langar is an important Sikh tradition, and major Gurudwaras such as Bangla Sahib serve community meals. The schedule and availability at smaller Gurudwaras may differ.

7. Which Gurudwaras should I visit for Sikh history in Delhi?

Bangla Sahib, Sis Ganj Sahib, Rakab Ganj Sahib, Nanak Piao Sahib, Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib, Moti Bagh Sahib and Damdama Sahib are among the key sites to consider for their historical associations.

Conclusion

Delhi’s Gurudwaras preserve an important part of Sikh religious and cultural history. From Gurdwara Bangla Sahib and its association with Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji to Sis Ganj Sahib and Rakab Ganj Sahib, which commemorate the martyrdom and cremation of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, these sites connect visitors with significant events in Sikh history.

Other shrines, including Nanak Piao Sahib, Majnu Ka Tilla Sahib, Moti Bagh Sahib and Damdama Sahib, reflect the visits and historical associations of different Sikh Gurus. Community Gurudwaras across Delhi continue to serve local congregations through prayer, kirtan and langar.

Whether you are visiting for religious reasons or to understand Delhi’s Sikh heritage, approach each Gurudwara with respect and check local visitor information before travelling.

• Check out: Holy Places of Delhi