Taxila Ancient Ruins and Museum Taxila
Taxila Ancient Ruins and Museum represent a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing over 3000 years of Gandhara civilization Buddhist heritage and ancient artifacts.
ExploreGurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib
Nankana Sahib, Punjab
Overview
Located in the heart of Nankana Sahib city in Punjab Gurdwara Janam Asthan also known as Gurdwara Nankana Sahib is the premier holy sanctuary and spiritual birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji the founder of Sikhism who was born here in 1469 AD. Originally built in the 16th century by his follower Baba Balar and later expanded into a grand fortress-like complex by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century the shrine features a vast white marble courtyard gilded domes sacred water pool Sarovar and massive Langar hall. Recognized globally as a central pillar of Sikh spiritual heritage the gurdwara welcomes thousands of international pilgrims particularly during the annual Gurpurab birth anniversary celebrations under dedicated national protection and interfaith hospitality.
Highlights
- Holiest Sikh pilgrimage shrine in the world marking the exact birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji born 1469 AD
- Grand 19th-century Sikh Empire architecture featuring white marble courtyards arched cloisters and gold domes
- Sacred holy water pool Sarovar surrounded by marble walkways where devotees perform spiritual ablutions
- Mass community kitchen Langar Hall serving free hot vegetarian meals to thousands of daily visitors
- Historic site witness to pivotal events in Sikh history including the 1921 Saka Nankana Sahib movement
- Major international venue for annual Gurpurab celebrations attracting Yatris from India and around the globe
Things To Do
- Pay respects inside the main sanctum Darbar Sahib where the holy Guru Granth Sahib is enshrined
- Walk along the white marble corridors surrounding the sacred holy water pool Sarovar
- Partake in the traditional free communal vegetarian meal at the massive Langar Hall
- Admire the intricate marble masonry gilded dome architecture and historical wall frescos
- Experience the vibrant spiritual atmosphere devotional Kirtan music and evening illumination during Gurpurab
Local Transportation
Located in central Nankana Sahib approximately 75 km west of Lahore. Accessible via the M-3 Motorway exiting at Nankana Sahib Interchange or via the Shorkot-Sheikhupura branch line by private car sedan taxi or train.
Accommodation
Major pilgrimage hub. Pilgrims rest houses Yatri Niwas inside the complex managed by ETPB and local hotels are available in Nankana Sahib city center and nearby Sheikhupura or Lahore.
Food & Cuisine
The shrine offers free continuous vegetarian meals at the Langar Hall. Local city bazaars also serve traditional Punjabi vegetarian dishes Karahi Samosas Jalebi and hot cardamom tea.
Safety Information
Highly secure, peaceful religious sanctuary protected by state heritage authorities. Visitors must cover their heads with a cloth scarf, remove footwear at the main entrance counter, wash hands and feet before entering, and respect sacred decorum.
Travel Tips
Carry a headscarf or handkerchief to cover your head, wear easily removable flat shoes, visit during non-peak morning hours for quiet photography, and carry a physical CNIC or Passport for entry gate verification.