A Gurdwara (ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ) — literally "Gateway to the Guru" — is the Sikh place of worship and community. It is open to people of all faiths, at all times.
Four Doors Traditionally, Gurdwaras are built with four doors facing all four directions, symbolising that God's house is open to everyone from every direction.
Inside a Gurdwara
- Darbar Sahib — The main hall where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is installed on a throne
- Langar Hall — The community kitchen and dining area
- Sarovar — A sacred pool (in larger Gurdwaras)
- Nishan Sahib — The Sikh triangular flag (blue or yellow/orange) marking the Gurdwara
Services
- Ardas — communal prayer
- Kirtan — devotional singing of Gurbani
- Katha — explanation of scripture
- Hukamnama — daily reading from SGGS
The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) The Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, Punjab, is the holiest Gurdwara — the spiritual and cultural centre of Sikhism, visited by over 100,000 people daily. Built by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1604, it is surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar).