Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most sacred places located in Delhi. It is an encouraging place where devotees and pilgrims often visit to pray for good health and fortune for themselves and their loved ones. This beautiful structure was constructed in 1664. It is one of the most popular places to visit, and for good reason. It is not only religiously significant, but this gurudwara also plays a big role in society. The organisers serve langar, which serves free food for anyone and everyone visiting the Gurudwara. Anyone can even volunteer to help in the kitchen or serve food to the people. It is truly a place that brings peace and calm to one’s soul. Do not forget to add this holy place to your itinerary during your visit to Delhi.
History Of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Image Credit: Ken Wieland for Wikimedia Commons
The story behind the origin of this beautiful Gurudwara is rather interesting. Today, it is a famous shrine; however, years and years ago, that was not its purpose. It was developed as a residential place and was known as Jaisinghpura Palace. It was built in the 17th century, ordered by the then King Mirza Raja Jai Singh of Aurangajeb’s court. During the visit of the 8th Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishna, an epidemic broke out in Delhi. It was deadly and vicious and took the lives of many citizens. To save everyone, Guru Har Krishna – who lived in the residential palace – offered his well as a water supply to the residents. Legend says that he dipped his holy feet in the water and poured amrit or elixir of life into the water. Irrespective, the water helped many; however, it took the Guru Ji’s life.
The Raja named the bungalow after him Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib to commemorate him. A tank was also constructed around the well. The same well from which the Guru Ji offered his water to the locals to save them.
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Places To Visit Near Gurudwara, Bangla Sahib
Spend the day praying in the Gurudwara, helping in the kitchen to prepare langar, and experiencing the joy of good deeds done by good people. Then, explore the following nearby places.
1. Lotus Temple
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The mesmerising Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá’í Faith, is a House of Worship in New Delhi. The people who follow this faith believe that there is only one God, and anyone from any walk of life or even religion can visit this temple to pray. It is a place that celebrates oneness and promotes the benefits of an Armstrong community and unity in diversity. Visiting this holy place will only bring you peace and calm, so you must take advantage of the opportunity.
Timings: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free of cost
2. Akshardham
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In 2005, the Swaminarayan Akshardham was recorded as the World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple in the Guinness World Record Book. This glorious temple complex holds 10,000 years of Indian culture and history. From spirituality to arts and history to craftsmanship, it houses several innovations of Indiinas. Not only do people pray in this temple, it offers much more than that. It has a hall full of artefacts displayed for tourists to explore. A film that is 40 minutes long is shown that captures the essence of this magnificent structure, and a cultural boat ride that explains the vast and rich cultures India holds.
Timings: 1st entry 9:30 am and 2nd entry 6:30 pm
Entry Fee:
- Adults: INR 170
- Senior Citizen: INR 125
- Children: INR 100
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3. The Garden Of Five Senses
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The Garden of Five Senses was not constructed to provide the public with another park but a luxurious public space that people could enjoy. It is the perfect place to relax, unwind, bond with loved ones, and lounge leisurely. It is decorated with many eco-friendly decorations that promote the craftsmanship of citizens and locals. For example, as you enter the garden, you are greeted with stainless-steel birds mounted on pillars. As you venture further, you can also see a troop of stone elephants taking a bath.
Timings: 9 am to 6:30 pm
Entry Fee:
- Adults: INR 35
- Senior Citizen: INR 15
- Children: INR 15
4. Connaught Palace
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One of the largest circular markets in India, Connaught Palace is a palace in its own right. This gigantic market has two circular structures that house several shops with famous brands worldwide. You can find anything and everything you want for yourself and your friends. The inner circle consists of blocks A to F, which contain braids such as Louis Philippe, Nike, Orra, Pepe, Roopchand Jewellers, Wils Lifestyle, etc. The outer circle has blocks G to P, which contains showrooms such as Rado, Tag Heuer, Omega, Digjam, etc.
Timings: 10:30 am to 9:30 pm
Tickets: Free of cost
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5. Museum Of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is one of the branches of the World of Illusions in India. The entire place is filled with different optical and other kinds of illusions that trick your eyes and mind. Enjoy exploring the creative setup of these activities, which are bound to make your day. It is not only a place for children to have fun, but their families of any age group must and should join. There are so many tricks that will leave you boggled up. Several fun activities trick and deceive your mind, proving how fun science can be.
Timings: 11 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee:
- Adults: INR 650
- Children: INR 520
How To Reach Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
By Air:
The closest airports to the Gurudwara are Indira Gandhi International Airport (12.6 km), Safdarjung Airport (6.2 km), and Hindon Airport (19.8 km). Due to the Gurudwara’s ideal location, it is easy to reach either of these airports. The commute is hassle-free. You can either go via taxi, bus, or metro.
By Rail:
New Delhi Railway Station (3 km), Old Delhi Railway Station (9.2 km), and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (7.9 km) are the best available options for tourists or people in general looking to travel via train. As the stations are quite near, commuting will be fine.
By Road:
The highways are well-connected to Delhi, so you can enjoy a road trip with your family and friends. Most of the major cities in India are well-connected to Delhi, and buses—both private and public—often commute to Delhi and other places in North India. Some even travel across state borders.
By Metro:
There are two ways of reaching Gurudwara: by metro or by metro. The first route is to reach Rajiv Chowk and exit from Gate No. 1 towards Janpath Market. A walk of 15 minutes will lead you to the Gurudwara. The following route is to reach the Shivaji Stadium metro and walk till you reach your destination.
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New Delhi is a playground waiting to be explored by those seeking thrilling adventures. If you are one of them, then hurry and book your tickets to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and plan a trip to Delhi with your loved ones to enjoy a peaceful retreat in the capital of India.
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Cover Image Credit: Ken Wieland for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Is there an entry fee for visiting the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib?
No, no entry fee is required to enter the shrine of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. But you can donate the money for the well-being of the gurudwara.
Are people allowed to take pictures inside the Gurudwara?
Taking pictures inside the Gurudwara is prohibited as it disturbs the peace and the devotees who are busy praying. However, you can take photos from outside or in permitted places.
Are tourists allowed to participate in the Langar?
Of course, tourists can participate in the kitchen and serve the meals irrespective of their identity.
What are the timings of the Gurudwara?
The Gurudwara is open 24/7. Visiting hours are only affected when there are any special ceremonies or events planned.
When is the best time to visit the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib?
It is advised that the summer season should be avoided in Delhi as the heat could be unbearable. It is safer to travel during the months of October-November or March-April
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