Call 01306 744 656 or
Call 01306 744 656 or
It’s the only place where you’ll see a person who drives a Mercedes Mayback happily polishing shoes…
Aside from being one of the most prominent Sikh temples, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is an emblem of harmony. Born in the 15th Century in the Punjab area amid heightened conflict between Hinduism and Islam, Sikhism carried an important message: ‘there is no Hindu, there is no Muslim,’ meaning everyone is spiritually equal no matter whether you’re black, white, poor or VIP. This is why a Sikh temple is the only place of worship where you’ll see a person who drives a Mercedes Mayback happily polishing shoes, cleaning floors and washing the dishes. What’s important is this service to humanity.
The main highlight is the community kitchen where every day of the year, volunteers practise the concept of langar serving food to over 30,000 worshippers regardless of religion or race. When you visit, sometimes you can help chop vegetables, roll chapatis and serve the pilgrims. It’s an amazing experience.
I explain the different aspects of the religion to guests on an excursion here inside its glittering marble walls and gold onion domes with everything centred around the holy scripture. Aside from aesthetics, the history is interesting too. The temple was originally the bungalow of a 17th Century Mughal ruler and where the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Hari Krishen (at the tender age of 8) stayed during a severe cholera epidemic. He was revered as someone wise and kind beyond his years and personally helped the suffering bringing fresh water to them from the well of his house. The water over which a tank pool has been constructed, Sarovar, is said to have healing powers.
Your journey will start with one of our UK team – someone like Malcolm, who's travelled extensively in India. They’ll shape your ideas into the trip of a lifetime. But they won't do it alone. They'll draw on the expertise of our contacts on the ground, connecting you to the people who'll make your holiday one you'll always remember.
Freephone an expert 01306 744 656
