Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib, commonly called Nanakmatta Gurudwara, is one of the important Sikh pilgrimage sites in Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. The shrine is associated primarily with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who is traditionally believed to have visited the place during his travels. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the Sixth Sikh Guru, is also closely associated with the site.
Nanakmatta is located between Khatima and Sitarganj and is connected by road with other important towns of Uttarakhand and the Terai region. The main gurdwara complex includes several historically important shrines and religious sites, making Nanakmatta more than a single gurdwara building.
Quick Information
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib |
| Popular name | Nanakmatta Gurudwara |
| Location | Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand |
| PIN Code | 262311 |
| Main Guru associated | Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Other major association | Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji |
| Religion | Sikhism |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Timings | Public listing shows 24 hours |
| Langar | Available |
| Nearest railway station | Khatima |
| Nearest airport | Pantnagar |
| Nearby attraction | Nanak Sagar |
| Road access | Khatima–Sitarganj route |
The current business listing shows 24-hour opening for Gurudwara Shree Nanakmatta Sahib. Religious programmes may have their own schedules, so visitors attending a particular diwan or ceremony should confirm the timing locally.
History of Nanakmatta Gurudwara
The history of Nanakmatta Sahib is closely connected with Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s travels.
According to the official Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee website, Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited Nanakmatta during his Third Udasi, traditionally dated by the committee to 1514 AD. Uttarakhand Tourism gives 1515 AD for the visit. Because historical sources use slightly different dates, it is safer to describe the visit as belonging to the early 16th century rather than treating one year as certain.
At the time, the area was traditionally known as Gorakhmata and was associated with yogic traditions.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s visit and spiritual discussions at the site became central to its later Sikh identity. The place eventually came to be known as Nanakmatta.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Connection
Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the principal Guru associated with Nanakmatta Sahib.
The official gurdwara committee describes the main gurdwara as being built in memory of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It also identifies the historic Pipal tree and other sites within the complex as important parts of Nanakmatta’s Sikh heritage.
The traditional history of the site connects Guru Nanak’s visit with spiritual discussions with the yogis who were present there.
This connection makes Nanakmatta an important destination for devotees interested in the travels and teachings of the First Sikh Guru.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Nanakmatta
Nanakmatta is also associated with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the Sixth Sikh Guru.
The official gurdwara committee records that Baba Almast Sahib Ji was serving at the shrine and later sought Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s assistance when the site was being occupied by Gorakhpanthi yogis. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji subsequently visited Nanakmatta and restored the site as a Sikh shrine according to the traditional account.
A separate Gurudwara 6th Patshahi is located about 1.5 km from the main gurdwara and commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s association with the area.
Important Places Inside the Nanakmatta Complex
One of the main attractions of Nanakmatta is that several historic Sikh sites are located in and around the town.
Main Gurudwara
The main Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib is dedicated to the memory of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The official committee states that it is around 700 metres from the main Kichha–Khatima Road. Its campus includes the historic Pipal tree, Gurudwara 6th Patshahi and a sacred sarovar.
Historic Pipal Tree
The Pipal tree is one of the most significant features associated with Nanakmatta Sahib.
According to the traditional account maintained by the gurdwara committee, the tree is connected with Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s visit to the site. The tree and the surrounding area are treated with great reverence by devotees.
Gurudwara Baba Almast Sahib
This shrine commemorates Baba Almast Sahib Ji, who is closely associated with the history of Nanakmatta.
The official committee’s account says Baba Almast served at the shrine and later sought assistance from Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji when the site was reclaimed by the yogis.
Gurudwara Bhandara Sahib
Gurudwara Bhandara Sahib is another historic shrine near the main gurdwara.
The traditional account says that food appeared from the branches of a banyan tree and helped satisfy Bhai Mardana Ji’s hunger. The official gurdwara committee identifies Bhandara Sahib as one of the historically important sites of Nanakmatta.
Gurudwara Doodh Wala Kuan
Doodh Wala Kuan is associated with a historic well.
According to the traditional account preserved by the gurdwara committee, Guru Nanak Dev Ji drew milk from the cows of the yogis and stored it in a well. The site is now known as Doodh Wala Kuan.
Gurudwara 6th Patshahi
This shrine is dedicated to the association of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji with Nanakmatta.
It is situated approximately 1.5 km from the main gurdwara, according to the official committee’s information.
Nanakmatta Sagar
Nanak Sagar is another important attraction associated with the town.
The Kumaon Mandal government website states that Nanakmatta has a large dam known as Nanak Sagar, constructed on the Saryu River. The reservoir has also contributed to the development of Nanakmatta as a tourist and pilgrimage destination.
The religious complex and Nanak Sagar together make the town suitable for visitors combining pilgrimage with a short local sightseeing trip.
Langar at Nanakmatta Gurudwara
Guru Ka Langar is an important part of Sikh religious practice, providing free food to visitors regardless of their background.
Nanakmatta Sahib has arrangements for langar as part of its pilgrimage facilities. The gurdwara complex also accommodates large numbers of devotees during important religious occasions.
Visitors can participate in langar respectfully and may also contribute through seva.
The exact daily serving schedule is not clearly published on the official website, so visitors planning their journey around langar should confirm the current arrangements locally.
Accommodation and Facilities
Nanakmatta is an established pilgrimage centre and has facilities for visitors.
The Kumaon Mandal government website specifically notes the availability of a tourist rest house and gurdwara accommodation for night stay.
The gurdwara committee also operates facilities connected with the administration and accommodation of visitors. Its official website lists the Shri Guru Nanak Guest House, although this particular guest house is intended for official guests and requires prior permission.
Visitors should therefore confirm accommodation availability and booking requirements before travelling.
Timings of Nanakmatta Gurudwara
The current public business listing shows the main Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib as open 24 hours.
| Visitor detail | Information |
| General opening | 24 hours according to current public listing |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Langar | Available |
| Religious programmes | May have separate timings |
| Night visit | Check local arrangements |
For early-morning or late-night visits, especially during major festivals, checking with the gurdwara management is advisable.
Major Religious Events
Nanakmatta Sahib hosts religious programmes throughout the year.
One particularly notable event is the Deepavali Mela at Nanakmatta Sahib. The Ministry of Tourism’s Utsav portal states that three-day religious programmes are held from Deepavali and that a larger fair is also organised on the gurdwara premises. Arrangements can include langar, parking and emergency services.
Other Sikh occasions observed at the shrine can include:
- Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab
- Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji-related programmes
- Baisakhi
- Akhand Path
- Gurbani Kirtan
- Religious diwans
- Nagar Kirtan
- Langar and seva activities
The scale of gatherings can be considerably larger during major festivals.
How to Reach Nanakmatta Gurudwara
By Road
Nanakmatta is situated between Khatima and Sitarganj in Udham Singh Nagar district.
The gurdwara is accessible from the Khatima–Panipat route, making road travel the most convenient option for many visitors.
Buses, taxis and private vehicles can be used to reach Nanakmatta.
By Train
Khatima Railway Station is the most convenient railway option commonly cited for Nanakmatta.
Uttarakhand Tourism’s festival information gives the distance from Khatima Railway Station as approximately 15 km, while other government sources give slightly different distances depending on the route and reference point.
Visitors should check the current rail schedule and arrange onward road transport.
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport.
The Kumaon Mandal government website gives the airport distance as approximately 56 km, while the Uttarakhand Tourism event page gives about 55 km.
Taxis can be used for the onward journey.
From Delhi
Visitors travelling from Delhi can reach Nanakmatta by road towards the Kumaon/Terai region and continue through Khatima or Sitarganj.
Bus services and private taxis are available on the broader Delhi–Uttarakhand route, but travellers should check current schedules before starting the journey.
Gurdwara Etiquette
Visitors should follow standard Sikh religious etiquette:
- Cover your head before entering the Darbar Sahib.
- Remove your footwear at the designated place.
- Wear clean and modest clothing.
- Maintain silence and respect during Gurbani and kirtan.
- Do not point your feet towards Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
- Follow instructions given by sevadars.
- Avoid photography where it is restricted.
- Keep the complex clean.
- Participate respectfully in langar.
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol on the premises.
The gurdwara welcomes visitors from different backgrounds, but everyone should respect the religious environment.
Nearby Places
Visitors can combine a pilgrimage to Nanakmatta Sahib with nearby attractions such as:
- Nanak Sagar
- Khatima
- Sitarganj
- Gurudwara 6th Patshahi
- Gurudwara Bhandara Sahib
- Gurudwara Doodh Wala Kuan
- Gurudwara Baba Almast Sahib
The different historic gurdwaras around Nanakmatta make it worthwhile to allow enough time rather than visiting only the main shrine.
Why Visit Nanakmatta Gurudwara?
Nanakmatta Sahib is particularly significant for visitors interested in:
- The travels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
- Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s history.
- Historic Sikh shrines in Uttarakhand.
- Sikh traditions of langar and seva.
- Historic religious sites associated with Baba Almast Sahib Ji.
- Nanak Sagar and the surrounding Terai landscape.
It is also one of the important Sikh pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand and attracts devotees throughout the year.
Visitor Tips
- Plan extra time to visit the subsidiary historic gurdwaras around the main complex.
- Check religious programme timings before travelling for a specific event.
- Confirm accommodation availability in advance during major festivals.
- Carry a head covering.
- Wear comfortable, modest clothing.
- Keep footwear at the designated area.
- Follow instructions from gurdwara sevadars.
- Avoid taking photographs inside restricted areas.
- During major fairs, allow extra time for parking and local traffic.
- If travelling by train or air, arrange onward road transport beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Nanakmatta Gurudwara located?
Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib is located in Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand, between Khatima and Sitarganj.
Which Guru is associated with Nanakmatta Sahib?
The main shrine is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji is also strongly associated with the site’s later history.
Why is Nanakmatta famous?
Nanakmatta is famous as a major Sikh pilgrimage centre associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The town also has several historic gurdwaras and is close to Nanak Sagar.
Is Nanakmatta Gurudwara open 24 hours?
The current public business listing shows the main gurdwara as open 24 hours. Religious services can have their own schedules.
Is langar available at Nanakmatta Sahib?
Yes, langar is an important part of the gurdwara’s facilities and Sikh religious practice. The exact daily serving schedule should be confirmed locally.
Can visitors stay near Nanakmatta Gurudwara?
Yes. Government information notes the availability of a tourist rest house and gurdwara accommodation for night stays. Specific accommodation availability should be confirmed before travelling.
What is Nanak Sagar?
Nanak Sagar is a large reservoir associated with the Nanakmatta area. The Kumaon Mandal government website states that it was created by a dam on the Saryu River.
How far is Nanakmatta from Khatima Railway Station?
Uttarakhand Tourism gives approximately 15 km from Khatima Railway Station to Nanakmatta Sahib. Distances can vary depending on the exact starting point and route.
What other gurdwaras are near the main Nanakmatta Sahib?
The Nanakmatta area includes Gurudwara Baba Almast Sahib, Gurudwara Bhandara Sahib, Gurudwara Doodh Wala Kuan and Gurudwara 6th Patshahi, among other historic sites.
Conclusion
Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib is an important Sikh pilgrimage destination in Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, with a history connected primarily with Guru Nanak Dev Ji and later with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The main gurdwara, historic Pipal tree, subsidiary shrines, sarovar and nearby Nanak Sagar make Nanakmatta a significant religious and cultural destination.
For visitors, Nanakmatta offers both a place of worship and an opportunity to explore several interconnected sites associated with Sikh history. The town is accessible by road from Khatima and Sitarganj, with Khatima Railway Station and Pantnagar Airport providing practical transport options.