Nanakmatta Gurudwara, Uttarakhand
Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib is a historical holy shrine for Sikhs that is visited by devotees in large numbers every month. The town is named after the Gurudwara.
Situated on the Khtima-Panipat road between Khatima and Sitarganj, the place has emerged in deep history. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji came to this place in the year 1514 during his 3rd udasi. Before that, the Gurudwara was devoted to Guru Gorakhnath and houses his follower's Yogis or Siddhas. The belief is that the Yogis didn't let the commoners become learned and used their occult powers to stop them. It was Guru Nanak Ji who enlightened the Yogis to the way of meditation and salvation.
History & Mythological Significance of Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib
Historically, the site was known as Gorakhmatta, the center of Nath Yogis. The Yogis believed in occult powers and restricted knowledge from reaching the masses. When Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited, he preached against their ideology, promoting education, equality, and devotion to God.
His divine message transformed the Yogis, and the place was renamed:
Gorakhmatta - Nanakmatta
in honor of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Later, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, also visited and further strengthened its religious significance.
The shrine today stands as a symbol of spiritual awakening and the victory of truth over ego.
Baoli Sahib – The Sacred Water Miracle
A key attraction near the Gurudwara is Baoli Sahib, only 2 km away.
According to Sikh tradition:
- Yogis dried up water using supernatural powers
- Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked Bhai Marada to drag a spade on the earth
- Water followed the path he created
- When he turned back, the water stopped, forming the Baoli (stepwell)
This miracle humbled the Yogis and established Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine wisdom.
Location
- District: Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand
- Nearest Towns: Khatima, Sitarganj
- Setting: Peaceful spiritual surroundings near Nanaksagar Lake
Gurudwara Timings & Facilities
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Darshan Timings | Open 24×7 |
| Langar (Community Kitchen) | Available day & night |
| Accommodation | Clean Sarai & rooms for pilgrims |
| Main Prayer Time | Early Morning – Night Kirtan |
| Entry Fee | Free for all |
Quick Highlights of Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib
- Dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji
- Major Sikh pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand
- Associated with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji as well
- Peaceful environment ideal for meditation & spiritual learning
- Offers 24×7 langar and accommodation facilities for pilgrims
Best Time to Visit Nanakmatta Gurudwara
| Season | Months | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | October – March | Best for pilgrimage; pleasant weather |
| Summer | April – June | Warm afternoons; suitable for half-day visits |
| Monsoon | July – September | Lush greenery, but occasional travel delays |
- Ideal months: October to March
- Visit during Gurpurabs for a grand spiritual experience
Nearby Attractions from Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib
| Attraction | Distance | What to See |
|---|---|---|
| Baoli Sahib | 2 km | Sacred stepwell linked to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s miracle |
| Nanaksagar Dam & Reservoir | 1–2 km | Calm waters, photography, birdwatching |
| Purnagiri Temple (Tanakpur) | 50 km | The famous Shaktipeeth is located on a hilltop |
| Gurudwara Shri Nankana Sahib, Kashipur | 80 km | Major Sikh shrine with grand Gurpurab celebrations |
| Shri Gurdwara Reetha Sahib | 130 km | Known for miraculous sweet Reetha trees blessed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Sitarganj City | 20 km | Local markets & eateries |
| Khatima | 17 km | Gateway to Nepal & Terai region attractions |
These nearby places make a perfect spiritual + nature exploration circuit for devotees visiting Nanakmatta.
How to Reach Nanakmatta Gurudwara
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Pantnagar Airport – 65 km |
| By Train | Nanakmatta Railway Station – nearest |
| By Road | Well connected to Rudrapur, Khatima, Sitarganj, and Nainital |
Regular local buses and taxis are available.
Top Things to Do
- Attend Gurbani Kirtan & Ardas
- Participate in Seva (selfless service)
- Visit Baoli Sahib
- Walk along Nanaksagar Lake for serene views
- Explore small markets for religious souvenirs
Travel Tips
- Cover your head before entering the Gurudwara
- Remove footwear outside the prayer hall
- Respect the sanctity & maintain silence inside
- Volunteer in Langar & Seva if possible
- Book rooms early during major festivals
Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib is not just a revered Sikh pilgrimage site; it is a divine reminder of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings that transformed this land into a center of wisdom, peace, and spirituality. Surrounded by historic spots like Baoli Sahib and the serene Nanaksagar Lake, the Gurudwara offers devotees a soul-soothing experience and a deep connection to Sikh heritage. A visit here promises blessings, inner calm, and a spiritually enriching journey that stays with you forever.
