Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib : History, Architecture, Location and Timing

Delhi houses the maximum number of historical and cultural structures in India. Most of these structures exemplify the cultural diversity that India has always cherished from an early age. One such notable worshiping house that forms an integral part of the country’s religion and history is the Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib. Built in the 17th century, the shrine pays an ode to the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, and has become one of the major tourist attractions in Old Delhi. So, if you are planning to explore the city’s gems, this detailed guide from Shri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara will be of great help.

According to the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara history tales, the place wasn’t initially built as a shrine like other gurudwaras. Instead, it served as a residential bungalow and went by the name of Jaisinghpura Palace. The then king of Amber and key personnel of Aurangajeb’s court, Mirza Raja Jai Singh, built the place during the 17th century. Later on, the 8th Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, started residing at the bungalow after visiting Delhi. At that time, the smallpox epidemic suddenly broke out in Delhi and led to a devastating situation.

Many people fell sick and even died due to the disease. Guru Har Krishan took it upon himself to supply water from the well within his residential complex to all the affected people. This simple act proved his kindness, and people started to seek comfort in him. But the Guru himself wasn’t immune to the disease and finally succumbed to death after getting sick due to smallpox. After his demise, Raja Jai Singh commemorated the bungalow in the loving memory of Guru Har Krishan, thereby renaming it as Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib. He even constructed a tank around the well from where the Guru used to carry water for the affected people in nearby areas.

The entire architecture of Bangla Sahib Gurudwara closely resembles Sikh culture in many aspects. Even though the entire structure is made using white marble, its top features a gold dome and forms one of the distinctive features of the complex. Apart from this, the Nishan Sahib flag mast is hoisted at the top of the dome and can be seen even from a far distance. The tank, which was built over the well, adds more appeal to the structure’s overall aesthetics. Its front wall is adorned with numerous carvings featuring intricate detailing and phrases from the Sikh religion. Over the years, the structure received numerous modifications in the form of a langar kitchen, a museum, a library, and a small hospital.

One of the key aspects of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Delhi is its community kitchen. Over the years, several people have volunteered to work here. Every day, they cook vegetarian meals for 10,000 people, ensuring to carry on the legacy of Guru Har Krishan and pay homage to his kindness. The community kitchen feeds everyone without considering their religion, sect, cultural background, race, and other such demographics. Apart from the langar, the Gurudwara also has a museum known as the Baba Baghel Singh Museum. Here, you can learn more about Sikhism, the ten gurus of the Sikh community, and several other Sikhs martyrs.

Since the Gurudwara keeps its doors open for people throughout the year, you won’t have to worry about not being able to explore this spot during your trip to Old Delhi. However, before you plan your itinerary, do consider the Bangla Sahib timings so that you can explore the entire complex and even have a meal at the langar without any hassle. Since the Gurudwara remains open 24/7, you can visit the place at any time. On the contrary, if you are planning to have a meal at the community kitchen with others, visit the Gurudwara between 9 AM to 3 PM and 7 PM to 10 PM, just on time for Bangla Sahib Gurudwara Delhi langar timings.

The Bangla Sahib Gurudwara location is very easy to access, thanks to its central position in Connaught Place, Delhi. It is close to the Patel Chowk metro station on the Yellow line and the Rajiv Chowk station on the Blue/Yellow line. So, you can avail metro from your location since it is the fastest way to reach Gurudwara. If you are coming from New Delhi Railway Station, the best travel option will be an auto rickshaw. Other than this, if you do not want to avail of public transport, renting a car seems to be the best option.

As there is no fixed Bangla Sahib Gurudwara closing time, exploring other tourist spots near this complex sounds quite exciting. Start with visiting Jantar Mantar, located at a distance of 1 Km from the Gurudwara. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it is a go-to destination for astronomy and physics lovers. If you want to have a scrumptious meal or shop to your heart’s content, visiting the Connaught Palace is a great option. Since it is located at an approximate distance of 1.8 Km, you can walk to the market from the Gurudwara or take an auto rickshaw. Another famous tourist spot near the Gurdwara is the Birla Temple, located at 1.4 Km. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has become one of the key religious sites for Hindus. Visit the temple after sundown to experience the glory of evening aarti and bhajans. Take a taxi from outside the Gurudwara and visit the India Gate, located 3.5 Km away.

Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib is indeed one of the most prominent religious spots for the Sikh community. Its rich historical background and cultural significance contribute to attracting a huge flock of tourists and locals every year. Since it is located in Connaught Place Area, one of the busiest communities in Delhi, you can opt to stay at Bloom Hotels in Delhi, each location is prime. Choosing one of these Bloom Hotels according to your requirements will make your life so much easier and save you ample time. The hotels are centrally located and offer numerous transportation options to tourists. So, you don’t have to worry about not being able to reach the Gurudwara at the right time.