Guru Nanak Jayanti
The birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru
Significance
Marks the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1469 — the founder of Sikhism. Gurpurab is the most important festival for Sikhs worldwide.
The Golden Temple is illuminated end to end; thousands of Sikhs gather for the 48-hour Akhand Path (non-stop recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib). Nagar Kirtan processions wind through Amritsar led by the Panj Pyare and the Palki Sahib.
First-time visitor
Arrive on Prabhat Pheri morning, walk the full Nagar Kirtan route, end with langar at the Golden Temple.
What to see
- 48-hour Akhand Path begins 2 days prior
- Nagar Kirtan — 5 km procession led by Panj Pyare
- Langar served to 200,000+ daily
- Golden Temple full illumination
Festival foods
Best for
Travel tips
- 1The Palki Sahib ceremony at 4 AM is the most sacred moment
- 2Carry a head covering — mandatory inside the complex
- 3Volunteer in the langar kitchen for 2 hours — unforgettable
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Golden Temple
Punjab
Also known as Harmandir Sahib, it is the preeminent spiritual site of Sikhism.
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Questions & Answers
About Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026 is scheduled for 23–24 Nov 2026. That's 213 days from today.
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