The roots of Sikhism can be traced to the very heart of Pakistan. The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev, was born in 1469 in Nankana, then part of undivided India. Centuries later, traces of the teachings of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism can still be found here. From the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev to the site of Guru Arjan Dev&rsquos martyrdom, several such places are now marked with gurudwaras. Here are five historical and holy gurudwaras in Pakistan you cannot miss on your visit to our neighbouring country.
Gurudwara Janam Asthan Sahib, Nankana Sahib
Located approximately 65kms from Lahore, Gurudwara Janam Asthan Sahib is one of the most revered places for Sikhs from all over the world. Previously known as Rai-Bhoi-Di-Talwandi, the town was renamed Nankana Sahib after Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, who was born there.
Gurudwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal
Located in Hasan Abdal, near the city of Islamabad, the 19th century gurudwara attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. It is particularly important to Sikhs because legend has it that it has an imprint of Guru Nanak&rsquos hand on a boulder.
Gurudwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur
Considered one of the holiest sites of the Sikhs, Gurudwara Darbar Sahib is built on the holy and historic site where Guru Nanak settled after his missionary work. He preached for 18 years here, and breathed his last. Located in Kartarpur in the Narowal district of Punjab in Pakistan, it is one of the most important sites of Sikhism along with the Golden Temple and Janam Asthan Sahib.
Gurudwara Dera Sahib, Lahore
Built at the site of the martyrdom of the 5th Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev, this gurudwara is located just outside the walled city of Lahore. It is a part of an ensemble of historical monuments in Lahore, along with the Lahore Fort, Ranjit Singh&rsquos Samadhi, Badshahi Mosque, Hazuri Bagh and the Roshnai Gate.
Gurudwara Rori Sahib, Eminabad
In the old town of Eminabad, some 15 kms away from Gujrariwala, Gurudwara Rori Sahib is located at the site where Guru Nanak is believed to have taken refuge from the pillage of Eminabad by Babur.