Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib

Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib Amritsar

After the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji ascended the Guru Gaddi and initiated significant changes to strengthen the Sikh community. Emphasizing both spiritual and temporal power, he adorned two swords, symbolizing Miri (political sovereignty) and Piri (spiritual authority). To assert Sikh sovereignty, he established Sri Akal Takht Sahib and issued hukamnamas instructing Sikhs to be armed and prepared for self-defense.

To protect Amritsar from external threats, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji oversaw the construction of a fortified structure, naming it Lohgarh Fort. This was the first fort of Sikh history, built as a stronghold against Mughal aggression. On 18 May 1629 (Bikrami 1686), during the wedding of his daughter, Bibi Veero, a confrontation arose with the Mughal forces. Mukhlis Khan, a general of Emperor Shah Jahan, launched an attack on Amritsar under the pretense of dispute over a hunting falcon. Guru Sahib strategically responded by organizing Sikh warriors and engaging in battle from within Lohgarh Fort.

In this battle, Guru Sahib employed wooden cannons filled with gunpowder, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity in warfare. Fierce combat took place across various locations, including Lohgarh and Pipli Sahib. Ultimately, Mukhlis Khan was killed, securing a decisive Sikh victory. This marked the first battle of the Khalsa, instilling a sense of strength and resilience within the Sikh community.

After the war, the remaining marriage rituals were completed. A significant relic of this battle still exists today. The beri (tree) from which wooden cannon is made, used by Guru Hargobind Singh Ji in this battle is still stands at the Gurudwara Sahib.

How To Reach

To reach Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib in Amritsar, Punjab, India, you can follow these general directions:

By Air: The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service to reach Gurudwara Qila Lohgarh Sahib. The distance is approximately 13-15 kilometers, and the journey will take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Amritsar Junction or Amritsar Railway Station. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use a ride-sharing service to reach Gurudwara Qila Lohgarh Sahib. The distance is around 3-4 kilometers, and the journey will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Bus: Amritsar has a local bus system. You can inquire about a bus route that passes near Lohgarh Gate or Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus to Amritsar and then use a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or other local transportation to reach the Gurudwara.

By Car/Taxi: If you’re driving, use a navigation app like Google Maps or Apple Maps. Enter “Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib, Lohgarh Gate, Old City, Amritsar, Punjab” as your destination. The app will provide the best route based on current traffic conditions.

Local Transportation: Once you reach the vicinity of Lohgarh Gate, you can use local transportation like auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws to reach Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

Always confirm the directions and mode of transportation based on your starting point and current circumstances. It’s advisable to dress respectfully and follow any customs or traditions when visiting religious sites like Gurudwara Qila Sri Lohgarh Sahib.