Gurudwara Nanakwara Sahib is associated with Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who visited this site during his first Udasi (missionary journey). Located near the sacred banks of the Ganges, it stands as a powerful reminder of his message against blind rituals and holds immense spiritual and historical significance for Sikhs.

The main historical incident associated with this site occurred when Guru Nanak Dev Ji arrived in Haridwar during a major religious gathering. He witnessed thousands of Hindu pilgrims standing in the Ganges, offering handfuls of water to the rising sun in the east. The people believed that by offering water to the sun, it would reach their departed ancestors who were thought to reside in that direction.

To challenge the blind faith behind the ritual, Guru Nanak Dev Ji entered the river like the others but began throwing water in the opposite direction—towards the west, where his farmland in Punjab was located. Onlookers quickly told him he was performing the ritual incorrectly. Guru Sahib replied that he was watering his crops. When they laughed and questioned how water could travel such a long distance, Guru Ji calmly asked how their water could reach their ancestors in the next world. This profound response left the crowd speechless and forced many to reflect on the meaningless nature of rituals performed without true understanding.

Today, several small Gurudwaras exist in the area to commemorate Guru Sahib’s visit. However, the individual history and origin of each structure are not clearly documented and local awareness varies.

Unfortunately, despite the importance of the message it represents, Gurudwara Nanakwara is not in good condition. It has seen limited maintenance over the years, with little signage and inadequate facilities. There is a pressing need for restoration and community attention to preserve this vital part of Sikh heritage for future generations.