Gurudwara Sri Garhi Sahib

Gurudwara Sri Garhi Sahib, located at Chamkaur Sahib, is a historical site associated with one of the most tragic events in Sikh history — the Battle of Chamkaur. After the evacuation from Anandpur Sahib in December 1705 and the attack on the Sarsa River, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, along with his two elder sons—Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji—and a few other devoted Sikhs, reached Chamkaur, where the Mughal army was pursuing them.

To seek refuge, the Guru made a pact with Roop Chand, the owner of a two-story fortified house. Under this, Roop Chand vacated his house and moved with his family to another place, which provided space for the Guru and his companions. This house, with its high walls and a single entrance from the north, served as a temporary citadel and became the site of the legendary battle.

On the night of 6th to 7th December 1705, Guru Gobind Singh Ji organized the defense of the Garhi. Eight Sikhs were stationed on each of the four sides of the structure and Bhai Maan Singh and Bhai Kotha Singh guarded the only entrance. Guru Gobind Singh Ji, along with his sons, occupied the central first floor of the house. On the morning of 7th December, as a large Mughal army surrounded the Garhi, the Sikhs, vastly outnumbered, came out with unmatched bravery to engage in fierce battle.

Sahibzada Ajit Singh, just 18 years old, led one of the first sallies into the battlefield, followed by his younger brother Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, only 14. Both sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji attained martyrdom fighting bravely against the enemy, inspiring generations with their courage and sacrifice. In total, 37 Sikhs attained martyrdom that day, including three of the original Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones).

As the battle raged on and martyrdom seemed certain, the five remaining Sikhs humbly requested Guru Gobind Singh Ji to leave the Garhi in order to continue the mission of protecting the faith. Honoring their plea, Guru Ji left the fort during the night and went towards the forests of Machhiwara, accompanied by Bhai Daya Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh and Bhai Man Singh.

Today, Gurudwara Garhi Sahib stands as a solemn tribute to the sacrifice and valor of these great martyrs. It is situated in the town of Chamkaur Sahib in the Ropar district of Punjab and is well-connected by road to major towns like Ropar, Ludhiana and Chandigarh, via Samrala and Morinda. Every year, from 6th to 8th December, large gatherings of devotees visit the site to pay homage to the martyrdom of Sahibzadas and the valiant Sikhs who stood against tyranny.

To reach Gurudwara Sri Garhi Sahib, here are several options:

  • By Car: Gurudwara Garhi Sahib is easily accessible by car from nearby cities like Ropar, Mohali and Chandigarh. It lies within Chamkaur Sahib town and is connected via good road networks through Morinda and Samrala.

  • By Train: The nearest major railway station is at Ropar (Rupnagar), about 18 km away. From the station, taxis and local buses are available to reach Chamkaur Sahib.

  • By Bus: Regular buses operate to Chamkaur Sahib from major towns like Ropar, Morinda and Chandigarh. From the Chamkaur Sahib bus stop, the Gurudwara is just a short walk or rickshaw ride away.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh, around 60 km from the Gurudwara. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Chamkaur Sahib.

Before setting out, it’s recommended to check the current transportation schedules and availability based on your location. Additionally, once you arrive in Chamkaur Sahib, feel free to ask locals for guidance, as the Gurudwara is a well-known site in the area.

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