Gurudwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib

Gurudwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib, located in Chamkaur Sahib, is a poignant symbol of Sikh valor and sacrifice. The Gurudwara is associated with the fierce battle fought by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in December 1705 against a massive Mughal force.. Faced with overwhelming odds, Guru Ji and a small group of his Sikh warriors made a final stand within a modest fortress.

Guru Ji blessed his elder sons, Sahibzada Ajit Singh and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, sending them into battle with a call to embrace martyrdom for the sake of righteousness. Both Sahibzadas, along with other Sikhs and the Guru’s three beloved ones (Pyare), courageously attained martyrdom, embodying the unwavering spirit of sacrifice and valor in the face of adversity.

The Gurudwara commemorates their unmatched bravery. A pillar here bears inscriptions honoring the spirit of determination shown by the young warriors. Their sacrifice is remembered every year during the Shahidi Jor Mela, held on 6, 7 and 8 Poh (around 20–22 December), drawing thousands of devotees.

This is also the sacred ground where Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji performed the cremation of the martyrs. Defying danger, she ensured the bodies of the Sahibzadas and other martyr sikhs received proper last rites. Among the fallen was also her husband. In this act of honor and bravery, she ultimately lost her life. To commemorate her supreme sacrifice, Gurudwara Sahib Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji has been established in her village of Raipur.

Chamkaur Sahib is home to several historical Gurudwaras. Gurudwara Garhi Sahib stands at the site of the haveli fortified by Guru Ji, while Gurudwara Tarhi Sahib marks the place where Guru Ji departed the Garhi at night. Gurudwara Katalgarh Sahib (also known as Shahid Ganj) is the main shrine, where the elder Sahibzadas, the three Pyaras and other martyred Sikhs were cremated.

The current structure of the Gurudwara was built in the 1960s and includes a domed three-storey building, Akal Buriga Hall, Baoli Sahib and Guru Ka Langar. The shrine is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and hosts monthly and major Sikh calendar events.

How to Reach

To reach Gurudwara Sri Katalgarh Sahib, here are the several options:

By Car: The Gurudwara is easily accessible by car from major Punjab cities like Mohali, Chandigarh, and Ropar. It is about 15 km from Ropar and 40 km from Chandigarh via well-connected roads.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ropar (Rupnagar), around 15 km away. From there, taxis and local buses are available to reach Chamkaur Sahib.
By Bus: Regular buses run from Chandigarh, Mohali, Ropar, and nearby towns to Chamkaur Sahib. From the bus stand, local autos or taxis can take you to the Gurudwara.
By Air: The closest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, approximately 55 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chamkaur Sahib from the airport.

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.