How and when should I visit the Gurdwara?

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Q: How and when should I visit the Gurdwara?

A: All Gurdwaras are open 24 hours a day, all year round. People visit Gurdwara whenever they have time. There is no set time or day to visit the Gurdwara, however most people visit the Gurdwara on Sunday at 10 am. Before entering the main hall of the Gurdwara, remove your shoes and cover your head. A basket is usually place besides the door of the main hall, which contains small pieces of cloth. If you do not wear a turban, please pick one of the cloths from the basket and cover your head with it. Never enter a Gurdwara if you have consumed alcohol or if you have any cigarettes or tobacco on you. After you have covered your head, enter the main hall and walk up to the altar where the Sikh Holy Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib Ji is placed. Bow your head and place offering of money as a sign of respect and then join the congregation seated on the carpeted floor. The common way to sit is cross-legged on the floor but be aware that sitting with legs stretched out with feet pointing towards the Guru Granth Sahib is disrespectful.

The service at the Gurdwara normally consists of a combination of sermons and singing of shabads. All ends with the Ardaas, a special prayer that is spoken by the priest while the congregation stands with folded hands. The blessed pudding of Parsad, is then distributed to all. It is important that no part of the Parsad should fall on the floor as it is considered disrespectful. Then walk up to the dining hall for Langar (free kitchen). It is important that you get only what you intend to eat and do not leave food in your plate.

If at any point you need help or have questions, please ask anyone to help you before entering the main hall. People in Gurdwara are very friendly and will guide you through the whole process. If you are still confused or hesitate on how to enter the Gurdwara, please contact us and let us know which Gurdwara (Name, City, State, Country) you wish to visit and on what day you want to visit the Gurdwara. We will make a phone call and have someone at the Gurdwara to help you out beforehand.

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