Visiting a Gurdwara
Everyone is Welcome
Whether you're attending for the first time, joining a friend, or simply curious — this guide will help you feel comfortable and know what to expect.
The 5 Things to Know
Cover your head
Scarves are provided free at the entrance
Remove shoes
Shoe racks are at the door
Free meal (Langar)
Everyone eats together — always free
Sit on the floor
Everyone sits equally, chairs available for those who need them
All are welcome
No matter your faith, caste, or background
Before You Go
What to Wear
- ✓Dress modestly — cover your arms and legs. Loose, comfortable clothing works best since you'll be sitting on the floor.
- ✓You'll need to cover your head. Bring a scarf, bandana, or hat — or use one of the free head coverings (called Rumaal) available at every Gurdwara entrance.
- ✓Socks are recommended since you'll remove your shoes. The floors are clean but can be cold.
- ✗Avoid wearing anything with tobacco or alcohol logos. Do not bring any tobacco, alcohol, or drugs into the Gurdwara.
What to Bring
- ✓Nothing is required — just yourself. You don't need to bring offerings, though some visitors bring fresh fruit or flowers.
- ✓If you want to contribute, there's usually a donation box (Golak) — but this is entirely optional and there's no pressure.
When to Go
Most Gurdwaras hold their main service (Diwan) on Sunday mornings, typically from 10am to 1pm, followed by Langar. However, Gurdwaras are generally open every day, and many have morning (Amrit Vela) and evening (Rehras) services daily. Check the specific Gurdwara's schedule — you can find it on their page in our directory.
When You Arrive
Remove Your Shoes
There will be a shoe rack or room near the entrance. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness — the same way you might remove shoes when entering someone's home.
Cover Your Head
If you didn't bring a head covering, pick up a free Rumaal (cloth) from the basket near the entrance. Everyone — men, women, and children — covers their head inside the Gurdwara.
Wash Your Hands
There's usually a sink or hand-washing area before entering the main hall. This is about cleanliness and preparation.
Enter the Darbar Sahib (Main Hall)
The main hall is where Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (the Sikh holy scripture) is placed on a raised platform called the Palki Sahib. As you enter, you'll see people walking towards it, bowing, and then sitting down. As a visitor, you can simply walk in quietly, bow your head respectfully (or just stand respectfully), and find a place to sit on the floor. No one will judge you if you don't bow — just be respectful.
Sit and Listen
Sit cross-legged on the floor (cushions or sheets are provided). If sitting on the floor is difficult, chairs are usually available at the sides or back. Don't point your feet towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — tuck them under you or to the side. The service includes Kirtan (hymns sung with music), Katha (explanations of scripture), and Ardas (community prayer).
Receive Karah Prasad
At the end of the service, everyone receives Karah Prasad — a warm, sweet offering made from equal parts flour, sugar, butter, and water. Cup both hands together (right over left) to receive it. It's vegetarian, and it's considered a blessing. If you prefer not to take it, simply say “no thank you” politely.
Langar — The Community Meal
After the service, everyone is invited to Langar — a free meal served to all visitors regardless of faith, caste, colour, or social status. This tradition was started by Guru Nanak Dev Ji over 500 years ago as a revolutionary practice of equality.
What to Expect
- • Everyone sits on the floor in rows (Pangat) — this represents equality
- • The food is always vegetarian and freshly prepared
- • Volunteers (Sevadars) serve the food — you don't need to queue
- • Common dishes: Daal (lentils), Sabzi (vegetables), Roti (bread), Rice, Kheer (dessert)
- • You can ask for more — there's always plenty
Langar Etiquette
- • Wash your hands before eating
- • Sit cross-legged on the floor in a row
- • Wait for servers to come to you
- • Only take what you can eat — don't waste food
- • Wash your own plate and utensils after eating (there's a washing area)
- • If you want to help, you can volunteer to serve or wash dishes — Sevadars always appreciate the help
Common Questions
Do I need to be Sikh to visit a Gurdwara?
Absolutely not. Gurdwaras are open to everyone — people of all faiths, no faith, all backgrounds. You will be warmly welcomed.
Can I take photos?
Generally yes, but ask first and be discreet. Never photograph during Ardas (the standing prayer) and always show respect towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Some Gurdwaras have specific photography policies.
Do I have to participate in the prayers?
No. You can simply sit quietly, observe, and listen. No one will pressure you to pray, bow, or participate in any ritual. Just be respectful.
What if I accidentally do something wrong?
Don't worry. Sikhs are known for their hospitality and understand that visitors may not know the customs. If you make a mistake, no one will be offended — just be respectful and open.
Can I bring my children?
Yes! Children are welcome. They should also cover their heads and remove shoes. Many Gurdwaras have Sunday schools (Khalsa Schools) for children to learn about Sikh history and Punjabi language.
Is there a dress code for women specifically?
The same modest dress code applies to everyone. Women do not need to wear any specific garment — just cover your head, arms, and legs. Trousers, long skirts, and salwar kameez are all fine.
How long should I stay?
There is no minimum or maximum. A full Sunday service is typically 2-3 hours including Langar, but you can come and go quietly at any time. Even a 30-minute visit is perfectly fine.
What language is the service in?
The hymns (Kirtan) are in Gurmukhi (the Punjabi script), but many Gurdwaras include English explanations, especially in Western countries. The community conversations around Langar are usually in the local language.
Why Visit a Gurdwara?
Cultural Experience
Experience one of the world's most welcoming religious traditions firsthand. The music, community, and food create a unique and moving experience.
Interfaith Understanding
Building bridges between communities starts with understanding. Visiting a Gurdwara is one of the easiest ways to learn about Sikh values of equality, service, and devotion.
Community & Food
Where else can you walk in as a stranger, be treated as family, and enjoy a home-cooked vegetarian meal — all for free? That's the power of Langar.
Ready to Visit?
Find a Gurdwara near you and check their service times. Remember — you don't need an invitation, appointment, or membership. Just show up.
Know someone visiting a Gurdwara for the first time? Share this guide with them.