Gravesend Gurdwara
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Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara

4.8
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A magnificent Sikh temple and community hub, renowned for its stunning architecture and the practice of selfless service through its free Langar.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Guided tours available

CrowdMedium
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Gravesend Gurdwara

Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara

Best Time

Weekends

Guided tours available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Sikh temple and community hub, renowned for its stunning architecture and the practice of selfless service through its free Langar.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely stunning architecture which has you in awe as soon as you're pulling in towards the car park."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Modest Dress Required

Cover your head and wear modest clothing. Shoes must be removed before entry. :dress:

🙏 Respectful Conduct

Maintain a peaceful demeanor. Avoid loud conversations and be mindful of prayer times. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magnificent Architecture

Magnificent Architecture

Main Darbar Hall

Awe-inspiring design with a golden domed Palki and iconic stained-glass windows.

Serene Prayer Halls

Serene Prayer Halls

Main Sanctum Sanctorum

Find peace and connect with divinity in a tranquil and meditative atmosphere.

Community Langar

Community Langar

Langar Halls

Savor delicious, free vegetarian meals served daily as part of the spiritual practice of Seva.

Sports & Community Facilities

Sports & Community Facilities

Sports Hall & Grounds

Explore boxing, basketball, karate, and football facilities, plus community services.

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Dress Code & Etiquette

Visitors must cover their heads and remove shoes before entering. Modest clothing is recommended. Respectful behavior is expected within the sacred space.

Free Langar (Community Kitchen)

Experience the spiritual practice of Seva by partaking in the free vegetarian meal served daily. Donations are welcome but not required.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Guided tours available
Crowd
Medium
When
Daily
Why
Experience the Langar
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gurdwara guru Nanak darbar parc .ex
gurdwara_parc.ex
34 likes • 453 views

🧥 Modest Dress Required

Cover your head and wear modest clothing. Shoes must be removed before entry. :dress: Instagram

🙏 Respectful Conduct

Maintain a peaceful demeanor. Avoid loud conversations and be mindful of prayer times. :pray: Reddit

GURU NANAK DARBAR DUBAI✨♥️🌏🕊️🙏 *┈┉┅━❀꧁ੴ꧂❀━┅┉┈* #wahegurujiquite #dhangurunanak #pathishala_team #spread_gurbani #fb #page #wahegurujiquote #ardas #Amritvela #gurdwara #janamasthan #nankanasahib #pakistangurdwara #waheguru #Gurdwara #pahuri #Salok #gurbani #Pathishala_naudero #Dailybaani #Gurbanihighlights #Shabadkeertan #Kathakeertan #ikonkar #Shewa #amritvelatrust #ekonkar #wmk #pathishalawahegu...
waheguru_jiquote
282 likes • 83.7K views
Gurdwara Sahib Guru Nanak Darbar Montreal Canada 🇨🇦 #montréal #jameelhassan #sportsjournalist #sikh #montreal #canada
jameelhassan32
176.8K likes • 1.6M views

👟 Shoe Removal Zone

Designated areas for shoe removal are clearly marked. Keep your footwear tidy. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

💧 Hand Washing Stations

Ample facilities for hand washing are available, a key part of the culture. :droplet: Reddit

Sometimes, the soul just needs silence — and His presence. 🙏 At Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Dubai, I found peace that words can’t describe. God knows who stays, who leaves, and who truly cares. 💫 I don’t pray for revenge — only for healing, justice, and peace. And for the strength to always make my parents proud. ❤️ Forever guided by faith, love, and gratitude. 🌸 — BodyByBaljit | MetaKeysByBalj...
bodybybaljit
1.1K likes • 115.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Modest Dress Required

Cover your head and wear modest clothing. Shoes must be removed before entry. :dress: Instagram

🙏 Respectful Conduct

Maintain a peaceful demeanor. Avoid loud conversations and be mindful of prayer times. :pray: Reddit

👟 Shoe Removal Zone

Designated areas for shoe removal are clearly marked. Keep your footwear tidy. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

💧 Hand Washing Stations

Ample facilities for hand washing are available, a key part of the culture. :droplet: Reddit

🍽️ Enjoy the Langar

Partake in the free, delicious vegetarian meal served daily. Donations appreciated. :forkandknifewithplate: Reddit

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful when taking photos, especially during prayer ceremonies. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by the magnificent architecture and the serene, peaceful atmosphere of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara. The free Langar service is a highlight, offering delicious vegetarian meals and embodying the spirit of selfless service. However, a few visitors have reported negative experiences with staff rudeness, which contrasts with the otherwise welcoming environment.

"1st time visited out side India
Gurdwara in Gravesend, Kent, England
.................................................................
One of the biggest and longest Gurdwara
Best place to visit..................................
Apart from prayer hall. There is also a sports hall, including boxing, basketball and karate. The very big grounds are used for outdoor sports including football.
.................................................................
................................................................."

Gopesh Kumar

"I visited for the first ever time for a wedding. Absolutely stunning architecture which has you in awe as soon as you're pulling in towards the car park.

The beautiful visuals continue as you enter the Gurdwara, and more importantly of course, the peaceful aura of where you are, in a home of divinity.

Sadly, the same positivity can not be extended to the people involved with running things here.

After paying my respects to SGGS, I was leaving but a relative briefly stopped me to speak to me. In this moment I had a lapse of thinking and forgot I still had my back turned to SGGS for around 10-20 seconds. I fully admit my mistake.

I felt a firm shove in my back and turned around to see one of their administrators who then rudely and aggressively told me to get out because they wanted to empty the hall quickly for the next event. Out of surprise, I instinctively replied "sorry?". He repeated himself again, this time in English, and more disrespectfully than before, but now added that I'd also had my back turned to SGGS and reprimanded me for it.

Out of shock and respect for the surroundings, I quietly left without resorting to responding in the same manner. My father (who has taken amrit) was furious when he heard about this, and said I should've retaliated.

I must also mention that the Anand Karaj and the rest of the ceremony was by far the lengthiest I've ever sat through. Everyone was amazed by how long it was drawn out, so if it's about business and venue turnover, he should look at the lack of efficiency there.

I later found out the same man had angrily reprimanded a photographer for getting the groom to pose in front of the building outside, because of his back being to the Gurdwara. At this point I would suggest walking backwards when you're leaving.

In all honesty, this kind of approach is going to drive people in this area away from Sikhi. For the part where I absent-mindedly made a mistake, there are much better ways of handling it. If he does this to the wrong person, there will be a jaloose incident which will make the community look terrible.

Such a bitter end to what had been a lovely day here."

Dal

"Beautiful place and architecture they made me feel very welcome. Te place is very clean, you must remove your shoes before entering to the temple and cover your hair… They’re are many places where you can was your hands I think is part of the culture. Food is served for free I could not believe that and it was delicious vegetarian curries . The toilets were clean. They have parking and nice grounds to walk around"

Ljubica Banic

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Peaceful atmosphere
Free Langar meal

What People Dislike

Rude staff encounters

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is located in Gravesend, Kent, UK.Instagram It's also noted as being in Dubai Instagram and Montreal, Canada,Instagram indicating multiple prominent Gurdwaras with this name. Always confirm the specific location you intend to visit. The Gravesend location is noted as the largest in the UK and Europe.Instagram

The Gravesend Gurdwara is accessible by public transport and car. Ample parking is available on-site.Reddit Specific public transport routes can be found on local travel websites.

Yes, the Gurdwara has parking facilities, including two car parks.InstagramReddit This is a significant advantage for visitors traveling by car.

Yes, guided tours are offered at weekends, making it easier to learn about the history and significance of the Gurdwara.Instagram

The Gurdwara welcomes school and educational visits, providing an opportunity to learn about Sikh culture and traditions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Gurdwara is free. It is a place of worship and community service, open to all. Donations are welcome but not mandatory.Reddit

While specific hours can vary, Gurdwaras are generally open from early morning to late evening. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most accurate timing information, especially for specific prayer services or events.

Yes, visitors must cover their heads and remove their shoes before entering. Modest clothing is also recommended.Instagram

Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be respectful, especially during prayer ceremonies. Avoid intrusive photography and always be mindful of others' privacy.Instagram

No, the Langar is a free community meal. It's a fundamental part of Sikh practice, offering sustenance to all visitors regardless of their background.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is a significant spiritual and community center, known for its impressive architecture and the practice of Seva (selfless service), particularly through the Langar.Instagram+1

Beyond prayer halls, the Gurdwara boasts sports facilities like boxing, basketball, and karate, as well as grounds for football. It also offers various community services.InstagramReddit

Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as serene, peaceful, and divine, offering a space for meditation and spiritual connection.InstagramReddit

Absolutely. The main sanctum sanctorum is a perfect place for meditation and connecting with your spiritual self.Reddit

Key practices include covering your head, removing shoes, and participating in the Langar. Respectful behavior and a quiet demeanor are highly valued.InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Gurdwara serves a free vegetarian meal called Langar daily. It's a delicious and wholesome experience.Reddit

The Langar typically serves simple, delicious vegetarian dishes, often including curries, rice, and bread.Reddit

Langar is served daily, usually at set times. It's best to inquire upon arrival or check their schedule for exact timings.Reddit

Donations are always welcome and help support the free meal service. However, participation in the Langar is free for everyone.Reddit

Depending on the specific location, there may be various restaurants and cafes in the vicinity. However, experiencing the Langar is a unique and recommended part of visiting a Gurdwara.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors. Avoid flash photography during prayer times and be mindful of privacy.Instagram

The main Darbar Hall with its intricate architecture, stained-glass windows, and golden domed Palki are particularly stunning. The exterior architecture is also very impressive.InstagramReddit

While not always explicitly stated, it's best practice to avoid photographing individuals without their consent and to refrain from disruptive photography during religious services.Instagram

You can photograph the Langar hall and the food, but be considerate of the people serving and eating. Focus on the communal aspect rather than individual portraits unless permission is granted.

Photos often highlight the grand architecture, the peaceful interiors, the communal Langar, and sometimes wedding ceremonies held there.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara will find a welcoming and enriching environment. The spacious grounds offer room for children to move around, and the sports facilities can be a great way to engage older kids.Reddit The Langar experience is also a valuable lesson in community and sharing for children.Reddit Remember to ensure children are dressed modestly and understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior within the prayer halls.

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking a spiritual experience, the serene prayer halls of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara offer a perfect sanctuary for meditation and reflection.InstagramReddit The peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to connect with the divine are consistently highlighted by visitors. Participating in the Langar can also be a deeply spiritual act of service and community connection.

📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts

The architectural grandeur of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara makes it a dream destination for photographers. The intricate details, stained-glass windows, and golden domes provide endless opportunities for stunning shots.InstagramReddit Be mindful of photography etiquette, especially during prayer times, and focus on capturing the essence of the sacred space and its community.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the Gurdwara

The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is more than just a place of worship; it's a vibrant community hub. It's recognized as one of the largest Gurdwaras outside of India, with the Gravesend location being the largest in the UK and Europe.Instagram+1 The establishment of such a significant Sikh temple in Dubai was a historic moment, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum bestowing land for its construction, marking it as the first official Sikh temple in the Gulf region.Instagram This underscores the importance of these Gurdwaras in fostering religious freedom and community identity globally.

These Gurdwaras embody the core Sikh principles of Seva (selfless service) and Sangat (congregation). The Langar, or community kitchen, is a central feature, offering free vegetarian meals to all visitors, regardless of their background. This practice promotes equality and communal harmony.Reddit Beyond spiritual services, many Gurdwaras, including Guru Nanak Darbar, offer extensive community programs such as Punjabi classes, health and wellbeing services, and youth activities,Instagram making them vital centers for social cohesion.

Architectural Grandeur and Spiritual Ambiance

The architecture of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is consistently praised for its magnificence and ability to inspire awe.Reddit Visitors are often struck by the stunning visuals upon arrival, with features like the golden domed Palki and iconic stained-glass windows creating a breathtaking spectacle.Instagram The interiors are designed to foster a sense of peace and divinity, providing a sanctuary for meditation and spiritual connection.Reddit

The peaceful aura within the Gurdwara is a recurring theme in visitor experiences.InstagramReddit This tranquil environment is conducive to introspection and allows visitors to connect with their inner selves and the divine. The combination of impressive architectural design and a deeply spiritual atmosphere makes visiting the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara a profoundly moving experience for many.

Community and Sports Facilities

Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is renowned for its extensive community and sports facilities, extending its role beyond a place of worship. The complex often includes a sports hall equipped for activities like boxing, basketball, and karate, catering to the physical well-being of the community.Reddit Furthermore, large grounds are utilized for outdoor sports, including football, providing ample space for recreation and community engagement.InstagramReddit

In addition to sports, these Gurdwaras serve as hubs for various community services. These can range from educational programs like Punjabi classes and Gurmat Sangeet (Sikh music) to health and wellbeing initiatives.Instagram This holistic approach ensures that the Gurdwara supports not only the spiritual needs but also the social, educational, and physical development of its community members.

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