Before even Punjab got divided, it is believed that Guru Nanak who was the founder of Sikhism had spent 18 years of his life in the small village of Punjab. On his 550th birth anniversary, that village which is now popular by the name of Kartarpur has been into the limelight for diplomatic and political concerns in South Asia. With nearly 9KM of a stretch between Dera Baba Sahib which is located in India and Gurudwara Shri Kartarpur Sahib which is located in Pakistan, it is believed that there is a Sikh Pilgrim that holds the permission for the people to visit the Shrine without any concern.
All about Kartarpur Sahib Corridor:
Architectural Marvel: The shrine at Kartarpur, with its exquisite architecture, stands as a testament to devotion and craftsmanship. Strategically located on the border, it was inaugurated on November 9, coinciding with Guru Nanak’s birthday, and was also celebrated on November 12, known as Gurupurab.
Significance of Kartarpur: While the history and significance of Kartarpur might remain a mystery to many, for the Sikh community, this corridor holds paramount importance. It serves as a beacon of faith and unity, transcending the borders of India and Pakistan. Recognizing its significance, both governments have made concerted efforts to facilitate the pilgrimage for Sikhs from both nations to the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib.
Bridging Two Punjabs: The Kartarpur Corridor acts as a bridge, connecting two significant shrines located in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. In a gesture of goodwill and respect for the deep-rooted faith of the Sikh community, both countries have collaborated to ensure that the corridor remains accessible to devotees, reflecting the spirit of unity and shared reverence.
The Significance of Kartarpur: A Blend of Belief and History
Kartarpur holds a special place in the hearts of Sikhs worldwide, and its history is deeply intertwined with the founder of Sikhism.
- Founding of Kartarpur: Guru Nanak, the first Guru of Sikhism, is believed to have established Kartarpur. He not only founded this sacred place but also laid the foundation for the Sikh religion.
- Partition and Geographical Division: With the partition of India in 1947, Kartarpur found itself on the Pakistani side of the border, while Gurdaspur, located adjacent to the River Ravi, remained with India.
- Immigration Counters: To ensure a smooth and secure pilgrimage, approximately 80 immigration counters have been set up for the Kartarpur corridor.
- Pilgrimage: The 550th Prakash Purab, marking the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, saw around 1300 Indian pilgrims journeying to Kartarpur, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of this place.
The 1965 War and Its Impact on Kartarpur:
The Original Corridor: Before the war in 1965, there existed a bridge over the Ravi River that connected two significant locations. However, this “faith corridor,” as public-policy expert Tridivesh Singh Maini described, was unfortunately destroyed during the conflict.
The Guru’s Legacy Project: In the aftermath of the war’s destruction, a new initiative named the “Guru’s Legacy Project” was undertaken. This project aims to preserve and promote the teachings and legacy of Guru Nanak.
Gurudwara in Pakistan’s Narowal District: Located just outside the Narowal district in Pakistan is a Gurudwara that commemorates the passing of Guru Nanak. It’s believed that the Guru’s teachings spread across an area of approximately 170 acres, which later became intertwined with modern military terminology.
Exploring the Legacy: The Guru’s Legacy Project offers insights into Guru Nanak’s life and teachings. Those interested in delving deeper into this initiative should seek guidance from experts familiar with the project to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Kartarpur Travel Guide:
Of course, there are ample of things near, in and around Kartarpur. Talking of which for the first-time visitor to plan it on their own is not so easy. It is important to speak with the travel guide who can help with the entire itinerary. However, to visit the destination, you don’t even have to set a budget as this holy place is not that pricey and is worth exploring at least once in a lifetime to get the mental peace of mind in today for a hectic schedule is much-needed.
Planning For a Trip to Kartarpur:
There are some of the hotels and guests houses at great deal which you can find. This location is known for Gurudwara Darbar Sahib. However, there are many other places near to the place which you shall explore and get yourself the most incredible experience. Make sure that the package that you plan to draft in Kartarpur includes or rather covers those of the maximum places as it is one unique destination that you need to visit at least once in your lifetime.
General Instructions for Pilgrims Visiting Sri Kartarpur Sahib
Registration:
- Pilgrims wishing to visit Sri Kartarpur Sahib in the Narowal district of Pakistan must register in advance.
- Registration should be done ahead of the proposed travel date.
- Note: Registration does not guarantee the right to travel.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):
- Approved applicants will receive an ETA via the email address provided during registration.
- Pilgrims must carry a copy of the ETA when arriving at the Dera Baba Nanak ICP.
Travel Guidelines:
- Pilgrims will depart in the morning and must return the same day.
- The visit is restricted to Sri Kartarpur Sahib only. Traveling elsewhere is not permitted.
Do’s:
- Use eco-friendly materials, preferably cloth bags, and maintain cleanliness.
- Adhere to RBI regulations regarding currency.
- Carry only one baggage, weighing up to 7 kg, which can include drinking water.
Don’ts:
- Avoid carrying items listed in the negative list.
- Smoking, drinking, and tobacco use are prohibited inside the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Complex.
- Do not touch or handle unattended items. Report any suspicious items or activities to the authorities.
- Refrain from playing loud music and taking photographs without permission.
By following these guidelines, pilgrims can ensure a smooth and respectful visit to this sacred site.
The Gurudwara:
As stated above, this place holds a great history but the location is popular because of the Gurudwara which is near the border between India and Pakistan. The good part is the shrine is visible from the Border of the Indian Side. It is said that Indian Sikhs usually gather around in huge numbers to offer Darshan or say in other words have a sacred state from the Indian side of the border.
Other Places To Explore:
- Gurdwara Tahli Sahib
- Moorish Mosque
- Shiv Mandir
- Sodal Mandir
- Jagatjit Palace
- Prithvi’s Planet
- Kartarpur Gurudwara
- Devi Talab Mandir Temple
- Jang-e-Azadi Memorial
- Pushpa Gujral Science City
- Guru Gobind Singh Stadium
- Tulsi Mandir Temple
Online Registration for Kartarpur Sahib Corridor:
With technological advancements making processes more streamlined, pilgrims wishing to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur can now benefit from an online registration system. Here’s what you need to know:
- Easy Registration: The online registration system simplifies the process for pilgrims, allowing them to register for their visit to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur from the comfort of their homes.
- Infrastructure: The corridor boasts a four-lane highway leading up to a ‘zero-point’, which marks the commencement of the onward journey into Pakistan.
- Passenger Terminal: This terminal is designed to facilitate pilgrims and ensure a smooth visit. It includes:
- Facilitation Centre: A dedicated space where government officials will be present to assist pilgrims and ensure a hassle-free experience.
- Security Checkpoints: To ensure the safety and security of all visitors.
- Amenities: The terminal will also feature food areas and parking spaces for the convenience of the pilgrims.
With these facilities in place, the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor promises a seamless and enriching experience for all its visitors.
Understanding the Visa and Paperwork for Kartarpur Sahib Corridor:
The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, situated on the border between India and Pakistan, has piqued the interest of many regarding visa and paperwork requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- No Visa Requirement: Contrary to what some might expect for a location on an international border, there’s no visa requirement to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor. All you need is your passport.
- Verification Process: Upon arrival, your passport will be verified at the security counter. Once cleared, you’ll be allowed to proceed to the sacred site.
- Connectivity and Accessibility: For those unable to physically visit the Gurudwara in Pakistan, there’s a provision for a ‘darshan that’, which offers a virtual experience. Additionally, mobile network connectivity is being established in the area for the convenience of visitors.
- Location: The corridor connects the shrine of Dera Baba Nanak in India to Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan. The latter is just a few kilometers from the international border and is situated in the Narowal district of Pakistan’s Punjab province.
How to Reach Kartarpur:
To reach the Gurudwara Darbar Sahib of Kartarpur, there are ample of days possible. Kartarpur comes on the Pakistan side of the border which is 4km far from the border. However, it also is a counterpart of Gurdaspur. To reach this place, there are stringent protocols that need to be followed to have a look at the shrine without any hassle.
Reaching By Air:
- Amritsar Airport: This is the nearest major airport to Gurdaspur and is well-connected to various parts of India. If you’re traveling from Delhi, the flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.
- Adampur Airport: Located in Jalandhar City, Adampur Airport is another option close to Gurdaspur. However, it primarily serves as a military base, and its commercial flight operations are limited compared to Amritsar Airport.
How to reach by Train:
- Kartarpur is well-connected by rail. The railway network links it to major stations in Punjab, as well as to cities like Dalhousie and Delhi. Opting for a train journey can be a cost-effective choice, especially if you’re not constrained by time.
Reaching Kartarpur Sahib Corridor by Road:
The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor is accessible by road from various major cities:
- Delhi: Approximately 462 km away.
- Amritsar: Roughly 75 km distant.
- Chandigarh: About 216 km away.
- Jalandhar: Nearly 100 km distant.
All these routes are considered safe and secure for travelers.
Concerns and Historical Context:
However, there are some concerns related to the corridor. The presence of Khalistanis, who are known as Sikh separatists, has raised apprehensions about the potential risk of “opening up” this route to disturbances. Some observers have expressed concerns that the corridor might reignite memories of Operation Bluestar in 1984. During this operation, the Indian Army stormed the Golden Temple to remove militants, leading to significant anti-Sikh riots and further violence. Some also speculate that this corridor might be a strategic move by Pakistan to revive Sikh separatism.
For more detailed insights, you can explore the List of Religious Places and Temples in Punjab.
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