Gurudwara Handi Sahib is a prominent Sikh shrine in Baler in the Nawada district of Bihar. It is believed that the founder of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, visited this place during his journey through India and performed a miracle by making food appear in a cooking pot, or "handi", to feed his hungry followers.
The Gurudwara was built where Guru Nanak Dev Ji performed this miracle and is considered a sacred pilgrimage site for Sikhs. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambience, attracting visitors worldwide.
The Gurudwara is surrounded by lush greenery and is at the top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can dip in the holy pond near the shrine, which is believed to have healing properties. The gurudwara also serves langar, or free community meal, prepared and served by volunteers.
Apart from visiting the gurudwara, visitors can also explore the nearby towns and villages known for their traditional handicrafts and delicious cuisine. The nearby Nalanda University, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is worth visiting for its rich history and beautiful architecture.
Places To Visit In Bihar Near Gurudwara, Handi Sahib:
Rajgir:
Located just 35 km from Gurudwara Handi Sahib, Rajgir is a historic town that was once the Magadha Empire's capital. The city is known for its hot springs, ancient temples, and beautiful monasteries. The famous Vishwa Shanti Stupa is also located here, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Pawapuri is a small town around 60 km from Gurudwara Handi Sahib. It is a holy site for Jains, as it is believed to be where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, attained Nirvana. The town is known for its beautiful temples and serene ambience.
Nalanda is a historic town around 70 km from Gurudwara Handi Sahib. It is home to the famous Nalanda University, once one of the world's oldest and most renowned universities. The university was a learning centre for Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, attracting scholars worldwide. The ruins of the university are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a glimpse into the rich history of Bihar.
Bodh Gaya:
Bodh Gaya is a sacred town around 100 km from Gurudwara Handi Sahib. It is believed to be where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The city is home to the famous Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts Buddhist pilgrims worldwide.
The Barabar Caves are a series of ancient rock-cut caves around 130 km from Gurudwara Handi Sahib. The caves are believed to be some of the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India and are known for their beautiful carvings and architecture. The caves are a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.