Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal has historical importance in Sikhism. This pilgrimage is devoted to the memory of the ninth Sikh Guru Sri Tegh Bahadur Ji. It is located nearby Sikandra in Agra city.
Description:
Guru Ka Tal has been constructed in the place where Guru Teg Bahadur Ji got arrested. He offered a voluntary arrestment to the Mughal emperor of that time, Aurangzeb. He was killed along with his Sikh followers due to his strong believe in Sikhism. Many thousands of Sikh devotees come here every year for paying their homage to Guru Ji.
Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal, Agra is the most esteemed and respected place as a dwelling of the Sikhs in Agra. Among the 10 prophets of Sikhs, four have visited this sacred place. Huge influx of travellers is noticed here every year and another important reason to that is its location inside the borders of Sikandra.
Traveller Tips:
• This Gurudwara remains open between 6.30 AM and 7.30 PM. You will require approximately 1 – 2 hours for visiting this place.
• No entry fee is required for entering Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal, Agra. All that is needed is a heart full of respect for the Sikh Gurus.
• You can easily avail a parking outside.
• The beautiful structure of the Gurudwara is best viewed during the times of sunrise and sunset.
• Langar happens here for the needy people.
Things to do:
It’s a completely devotional place and people come here have huge respect and honour towards Sikhism.
History:
The historic structure of the Gurudwara was constructed in the 17th century. Initially it was a taal only, i.e. a reservoir near Sikandra. In 1610 AD, during the reign of Jehangir, it was formed to be used as a collection chamber of rainwater in Agra. And, the water then used for cultivation when there was lack of rainfall. During that time, the reservoir was decorated with stone artefacts.
Later Guru Teg Bahadur Ji surrendered here in this place. In his memory, a gurudwara was built here. And, then onwards it became popular as Guru Ka Taal. It was made so with the gruelling efforts and active contributions of Sadhu Singhji “Mauni”.
Architecture:
As the structure of the Gurudwara was built during the Mughal era, it has the effects of Mughal architecture. The use of red stones in the construction of the building of the Gurudwara states the fact. Initially the structure of Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal, Agra had 12 towers. But today, only 8 of them exists in good condition.
Best Time to Visit:
It totally depends on you. During summer, Agra becomes very hot and temperature bar often reaches beyond 43 degree Celsius. If you are comfortable in this daunting temperature, you can come here. Winter remains comfortable and pleasing here in Agra. Most of the tourists find this season best for sightseeing in agra and visiting Guru Ka Taal.
How to Reach?
• By train: For travelling through railways, you need to reach Billoch Pura or Raja Ki Mandi Railway Station.
• By bus: by roadways Agra is very connected with other major cities of India including Delhi, Chandigarh and Mumbai. Reach Agra ISBT or Anjana Cinema bus stop by taking any private or public bus services.
Nearby Attractions:
• Taj Mahal
• Red Fort
• Mehtab Bagh
• Akbar’s Tomb
• Itmad-Ud-Daulah
• Fatehpur Sikri
So, if you are in Agra, you must visit this place!