What to know:

A small town in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, Nanakmatta is famous for its eponymous and revered Sikh shrine. Gurdwara Sri Nanak Matta Sahib is associated with the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Devji, who is believed to have visited Nanakmatta on his way to Kailash Parvat in 1515 AD. In fact, according to local lore, the place was earlier known as Gorakhmata and, after the visit of the Sikh guru, its name was changed to Nanakmatta. Located about 56 km away from Rudrapur, the district headquarters, the town draws thousands of devotees and is also popular for a dam constructed on River Saryu leading to the formation of Nanak, Sagar, which adds up to the beauty of Nanakmatta.

When to visit:

All year round

ATTRACTIONS

Baoli Sahib

Nestled on the tranquil banks of Ghagghar river, the picturesque Baoli Sahib is named after a sacred ‘boali’ of water or a well, which is linked to the divine powers of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Situated about 2 km from Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib, the baoli is said to be linked to the legend that says the Guru made the river follow his footsteps. Enjoy serene views of the river from here.

Nanak Sagar

Nanak Sagar is an artificial lake created by a dam built on the Deoha river. The vast lake mirrors a plethora of hues of the changing sky. The lake is home to hundreds of avifauna, including the migratory kind during winter.

Gurudwara

Gurdwara Sri Nanak Matta Sahib, the highlight of Nanakmatta, is a revered Sikh shrine that sees a steady line of devotees from around the world throughout the year. Highlights of the gurdwara include the historical Panja Sahib or Pipal tree under which Guru Nanak ji is said to have meditated and Doodh Wala Kuan or well, where the guru is said to have stored milk. The gurdwara also provides accommodations to visitors and devotees.

WHAT TO DO

Birdwatching

The waters of Nanak Sagar hosts a number of migratory birds during the winter months, thereby attracting ornithologists, nature lovers and photographers alike.

Water activities

Visitors and tourists can enjoy boating and angling around the dam. The area around the dam also boasts a pretty picnic spot.

HOW TO REACH

By Flight

The nearest airport to Nanakmatta is at Pantnagar, which is about 56 km away. One can easily avail a taxi from the airport to Nanakmatta. Pantnagar Airport is connected to New Delhi.

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By Train

Khatima is the nearest railway station to Nanakmatta, about 15 km away. Taxis and buses are easily available from the station.

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By Road

Nanakmatta is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations in north India. Taxis and buses ply to Nanakmatta from several popular destinations of Uttarakhand. Buses to Khatima and Rudrapur are available from ISBT Anand Vihar, New Delhi.

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