Nanded Calling- Sukoon, Ardas, Kada Prasad & much more

Nanded a simple yet ordinary city situated in the state of Maharashtra is one of the most important pilgrims of Punjabi culture.  There are 5 important takhts (a seat of authority) of the Sikh religion each situated in different parts of the country.

The principle of Sikhism has been guided by the preachings of 10 Sikh Gurus. The important decisions & remarkable moments took place at these 5 takhts. One of those takhts is situated in Nanded, Shri Sachkhand Hazor Sahib. The heaven of peace and utmost happiness. This was indeed one of the most needed vacations. The fun, the joy and the satisfaction I underwent were commendable.

Unlike Amritsar, here I got a lot of time for myself, I got to sit with my inner peace, explore the local peaceful life and indeed savour with lots of delicacies. You won’t find many things taking place here but sometimes it’s good to live through the best of simple sweet life as well isn’t it? Sometimes it’s good to forget all your stress and just live with utmost gratitude and an overwhelming aura.

Let me give the gist of my vacation through a quick simple guide about this blissful city just in case you want to visit this city at the end of the blog & I’m pretty sure you would.

Things to do in Nanded

Gurudwara Hopping

Nanded, a significant Sikh pilgrimage center, is dotted with serene and beautiful gurudwaras. Among these, the renowned Hazur Sahib Gurudwara stands out, but other notable sites like Langar Sahib and Nank Jira Sahib offer equally divine experiences. Nank Jira Sahib, located 80 km from the city, took an entire day to explore, allowing us to immerse ourselves in its tranquil beauty. Nanded is also home to numerous temples and mosques, which draw visitors year-round. My visit to these sacred spaces allowed me to sit in quiet reflection, seeking and finding a sense of eternal peace. If you’re searching for a place to reconnect with life’s essentials, this historic city should be on your list.

Experience the Beauty of Tradition

Sikh culture, deeply rooted in faith and tradition, is truly awe-inspiring in Nanded. The city’s various gurudwaras and takhts each follow unique practices, but Sri Hazur Sahib holds particular significance. Here, the weapons of the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, are preserved and revered. One of the most captivating traditions is the Gagar Seva, a sacred ritual that takes place during Amrit Vela (2:00 AM to 4:00 AM). Each morning, the head priest (Babaji) walks barefoot to the Godavari River to fetch holy water in a gagar (a stainless steel vessel). This water is used to cleanse the Guru’s weapons, and afterward, it is distributed to devotees. Witnessing this ritual up close was an experience that left me speechless and deeply moved by the spiritual energy that enveloped the moment.

Street Food Heaven

No cultural journey is complete without savoring local flavors, and Nanded’s street food scene is nothing short of a gastronomic delight. Offering the best of traditional Maharashtrian cuisine with regional influences, the streets are filled with mouthwatering options. Iconic snacks like Vada Pav and Misal Pav are staples, alongside crispy Bhajiya and flavorful Poha for quick bites. Chaat lovers can indulge in tangy treats like Pani Puri and Bhel Puri. The culinary diversity extends to savory Kachoris, Samosas, and South Indian specialties like Dosa and Idli, reflecting the neighboring southern influence. For food enthusiasts, Nanded’s streets provide a delicious adventure.

Evening Strolls

The perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration is to take an evening stroll along the picturesque Godavari Ghat. I arrived just in time to witness the breathtaking sunset over the river, which created a serene atmosphere. Nanded is home to many such scenic spots, offering peaceful moments for reflection and relaxation amidst the city’s natural beauty.

Explore Local Markets

Shopping in Nanded offers a mix of traditional treasures and modern finds. The local markets are known for their vibrant Patiala dresses, intricately designed juttis (traditional footwear), and colorful turban fabrics. Shoppers can also find exquisite Paithani sarees, handcrafted jewelry, Kolhapuri chappals, and brassware, all reflecting the region’s rich craftsmanship. Modern shopping complexes add a contemporary touch with clothing and accessories. During my visit, I couldn’t resist buying Kadas (one of the five K’s of Sikhism) and indulging in local sweets. One of the trip’s highlights was playfully collecting sugarcane from the fields—a fun, memorable moment that brought joy to my shopping experience.

Can’t believe it’s already been more than a week to this surreal trip. I hope you like the guide and would definitely like to think about Nanded for your next short weekend trip. Am I right or wrong let me know in the comments.

Till then Happy Sundaying!