Keshgarh Fort is one of the ancient qilas that was constructed by the 10th guru of Sikhs, Shri Guru Gobind Singh during his stay of 25 years at Anandpur Sahib. He started the construction of five defensive forts all around the town in 1689 and it took a period of about 10 years to complete. All the five forts were constructed in a way that they are connected with each other with earthworks and underground tunnels. Keshgarh Fort was constructed at a place which is known as the birth place of Khalsa.  The five forts are known as:

• Keshgarh (now a Takhat)
• Anandgarh (Fort of Bliss)
• Lohgarh (Fort of Steel)
• Holgarh (Fort of Color)
• Fatehgarh (Fort of Victory)

History

The foundation stone of Keshgarh Fort was laid on March 30 1689. On this place, Guru Gobind Singh invited thousands of worshippers for a special congregation on the Baisakhi day of 1699. The fort is spread over such a huge area that it accommodated thousands of Sikhs in attendance on that historic day. The hill army carried out attacks on the city of Anandpur Sahib several times during the period between 1700 and 1705 AD, but failed to reach Kesgarh Fort. The armies were required to capture the forts at Taragarh, Fatehgarh and Anandgarh before reaching to this fort.

However, on December 6, 1705, the army managed to enter and destroy the fort at a time when Guru Gobind Singh left the fort after being convinced by half starved occupants of the city and its defensive forts. Guru Gobind Singh agreed to leave the city after their attackers promised safe passage.

Present Day

Keshgarh Fort has been converted into a Takhat and became Gurudwara Shri Keshgarh Sahib. It is now one of the ancient and popular shrines of Sikhs and is also known as one of the five Takhats of India. Considered one of the most sacred places of Sikhs, the gurudwara is spread over three storeys and made with beautiful white marble stone. It also has domes on top of the building. Additionally, this gurudwara has a big Langar Hall that provides langar (food) to visitors. Dasmesh Hall is located within the vicinity of this gurudwara.

Latest Additions

The original Guru ka Langar has its existence on the lower level behind the central building. However, the authorities constructed a new multi-level building close to the main gurudwara. It lies close to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Nivas. Dasmesh Nivas is spread over an area of 55 square metres and is located nearly 150 meters east of the central building. It was added in the period during the 1980's with an aim to accommodate large congregations on festival occasions.

Festivals and Fairs

Anandpur Sahib celebrates the occasion of Hola Mohalla during the festival of Holi in March. Up to 100,000 followers from all over the country gather here to mark the occasion of color and gaiety. The occasion is celebrated for a period of three days and gurudwaras are specially decorated during these days. Meanwhile, Baisakhi is also celebrated here with great excitement. Baisakhi in 1999 marked the completion of 300 years of birth of the Khalsa. In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh baptized the Panj Pyaras here. Today, it is the place of Takhat Sri Keshgarh Sahib.

Important Information

Gurudwara Shri Keshgarh Sahib has historical significance and it attracts a lot of visitors from all over the country. The best time to visit this gurudwara is between October and May. During this time, the weather is pleasant and a lot of events and activities take place here. The temperature of this city varies between 04°C and 43°C at different times of the year. The nearest airport to Anandpur Sahib is Chandigarh, while the nearest railhead is Rupnagar.

Modes of Transportation

Anandpur Sahib has very good transport connectivity and one can easily reach here from other parts of Punjab through government and private buses, trains and taxis. Meanwhile, its Rupnagar station is very well connected to places such as Delhi and Himachal Pradesh. However, tickets are required to be booked in advance to be assured of reservation. Chandigarh is the closest domestic airport and is situated nearly 50 km from the city. It provides flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.

How to Reach

Gurudwara Shri Keshgarh Sahib is located in the centre of Anandpur Sahib on Nai Abadi Road. The gurudwara is nearly 3 km from Anandpur Sahib Railway Station and 2.5 km from Anandpur Sahib Bus Stand. Visitors can use local transportation modes, including local buses, auto and cycle rickshaws, to reach this gurudwara.

Accommodation

Anandpur Sahib has a lot of budget and luxury hotels and rental spaces as well as other private accommodation for visitors. These accommodations are equipped with decent amenities at affordable prices. Accommodation is available near the bus stand and other significant places of the city. You can choose from a list of wide range of options based on your needs, preference and budget. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance in order to avoid any hassle at the last moment.