Nanakmatta

Situated in the fertile Terai plains of Udham Singh Nagar district along the serene currents of the Deoha River, Nanakmatta is one of the most sacred and historically profound pilgrimage centers of Sikhism. Formerly known as Gorakhmatta (a stronghold of Siddha Nath yogis), the town was renamed Nanakmatta after the blessed visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1508 AD, and later sanctified by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji.

The centerpiece of the town is the majestic white marble complex of Gurudwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib. Its soaring gilded domes, serene sarovar (holy bathing pool), and spacious prayer halls welcome hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year who come to meditate upon the divine teachings of oneness, humility, and selfless devotion.

Within the sacred precinct stands the legendary Doodh Wala Ped (The Milk-Yielding Tree), an ancient Peepal tree associated with a divine miracle. Lore recounts that when Gorakhpanthi yogis used their occult powers to dry the tree and pull it from the earth, Guru Nanak Dev Ji touched the trunk with his holy hands; the dried leaves instantly sprouted anew and the bark yielded sweet milk, proving the supreme power of divine grace over spiritual ego.

Adjoining the town is the expansive Nanak Sagar Dam and Lake, a massive freshwater reservoir built across the Deoha river. Covering over 16 square kilometres, its shimmering waters offer peaceful paddle boating, sunset promenades, and a tranquil sanctuary for migratory Siberian waterfowl during the winter months.

Pilgrims also pay homage at Baoli Sahib, an ancient stepped well constructed where Guru Nanak had a sweet water spring emerge to quench the thirst of wandering devotees. As with all Sikh shrines, the gurudwara operates a generous 24/7 Guru Ka Langar, feeding thousands of visitors daily with warmth and equality.

Surrounded by swaying sugarcane plantations, rich agricultural fields, and peaceful rural roads, Nanakmatta radiates a timeless aura of compassion and spiritual solace that uplifts the heart of every visitor.