Visiting a Gurdwara
Guide to Visiting a Sikh Temple
Gurdwaras are an open and welcoming space for all regardless of religion, race, or beliefs. Rooted in the Sikh values of equality, service, and humility, the Gurdwara Sahib is not only a place of worship but also as a community hub where anyone can find peace, support, and a warm meal. Whether you’re visiting the Gurdwara Sahib out of curiosity, for spiritual reflection, or in solidarity, you’re welcome to join us at the Blackburn Sikh Temple. To uphold the sanctity and customs of the temple, visitors are required follow these simple guidelines:
Dress Modestly: Please dress in clean and modest clothing so that you are respectful to the temple practices and can comfortably sit on the carpeted floors.
Considered Appropriate: Salwar Kameez, Jeans, Formal Pants/suit, Fully covered head with handkerchief or scarf, Bottoms covered below knee length
Considered Inappropriate: Shorts, Skirts, short dresses, Caps, Hats, Beanies, Hoodies on heads, Unclean Gym clothing, socks
Cover your head: All visitors must keep their heads covered inside the Gurdwara Sahib at all times. Scarves and handkerchiefs are available at the entrance if you don’t have your own. Please note, hats and caps are not deemed as appropriate coverings. Consider a bandana or scarf to cover your hair.
Remove your shoes: Shoes and socks must be removed before entering the main Gurdwara area. There is a designated shoe room where one can remove and store their shoes.
Maintain Cleanliness: Wash your hands before entering the main prayer hall. There are taps available in the shoe room.
Refrain from Intoxication: Visitors must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while at the Gurdwara Sahib. You should also not take cigarettes or tobacco with you into the premises.
Be Respectful in the Prayer Hall: Upon entering the large prayer room or ‘Darbar Sahib’, it is respectful to bow before the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of the Sikhs, as a gesture of humility and honor toward the faith. Sit quietly on the floor, avoid pointing your feet toward the Guru Granth Sahib, and do not talk loudly or use your phone. Chairs are available for visitors who have difficulty sitting on the floor.
Accept the ‘Parshad’ offering respectfully: Visitors will usually be offered a sweet called ‘Karah Parshad’ as a blessing. This is made of sugar, wheat and ghee. This is accepted in cupped hands and eaten with the right hand. If you are trying it for the first time or unable to eat it, you can politely ask them to give you a small amount. You can ask for a small plastic bag to keep the leftover in. Please do not refuse it or throw it away as this is considered very disrespectful.
Be Respectful in the Langar hall: Everyone is welcome to share a free vegetarian meal in the langar hall. Food will be served by helpers or ‘Sewadaars’. As the food is considered sacred, it is encouraged to begin with small portions to help reduce food waste. You are always welcome to ask for more if needed. All individuals sit together on the floor and Chairs are available for visitors who have difficulty sitting on the floor.
When in doubt, observe and follow the lead of others or kindly ask for help from the members at the temple.
We wish you a meaningful and blissful experience of your visit to the Gurdwara.
READ MORE about Sikhism and the Sikh Gurdwara
