Dera Baba Banda Bahadur - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Vaishno Devi): 28 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 2-3 Hours

Place Location: At Dera Baba Banda Village

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 28 km from Katra Railway Station, Dera Baba Banda Bahadur is a guudwara situated at Dera Baba Banda village near Katra. Located on the banks of River Chenab, it is one of the popular places to visit near Katra.

Dera Baba Banda Bahadur is a historical Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh's favorite Baba Banda Bairaagi. The complex is 300 years old and houses the ashes of the Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. Baba Banda was the commanding soldier of the Guru Gobind Singh's army. He was rewarded with a bow, an arrow, and a sword by Guru Sahib. He spent his last days here. The place houses these historical relics of the saint soldier.

Built with white marbles, the architectural designs and layout of the monastery are really appreciable. The interior walls of the Gurudwara are beautifully textured with golden shades. The Gurudwara also has a Nishan Sahib made of deodar tree which is about 48 feet tall. The scenic beauty and lush green landscapes of the village attract visitors to the site.

Devotees from all over India visit this holy shrine to seek the blessings of the divine soul during the annual Mela held here on Vaisakhi in April every year. The fair continues for three days and is celebrated with great affection to commemorate the martyred soldier. The Ragis recite the Shabad Kirtan and prayers during the eve, and the Dera is illuminated with lights.

Timings: 5 AM - 12 PM,& 4 PM - 9 PM

Entry: Free