Everyone Is Welcome
Visiting Gurdwara BC Khalsa Darbar for the first time? Whether you're coming alone, with a friend, or simply curious — this guide will help you feel at home and know what to expect. All are welcome, regardless of faith or background.
Five Things to Know
Cover your head
Free scarves (Rumaal) are provided at the entrance.
Remove shoes
Shoe racks are just inside the door.
Free meal — Langar
Everyone eats together, always free.
Sit on the floor
All sit equally; chairs available if needed.
All are welcome
No matter your faith, caste, or background.
How to Prepare
What to Wear
- Dress modestly — cover arms & legs. Loose, comfortable clothing is best for sitting on the floor.
- Cover your head — bring a scarf/bandana, or use a free Rumaal at the entrance.
- You may be asked to remove your socks before entering — a feet-washing station is provided next to the hand-washing area.
- No tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drugs — do not bring them or wear their logos, and please do not attend while under the influence of alcohol, tobacco, or any other recreational drugs.
What to Bring
- Nothing is required — just yourself. Some visitors bring fresh fruit or flowers.
- If you wish to contribute, there's a donation box (Golak) — entirely optional, no pressure.
When to Go
You're welcome any day. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is present from Parkash in the early morning through the evening Diwan.
Sunday's extended Noon Diwan & Kirtan is a wonderful first visit.
See our full Daily Program →
Step by Step
Remove your shoes
There's a shoe rack near the entrance — a sign of respect and cleanliness, like removing shoes in someone's home.
Cover your head
If you didn't bring a head covering, take a free Rumaal from the basket. Everyone — men, women, and children — covers their head inside.
Wash your hands
There's a hand-washing area before the main hall — and usually a feet-washing station beside it, as many Sangat remove their socks. Part of cleanliness and preparation.
Enter the Darbar Sahib
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji rests on a raised platform (Palki Sahib). You may bow your head respectfully or simply stand quietly, then find a place to sit. No one will judge you — just be respectful.
Sit and listen
Sit cross-legged (cushions provided; chairs at the sides if needed). Keep your feet from pointing toward Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The service includes Kirtan, Katha, and Ardas.
Receive Karah Prasad
At the end, everyone receives Karah Prasad — a warm, sweet, vegetarian blessing. Cup both hands (right over left) to receive it. A polite “no thank you” is always fine.
Good to Know
Do I need to be Sikh to visit?
Absolutely not. The Gurdwara is open to everyone — all faiths, no faith, all backgrounds. You will be warmly welcomed.
Can I take photos?
Generally yes, but ask first and be discreet. Never photograph during Ardas (the standing prayer), and always show respect toward Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Do I have to participate in the prayers?
No. You can simply sit quietly, observe, and listen. No one will pressure you to pray, bow, or take part in any ritual.
What if I accidentally do something wrong?
Don't worry. Sikhs are known for hospitality and understand visitors may not know the customs. Just be respectful and open — no one will be offended.
Can I bring my children?
Yes! Children are welcome (they also cover their heads and remove shoes). We also run Children's Classes and Punjabi School on the weekend.
How long should I stay?
There's no minimum or maximum. A full Sunday service is about 2–3 hours including Langar, but you can come and go quietly at any time — even a 30-minute visit is perfectly fine.
What language is the service in?
Kirtan is in Gurmukhi (the Punjabi script), sometimes accompanied by English explanations. Conversations around Langar are usually in English or Punjabi.
What You'll Experience
Cultural Experience
One of the world's most welcoming traditions — music, community, and food that move the heart.
Interfaith Understanding
An easy, genuine way to learn Sikh values of equality, service (seva), and devotion.
Community & Food
Walk in a stranger, be treated as family, and share a warm vegetarian meal — free. That's the power of Langar.