Pakistan Grants Over 2100 Visas for Guru Nanak Jayanti Pilgrimage

Pakistan has issued more than 2,100 visas to Sikh pilgrims traveling from India to commemorate the upcoming birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji. These celebrations, known as Gurpurab, are scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 4th to November 13th, 2025. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi confirmed the visa issuance via its official X (formerly Twitter) account. This move facilitates a significant religious gathering, allowing Indian Sikh devotees to visit sacred sites in Pakistan. The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, a vital link for pilgrims, has also seen its agreement extended for another five years, ensuring continued access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur. India has previously encouraged Pakistan to waive service fees for pilgrims, addressing requests for the removal of the $20 charge per visit. The corridor, inaugurated in November 2019, allows Indian citizens to visit the shrine without a visa. The shrine, historically significant for Sikhs, was reopened after renovations in 1999 and has since hosted regular pilgrimage groups. While the corridor experienced a temporary suspension earlier this year due to security concerns following specific terror attacks, its continued operation is crucial for religious tourism.