NEW DELHI: The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued over 3,000 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for their upcoming visit to Pakistan to participate in the birthday celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, set to take place from November 14 to 23.
In a post shared on the High Commission’s social media platform X, Charge d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich congratulated the pilgrims and wished them a fulfilling yatra, marking the occasion with warm greetings.
This step follows the announcement by Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who revealed a major relaxation in visa rules for Sikh pilgrims. As part of the new policy, Sikh visitors will no longer be required to pay visa fees, and visas can now be obtained within just 30 minutes.
Naqvi, who welcomed a group of 44 American Sikhs, further explained that U.S. citizens will be able to obtain visas on arrival and can make multiple visits to Pakistan without any hassle. Citizens from the UK and Canada can also avail themselves of a simplified online visa application process.
Minister Naqvi expressed his aspiration to welcome up to one million Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan annually, stressing the importance of encouraging younger generations to experience the country’s rich Sikh heritage. He also invited Indian nationals, as well as global Sikh community members, to attend the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, with special arrangements planned for their participation.
The government has also started offering free visas to citizens of 124 countries, a move aimed at making Pakistan more accessible to international pilgrims. The visiting delegation of Sikh pilgrims thanked Minister Naqvi for his warm hospitality and praised the simplified visa process, with one member saying, “You have won our hearts.” The group also expressed interest in exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Sikh pilgrims travel to Pakistan to visit several revered sites associated with the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Some of the most significant pilgrimage sites include:
- Nankana Sahib: The birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
- Kartarpur Sahib: The final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
- Panja Sahib: A sacred site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s handprint is believed to be imprinted on a rock.
These holy sites hold profound spiritual significance for Sikhs, and visiting them is considered a vital part of their religious journey.
