Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi has granted 2,800 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims wishing to attend Baisakhi celebrations from 10-19 April, according to an announcement by Punjab’s Home Department on 7 April. The pilgrims will travel overland via the Wagah border because the Kartarpur Corridor remains closed on the Indian side following last year’s border skirmish.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visas Issued | 2,800 |
| Travel Dates | 10-19 April 2026 |
| Border Crossing | Wagah (Kartarpur Corridor closed) |
| Processing Time | At least 10 days for passport return |
Pakistan Visa Requirements for Indian Pilgrims
Indian Sikh pilgrims must secure standard Pakistan visas through official channels rather than using the previously available visa-free Kartarpur passage. The Kartarpur Corridor—a visa-free passage to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib—remains closed on the Indian side following last year’s border skirmish.
Applicants must allow at least 10 days for passport return and coordinate group manifests with both governments’ pilgrimage offices. For comprehensive Pakistan visa requirements and application procedures, Indian travelers can refer to our detailed guides and use our Visa Fee Calculator to estimate total costs.
Arrangements for Baisakhi Pilgrimage
The Evacuee Trust Property Board confirmed that security arrangements, accommodation and medical facilities are in place at key shrines including Gurdwara Panja Sahib and Nankana Sahib. These preparations ensure pilgrims can participate in the religious celebrations safely during their stay in Pakistan.
For Indian travelers planning religious pilgrimages to other destinations, our Document Checklist can help ensure all required paperwork is prepared before application submission.
Impact on India-Pakistan Travel
This development highlights how geopolitical tensions continue to shape mobility between the neighboring countries. While India has allowed limited pilgrimage traffic, tourist and business visas for Pakistanis remain suspended. Standard visa channels, not the corridor, remain the only legal route for religious travel between the two nations.
The closure of the Kartarpur Corridor forces all Indian pilgrims to follow regular visa procedures and travel through the Wagah border crossing, adding processing time and documentation requirements to their journey.
Source: Punjab Home Department, Pakistan
FAQ
Q: How many visas did Pakistan issue for Baisakhi celebrations? A: Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi granted 2,800 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for Baisakhi celebrations from 10-19 April 2026.
Q: Can Indian pilgrims use the Kartarpur Corridor? A: No, the Kartarpur Corridor remains closed on the Indian side following last year’s border skirmish. Pilgrims must travel via the Wagah border crossing.
Q: Which gurdwaras will accommodate the pilgrims? A: The Evacuee Trust Property Board has arranged security, accommodation and medical facilities at key shrines including Gurdwara Panja Sahib and Nankana Sahib.
Q: How long does Pakistan visa processing take for Indian applicants? A: Applicants must allow at least 10 days for passport return and coordinate group manifests with both governments’ pilgrimage offices.