DHARAMSAAL/ DHARAMSAALA
Literally, Dharamsaala is a place where Dharam is practised.
Guru Nanak Sahib used the term Dharamsaal (in broader sense) for this earth (world) too (Guru Granth Sahib, p. 7).
This term had been used for place of congregation during the time of the Gurus. The Sikh history is replete with references to the establishment of Dharamsaals in different areas of the sub-continents, during the time of all Guru Sahib. These Dharamsaalas had dual functions: it was a place for gathering for the local Sangat (Sikhs) as well as a Saraan (hostel) providing food and shelter to the Sikh travellers to that town/village.
Gurdwara is a more recent term for a Sikh religious place. Even after the compilation of Guru Granth Sahib (on 31 July 1604), and its installation in Darbar Sahib (on August 16, 1604), the term Gurdwara was not in use in the present meanings.
At the time of Guru Gobind Singh, a Sikh religious place came to be known as Gur Darbaar.
The term Gurdwara became popular probably in the latter half of nineteenth century. Nowadays, the term Dharamsaala is used (usually by the Hindus) for a hostel or the other residential buildings used by the pilgrims. The Sikhs call it Saraan, Saraai or Niwas etc.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)