An ode to compassion, humility and service to fellow beings

Nestled in the heart of Amritsar, Punjab, the Golden Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality, unity, and service. Floating like a shimmering mirage of gold on the tranquil waters of Amrit Sarovar, the temple is a place of worship and a symbol of Sikh values such as equality, service, and community. It owes its name to the astonishing 400 kilograms of pure gold leaf adorning the dome.

As you approach the gurdwara, also known as Harmandir Sahib, you are struck by its majestic golden dome shimmering in the sunlight, drawing you closer to its sacred embrace. The name, Shri Harmandir Sahib, however, comes from ‘Harmandir’ derived from ‘Hari’, signifying God, and ‘mandir’, meaning temple. The addition of ‘Sahib’ to its name denotes reverence and respect within Sikh tradition.

History whispers through the marble walls of the Golden Temple, telling tales of devotion and resilience. While the temple was founded by Guru Ramdas Sahib, the 4th of 10 Sikh gurus, the construction of the temple and its pool was continued by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, in 1588.

The temple has witnessed centuries of faith, turmoil, and triumph. The intricate architecture, a fusion of Islamic and Hindu styles, reflects the inclusive ethos of Sikhism, inviting people from all religions come to seek solace. The temple has been renovated many times, adding features such as the marble inlays along the floor. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, founder of the Sikh Empire of India (1799-1849) had the temple’s upper floors covered in 750 kilos of pure gold.

Its golden dome, exquisite architecture, and serene surroundings attract millions of visitors worldwide every year, making it one of the most visited religious sites in the world. But beyond its stunning beauty, the Golden Temple is also a symbol of Sikh philosophy, which emphasises the equality of all people, regardless of caste, creed, or gender. Sikhs all over the world pray in their Ardas daily, wishing to pay obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple).

One visit never feels enough to experience the emotion of the Golden Temple, but you can try. Plan your visit to coincide with the vibrant festivities hosted at the Golden Temple, such as Baisakhi and Diwali, to experience the Golden Temple at its most vibrant.

A sacred haven of spirituality and architecture

Step through the ornate entrance gates, with enchanting interiors decorated with intricate frescos and floral motifs. Verses from the Sikh scripture Etched in gold lettering grace the arches. A sense of reverence washes over you as you gaze upon the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), the tranquil sacred tank surrounding the temple. The waters of the Sarovar are believed to possess healing properties, inviting pilgrims to cleanse their souls and renew their spirits in its pristine embrace. The shimmering reflection of the gold-encrusted dome in the clear water of the Amrit Sarovar greets visitors who enter from the north gate, the most impressive of all four entries. Walking around the marble pathway surrounding the pool is the best way to take it all in. Devotional music, bathing pilgrims, golden carp and meditating devotees add to the atmosphere.

The complex has various structures surrounding the main sanctum and the adjacent water body. Among these, the Akal Takht holds prominence, representing one of the five seats of power in Sikhism. A museum, a clock tower, and the heartwarming community kitchen or Langar, complete the ensemble of this sacred haven.

Festivals like Vaisakhi, Guru Nanak’s birthday, Guru Teg Bahadur’s martyrdom day, and Guru Ram Das’s birthday are celebrated passionately. During Diwali, the Golden Temple illuminates with earthen lamps or diyas, creating a spectacle of light.

Where tranquillity meets grandeur

Inside the temple, the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Guru of Sikhism, is enshrined in the Darbar Sahib, the central worship hall. The hymns and prayers reverberating through the halls echoed the timeless teachings of the Gurus. As the line to visit the inner sanctum (Darbar Sahib), where the holy book of the Sikhs, the “Guru Granth Sahib,” is kept is long, visits are best scheduled for the late afternoon and early evening. The illuminated temple complex is a stunning sight, and you can end the day at the temple’s Langar (community kitchen), where the aroma of freshly cooked food tantalises you.

Beautiful view of golden temple shri darbar sahib in Amritsar, Punjab

Temple Timings:

Opening time - 04:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Serving love, equality and nourishment

Wander through the bustling corridors of the Golden Temple to reach the Langar, the community kitchen where volunteers selflessly prepare and serve free meals to all visitors, embodying the Sikh principles of seva and equality. Sitting cross-legged on the floor alongside fellow pilgrims from diverse backgrounds, you can savour the simple yet nourishing meal, enveloped in a profound sense of unity and camaraderie. Every Sikh gurdwara has a free kitchen, and Harmandir Sahib is one of the largest, serving 100,000 vegetarian meals a day.

The Golden Temple is not merely a place of worship; it is a living testament to the core values of Sikhism – compassion, humility, and service to humanity. The Golden Temple, with its history, architecture, religious significance, Langar, tank, and Guru Granth Sahib, leave an indelible mark on every visitor visiting this temple.

Beyond the temple

Amritsar has a lot to offer – enjoy sumptuous food or visit more sites, the city beyond the Golden temple is a delight to explore. The Partition Museum, Akal Takht Sahib, Gobindgarh fort and many more sights beckon in and around Amritsar. Or simply shop to your hearts content the beautiful Fulkari fabrics, juttis and other art and artefacts.