The Golden Temple, officially known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest Gurdwara of Sikhism, located in Amritsar, Punjab. Built in the 16th century by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, it is renowned for its gold-plated dome (covered with 750 kg of gold) and sacred Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar) surrounding it. You can read : Bhopal One Day Tour

This spiritual hub welcomes millions of visitors annually, regardless of religion, offering free meals (Langar) to over 100,000 people daily. The temple’s divine ambiance, Guru Granth Sahib recitals, and architectural grandeur make it a symbol of equality, peace, and service.

How to Reach Golden Temple

• By Air: Nearest airport – Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (11 km, 20-minute drive).

• By Train: Amritsar Junction (2 km, 10-minute drive).

• By Road:

  • From Delhi: Drive via NH44 (450 km, 8-hour drive).

  • From Chandigarh: Buses/trains (230 km, 4-hour drive).

Rituals & Timings of Golden Temple

• Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (Best time: 4 AM–10 PM).

• Key Rituals:

  • Prakash Ceremony (Opening of Guru Granth Sahib): 4 AM.

  • Sukhmani Sahib Path: Daily recitals.

  • Langar (Community Kitchen): Served 24/7.

Things to Do at Golden Temple

1. Take a dip in Amrit Sarovar for spiritual cleansing.

2. Volunteer in Langar service (peeling veggies, serving food).

3. Listen to Gurbani Kirtan (hymns) in the main sanctum.

4. Visit the Sikh Museum to learn Sikh history.

5. Photograph the golden reflection at sunrise/sunset.

Significance

• Spiritual Epicenter: Holiest shrine in Sikhism.

• Architectural Marvel: Blend of Hindu-Islamic styles.

• Symbol of Equality: Free meals for all, regardless of caste/religion.

Nearest Tourist Places

1. Jallianwala Bagh (500 m) – Historic massacre site.

2. Wagah Border (28 km) – India-Pakistan retreat ceremony.

3. Durgiana Temple (1 km) – Hindu temple resembling Golden Temple.

4. Partition Museum (2 km) – Chronicles 1947 partition.

5. Gobindgarh Fort (3 km) – Historic Sikh fort.

FAQs

Q1. Is there an entry fee?

• No, free for all. Donations welcome.

Q2. Dress code?

• Cover head (scarves provided), no shorts/sleeveless.

Q3. Can non-Sikhs enter?

• Yes, open to all faiths.

Q4. Best time to visit?

• October–March (pleasant weather).

Q5. Is photography allowed?

• Yes, but not inside sanctum sanctorum.

🚩 Travel Tip: Experience early morning prayers (4 AM) for a serene vibe. Remove shoes/wash feet before entering! 🙏