Amritsar is a major economic and tourist hub in the Northern Indian state of Punjab. This is a destination dripping with history, so put on your best pair of walking shoes and explore the walled city. Jallianawalla Bagh, Wagah Border, and The Partition Museum are some of the most popular historic sites in and around the city.
Amritsar is also well known for its vibrant cloth markets, where you will find the famous Punjabi juttis (traditional shoes) and Phulkari dupattas (stoles featuring intricate traditional hand embroidery). When you wish to take a break, stop for a glass of lassi (sweetened whipped yogurt).
The most famous attraction in the city is the Sikh holy site of Golden Temple. Completed in 1604, the Gurdwara is the most sacred site for Sikhs around the world. This marble structure adorned with gold leaf is nestled beautifully over water.
Continue scrolling to learn more about Golden Temple and find the top places to stay nearby.
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Golden Temple and its history
The revered Sikh pilgrimage site, commonly referred to as Golden Temple, is officially named Shri Harmandir Sahib. This holy place is renowned for its distinctive golden exterior. The name Golden Temple came about when a substantial gold donation was made by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first king of the Sikh empire. Upon his request, the main dome of the gurdwara was plated in gold. Today, most of the main temple is covered in layers of gold foil. Over the years, the domes of the Akal Takht (Throne of the Timeless One), and the entrance domes were also covered. Approximately 750 kg (1653.47 lb) of 24-carat gold covers various structures within Golden Temple.
The main building sits in the middle of Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), a sacred pool of water with steps leading to it. The pool is surrounded on all sides by a white structure that houses several important sections of the complex.
About Sikhism and its beliefs
Sikhism was founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak Dev, a spiritual teacher. It is a tolerant religion that practices generosity and compassion. It is with this belief that each gurdwara is built with four entrance gates, to welcome people of all castes. Guru Nanak’s spirit and his teachings were carried forward by nine other gurus or teachers. Before the last guru passed away, he declared that there would be no more gurus and that the Sikh holy book, Guru Granth Sahib would instead be followed. It is believed that the spirit of Guru Nanak Dev was transferred to the Guru Granth Sahib upon the passing of the 10th and last human guru. This according to Sikhism makes the book a living guru.
It was Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru, who helped establish Amritsar as a city and picked the site for Golden Temple. His son, Guru Arjan, saw to the completion of the gurdwara and was also one who compiled the teachings of the gurus into a single book. As a testament to its inclusivity, the book also showcases the teachings of Hindu and Muslim saints.
Gods and teachings of Sikhism
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, but instead of praying to a deity, Sikhs believe that God resides in the minds of all. Not just in Golden Temple, but in gurdwaras all around the world, it is the Guru Granth Sahib that holds the reverential spot in the building. At Golden Temple, the first book was installed in 1604, and later, the expanded version was installed in 1708. It is this version that is worshipped in gurdwaras around the world.
The hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib teach followers how best to lead their lives without prejudice and other vices. It also stresses the importance of honesty and sharing with those in need.
Most gurdwaras are open 24 hours a day and provide free communal meals daily.
Importance of Golden Temple
With its sparkling gold dome and beautifully inlaid walls, Golden Temple is the most prominent Sikh gurdwara. Interestingly, the foundation stone was laid by Mian Mīr, a Muslim saint, which goes to display one of the main beliefs of Sikhism - equality across all faiths. While it is not the first or the largest gurdwara to be built, Golden Temple is significant as it was built with the idea that it would be welcoming to all. This is further displayed in the architecture that includes four entrance gates. It is a symbolic gesture to welcome people of all faiths and social standings. The principal seat of Sikhism, the Akal Takht is also housed within the complex.
It is believed that the site of Golden Temple is auspicious because it was used as a meditation spot by both Lord Buddha and Guru Nanak Dev. The daily footfall at the gurdwara is estimated to be around 100,000 on weekdays and reaches 125,000 over the weekends. The numbers increase further during festivals such as Baisakhi and Diwali.
Things to do at Golden Temple
During a visit to Golden Temple in Amritsar, you can seek more than just blessings. It is a chance to embrace the Sikh practice of equality and sharing. A gurdwara is a place of quiet and calm, and even with thousands of visitors, there is a sense of peace within its walls.
Participate in Seva or selfless service
While the gurdwara employs full-time staff, it also relies on volunteers to keep it clean and help run the kitchen that serves langar or a free communal meal. Visitors can help clean the washrooms, mop the floors, wash dirty utensils, or chop vegetables in the kitchen. The biggest service the gurdwara undertakes is serving free food 24 hours a day through Guru Ram Das Langar, the largest community-driven free kitchen in the world.
Here gender roles vanish and there are no age criteria for participation either. You will find children and adults, men and women working side by side to efficiently run Golden Temple.
Join other visitors for a communal meal in the dining hall
Almost all gurdwaras serve langar. It is a concept that has been a part of Sikhism since 1481 when it was initiated by the first Guru. While most places undertake the langar service twice a day, at Golden Temple, it runs 24 hours a day. Visitors sit side by side on mats laid out on the floor. Each person is handed utensils as they enter the dining hall, and volunteers help serve hot and freshly prepared vegetarian food.
Walk around the Amrit Sarovar
The Golden Temple complex is built around the Amrit Sarovar, a water tank that is believed to have medicinal properties. While many take a holy dip or at least wash their feet in the water, you will also find people walking a clockwise route around it. A walk around the tank will help you get a closer look at all the buildings as well as provide a 360-degree view of the magnificent Golden Temple. After the walk, take a break and find a spot to sit beside the water. Join hundreds of others lost in introspection or simply enjoying the views of Golden Temple.
Learn about Sikhism
Central Sikh Museum within the Gurdwara complex is a great place to learn more about Sikhism. The museum is divided into various stages of Sikh history and includes artwork by prominent Sikh artists. It also features historical artifacts. Moreover, visitors must take some time out to visit the Akal Takht, which houses many important scriptures of Sikhism.
How to reach Golden Temple
Golden Temple is located in Amritsar in the northern Indian state of Punjab and it is easily accessible by air, rail, and road from all parts of the country. For those living in or visiting northern India, travel by road or train might be the most affordable as well as convenient mode of transport.
By Air
Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport is well-connected to all major Indian cities and also offers direct flights from London, Rome, and Dubai. A complimentary bus service runs between the airport and the gurdwara but frequency is limited. Visitors can learn more about timings from the Information Desk at the airport.
By Rail
Amritsar Junction Railway Station receives trains from major cities in India. Superfast chair car trains run multiple routes to the city from Delhi and Chandigarh. A free round-the-clock bus service is operated by the gurdwara management to transfer out-of-town devotees from the train station to Golden Temple.
By Road
Visitors can easily drive or take a cab to reach Amritsar. The city is 449 km (279.00 mi) from Delhi, 141 km (87.61 mi) from Ludhiana, and 227 km (141.05 mi) from the state capital Chandigarh. A number of overnight buses also run along these routes. From the bus terminal visitors can either take a cab or board the free bus service run by the gurdwara management.
When is the best time to visit?
There is no peak season for visiting Golden Temple, however, it does witness an increase in footfall during festivals. It is advisable to exercise caution when visiting during the summer months, as the day temperature can hover around 40°C (104°F). September to December and February to March are probably the most pleasant months to plan your visit.
Many tourists visit the gurdwara multiple times during their stay in the city. It is recommended that you stop by once during the day and once at night. If possible, time your visit to witness the arrival procession of the Guru Granth Sahib from Akal Takht in the early morning, and the departure of the holy book from Harminder Sahib at around 10 pm.
While the Golden Temple complex receives visitors 24 hours a day, Harminder Sahib is open to devotees from 2:30 am to around 10 pm. Timings vary slightly on festival days.
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Where to stay in Amristar?
Top hotels in Amristsar (from USD 91)
Hotel Sapphire Opposite Golden Temple
Address: Bazaar Mai Sewan, Opposite Guru Gobind Singh NRI Yatri Nivas
Regenta Place Amritsar
Address: 8, MODEL TOWN,G.T.ROAD,NEAR RAILWAY STATION,OPP. AMANDEEP HOSPITAL,ASR, Amritsar Cantonment, Amritsar, India, 143001
Top homestays in Amritsar (from USD 23)
4N Homestay
Address: 899/4 Bazar Paprana Vala, Chowk Darbar Sahib, Opposite Tubewell, Gali Tarkhana
Vrinda Apartments
Address: 593/3,gali mangal singh mahna singh road,inside sultanwind gate,adjoining hotel surya beacon,near golden temple
mye homestay 1 near Golden Temple
Address: Emtron poweronics 8, queens road,Adjoining popular bakery
Top vacation rentals in Amritsar (from USD 36)
Top guest reviews
Host:
anoop and his wife muskaan make the perfect host pairthe host anoop is very friendly and is a great host who will help anywhere he canbe sure to take a taxi arranged by the host as the street is busymr anoop and his wife are super hosts willing to help you with any thing and everythingRead more reviewsLocation:
amazing place very close to golden temple just 5 meters awaybest location to explore amritsar and the golden temple
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was a very comfortable accommodation with all the basic amenitieswe spent a good time in amritsar and in the aptCleanliness:
the place was very neat and clean and it had plenty of spaceplease take some extra care about the cleanlinessit was a great stay place was neat and clean i personally loved itthe property is beautiful well presented super spacious & cleanthe place is great clean and felt like homeHost:
manveer is a great hostcare taker was very helpful and so was host manveer bhaithe place is well maintained the host is helpfulthank you so much manveer singhji for hosting usthe host was very responsive and even took our suggestions to his considerationRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is very goodalso can find local transportation easily from this locationgreat location with restaurants stores and and shops close bybeautiful property in a posh residential locationlovely neighborhood that is easy to walk around with a park across the street
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was very clean and privateplace was kept very clean and tidyplace is nice and clean good for winter time and commuting is difficultwell maintained and cleanthis place was great and super cleanHost:
the hosts were extremely helpful and friendlyhost & place both was awesomethe place was great and the host was always on call for anything and everythinghe was very professional and helpful throughout our staywonderful host made my family feel at easeRead more reviewsLocation:
easy to location good surroundinglocation is easy to find located in a peaceful colonylocation helps to take to atari border without entering the traffic of amritsar cityjust 15-20mins away from golden temple would highly recommend this placeawesome place whenever in future i travel i amritsar i would love to dwell at this place again
Superhost
Plan a trip to the magnificent Golden Temple
Golden Temple is one of the most recognized sites in India and is the top attraction in Amritsar. It was constructed on the foundation of equality and inclusivity, values that have been upheld throughout its glorious existence. Consider this article as a guide to experiencing the best of Golden Temple and finding the top places to stay nearby!
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