Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, popularly known as The Golden Temple

Historical Timeline: The construction of the temple started in 1570 was completed in 1577.

Significance: The golden temple is respectfully known as Harmandir Sahib. Being the central place of worship of Sikhs, this temple stands out among all other Gurudwaras. Located in the heart of Amritsar, this unique place welcomes devotees with its four symbolic doors throughout the year. The four doors signify openness and acceptance towards all, irrespective of their religious faith. The temple owes its name to the gold-covered dome which protects the Sanctum Sanctorum. The temple is part of a big complex which comprises of many buildings situated around the sanctum and the pool. One amongst these is the Akal Takht, the seat of temporal authority of Sikhs where all the issues related to the community are being addressed to and taken care of. The Guru Granth (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is carried to the Akal Takht in the night. It also displays a palanquin bearing weapons possessed ... More

Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, popularly known as The Golden Temple

Historical Timeline: The construction of the temple started in 1570 was completed in 1577.

Significance: The golden temple is respectfully known as Harmandir Sahib. Being the central place of worship of Sikhs, this temple stands out among all other Gurudwaras. Located in the heart of Amritsar, this unique place welcomes devotees with its four symbolic doors throughout the year. The four doors signify openness and acceptance towards all, irrespective of their religious faith. The temple owes its name to the gold-covered dome which protects the Sanctum Sanctorum. The temple is part of a big complex which comprises of many buildings situated around the sanctum and the pool. One amongst these is the Akal Takht, the seat of temporal authority of Sikhs where all the issues related to the community are being addressed to and taken care of. The Guru Granth (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is carried to the Akal Takht in the night. It also displays a palanquin bearing weapons possessed by Sikh warriors and Gurus.

Visit Time: The doors of the temple never close but the entry to the sanctum sanctorum is restricted between 10 pm to 4 am for the cleaning of the precincts and making it ready for the next installation of the Guru Granth. The time may vary depending upon the seasons.

Accommodation: The temple provides a Sarai (an inn or a lodge) which offers rooms with basic amenities at a nominal price. They have special Sarais for foreigners too. It is purely based on a first-come, first-serve basis. Apart from this, there are seven Niwas Asthans which provide better lodging facilities for the devotees. Many hotels are available for reasonable prices in the periphery of the temple.

Accessibility Route: The golden temple is located in the heart of Amritsar, and it is well connected by road, rail, and air. The temple is situated just 15 minutes away from the Amritsar Railway station. The city is well connected with several major cities in India. Interstate buses are also in service. The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport (otherwise known as Raja Sansi International Airport), which is situated at a distance of 13 km away from the city.

Nearby places to visit: A visit to Wagah border and attending the flag-lowering ceremony are definitely worth your time. Jallianwala Bagh situated just one km away is a must-go destination as it holds an important place in the history of India. Another attraction is the Durgiana Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, which looks like a replica of the Golden temple. Spanning across a period of 257 years, Gobindgarh Fort, located in the heart of Amritsar, has been considered as one of the most touristic places in Punjab. Once in Amritsar, one can try bargaining at the Hall bazar, where one can buy pretty Phulkari cloth, which has the typical bright floral designs of Punjab or a pair of Punjabi juttis (leather shoes with elaborate embroidery work). Visitors can also treat their palette with Beera chicken (special Amritsari roasted chicken) and Amritsari Kulchas (a flatbread made of maida), and finally, grab a packet of aam papad and spicy waris (lentil dumplings).