Sri Harmandir Sahib
Amritsar, India
- Listen to Gurbani recitations
- Partake in Langar
- Visit the Central Sikh Museum
- Walk around Amrit Sarovar
- Witness Palki Sahib ceremony
Known for:
Description:
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is a spiritually significant gurdwara located in Amritsar, India. It's the holiest shrine in Sikhism and a symbol of equality and unity, welcoming people of all faiths. The temple's stunning golden structure is surrounded by a sacred pool (Amrit Sarovar) believed to have healing powers. Visitors can witness the continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib (holy scripture) and partake in the langar (free community kitchen), a testament to the Sikh principle of selfless service. The serene atmosphere and the golden reflection shimmering on the water create a truly mesmerizing experience.
History:
The Golden Temple's history dates back to the 16th century. The land was initially a small lake deemed sacred by Sikhs. Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, designed the temple and installed the Adi Granth (later Guru Granth Sahib) within it in 1604. Over the centuries, the temple faced destruction and reconstruction, notably being rebuilt with marble and overlaid with gold leaf by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century. It has since become a central hub of Sikhism and a prominent pilgrimage site.