Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)

Sri Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple, is the holiest shrine of Sikhism located in central Amritsar, Punjab. Set in the middle of the sacred Amrit Sarovar and connected by a marble causeway, its sanctum is adorned with gold plating and marble inlay. Conceived by Guru Arjan in 1581 and later embellished under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, it is renowned for its architecture, inclusive design with four entrances, and continuous community kitchen serving all visitors.

Visitors enter the white marble complex after covering their head, storing shoes and washing hands and feet. They can walk the parikrama around the Amrit Sarovar, cross the causeway to the gilded sanctum where Gurbani kirtan is recited continuously, view the gold dome reflected in the water, observe the Akal Takht opposite the sanctum, visit the Central Sikh Museum, and partake in the free langar meal in the large community dining hall. The complex is illuminated at night and remains serene despite large crowds.

Conceived by Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, construction began in 1581 and was completed in 1604 with the installation of the Adi Granth. The shrine was designed with four entrances and a lower level to signify humility and inclusiveness. Over centuries it was rebuilt and embellished, with major gold plating and marble work added under Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the early 19th century. The Akal Takht was established by Guru Hargobind in 1606 opposite the sanctum.

The holiest shrine of Sikhism, it embodies Sikh principles of equality, humility, universal brotherhood and selfless service. Open to people of all faiths, castes and genders, it is the central place of worship, music and community service for Sikhs, renowned for its continuous langar and seva tradition where volunteers serve free meals to all visitors without distinction.