Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, Amritsar in Punjab is one of the holiest shrines and a very important pilgrimage destination for Sikhs from all over the world. It is a central Gurudwara for Sikhs. This spectacular site is increasingly becoming a popular tourist attraction as well. In 1588 Guru Arjan Dev started building the Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib ( Temple of God), completed it and installed the Granth Sahib in 1604. It was built with burnt brick and lime. Later on, legendary Emperor Ranjeet Singh, often referred to as Sher-e-Punjab, during his reign (1799-1839) renovated the Golden Temple and adorned it with gold and exquisite marble work. The marble inlay, gold plating and gliding of the temple were sponsored by him.

The Golden Temple is a two storied structure embellished with marbles and covered by a golden dome. The exterior of the temple is plated with gold. The temple is built on a square platform, which is surrounded by a large lake ( sarovar ) known as the Amritsarovar ( Pool of nectar ). There is a causeway across the pool to reach the temple. This causeway is decorated with marble and has beautiful lamps on either side. One can see the brilliant reflection of the Golden Temple in the Amritsarovar. The Amritsarovar is said to contain medicinal herbs which cure ailments. Many devotees visiting the Golden temple take a holy bath in the pool to purge themselves before entering the temple. The temple has entrances on all four sides signifying that it is welcome to one and all irrespective of cast, creed, colour or gender. Inside the temple there are plaques that signify past historical events. The floor of the temple is covered with marble tiles while the ceiling has intricate inlay work. As soon as you enter the temple you can see the Guru Granth Sahib placed on a beautiful jewel studded base. The Shish Mahal or Mirror room is constructed on the second level. It is layered with mirrors of different patterns and is constructed in a way that there is a square opening in the centre, which gives you a view of the ground floor from the second level. The Shish Mahal is covered by the beautiful golden dome with minarets.

Within the temple complex there are many shrines dedicated to past Sikh gurus, sages and martyrs. There is an information office near the main entrance of the temple ( entered through a clock tower ), which is highly recommended for first timers. The Sikh central museum, which has a gallery of paintings, is also located close to the clock tower entrance. There is a community kitchen that serves free meals to thousands of people every day.

The atmosphere of the Golden temple is exceptionally calm, serene and peaceful. This magnificent temple gives you a feel of spiritual paradise.