About
The Golden Temple, known in Punjabi as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism. It stands in the city of Amritsar, in the state of Punjab in northern India, and it is one of the most recognisable religious sites in the country.
The temple sits in the middle of a sacred pool, so the building appears to float on water. Its walls and dome are covered in gold leaf, which catches the light and changes colour through the day. Walking around the pool, visitors can see the temple from several sides, and the reflection on the water is a large part of its appeal.
What to expect
The temple welcomes visitors of all faiths, and anyone is free to come in. Because it is a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly and to behave with quiet respect. Many people take off their shoes and cover their heads before entering, and it is sensible to follow the customs of those around you.
- The shrine sits within a sacred pool, best appreciated by walking slowly around its edge.
- Free meals are served to large numbers of people each day, and visitors are welcome to take part.
- Amritsar itself offers other sites to visit nearby, so the temple can form part of a longer stay in the city.
Planning your visit
The temple is best treated as a place to sit, watch and reflect rather than a quick sight to tick off. Allow time to walk the whole way around the pool and to take in the rhythm of people coming and going. Because the site is busy, arriving at a calm moment of the day can make the experience more relaxed.
For many visitors, the temple is the reason to come to Amritsar, and the city's streets, markets and other attractions make a natural complement to a trip there.
