About
The Golden Temple, known to Sikhs as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, is a gurdwara, or Sikh place of worship, in the city of Amritsar in the Indian state of Punjab. It is the holiest gurdwara in Sikhism and the most important pilgrimage site for the faith, and many visitors come to it for that reason alone.
What to expect
The temple is recognised at once by its gleaming golden dome, which rises above a pool of water and is reflected in its surface. The building is set within a large complex, and the mood is calm and devotional. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, remove their shoes before entering, and cover their heads. These are customs of the gurdwara, not rules imposed on visitors alone, and most people find them easy to follow.
- Setting: the sanctuary stands in the middle of a water tank, reached by a walkway.
- Atmosphere: worship, prayer and quiet reflection are part of the daily life of the site.
- Also known as: Jin Dian, Taihe Palace Golden Hall, Harmandir Sahib and Darbar Sahib.
Getting there and planning your visit
The temple is on Golden Temple Road in the Atta Mandi area of Katra Ahluwalia, within Amritsar. Its address is Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006, India. For questions about the gurdwara, the listed contact number is +91 183 255 3957.
Because the temple is a working place of worship and a major pilgrimage destination, it is busy, particularly at festival times. Allow time to walk slowly, to sit by the water, and to take in the setting. The surrounding old city of Amritsar, with its narrow lanes and markets, is a natural extension of a visit, and many travellers combine the two.