LocationAmritsar
BuiltLate 16th century, rebuilt later
UNESCONo
Allow2–3 hours
OpenOpen day and night
Best lightEarly morning or dusk
Overview
The Golden Temple, Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine of Sikhism. It stands in the middle of a sacred pool and was founded in the late sixteenth century under Guru Arjan.
It welcomes everyone. The community kitchen (langar) serves free vegetarian meals to many thousands of people every day.
What to look for
- The gold-covered sanctum reflected in the pool
- The langar community kitchen
- The Akal Takht opposite the causeway
Visiting tips
- Cover your head, remove your shoes and wash your feet at the entrance.
- Tobacco, alcohol and meat are not allowed in the complex.
- Go very early or at dusk for the most atmospheric light.
Why visit with a private guide
A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), and fits the visit around the rest of your day.
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