Amritsar, Punjab, India
Give up your selfishness, and you shall find peace; like water mingling with water, you shall merge in absorption.
—Sri Guru Granth Sahib
The Sri Harmandir Sahib, or Golden Temple, is the holiest, most exquisite shrine in the Sikh religion with elaborate gold gilding and white marble walls, precious stone floral inlay, and richly patterned floors. Its atmosphere of reverence and devotion befits a sacred sanctuary whose name means “abode of God.” Sitting on an island surrounded by the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Immortal Holy Nectar), the temple houses the eternal spirit of the Sikh founder, Guru Nanak, who preached that spiritual enlightenment could be achieved through meditation on God’s name.
To appease your spiritual hunger or to find deeper meaning in your spiritual life, visit the Temple. Take a flight into Amritsar International Airport, and then a bus, a taxi, or a cycle-rickshaw to the temple. Allow several hours to explore the compound and the Temple of God (Hari Mandir), beautifully adorned with verses from the Sikh’s holiest book, the Guru Granth Sahib.
Remove your shoes and wash your feet in the wading pool before entering the temple. Dress respectfully and cover your head (scarves are provided). Do not consume alcohol, cigarettes, or meat while on the premises. Photography is not permitted inside the shrine.
Read a sacred verse at random from the Guru Granth Sahib, considered the living embodiment of the Sikh gurus and their sacred teachings. Contemplate the deeper meaning of the verse and let it guide you through your day.
Construction of the temple began in 1574 and was completed in 1604 when the holy book was installed. The temple was designed with four entrances to symbolize Sikh’s welcome and acceptance of all who enter.