Golden Temple, Amritsar, India

Golden Temple - Amritsar
The Golden Temple which lies in Amritsar is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion anywhere in the world. You may never visit a more welcoming and open religious site, especially which is so important to its own followers. The Temple itself sits impressively on a rectangular platform that forms an island in the middle of Amrit Sarovar, a holy tank of water said to have healing powers for visiting pilgrims. The Temple has huge importance to the Sikh faith, and up to 100,000 pilgrims visit it daily. The Temple is reached by a causeway, and is an incredible blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. The lower floor is formed of marble, which features iconic pietra dura work that also adorns the Taj Mahal. The upper floor is coated in stunning gold panels, leading up to a shimmering Golden Dome in the shape of an inverted lotus. The holy shrine has four entrances from all four directions, which is said to signify that people belonging to every religion and place are equally welcome.

Where is it?
The holiest Sikh gurdwara in the world is located in the city of Amritsar, in the Punjab region in the extreme north of India.

What is it?
The significant Temple was constructed in 1604. Buddha was said to have visited the lake it was set on and two thousand years after his time Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, came to live and meditate by the peaceful lake. This gives it its religious importance.

Best time to visit?
The best time to visit is in the Indian Winter, between October and March. This is the most temperate time which allows visitors to enjoy the crowded site in more comfort.

Must See?
Your eyes can’t help but be drawn up to the ceiling of the Golden Temple, which is coated in wondrous patterns constructed with gold and precious stones.