Amritsar, a vibrant city in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, bustling bazaars, and, most notably, the resplendent Golden Temple—a spiritual and architectural marvel that attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the globe—where the tranquil reflection of the gilded sanctum in the sacred pool, coupled with the melodic recitations of the Guru Granth Sahib, creates a profoundly moving experience that encapsulates the essence of Sikh devotion, hospitality, and communal harmony.
India: Amritsar – The Golden Temple
A Day at the Golden Temple
There were two main experiences I had set my heart on during our time in Amritsar: to witness the splendour of the Golden Temple and to see the flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah Border. After some careful research, I discovered a company called Planet Amritsar, which came highly rated by other travellers. Their tours combined both these highlights into a single full-day itinerary and even included a few extras. The price was a little on the higher side, but what they offered seemed to make it worthwhile. The only thing that gave me pause was the starting time: 4:15 in the morning. At the time of booking, I convinced myself it would not be too bad.
When the alarm rang on my phone at 3:45am, that optimism quickly wavered. Still half-asleep, we managed a quick shower, dressed hastily, and crept out of the room, hoping not to disturb anyone. At the reception desk, a night guard was stretched out on the floor, deep in sleep. We had to wake him so he could unlock the front door, and I felt rather guilty for dragging him from his rest. Outside, the streets were still dimly lit, yet already alive with a surprising amount of movement.
Our guide, a young man named Amrit, was waiting for us. Though only in his twenties, he was not just a guide but the founder of the company itself. His energy and confidence were immediately reassuring. After quick introductions, we set off through the streets of Amritsar, collecting along the way another traveller—Tony, from Canada—who was visiting the city briefly on a side trip. With our small group complete, we headed towards the beating heart of the city: the Harmandir Sahib, better known to the world as the Golden Temple.
👣 Entering the Temple Complex
On arrival at the temple complex, we deposited our shoes in the designated storeroom. Like all visitors, we washed our hands and feet, as is the custom, before walking barefoot towards the entrance. Even at this hour, the atmosphere was charged with expectation. Pilgrims moved steadily in and out, some carrying offerings, others simply pausing to bow before entering.
This was not our first visit to the Golden Temple—we had already come earlier under our own steam—but this time felt different. We were here at dawn for a very specific reason: to witness the Prakash, the morning ceremony when the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, is carried with immense reverence from the Akal Takht to the sanctum of the Golden Temple.
📖 The Guru Granth Sahib and the Gurus
Amrit explained the background of this ritual as we waited. Sikhism is a relatively young religion compared to many others, tracing its origins back to 1469 with the birth of Guru Nanak. Over the next two and a half centuries, a line of ten gurus shaped and guided the faith, teaching principles of equality, honesty, justice, and devotion to one God. In 1708, the tenth guru declared that no human successor would follow. Instead, spiritual authority was vested permanently in the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhism.
This means the holy book is not simply read but is revered as a living guru. Each day it is “awakened” in the morning and taken with ceremony to the temple, and each evening it is “put to rest” in the Akal Takht. The symbolism is profound—an affirmation that wisdom, not any individual leader, guides the Sikh community.
🎶 The Prakash Ceremony
We found a place along the route and waited quietly. Already groups of devotees were chanting softly, their voices merging into a low, resonant hum. Several men emerged from the Akal Takht building, sweeping the steps and the pathway with ritual precision. Soon others followed, laying down carpets and preparing the way. A man came along and pressed into our hands a small handful of rose petals, their scent strong and sweet in the cool morning air.
Then, the ceremony began. The sound of horns and drums filled the space, and the energy of the crowd lifted. From the building emerged the Guru Granth Sahib, borne aloft on a golden palki (palanquin). It glistened in the light of lanterns and the first hints of dawn. As it passed by, we scattered our rose petals in the air, adding to the clouds of colour that showered the sacred procession. Within moments, the palki was carried onwards into the temple, and the chanting subsided. It was striking how something so brief could carry such weight and beauty.
💧 Walking Around the Amrit Sarovar
After the procession, Amrit led us around the marble walkway that encircles the Amrit Sarovar, the sacred tank of water that surrounds the Golden Temple. This pool, excavated in 1577 by the fourth Sikh guru, Ram Das, gave the city its very name: Amritsar, the “Pool of Nectar.”
Even at this early hour, pilgrims were bathing in its waters. Some entered slowly, pausing to splash water over themselves; others submerged completely. Special areas allowed women to bathe with modesty, shielded from public view. The belief in the healing and purifying powers of the water runs deep, and for many Sikhs, making this pilgrimage is a lifelong dream. Watching the devotion of the bathers gave a real sense of the faith’s depth and the centrality of this sacred place.
🕌 Learning About Sikhism
Finding a quieter corner, Amrit began to explain more about Sikhism itself. He spoke with pride and clarity, describing how Sikhism teaches equality between all people—men and women alike—and stresses service to humanity and respect for all religions. Unlike many faiths, children are not automatically considered Sikh at birth. Instead, each individual must make a conscious decision to join through a ceremony called Khalsa. Once inside the community, though, it is difficult to leave without consequences, as the community is tightly knit and bonds of belonging are strong.
He listed the fundamentals of Sikhism: belief in one God who has no form or gender; the idea that everyone has direct access to God; the rejection of empty rituals; and the call to live honestly, to serve others, and to recognise equality in all. He also told us about the Five Ks—the symbols of Sikh identity: uncut hair, a steel bracelet, a small sword or knife, a wooden comb, and special undergarments. These are both personal and communal reminders of faith, duty, and discipline. He also pointed out the importance of the turban, which makes Sikh men instantly recognisable, though not everyone who wears a turban is Sikh.
⏳ Queuing for the Golden Temple
By now the sky had brightened and the temple complex was filling steadily with worshippers and visitors. It was time for us to enter the Golden Temple itself. The only way across is via a narrow bridge that stretches out over the Amrit Sarovar, directly connecting to the sanctum. The bridge is only wide enough for a few people side by side, so the flow of pilgrims has to be carefully managed.
We joined the line, which was already long, and found ourselves slowly shuffling forward with hundreds of others. People around us seemed calm and patient, some softly reciting prayers, others quietly chatting to their companions. From time to time the queue came to a complete halt, and we later learned that ceremonies inside often pause the flow until they are complete. At one point, midway across the bridge, we stood still for a good fifteen minutes while music and chanting drifted out from within the temple. The anticipation made the moment even more powerful.
🛕 Inside the Harmandir Sahib
At last, we stepped through the doorway into the sanctum itself. Inside, the space was smaller than expected, yet charged with energy and devotion. Sikh temples are called gurdwaras, and this was the most important one of all. Several holy men sat cross-legged, playing instruments and chanting verses from the Guru Granth Sahib. The rhythmic music filled the air, accompanied by the faint scent of incense.
In the centre, a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib lay open, and one of the gurus was reading from it aloud. Devotees bowed deeply, some even prostrating themselves, before moving on to make space for others. The sense of reverence was striking. We lingered for a short time, taking it all in, before Amrit guided us upstairs. On the second floor, another guru was reading from a different copy of the scripture. Amrit explained that there are many copies of the holy text, all considered equally sacred.
We climbed further to the top floor, where another shrine was located, though closed to visitors. From here, Amrit shared the history of the temple’s construction. Built originally between 1581 and 1589, the Harmandir Sahib, meaning “House of God,” has stood at the heart of Sikh devotion for centuries. It has not always been peaceful—invading Mughal and Afghan forces destroyed it several times, only for it to be rebuilt with determination by the Sikh community. In 1809, Maharaja Ranjit Singh oversaw its reconstruction in marble and copper, and in 1830 the sanctum was gilded with sheets of gold. That final embellishment gave rise to the name by which it is now known around the world: the Golden Temple.
🧘 Moments of Reflection
Crossing back over the bridge, we left the central sanctum behind. Amrit led us to quieter corners of the complex where small rooms offered space for meditation and personal prayer. In these rooms, gurus read continually from the scriptures while visitors and devotees sat silently, absorbed in contemplation.
We decided to spend a few minutes meditating ourselves. The atmosphere was calm and restorative, the hum of chants echoing faintly through the walls. Even for those not of the Sikh faith, there was something grounding about sitting in stillness amidst so much devotion. It was a reminder that this was not just a place of architectural beauty, but a living centre of faith and community.
🍲 Experiencing the Langar
By now, hunger was beginning to set in, and Amrit suggested we try the langar, the community kitchen of the temple. In Sikhism, serving food to anyone who comes—without discrimination of wealth, background, or religion—is a core principle. Langars exist wherever Sikh gurdwaras exist, but the one at the Golden Temple is the largest in the world. Here, around 100,000 meals are served daily, free of charge. On holidays or festivals, this number can double.
Meals are simple, vegetarian, and nourishing: typically rotis (flatbread), rice, daal (lentils), a vegetable dish, and sometimes kheer (a sweet rice pudding). Volunteers, known as sewadars, prepare, cook, and serve the meals, alongside around 300 permanent staff. Ninety per cent of the workforce are volunteers, some giving just a few hours, others devoting entire days. The whole operation runs with astonishing efficiency.
We chose to eat here, joining the hundreds who sat cross-legged on mats spread across the dining halls. For us, sitting on the floor for an extended period was not easy, so we were gently moved to sit against the wall with others who had mobility issues or were elderly. Plates were quickly filled as sewadars moved down the rows, sloshing generous helpings of daal and vegetables onto our steel trays and dropping rotis into our hands. The food was simple but delicious, and the act of eating together with so many others felt humbling. Once finished, we were politely gestured to move on so the next group could be seated.
👨🍳 Behind the Scenes of the Kitchen
Our experience did not end with the meal. Amrit took us on a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen operation itself. What we saw was staggering. Trucks were continually arriving with supplies, and the sheer quantities were immense: 5,000 kilograms of wheat, 1,800 kilograms of daal, 1,400 kilograms of rice, and 700 kilograms of milk consumed each day. One hundred gas cylinders were required daily to keep the cooking fires burning.
In the main kitchen, vast steel vats of daal bubbled away, steam filling the air. One man stood stirring with a ladle so large it resembled a wooden oar. He smiled warmly at us and even let us take a turn stirring for photographs. Moving on, we saw the roti production line. Traditionally, an army of women hand-made the rotis, and many still do, skilfully patting and shaping each disc of dough into perfect circles. But machines now supplement their efforts, churning out 12,000 rotis per hour.
Finally, we visited the washing area, which was by far the noisiest part of the entire complex. Long rows of sinks stretched across the room, manned by teams of volunteers vigorously scrubbing plates, bowls, and cups. Metal clanged loudly as dishes were tossed into large tubs and shifted around. Despite the chaos of sound, there was order in the process, a rhythm born of repetition and dedication.
🌟 Final Thoughts
By the time we left the Golden Temple complex, the morning had already been filled with more experiences than we could have imagined. From the solemn beauty of the Prakash ceremony to the humbling generosity of the langar and the awe of stepping inside the gilded sanctum itself, every part of the visit revealed something unique about Sikhism and its community. What struck me most was not just the grandeur of the architecture or the history of the temple, but the living faith practised every day by thousands of devotees and the immense hospitality shown to strangers.
Visiting the Golden Temple is more than sightseeing—it is an encounter with a culture of devotion, equality, and service. Even as visitors, we were drawn into that spirit, and it left a lasting impression.
Planning your visit to the Golden Temple
🛕 Location
Golden Temple is in Amritsar, in the state of Punjab, India. It lies in the heart of the old city on Golden Temple Road, in the Sri Darbar Sahib complex.
🚗 How to Get There
By Air: The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, about 13 km from the temple.
By Train: Amritsar has a railway station that is about 2 km from the Golden Temple. Local transport or taxis can take you from there.
By Road / Local Transport: From within the city, tuk-tuks, cycle-rickshaws, taxis are widely available. Bus services too. Many people stay nearby and walk into the temple complex.
ℹ️ Contact Information
Official Website: SGPC’s page for Sri Harmandir Sahib. SGPC+1
Email: info@sgpc.net
Telephone: +91-183-2553956, -2553957, -2553958, -2553959, -2553960.
Address:
Teja Singh Samundri Hall,
Sri Darbar Sahib Complex,
Amritsar, Punjab, India.
⏱ Opening Hours & Entry Fees
The Golden Temple complex is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There is no entry fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
✅ Tips & Notes
You will need to remove shoes before entering. There are shoe storage facilities.
You’ll need to cover your head (scarves or cloth wraps are provided if you don’t have your own).
Modest dress is expected (e.g. cover shoulders and knees).
There is a free community kitchen (langar) that runs almost all the time. Anyone can eat there.
Getting around Amritsar
🚕 Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are widely available across Amritsar, and they offer a convenient way to move around the city. Travellers can either book through local taxi stands or use popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Ola, which are reliable and often more affordable. Prices can vary depending on traffic and time of day, so it is always best to confirm the fare in advance when using traditional taxis.
🛺 Auto-Rickshaws
Auto-rickshaws are one of the most common and budget-friendly ways to get around Amritsar. They are perfect for short distances and navigating the city’s bustling streets. While most rides are reasonably priced, it is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey or insist on using the metre if available.
🚌 Local Buses
The Punjab Roadways and local city buses provide an inexpensive option for those comfortable with a more local experience. Though they can be crowded and less predictable, buses are ideal for reaching areas beyond the city centre. Some routes even connect to the Wagah Border and other nearby attractions.
🚆 Train Connections
Amritsar Junction is the city’s main railway station, with good connectivity to other parts of Punjab and beyond. Within the city, however, trains are not practical for short journeys, but they are an excellent option if you are planning day trips or longer travels.
🚶 Walking
The historic centre of Amritsar, particularly around the Golden Temple, is best explored on foot. Many of the lanes are narrow and not easily accessible by car, so walking allows you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden shops, eateries, and bazaars at your own pace.
🚲 Cycle-Rickshaws
For a slower, more traditional experience, cycle-rickshaws remain a charming way to explore certain parts of Amritsar. They are especially common around the old city and offer a more leisurely way to travel short distances while taking in the local sights.
🛵 Scooters and Motorbikes
Hiring a scooter or motorbike is another option for confident riders. It allows freedom to explore areas outside the city centre at your own pace. Helmets are required by law, and traffic can be hectic, so it is best suited for those comfortable riding in busy Indian streets.
The best time to visit Amritsar
🌸 Spring (March – April)
Spring in Amritsar is one of the most pleasant times to visit. The weather is warm without being uncomfortable, with daytime temperatures averaging between 16°C and 28°C. The city comes alive with colourful blossoms and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and visiting the Golden Temple. The evenings can still be slightly cool, so a light jumper or shawl may be useful. Festivals such as Hola Mohalla and Baisakhi also fall in this season, offering visitors the chance to witness vibrant cultural celebrations.
☀️ Summer (May – June)
Summer in Amritsar can be challenging, with temperatures often soaring to 40°C and beyond. The heat is dry and intense, and sightseeing during the daytime can become exhausting. However, early mornings and evenings remain somewhat bearable, and the city is less crowded with tourists. If travelling in these months, it is wise to carry light cotton clothes, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Staying hydrated is also essential, and indoor activities or temple visits in the cooler hours are preferable.
🌧️ Monsoon (July – September)
The monsoon brings relief from the scorching summer, but it also makes Amritsar humid and unpredictable. Rainfall is moderate to heavy, and while the showers can be refreshing, they may disrupt travel plans. Temperatures generally range between 25°C and 32°C, with high humidity levels. If visiting during this time, it is best to pack waterproof footwear, a raincoat or umbrella, and quick-drying clothes. Despite the rains, the Golden Temple looks stunning against the grey skies and reflective waters of the Sarovar, offering a serene atmosphere.
🍂 Autumn (October – November)
Autumn is another favourable time to explore Amritsar. The rains have cleared the skies, and the weather is comfortably warm, ranging from 15°C to 30°C. The city feels refreshed, and major attractions can be enjoyed without weather-related discomfort. It is also the season leading into the festival of Diwali, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Golden Temple. Packing light cotton clothes for the day and a thin jacket or shawl for cooler evenings is recommended.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Winter in Amritsar is cool and, at times, chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as 4°C and rarely rising above 18°C during the day. Mornings and evenings can be foggy, but the crisp air adds a charm to the city’s atmosphere. This is a wonderful season to explore the city’s street food culture and stroll through bustling bazaars. Warm layers, including sweaters, coats, scarves, and comfortable shoes, are essential for winter travel. The fog may occasionally delay flights or trains, so flexibility in plans is helpful.
📊 Seasonal Summary Chart
| Season | Temperature Range | Weather Conditions | What to Pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 16°C – 28°C | Pleasant, clear skies | Light cottons, light jumper/shawl |
| Summer | 28°C – 40°C+ | Very hot, dry | Cotton clothes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses |
| Monsoon | 25°C – 32°C | Humid, rainy | Waterproofs, umbrella, quick-dry clothes |
| Autumn | 15°C – 30°C | Warm, post-rain freshness | Light clothes, thin jacket/shawl |
| Winter | 4°C – 18°C | Cool to cold, foggy | Warm layers, coat, scarves, sturdy shoes |
🌟 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Amritsar is during October to March, covering both autumn and winter. The weather is at its most comfortable for exploring, cultural festivals are in full swing, and the city’s charm is at its peak. While spring is also pleasant, the post-monsoon freshness and winter festivities make the latter part of the year particularly rewarding for travellers.
Where to stay in Amritsar
1. Mid Range: Hotel RV Golden
The Hotel RV Golden in Amritsar is a comfortable mid-range option that blends modern amenities with a welcoming, homely atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travellers. Conveniently located not too far from the Golden Temple and other key attractions, it provides guests with easy access to the heart of the city while still maintaining a sense of calm away from the bustle. The rooms are neatly presented, well-lit, and air-conditioned, offering flat-screen televisions, complimentary WiFi, and essential facilities to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests often remark on the friendly and attentive staff, who are quick to assist with travel arrangements, local guidance, and any special requests. The in-house dining serves a variety of dishes, with an emphasis on North Indian flavours, giving visitors the chance to enjoy hearty meals without leaving the hotel. Cleanliness and safety are well maintained, and the property also offers conveniences such as parking and room service, making it a practical choice for families, couples, or solo travellers looking for reliable accommodation in Amritsar.
2. Luxury – Sarovar Premiere Amritsar
The Sarovar Premiere Amritsar is one of the city’s more modern and stylish hotels, offering a comfortable base for travellers who wish to enjoy both convenience and a touch of refinement during their stay. Located just a short drive from the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh, it is well placed for sightseeing yet remains tucked away enough to provide a sense of calm once you return from the busy streets. The hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms with contemporary furnishings, sleek bathrooms, and all the expected amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen televisions. Guests can enjoy a choice of dining options, with an elegant multi-cuisine restaurant serving both Indian and international dishes, as well as a bar that provides a relaxed space for evening drinks. The rooftop pool and terrace are highlights, offering not just a place to unwind but also sweeping views over the city skyline, while the spa and fitness centre add to the sense of comfort and leisure. With attentive service, banquet facilities for events, and a location that balances accessibility with tranquillity, the Sarovar Premiere Amritsar caters well to both leisure and business visitors looking for a polished yet welcoming environment.
3. Budget – Hotel Palace
The Hotel Palace in Amritsar is one of those classic establishments that combines a sense of tradition with the comforts that most modern travellers look for. Situated in a convenient part of the city, it offers easy access to the main attractions, including the Golden Temple and the bustling bazaars that surround it, making it an ideal base for both pilgrims and tourists. The property itself has a slightly old-world charm, with a focus on spacious rooms, reliable services, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at ease from the moment they arrive. Many visitors appreciate the hotel’s straightforward approach – clean and comfortable accommodation, attentive staff, and food that reflects local flavours without being overly complicated. For those seeking more than just a bed for the night, the hotel provides a setting that feels tied to Amritsar’s character, offering glimpses of the city’s hospitality traditions while ensuring that practical needs such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and travel assistance are well covered. It may not have the polish of a luxury chain, but its enduring appeal lies in its balance between affordability, location, and a homely environment that suits both short and longer stays.
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