Amritsar or the ‘pool of nectar’, located in the heart of the north Indian state of Punjab, is one of the most fascinating ancient cities in India. Here lies the “Harmandir Sahib” or the Golden Temple; as it is more popularly known. It is the most famous of the many temples in Amritsar. Golden Temple is a significant symbol of Sikh religion, history and culture. The temple was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas and was completed by his successor Guru Arjan Dev. The temple represents the spirit of tolerance and acceptance that the Sikh philosophy propounds.

The temple is being built on a sixty-seven feet square platform in the midst of a “Sarovar” (tank). It has a door each on the east, west, north and south. An arch named “Darshani Deori” stands at the shore end. The door panes of the arch are magnificently decorated and they open on to the bridge that leads you to the main temple building. The architecture of the building reflects a unique amalgamation of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. It is one of the finest examples of human architecture across the globe. Historians believe it created an independent Sikh school of architecture in the history of Indian art.

While visiting the Golden Temple, you can roam around the nearby places of interest. Lying just opposite to the Golden temple, a trip to “Akal Takhat” will be a fascinating one! Built by the Sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind, has been the nerve centre or the Sikhism ever since. A trip to places like “Baba Atal”, “guru ka Langar”, “Sri Guru Ram das Nivas” will be worth it. Wagah border- a ceremonial outpost on the India – Pakistan border lies close by. Every evening, the soldiers of both countries put up a change of guard ceremony which is worth watching. Golden Temple, with its grandeur and culture remains an absolute must visit.