Saturday, December 18, 2010

Amritsar-Golden Temple in Punjab


The magnificent temple complex set in the ‘heart’ of Amritsar is the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. Its foundation was laid in 1588, by the fifth Sikh Guru Arjun Dev ji on a small island in the waters of Amrit Sarovar and was consecrated on August 16, 1604. The gurudwara complex is a fine blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture and is regarded as one of the most tastefully decorated shrines of the world. Darshani Deori, the northern gateway with two splendidly carved silver doors is the main entrance. It also houses the Central Sikh Museum. The main shrine called as Harmandar or Darbar Sahib is set in the middle of sacred Amrit Sarovar pond. The original copy of Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs is kept covered under a jeweled canopy at the Darbar Sahib during the day and is returned ceremoniously to the Akal Takht at night. Guru-ka-Langar, the massive community kitchen overlooking the eastern entrance of the temple complex is a must visit site.

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