Founded in 1577 by Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs, Amritsar is both the centre of the Sikh religion and the major city of Punjab state. The name means Pool of Nectar, referring to the sacred tank around which the Sikhs' Golden Temple is built.

The holiest shrine of the Sikh religion, Golden Temple (Hari Mandir), is an exceptionally beautiful and peaceful place, especially early in the morning. The temple is surrounded by the pool Amrit Sarovar, which gave the town its name, and is reached by a marble causeway.

Pilgrims and visitors must remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the precincts. No smoking is allowed.

Hospitality to pilgrims is part of the Sikh faith, and the most interesting place to stay in Amritsar is at the Golden Temple itself.

Copyright © 2001 Joe Corner. All rights reserved.
This site is best viewed in 800 by 600 resolutions, with Internet Explorer.