Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is the holiest shrine of Sikhism, located in Amritsar, Punjab, India. Guru Arjan began its foundation in 1581 and the original brick structure was completed in 1589, with the Adi Granth installed in 1604. Maharaja Ranjit Singh's renovations of 1802 to 1830 added marble and gold leaf overlay, including a dome plated with roughly 400 kilograms of gold, giving the shrine its present appearance. The sanctum sits within a rectangular pool called the Amrit Sarovar and the building blends Hindu and Islamic architectural influences, with four entrances symbolizing openness to visitors of every background. More than 150,000 people visit to worship each day, and the temple has repeatedly survived destruction during Mughal and Afghan invasions to remain a center of Sikh identity.
Reader Challenges (0 open reader challenges)
No disputes yet. Spotted an error or a better source? Open the first one.
Sign in to dispute this or suggest a correction.