Golden Temple

The primary shrine of Sikhism

The Golden Temple is the principal shrine of Sikhism - the Harmandir Sahib. The word sikh means disciple since Sikhs follow the teachings established by 10 gurus between 1507 and 1708. The original temple was built in the last quarter of 16th century and has been pulled down and rebuilt 3 times the last being in 1764-65. It sits on an island in the _sarowar_ (pool of water) accessed on a 60m (197ft) causeway through a 2-storey entrance pavillion called the Darshani Deorhi. Sarowar is known as the Pool of Nectar or _amritsar_ hence the name of the city and predates the temple having been excavated by 4th guru in 16th century. Around the pool edge there is a marble pavement called _parikarma_ 18m (60ft) wide connecting the pavement and the pool are 10 steps with platforms from which to enter the water for ritual washing of the body that accmpanies prayer.

Unlike a Hindu temple the Golden Temple has 4 doorways to indicate that it is open to all main caste divisions of Hindu society.