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Complimentary Travel Guide to SRI HARMANDIR SAHIB (The Golden ) www.goldentempleamritsar.org

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www.idea-ads.com Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in The Amritsar 31°37’11.92”N 74°52’35.44”E

Guru Granth Sahib The Golden Temple is carried in a Sri Harmandir Sahib...... 6 Golden Planiquin Daily Routine of Sri Harimandir Sahib...... 8 to Sri Harmandir Sahib Map of Golden Temple Complex...... 10 for installation Historical Places...... 10 in the early morning hrs. Jalao (Jewelry Display)...... 18 Ka (Community Kitchen)...... 19 Takhat...... 20 Things to Remember...... 21 Accommodation...... 21 Facilities...... 21 Photos : Satbir Singh, Internet Design : www.idea-ads.com Amritsar Text : Narinderpal Singh Historical ...... 26 Feedback Travel Guide Five Sarovar (Sacred Pools) in Amritsar...... 27 Help us to keep our information current. Suggestions about this Travel Guide are welcome Tourists Interests...... 28 at: [email protected] or Fairs & Festivals...... 30 +91 - 981 576 2315 Shopping...... 30 To display your ad in our Travel Guides to Eating Points...... 31 Important Telephone Numbers...... 31 Sri Harmandir Sahib and Hemkund Sahib Yatra Main Trains from Amritsar...... 32 Main Nearest Cities & Public Places...... 32 contact [email protected] or +91-98157 62315 www.idea-ads.com [email protected] +91 - 981 576 2315

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Visit www.hemkunt.in for Sri Hemkunt Sahib Yatra information www.goldentempleamritsar.org/dailyroutine (2) (3) means: “The Mool Mantra” • God is ONE Sri Harmandir Sahib • Thy name is TRUE (The Golden Temple Amritsar) and HE IS • THE CREATOR • FEARLESS armandir: ‘The Abode of God’, After the compilation of the Sikh holy • WITHOUT HATRED HStanding in the centre of the scripture Sri was • TIMELESS • SELF EXISTENT pool of nectar (Amrit Sarovar), is installed in Sri Harmandir Sahib in the the First words of Guru Granth Sahib • MADE KNOWN BY the epicentre of . The pool year 1604 by Dev Ji. The THE GURU of nectar (Amrit Sarovar) was got sanctum sanctorum has four doors on excavated by the 4th Sikh Master Guru all the four directions which signifies Ram Das Ji, and it was brick lined that the place of God worship is open during the times of Guru Ajran Dev to all human beings irrespective of (the 5th Sikh Master). The foundation caste, colour, creed, sex, sect, rich, stone of The Harmandir Sahib was laid poor, whereas the Sanctum is not in by a Muslim saint Hazrat Sai any particular direction. from in 1589. The building of The day begins at Harmandir Sahib the sanctum sanctorum was completed with singing of Hymns. Guru Granth in the year 1601. During the time Sahib is brought from Sri Akal it was a simple building made of small Takhat Sahib every early morning for sized bricks called NanakShahi Bricks. installation in Harmandir Sahib and It was beautified by the first Sikh ruler is carried back in the late night hours Maharaja in the year 1803- for rest, after the evening prayer to 1830. It is said that at that time nearly Akal Takhat Sahib. In the due time 100 kilograms of was utilized and Harmandir is cleaned, washed with due this Gold Work the British named milk and water, sheets are changed this Sikh Temple as Golden Temple. for the next day routine. As soon the From the day one, in Sri Harmandir Guru Granth Sahib is installed in the Sahib either the hymns of Guru sanctum sanctorum, the priest will Granth Sahib are sung or recited, open it at random and read the first no idol, no tomb or human worship hymn. This is called , the is there. order or thought of the day. (4) (5) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in

Daily Routine of Sri Harimandir Sahib www.goldentempleamritsar.org/dailyroutine

Nanakshahi (Sikh Calendar) Jaith Assu Maggar March April May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb English Month April May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Kiwad (Portals) Opening Time 2.30 2.15 2.00 2.00 2.15 2.30 2.30 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 2.45 at Amrit Vela (Early dawn) 2.30 2.15 2.00 2.00 2.15 2.30 2.30 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 2.45 Asa Di War 3.30 3.15 3.00 3.00 3.15 3.30 3.30 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 3.45 Departure of Palki Sahib from Sri Akal Takhat Sahib 4.30 4.15 4.00 4.00 4.15 4.30 4.30 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 4.45 First Hukamnama 5.00 4.45 4.30 4.30 4.45 5.00 5.00 5.30 5.30 5.30 5.30 5.15 First Ardas 5.30 5.15 5.00 5.00 5.15 5.30 5.30 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 5.45 Second Ardas & Hukamnama 6.30-6.45 6.30 6.15 6.15 6.30 6.45 6.45 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 6.45- 7.00 Holy reading of Rehras Sahib starts at sunset. Hukamnama at night 21.45 22.15 22.30 22.30 22.15 22.15 22.00 21.30 21.30 21.30 21.30 21.45 Departure of Palki Sahib from Sri Harimandir Sahib 22.00 22.30 22.45 22.45 22.30 22.45 22.15 21.45 21.45 21.45 21.45 22.00

There is a continuous singing of Sahib (palanquin) carrying Sri Guru and devotional tones. After purifying distributed among the devotees. Kirtan (hymns) at Sri Granth Sahib to The Akal Takhat the precincts, the rugs are spread, At Sri Akal Takhat, after the Rehras Harimandir Sahib from the opening Sahib, the devotees, accompanied on which the Peera Sahib (a small (Evening Scripture) the weapons of its portals (doors) to their closing. by the staff, clean the cot) is placed to install the Sri Guru belonging to Guru Sahib (Sikh Some minor changes are effected Sri Harimandir Sahib for one hour. Granth Sahib in the early morning. Masters) and Martyr are in the summer and winter . During this process these devotees At the completion of the Ardas (Sikh displayed at about 8.00 p.m. After the departure of the Palki sing the Gurbani Kirtan in melodious Prayer), Karah Prasad (holy offering) is

A rare old picture of Golden Temple www.goldentempleamritsar.org/oldPhotos

(6) (7) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Map of Golden Temple Complex The red signs represent the www.goldentempleamritsar.org/find accommodations (Page 21)

The black signs show the various places described below:

Canopy supporters covered with Historical Places silver of Maharaja Ranjit Singh times, in Golden Temple Complex musical instruments like Saranda of www.goldentempleamritsar.org/placestovisit Late Baba Sham Singh (Hymn Singer in The Golden Temple) are preserved 1. INFORMATION OFFICE on the philosophy of , in the museum. The museum has been divided www.goldentempleamritsar.org/info Guru Granth Sahib, the Importance of Hair in Sikh Religion, and the Sikh according to the Sikh History. In Next to the main entrance on clock Code of Conduct. the very first hall, the life and style tower side, this office is being managed of , Hindu and Muslim by S.G.P.C. (The Management 2. CENTRAL SIKH MUSEUM: comb () of , Saints has been described through Committee of Golden Temple). It www.goldentempleamritsar.org/csm Arrows and Bow, Iron Chakras (circles) portraits. The second room shows the provides free information regarding This museum was established in the to be worn on the turban by Sikh travels () of Guru Nanak and Golden Temple and Sikh Religion. early 1960’s. The great Sikh artist’s work warriors and Sanjoe (an iron jacket some photos of rare art work on the It also provides Guided tours and and rare pencil sketches by Princess made of wires), Canons and Guns walls of Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai. The Complimentary informative brochures Baamba add to its glory. The wooden pertaining to , Wooden next is followed by the Sikh Struggle (8) (9) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in period after 1708. Portraits of the Sikh Beri is the place known as Ath Sath Martyrs (, Bhai Taru Tirath, signifies that any one taking Singh, Bhai Dyala, Bhai Mati Dass), a dip here with devotion will have the prices for the heads of Sikhs being benefit of visit to 68 holy places. paid. Takes one to the Sikh Empire and The marble palanquin on the raise after independence struggle of Punjabi platform, is the place where small Speaking state, Sikh- Kand pothis (manuscripts) of Gurbani were (Clash), period. kept after they were obtained from the The portraits of Sikh scholars, religious, families of Gurus. These pothis (holy social and political personalities are books) were brought to Amritsar for also displayed. Some hand written, compilation of Adi Granth (Sri Guru ancient holy books are also preserved Granth) Sahib by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. in the museum. 5. GURU KA LANGAR 3. DUKH BHANJANI BERI: See Page 19 www.goldentempleamritsar.org/dbb 6. BUNGA, WATCH TOWERS www.goldentempleamritsar.org/bunga The word Bunga stands for a place to live. During the Sikh Empire, several Sikh Generals and Royal Families got constructed nearly 99 Bungas in the walled city of Amritsar out of which the one constructed by Ramgarhia Missal (Sect) to provide On the eastern flank of the sarovar accommodation to the stands jujube tree known as Dukh Devotees coming to Golden Bhanjani (agony killer) Beri. The Temple. There used to place is associated with the legend of be 22 watch towers a person suffering from leprosy got around the Harmandir cured by taking a dip here. Due to Sahib (The Golden this incidence started Temple) in order to the excavation of the tank keep a watch on the named Amrit Sarovar. enemy (invaders). 4. ATH SATH TIRATH: By the time 20 finished and only www.goldentempleamritsar.org/ast two towers survived. While moving in the outer parikarma On the ground floor of of Harmandir Sahib, around the holy the Bunga, some rooms pool of water, next to Dukh Bhanjani with balcony and a open space is there. The whole building depicts the rare work of Sikh Architecture. One big basement is also there, but the entry is restricted.

(10) (11) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in 7. HISTORICAL SEAT explaining Bani was initiated by Guru of the Guru, Bhai Salo Jee, used to sit www.goldentempleamritsar.org/hseat Arjan Dev himself and the tradition is here and supervise the construction. still going on. Within the Diwan Hall In 1740 A.D. Harmandir Sahib was In this Bunga another historical complex is a small raised platform occupied by a Mughal Governor Massa covered with a marble canopy. This is Ranghar, who started desecrating the place where Guru Arjan Dev recited Harmandir Sahib by using it as his Barah Mah (a bani related with the court, watching dances and consuming description of twelve months according wine. Two Sikh warriors Sukha Singh to Lunar system). Diwan Hall is used for religious functions. 9. SHAHEED BUNGA : achievement of the Sikh Generals of www.goldentempleamritsar.org/sb the Sikh Empire has been preserved. This place stands as a memory to the The Sikhs under the command of bunga of Shaheed missal to which Baba Jassa Singh Ramgarhia and Baghel Deep Singh belongs. In 1762 Harmandir Singh Croresinghia conquered “” Sahib was invaded by Mughal invader Sanctum Sanctorum. Marhi Kamboke and Mehtab Singh in eighteen century, hoisted the Ahmed Shah Abdali. As the news of Miran Kot promised the (Sikh Kesri (Orange) Sikh Flag on Red Fort 11. LACHI BER: sacrilege of Harmandir Sahib reached Devotees) to teach a lesson to Massa (Delhi). On way back to Amritsar they Baba Deep Singh, at once moved Rangar. They reached Harmandir Sahib carried along-with them the historical towards Amritsar, by the time it reached posing as farmers to pay tax to Mughal Marble Seat, on which the Mughal Tarn Taran city the strength rose to Governor. They tied their horses with emperor used to sit, passed the orders nearly 5000. Baba Deep Singh made this jujube tree, went inside, chopped of beheading Guru Teg Bahadur, the a prayer that he reaches Harmandir the head of Massa Ranghar and moved Sikh Devotees and innocent Hindus. Sahib while fighting the enemy. While back. (The passage to the Ramgarhia Bunga, nearly 6 miles from Amritsar there was Towers and Historical Seat is from the a pitched battle between Baba Deep 12. DARSHNI DEORI: Langer Side) Singh and Shah Jamaan (the Mughal www.goldentempleamritsar.org/lb www.goldentempleamritsar.org/dd commander). Shah Jamaan fell down 8. SAHIB: This particular Jujubee Tree bears small The main entrance leading to the where as the head of Baba Deep Singh www.goldentempleamritsar.org/ms fruits, stands next to the Darshani pathway to Harmandir Sahib is known was nearly chopped of. One of the Sikh A widely spread and covered hall Deori. During the brick lining of the as Darshani Deori. As soon as Guru soldiers reminded Baba Deep Singh of just opposite Sri Guru Ram Das Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar) and Granth Sahib is taken for Sukh Asan the prayer he had made. Baba Deep Langar Hall, is a congregation hall. In construction of Harmandir Sahib. (for Rest at Night) to Akal Takhat Sahib, Singh supported his head with left Harmandir Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib Guru Arjan Dev ji and a close devotee the gates of Darshani Deori are closed hand and continued moving towards is read or the hymns of Guru Granth Harnandir Sahib. This mere scene Sahib are being sung, but at Diwan hall made the Mughal army run back foot. the Bani (hymns) are explained every Baba Deep Singh reached Harmandir morning and evening by the priest Sahib. This Gurdwara in memory of (the priest conversed with concept of Baba Deep Singh, reminds one of the Bani and Sikh history). The concept of prayer made by a Sikh devotee and fulfilled. 10. KARAH PRASAD: www.goldentempleamritsar.org/kp Devotees can buy Karah Prasad (Pourage) for offering inside the (12) (13) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in from inside. The sewadar (attendants) Bani of Guru Granth Sahib goes on. 18. DAILY HUKAMNAMA 21. GURDWARA on duty will allow only devotees with 14. www.goldentempleamritsar.org/dh BABA ATAL RAI: special permission from the Gurdwara See Page 20 Next to , A board displays www.goldentempleamritsar.org/gbar authority for taking part in the night the “order of the Day”. Every morning The 9th story building standing to the sewa (cleaning and washing of the 15. GURDWARA THRA SAHIB: when Guru Granth Sahib is installed south of Harmandir Sahib on the far sanctum sanctorum). Every morning www.goldentempleamritsar.org/ts inside the Sanctum Sanctorum, the end of road dividing S.G.P.C. complex, devotees gather in front of the gate Just next to Akal Takhat Sahib very first hymn that is read by the Sarai and Harmandir Sahib complex, is of Drashani Deori, recite the Shabads stands in the memory of historical priest is displayed on this board for the in the memory of Baba Atal Rai, a son (hymns) till the gates are opened for visit of Ninth Sikh Master Guru devotees. of 6th Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji. the day. On one side of Darshani Deori Teg Bahadar to Hamandir Sahib. Atal Rai, at the age of nine, revived there is a room meant for booking of Prior to attaining Guruship Guru 19. BER BABA BUDHA JI: one of his close friend, to life after , Ragis and on the other Teg Bahadar spent nearly 11 years www.goldentempleamritsar.org/bbbj his sudden death. side is a room for keeping Planquin. in at Sahib. Baba Budha Jee, the first head priest considered his son’s act against the This Deori was beautified with marble Makhan Shah lubana a devotee of of Harmandir Sahib, used to sit Sikh tradition and rebuked him for and fresco work during the time of Guru deposed 22 different persons performing a miracle. It is said that Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The main doors claiming to be Guru and declared Atal Rai told his father that he would of the Deori are decorated with silver that he has found the true Guru lay down his own life for breaking the sheets on one side and the other one (Guru Teg Bahadar). After that Guru law of nature by reviving his friend with beautiful inlay work comprising Teg Bahadur came to Harmandir from the dead. So he went into a ivory work. Sahib to pay obeisance but the meditative trance and soon breathed priests closed the doors fearing 13. HAR KI PAURI: his last. (The steps of Almighty God) they may lose their business. Guru under this Ber (tree) and supervise 22. GURDWARA BIBI KAULAN www.goldentempleamritsar.org/hkp Teg Bahadar stayed at this place for some time, made a prayer and left the excavation of Amrit Sarovar, www.goldentempleamritsar.org/gbk On the backside of the Sanctum for next journey. construction of Harmandir Sahib. Baba This gurdwara is situated on the Sanctorum is the place where devotees Budha Ji lived for 125 years. He had the southern side of Harmandir Sahib bow down to have a hand full of Amrit 16. NISHAN SAHIB (FLAGS) honour of coronation of and on the west of Gurudwara Baba (Nectar) from the Amrit Sarovar. www.goldentempleamritsar.org/ns Sahib to Guru Hargobind. The name Atal Sahib ji. This Gurudwara Sahib is Two Saffron flags stand testimony to “Boorah(Budha)” was in-fact given to in memory of Bibi Kaulan, a spiritual him by Guru Nanak Dev Ji during his muslim Lady, daughter of Qazi of first meeting, as a child Budha. This Lahore. Beri (tree) is more than 500 years old. 20. PINNI PRASAD 23. CORRESPONDENCE COURSE: The devotees can buy Polythene packed www.goldentempleamritsar.org/cc dry prasad for their faraway homes. In order to preach Sikh Religion and

the Sikh concept of Miri (Temporal) The legend goes on that when the and Piri (Spiritual) authority in excavation of the holy Amrit Sarovar, Sikhism. and construction of Harmandir Sahib 17. 1984 MEMORIAL was going on, The Almighty God, www.goldentempleamritsar.org/1984 himself took part in this noble cause at this very place. As we ascend upstairs This Gurdwara stands in the memory this Pauri (Steps) from the side stairs, of Sikhs, killed during the Army nonstop recitation (Akhand Path) of Operation in 1984. (14) (15) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in

Jalao (Jewelry Display) Guru Ka Langar (Community Kitchen) www.goldentempleamritsar.org/jalao www.goldentempleamritsar.org/langar

The Precious Jewelry is displayed (called Jalao) at Sri Harmandir Sahib on the following occasions:

• Birth Day of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1st Master) • Birth Day of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji (4th Master) • Birth Day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji (5th Master) • Gurgaddi Diwas Guru Hargobind Sahib (6th Master) • Birth Day of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji The tradition of serving and sharing (9th Master) the Ji, as per the Sikh of langar was initiated by Guru Nanak tradition, he sat among the ordinary • Birth Day of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Dev Ji and then established by the people and shared langar (meals). (10th Master) 3rd Sikh Master Sri Guru Amar Dass In the Golden Temple Community • First Prakash of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at Goindwal township. Even when Kitchen at an average 75,000 devotees (Shabad Guru) the Mughal King came to meet or tourists take langar daily. This number becomes almost double on special occasions. On average 100 Quintal its Philosophy. This correspondence and History, some rare manuscripts and Wheat Flour, 25 Quintal course was started in 2010. hand written copies of Guru Granth Cereals, 10 Quintal Rice, 5000 Sahib are preserved for the purpose of Ltr Milk, 10 Quintal Sugar, 5 24. : research. This library was also badly Quintal Pure Ghee is used www.goldentempleamritsar.org/srl damaged in Operation Blue Star in a day. Nearly 100 LPG Gas Sikh Reference Library is meant for the 1984, now the SGPC is again working Cylinders are used to prepare scholars interested in research of sikh hard to maintain its glory. This library the meals. 100’s of employees history and gurbani. At present nearly is only meant for the research scholars, and devotees render their 30 thousands Books, Magazines, News hence the material is not allowed to be services to the kitchen. Papers, Periodicals on Sikh Religion carried outside.

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Graphics Designing Print Design Brochure Printing +91 - 981 576 2315 Catalogues Printing Magazine Printing +91 - 183 509 9606 [email protected] www.idea-ads.com (16) (17) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in Things to the Sri Darbar Sahib complex. • If any infant happens to urinate Remember in the Parikarma, please clean it www.goldentempleamritsar.org/rem immediately or inform the duty Sewadars about it. • Leave your Shoes, Socks, Umbrellas, and baggage at the entrance and get Accommodation a token for that. www.goldentempleamritsar.org/acco • Cigarette, Biri, or other intoxicants 1. Sri Guru Arjan Dev Niwas in any shape, are strictly prohibited 2. New Akal Rest House inside the holy premises. You can’t 3. Sri Guru Ramdas Niwas carry then even in your bags. 4. Sri Guru Nanak Niwas • Please switch-off your mobiles 5. Sri Guru Hargobind Niwas before entering. 6. Mata Ganga Ji Niwas • Wash your feet/hands, and cover 7. Sri Guru Gobind Singh NRI Yatra Niwas your head properly before entering Note : Contact regarding booking the holy complex. Tel: 91-183-2553957, 58, 59 • Anyone can take a dip in the holy sarovar (pool of nectar) but use of Facilities soap or shampoo is not allowed. www.goldentempleamritsar.org/facilities If you so desire, you can wash • Free bus facility is available for the yourself with soap at the wash- Airport and/or Railway Station from rooms provided in the parikarma the area close to the SGPC office. (periphery). • Wheel chairs are available to the • The wet clothes may kindly be physically challenged and/or the deposited in a Wet-Clothes-Room. very old. They can be procured from • Swimming is strictly prohibited in Akal Takhat an office in the Parikarma near Ber the sarovar. www.goldentempleamritsar.org/akaltakht Baba Budha Sahib. • Do not accept eatables from • Bath-rooms and toilets for the ‘Akal’ means, time-less (often used for Ji and . Guru Hargobind strangers. pilgrims are at the back of Sri Guru Almighty-God) Takhat means a throne Sahib used to hold the court, listened • Photography is not allowed in the Ram Das Niwas, near Information (seat) where the kings used to sit. to the woes of needy, wore two swords Sanctum Sanctorum and on the Office, Shoe Store, & near Gurdwara Hence Akal Takhat : the seat of of Miri and Piri at this place and bridge. Baba Atal etc. Almighty. ordered the Sikhs to bring weapons, • Offerings in cash and kind are • Northern Railway- Ticket reservation Due to the excavation of the holy horses as offering and be saint and accepted in the Golden Temple. office, ATM and postal facilities are pool of nectar (Amrit-Sarovar), a soldier as well. The tradition of singing • Please get a receipt on offering also available. raised place had appeared in front of ballads of war heroes with stringed donations for langar (community • There are two free medical assistance Harmandir Sahib. As Guru Granth instrument (Sarangi and Dhad) began kitchen), building. and a ambulance is available in case Sahib was installed in Harmandir Sahib at this place. • Reading of Newspapers, Magazines, of emergancy. in 1604, it was brought to this room for Akal Takhat has its own traditions i.e. books, playing cards is strictly • In case of any accident in Sri rest every night. Guru Arjan Dev used the priest will recite the evening prayer prohibited. Harimandir Sahib Complex, contact to rest under the cot meant for Guru (Rehras Sahib) and Ardas, with a naked • Every service in the Golden Temple the office of Parikarma Manager or Granth Sahib. This room now a days is, sword in the hand. Some rare weapons is free of charges except for the Information office (Phone +91-183- known as Kotha Sahib. pertaining to the Sikh Gurus and Sikh charges of the rooms in the guest 2553951-60) AKAL TAKHAT, The highest temporal warriors are displayed during the day houses. seat of Sikhism was founded by the in Golden Palanquin and explained to • Please deposit your valuables Sixth Sikh master Guru Har Gobind the visitors every evening. including jewelry and cash at the Sahib Ji in 1609, assisted by Baba Budha counters provided for the same in

(18) (19) Amritsar International Airport

Dr. Kitchlu Chowk Lawrence Road Cinepolis District Courts Amritsar Mall Road Lawrence Road Maqbool Road Chowk

SSSS Chowk Maharaja Ranjit Singh Gandhi Grounds Garden Govt. Dental College GPO Church

Indo - Pak Border (28 k.m.) Queens Guru Guru Nanak Dev University (3.75 k.m.) Road Teg Bahadur Hospital NH1 (G. T. Road) Tourism Bhandari Railway Station Bridge

Flyover Bus Terminal ATM Hall Bazar Flyover

Gaggar Mal Road Burj Baba Phoola Singh

Gandhi Gate Police Station Police Kotwali

ATM NH1 (G. T. Road)

Flyover Flyover Kotwali Chowk Suraj Chanda Gate Gurdwara Santokhsar Sheran Wala Gate Bank of Baroda & ATM Guru Ram Dass Ghee Mandi Gate Flyover Gurdwara Saragarhi Dental College & Hospital

ATM Mehta Road See Chamrang Road Map From Delhi on ATM Page 10-11 ATM ATM Bank of Baroda Gurdwara Sultanwind Sultanwind Road Bibeksar Sahib Gate Oriental Bank of Commerce 100 Feet Road HDFC Bank Gurdwara Ramsar Sahib Gurdwara ATM To Jalandhar, Baba Deep Singh Shaheed Delhi Chattiwind Punjab Gate National Bank

Amritsar

(20) (21) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in the Indian independence movement. 790 millimetres (31.1 in). Partition of undivided into CONNECTIVITY India and Pakistan had the most Amritsar is well connected to Delhi, profound effect on the demographics, Jammu, Chandigarh & other major economics, social structure and culture cities by road, train and by air. of Amritsar. The state of Punjab was BUSES: Frequent buses leave for Delhi divided between India and Pakistan (10 hours), Chandigarh (4-5 hrs), and Amritsar became a border city, Pathankot (3 hrs), Jammu (6 hrs) and often on the front lines of India- on the India-Pakistan border Pakistan wars. Prior to partition, the (1¼ hrs). One/two buses go daily to Muslim league wanted to incorporate Dalhousie (6 hrs), Dharamsala (6 hrs), Amritsar into Pakistan because of Shimla (10 hrs) and Manali (14 hrs) in the Amritsar's proximity to Lahore Himachal Pradesh, and Dehra Dun (11 (a distance of 30 miles) and a nearly hrs) in Uttarakhand. 50% Muslim population, but the city Private buses for Delhi (with/without became part of India. Amritsar and AC, 8½ hrs) leave from near the railway Lahore experienced some of the worst station at 10 p.m. Other private buses Guru Amar Dass (the Third Sikh Master) pointing the site for the Amrit Sarovar communal riots during the partition of go to Chandigarh, Jammu and Katra (The Golden Temple) to Guru Ram Dass (the Forth Sikh Master) India. from Gandhi Gate. Amritsar is located at 31°37’11.89”N TRAINS: Reservation for trains is 74°52’35.39”E with an average elevation available on the Temple Complex (8.00 of 234 metres (768 ft). a.m. to 8.00 p.m.) on all days except Amritsar has a warm continental Sunday (till 2 p.m.) climate, typical of North-Western There are regular Flights of Indian www.amritsarcity.org India and experiences four seasons Airlines, Jet Airways and Kingfisher primarily: winter season (November from Delhi. The International very close to India's western border to March) with temperature ranges with Pakistan. Airport is about 15 km from the from 4°C (39 °F) to about 19°C (66°F), Golden Temple and is connected by Amritsar is home to the Harmandir summer season (April to June) where Country India domestic flights to Delhi, Srinagar Sahib, also known as the Golden temperatures can reach 45°C (113°F), State Punjab and Chandigarh. There are regular Temple, the spiritual and cultural monsoon season (July to September) District Amritsar international flights from London, centre of the Sikh religion. This and post-monsoon season (September Founded by Guru Ram Das ji Toronto, Singapore and other leading important Sikh shrine attracts more to November). Annual rainfall is about Coordinates 31°37’11.98”N visitors than the Taj Mahal in Agra and cities of the world to Amritsar. 74°52’35.33”E is the number one destination for non- Languages Official Punjabi resident-Indians (NRI) in the whole of Time zone IST (UTC+5:30) India. PIN 143-001 Amritsar is also known for the Telephone code 91-183-XXX XXXX incidents of Massacre Website www.amritsarcorp.com in 1919 under British Rule. The main commercial activities include tourism, carpets and fabrics, farm produce, Amritsar (The Pool of The Nectar of handicrafts, service trades and light Immortality): is a city in the north- engineering. The city is known for western part of India, in the state of its food and culture. Amritsar is also Punjab (India). home to Central Orphanage, Amritsar is 32 kilometres (20 mi) east which was once a home for Shaheed of Lahore (Pakistan) and therefore, Udham Singh, a prominent figure in (22) (23) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in

Historical Gurdwaras www.goldentempleamritsar.org/gurdwaras

Gurdwara Baba Attal Guru Ke Mehal Baba Bakala Khadur Sahib ( Language was started by The Second in the memory of Baba Atal Rai Birth Place of 9th Guru (Master) (The meditation Place of Guru Teg Bahadar) Master Guru Angad Dev Ji)

Quilla (Fort) Gurdwara Saragarhi Bir Baba Budha Sahib Tarn Taran Guru Hargobind (6th Guru) used here a woodden in the memory of 21 Sikh Soldiers, who fought with where Mata Ganga Ji was blessed by Baba Budha ji (In the memory of Fifth Master Guru Arjan Dev canon in a battle with Mugals the Afgan invaders at North-West Frontier who founded Tarn Taran City also)

Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh Atari Sahib Bir Baba Budha Sahib Gurdwara Guru Ki Wadali in the memory of Baba Deep Singh (In the memory of Sixth Master where Mata Ganga Ji was blessed by Baba Budha ji (The Birth Place of Guru Hargobind Sahib) Guru Hargobind Sahib)

Five Sarovar (Sacred Pools) in Amritsar www.goldentempleamritsar.org/Five-Sarovers-in-Amritsar.php Many sacred Sikh shrines can be found in the Sikh holy city of Amritsar. Of 1. Amritsar Sarovar (Harmandir) particular importance are the five 2. Santokhsar Sarovar sacred pools in this city. These are 3. Ramsar Sarovar Gurdwara Guru Ka Vallah Gurdwara Palah Sahib Khairabad called sarovars and it is the practice of 4. Kaulsar Sarovar (In the memory of Ninth Master (In the memory of second Battle Guru some Sikhs to have a dip in all five of 5. Bibeksar Sarovar Guru Teg Bahadar) Hargobind Sahib with Mughals) these holy pools:

(24) (25) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in Tourists Interests Durgiana Mandir Jallianwala Bagh Durgiana Mandir, an important religious of The Hindus. As The massacre is located in the the Jallianwala it was visited by Maryada Parshotam vicinity of Golden Temple complex, Bagh Massacre. Rama. Lov & Kush spent their the holiest shrine of Sikhism. The memorial childhood alongwith their mother This houses a memorial of national is managed by Mata Sita on this soil in the Ashram of importance, established in 1951 the Jallianwala Maharishi Balmiki. to commemorate the massacre by Bagh National British occupying forces of peaceful Memorial Trust. celebrators on the occasion of the Wagah Border Sikh New Year on April 13, 1919 in is from this international check post. Ram Tirath Mandir Every morning the national flags of Pakistan and India are hoisted on this According to the mythological beliefs, post by the consecutive border forces of Lord Rama left her wife Sita in this very the both nations. In the evening there place where the temple stands now. It is a impressive parade by the border is believed that Valmiki - the great sage security force on the India side and the rescued her and gave her shelter. Sita Pakistan rangers on the Pakistan side gave birth to her sons - Luv and Kush The main entrance to India from before taking of the respective national and they grew up in the guidance of Pakistan side in the Amritsar Distt. flags. saint Valmiki. Ram Bagh Garden Guru Nanak Dev University Guru Nanak Dev University situated Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839) the on G. T. Road towards Atari Border, Lion of Punjab, built the Ram Bagh was established on November 24, 1969 and in its heart lies the Summer Palace to mark the 500th birth anniversary of of this great ruler. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Now the Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been converted into a museum which speaks volumes on his Khalsa College times. On display are weapons dating The campus also back to Mughal times, portraits of houses Khalsa College approached by a huge fortified gate ruling houses of Punjab and a replica of Education, Khalsa which still exists in its original form of the diamond, “Kohinoor”. College for Women, and lies on the periphery of the garden. In those days the garden was Khalsa College Girls Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama Khalsa College, the premier-most High School, Khalsa College Boys institute of higher learning, was Senior Secondary School and Khalsa Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama is a established by the leaders of the Singh College Public School. permanent visual documentation of Sabha Movement in 1892. Maharaja Ranjit Singh. An aesthetically designed tall cylindrical building surrounded with green garden near Summer Palace of Maharaja in the Rambagh Heritage Garden is now a landmark in the city of Amritsar. Shop No. 10, I.D.H. Market

Authorised Wholesale Dealers Near Bus Stand, AMRITSAR. (26) (27) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in Fairs & Festivals Eating Points Fairs and Festivals in Amritsar reflect the vibrant tradition of cultural extravaganza. Connoting different mythical and religious significance, the festivals and fairs of Amritsar are celebrated by the enthusiastic inhabitants of the place.

Sweets and Lassi • Chowk Passian • Chowk Regent Cinema • Lawrence Road • Lawrence Road (Opp. BBK DAV Gol-gappe, Alloo Tikki, Chat College) • Chowk Katra Ahluwala Kothe Da Mela...... 6 Feb Shaheedi Jor Mela (Guru Arjan Dev Ji).....12 Jun • Dhab Khatikan (Opp. Hindu • Near Crystal Chowk Basant...... 14 Jan First Prakash Diwas Sabha College) Holi...... 27 Mar Guru Granth Sahib...... 1 Sep Chana Bhatura ...... 13 Apr B’day Guru Ram Dass Ji...... 17 Nov Alloo Wala Kulcha • Amrit Cinema Chowk Dashera...... 13 Oct B’day Guru Nanak Dev Ji...... 17 Nov • Golden Temple Chowk • Lawrence Road Dipawali...... 3 Nov B’day Guru Gobind Singh Ji • Kotwali Chowk • Katra Ahluwala Shopping Amritsar is a traders hub from the very beginning since its establishment by the Important Telephone Numbers forth Sikh Master Guru Ramdas. Amritsar use to be on the silk route ending up in China and a processing destination for tea leaves, Textile, Corrugated DC Office...... 2226161-62, 94171-11922 Guru Nanak Dev Hosp...... 2573928 Box Making, Screw and various Machinery. The world famous OCM (now OXL), Mayor’s off...... 2545999, 94170-15150 Bibi Kaulan Ji Hospital...... 2580325 Swadeshi Woollen Mills, known for the tweeds are having there parental units Cmsnr’s Off...... 9815304213, 2545155 Nagpal Nursing Home...... in Amritsar. The city is also famous for its spicy Papad Warrian, Punjabi Jutti, Civil Surgeon...... 2211864, 9814130387 Dr. Avtar Singh Arora...... Tandoori Kulcha, Burfi wali Lassi. Medical Officer Health...... 98724-26727 Amandeep Hospital...... Punjab Tourism...... +91-183-2402452 Shawls, Lohis & Blankets Punjabi Jutti (Embroidered Shoes) Information Office Golden Temple Ambulances • Bazar Katra Ahluwala • Golden Temple Chowk ...... +91-183-2553954-57-58 Punjab Health Services...... 108 • Shastri Market • Brahm Buta Market Police Help Lines Dhab Wasti Ram...... 2544440 • Putlighar • Hall Gate Chowk Main Help line...... 2210300, 97811-30501 Adlakha Hospital...... 2225353 • Chheharta Police Control Room...... 100, 2225054 Enquiries Wooden Engraving Golden Temple...... 97811-30219 Airport...... 2214353, 2204004 Ladies Dress Materials • Brahm Buta Market Railway Station...... 97811-30256 Indian Airlines/...... 2214029 • Katra Jaimal Singh • Katra Airport...... 98725-02337, 2214099 Jet Airways...... 2214033 • Lawrence Road Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama Northern Railway...... 131, 2225028, 29, 35 Machinery ...... 80540-10150, 98721-01050 Roadways...... 2551734, 2551735 Papad Warrian • 100 Feet Road Hospitals: The Golden Temple...... 2553953 • Bazar Papran (on the back side of • Focal Point Guru Ram Das Charitable Hospital Golden Temple) ...... 2553668, 2535039, 2535042 (28) (29) Online Travel Guide at ... www.goldentempleamritsar.org Online Travel Guide of Yatra Sri Hemkunt Sahib at ... www.hemkunt.in Main Trains from Amritsar (www.indianrail.gov.in) Helpline 139 Train Days of Run Train Name To Dep. # M T W T F S S Amritsar Shatabdi 2014 New Delhi 05:10 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Shane Punjab 2498 New Delhi 15:10 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Swarana Shatabdi 2030 New Delhi 17:00 Y Y Y N Y Y Y Garib Rath 2204 New Delhi 04:45 N N Y N N Y Y Amritsar Dehradun Express 1058 Dadar 08:35 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 2904 Mumbai Central 21:25 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Amritsar Dehradun Jnshtbdi 2054 Haridwar 07:00 Y Y Y N Y Y Y Amritsar Dehradun Exp 4632 Haridwar 22:15 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Amritsar Dadar Express 1058 Agra Cantt. 08:35 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Chhatisgarh Express 8238 Agra Cantt. 16:15 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Amritsar Hawrah Mail 3006 Lucknow, 18:45 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Main Nearest Cities & Public Places www.amritsarcity.org/distances Distance from Golden Temple Pull Kanjri...... 32 k.m. Jallianwala Bagh...... Walking Distance Distances from Amritsar Bus Turminal...... 1.5 k.m. Jammu...... 206 k.m. Railway Station...... 3 k.m. Chandigarh...... 254 k.m. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Garden Haridwar...... 407 k.m. (Company Bagh)...... 3 k.m. New Delhi...... 450 k.m. Thakur Singh Art Gallery...... 3 k.m. Dehradun...... 463 k.m. Virsa Vihar (Cultural Hub)...... 3 k.m. Srinagar...... 548 k.m. Lawrence Road...... 4 k.m. Agra Cantt...... 642 k.m. Khalsa College...... 6 k.m. Jaipur...... 713 k.m. Guru Nanak Dev University...... 7 k.m. Hill Stations Airport...... 15 k.m. Dalhousie...... 191 k.m. Wagha Border...... 32 k.m. Shimla...... 345 k.m. Ke Pattan (Bird Sanctuary) Kullu Manali...... 430 k.m...... 25 k.m. Mussoorie...... 500 k.m.

Taste of Amritsar An arial view of The Golden Temple Amritsar of Temple view arial The Golden An (30) (31)

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