Golden Temple of Amritsar (Harmandir Sahib)

The Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib is the most sacred Sikh shrine, serving as a symbol of Sikh independence and freedom. The top half of the multi-storey temple has a large dome and smaller minarets and is plated with gold, the bottom made from marble.

It is built within a vast walled courtyard on a lake of holy water, called the pool of nectar, making it a tiny island. Originally this site was a lake and small forest, used as a meditation retreat. Buddha is known to have spent time meditating in this place, which is why the spot was chosen for the temple.

Anyone may enter the temple after covering their heads and washing their feet, and by all accounts it is a very peaceful experience.