Golden Temple

Foundation of Amritsar (1577)

The history of Sri Darbar Sahib begins with the establishment of the city of Amritsar by Guru Ram Das Ji, the Fourth Sikh Guru, in 1577. He initiated the excavation of the sacred Amrit Sarovar, which later became the spiritual heart of the city.

Construction of Sri Darbar Sahib

The construction of Sri Darbar Sahib was completed under the guidance of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Fifth Sikh Guru. The shrine was designed to represent humility, equality, and openness, with four entrances welcoming people from every religion, culture, and community.

Foundation Stone (1588)

In 1588, the foundation stone of Sri Darbar Sahib was laid by the renowned Sufi saint Hazrat Mian Mir of Lahore. This historic event symbolizes the Sikh values of religious harmony, mutual respect, and universal brotherhood.

Installation of the Adi Granth (1604)

In 1604, Guru Arjan Dev Ji installed the Adi Granth, the original Sikh scripture, inside Sri Darbar Sahib. Baba Buddha Ji became the first Granthi, marking an important milestone in Sikh history.

Reconstruction and Preservation

Over the centuries, Sri Darbar Sahib experienced several attacks and periods of reconstruction. With unwavering faith and dedication, the Sikh community restored the holy shrine each time, preserving its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.

Gold Plating by Maharaja Ranjit Singh

During the early nineteenth century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh sponsored the gold plating of the upper structure of the shrine. This transformation gave Sri Darbar Sahib its iconic golden appearance, leading to its worldwide recognition as the Golden Temple.

Sri Darbar Sahib Today

Today, Sri Darbar Sahib is the holiest shrine of Sikhism and one of the world's most visited spiritual destinations. Every year, millions of devotees and tourists visit the sacred complex to offer prayers, listen to Gurbani, participate in Guru Ka Langar, and experience the values of Seva (selfless service), equality, peace, and compassion. The shrine continues to inspire people across the world with its message of unity and the Sikh principle of Sarbat Da Bhala—the welfare of all humanity.