Also known as Harmandir Sahib or the Abode of God is situated in Amritsar, Punjab. The construction of the gurudwara was commenced by 4th Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das and completed by his successor Guru Arjan Dev. The golden temple which we see today was rebuild and renovated many times. Maharaja Ranjith Singh covered the upper floors of gurudwara with gold. But the present day golden temple was rebuilt in 1764 by Maharaja Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and other Sikh chiefs.
The temple’s architecture draws on both Hindu and Moslem artistic styles yet represents a unique coevolution of the two. During the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839), Hari Mandir was richly ornamented with marble sculptures, golden gilding, and large quantities of precious stones. Within the sanctuary, on a jewel-studded platform, lies the Adi Grantha, the sacred scripture of the Sikhs.
Amritsar, the original name of first the ancient lake, then the temple complex, and still later the surrounding city, means “pool of ambrosial nectar.” The myth is not just a fairy tale. It reveals itself as a coded metaphor if we have the knowledge to read the code: The waters of Amritsar flowing into the lake of the Hari Mandir were long ago – and remain today – a bringer of peacefulness.
You can also see the Wagah border ceremony is one of the ceremony takes places only in one place and on everyday. Wagah village situated in Pakistan and close to Punjab is the only road crossing place for the 2 countries. The ceremony happens everyday in evening at the sunset when the Flags are lowered. The Border Security Force from India and the Pakistan Rangers lower their flags amongst the crowds.
The people and tourist visit the place and can witness the ceremony from the shamiana. The gates are open at the time of the celebration though no one is allowed to cross the border. The celebration includes dancing and singing. This ceremony is allso called the retreat ceremony.
