The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harminder Sahib, is the spiritual heart of Sikhism and one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India. Located in Amritsar, Punjab, this stunning temple attracts devotees and tourists from all corners of the world.
The first thing every visitor needs to know before planning a visit is Golden Temple Timing. While the temple complex remains open 24 hours a day, the main ceremonies and rituals take place at fixed hours. Visiting during these times lets you experience the real beauty and devotion of this holy place.
History of the Golden Temple
The idea of building the golden Temple came from the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in the late 16th Century. He envisioned a holy place that would be open to all, regardless of caste, creed or religion.
In 1581 (some sources say 1588), the foundation stone of this temple was laid by Sai Mian Mir, a Muslim saint from Lahore, showing a beautiful example of interfaith harmony. The temple was built in the middle of a sacred pool called the Amrit Sarovar, from which the city of Amritsar gets its name.
Over the years, the temple faced destruction during various invasions but the Sikh community rebuilt it each time. In the early 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the ruler of Punjab, donated gold to cover the upper floors, giving it the breathtaking look it has today.
Golden Temple Timing
One of the most unique things about the golden temple is its open-door policy. You can visit the temple at any time, day or night. The temple opens all the time to everyone, regardless of religion, background or nationality. This reflects the Sikh belief in equality and service.
However there is a daily schedule for important rituals like the Prakash (opening) and Sukhasan (closing) of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikh. Knowing these timings will help you plan your visit better.
Timing Overview
| Ritual / Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 2:30 AM |
| Amrit Vela & Early Kirtan | 2:30 AM onwards |
| Morning Hymns | 3:15 AM |
| Prakash Ceremony | 4:15 AM |
| Evening Prayer | 6:15 PM |
| Sukhasan Ceremony | 10:30 PM to 10:45 |
| Daytime Prayers & Langar | All Day |
Location & Address of Golden Temple
The Golden Temple, or Sri Harmandir Sahib, is located in the center of the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, about 2 km from the Amritsar Junction Railway Station, and about 13 km from Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, so it is easy to get to by road, rail, and air.
Address: Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab – 143006, India.
Location Map for Golden Temple
Golden Temple Daily Schedule Timing
Although visitors can enter the temple at any time, the main religious ceremonies happen at some fixed hours. However these timings may change a little depending on the season.
Opening of the Gates – Around 2:30 a.m.
Every morning, the temple gates open for devotees and the start of the day’s prayers. In Sikh tradition, the early morning hours, known as Amrit Vela, are considered the most sacred time for meditation and worship.
Amrit Vela & Kirtan – 2:30 a.m. onwards
Soon after the gates open, melodious kirtan (devotional singing) begins which creates an atmosphere that is truly beyond words.
Asa di Vaar – Around 3:15 to 3:30 a.m.
The next part of the morning prayers is the singing of Asa di Vaar. These are hymns filled with wisdom and guidance that encourages people to live a good and honest life.
Prakash Ceremony – Around 4:15 a.m.
It is one of the most important daily rituals in which Guru Granth Sahib is respectfully brought from its resting place in the Akal Takht to the sanctum inside the Golden Temple. This is done in a beautifully decorated palanquin (Palki Sahib).
Daytime Prayers – From early morning to evening
Kirtan continues throughout the day. Visitors can offer prayers, sit in silence, take a dip in the sarovar, or enjoy langar (the free community meal). The langar runs all day in which thousands of people eat.
Evening Prayers
As the sun sets, the evening prayers, Rehras Sahib is recited. This is followed by the Ardas.
Closing Ceremony
This is the last ceremony of the whole day which is done at around 10:30 PM or 10:45 PM. In this ceremony, the Guru Granth Sahib is taken back to the Akal Takht in a different palanquin.
Best time to Visit Golden Temple
While the Golden Temple is beautiful at all the time but two times of the day stand out for visitors:
- Early Morning (before sunrise) – The pre-dawn prayers, cool air, and peaceful surroundings in the morning make this the most spiritually powerful time to visit.
- Evening to Night – The temple glows under the lights in the evening, and its reflection in the sarovar (holy pond) is mesmerizing.
Tips for Visitors
- When you visit Golden Temple, cover your head with a scarf or cloth, which are available at the entrance, and wear respectful clothing.
- Before entering the temple, remove your shoes and socks. Also you can get the free shoe storage facility at the premises.
- There are small water channels at the entrance so that you wash your hands and feet.
- Photography is permitted in most areas of the temple but prohibited inside the main sanctum.
- Keep patience, during busy times, the queue for entering the sanctum can be long, but the wait is over.
Final Words
The Golden Temple is a true symbol of service, equality and devotion. Whether you visit at 3:00 AM or 9:00 PM, you’ll feel a sense of peace here. The sound of hymns, the shimmering reflection in the water and the warmth of the people will stay with you long after you leave.
So, if you are excited to visit, and make your plan by keeping the temple timings in mind, you will be able to witness its most beautiful ceremonies and also understand why it is considered as one of the holiest places in the world.
Also read about: Janam Bhumi Mathura Timing: Your Complete Darshan & Aarti Guide