Amritsar Local Gurudwaras
The Amritsar Local Gurdwara Darshan Tour organized by Welcome Northern Travels provides a wonderful opportunity to explore several important Gurdwaras in and around Amritsar. You can customize the tour to include a selection of these holy sites, offering a deeply spiritual and cultural experience. Below is a brief outline of the key Gurdwaras you can visit on a 1-day or 2-day tour by car:
Day 1: Full Day Gurdwara Tour (1 Day)
The 1 Full Day tour usually includes the following Gurdwaras:- Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib):
- The Golden Temple is the holiest Gurdwara and a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide. It was established by Guru Ram Das in 1577 and is a serene space for meditation, prayer, and reflection. It also houses the Guru Granth Sahib and is surrounded by a beautiful pool known as the Amrit Sarovar.
- Baba Atal Rai Ji:
- Located near the Golden Temple, the Baba Atal Gurdwara is dedicated to Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind. Baba Atal was just 9 years old when he passed away, and the Gurdwara is a commemoration of his young life. The Gurdwara’s nine-story tower symbolizes the nine years of Baba Atal’s life.
- Gurdwara Ramsar Sahib:
- This Gurdwara stands alongside the Ramsar Sarovar, which is one of Amritsar’s five holy sarovars. It is built on the site where Guru Arjan Dev compiled the Guru Granth Sahib in the 16th century. The current Gurdwara, constructed in 1855, is a peaceful place to reflect on the significance of Guru Arjan’s work.
- Shaheeda Sahib (Shaheed Ganj Sahib):
- Shaheed Ganj Sahib is a site dedicated to the martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji and other Sikh warriors who sacrificed their lives to protect the Golden Temple. The story of Baba Deep Singh Ji, who famously held his head after being beheaded during battle, is commemorated here. The Gurdwara stands as a tribute to his bravery.
- Tarn Taran Sahib:
- Gurdwara Tarn Taran Sahib, located in the town of Tarn Taran, was established by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru. This Gurdwara features the largest sarovar (holy water tank) among all the Sikh shrines. It is an important site for pilgrims, especially on Amavas (the day of the new moon).
Day 2: Additional Gurdwaras for 2-Day Tour
For a 2-day tour, additional Gurdwaras you can explore include:- Tahla Sahib:
- Gurdwara Tahla Sahib is known for its association with Shaheed Baba Nihal Singh, and the Shaheedi Jor Mela is held here annually to commemorate his martyrdom. The Gurdwara attracts large numbers of devotees during this time.
- Baba Naudh Singh Di Samadh:
- This Gurdwara marks the place where Baba Naudh Singh, a 95-year-old warrior, laid down his life while fighting Ahmad Shah Abdali’s forces. His Samadh (memorial) is located on the Amritsar-Tarn Taran road and holds significance for Sikhs.
- Khadoor Sahib:
- Gurdwara Khadoor Sahib is where Guru Angad Dev, the second Sikh Guru, spent his time in meditation and preaching. The Gurdwara is an important site for devotees who follow the teachings of Guru Angad Dev.
- Damdama Sahib:
- Gurdwara Damdama Sahib is where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, compiled the Adi Granth (the holy scripture) and also engaged in spiritual reflection. The Gurdwara is situated in Talwandi Sabo near Bathinda, and is a significant place in Sikh history.
Tour Highlights and Inclusions:
- Spiritual Experience: Visiting these sacred Gurdwaras provides a deep spiritual experience, reflecting on Sikh history, sacrifices, and the teachings of the Gurus.
- Comfortable Car Travel: The tour is conducted by car, making it a convenient way to visit multiple Gurdwaras in a single day or over two days.
- Flexibility: You can choose from a variety of Gurdwaras based on your interests and time, as well as whether you prefer a one-day or two-day tour.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides can offer detailed insights into the history and significance of each Gurdwara, enhancing your experience.