Golden Temple Amritsar

Harmandir Sahib The Great
Harmandir Sahib is an amazing temple complex located in the Indian city of Amritsar; this is the main shrine of the Sikh religion followers.
In accordance with the legend, thousands of years ago here was the place of Buddha’s meditations; it is believed that he was attracted by an unusual calmness of waters of the lake. Perhaps, that's why the fourth Sikh Guru Ram Das decided to settle here in the year of 1574. He expanded the pond, giving it the shape of an almost perfect square. In the center of the lake a temple was erected, gradually occupying more and more space in the hearts of the followers of Sikhism. Building of the temple contributed to the rapid growth of the city. The construction of the complex ended in 1604.
The temple complex is scattered over a fairly large area and consists of dozens of buildings, however, Golden Temple Amritsar  is its central and the main part. The temple is a small two-story building with a pergola on the roof that is occupied by the readers, who pronounce passages from the holy book.
The group of buildings along the perimeter of the pond completes the central complex so it resembles the walls of the fort. This sui generis fort has four entrances, which symbolizes the fact that the temple can be entered by and person, all the comers are welcomed to pray in the temple, regardless of the color of the skin or creed. The pilgrims can spend a night and even have a meal here for free. Thus, the Golden Temple attracts around 30,000 people willing to taste the food of the communal kitchen every day; however, during the holidays this number can be easily doubled. Despite the fact that the temple is opened for all the comers, several rules have to be followed: in this way eating meat, drinking alcohol and smoking is strongly prohibited.