Amritsar
Visit the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) — Sikhism's holiest shrine and one of humanity's most transcendent spiritual spaces. The gold-plated gurdwara (1604, rebuilt 1776) rises from the sacred Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), its reflection shimmering in the surrounding tank. Open to all faiths 24 hours, the atmosphere reaches its peak during dawn and evening prayers.
Cover your head and remove footwear — cloth head covers are provided free at the entry. The dawn visit (Amrit Vela) when the Palki Sahib procession brings the Guru Granth Sahib is deeply moving. Participate in the langar (free community meal) — one of the world's largest free kitchens serving 100,000 meals daily.