The Golden Temple is a enormous Sikh Temple located in the heart of old-town Amritsar.
You don't have to worry about not being able to find it as the temple walls dominate the surrounding views and the throng of people and cycle-rickshaws moving to, from and around it will point you in the right direction.

For a nice change entrance to a holy shrine is free!
You are requested to remove your footware and cover your head before you enter the main temple complex, although you can get the right idea of what to do by looking around - and I'm sure if you make a mistake a helpful temple guard or pilgrim will set you straight.
You can leave your shoes and bags quite safely at one of the drop off points, don't forget to take your token or you might not get them back!!

The Temple itself is a beautiful shrine found in the center of a crisp, clean and fresh man-made lake with fish swimming in the shallows and some shady spots under trees which erupt through the marble periodically. 750kg of Gold were used to make the temple and you can see where this all went.
Words, at least my words, cannot accurately describe the feeling of peace and tranquility that radiates all around in this Diamond in the Rough/

It's well worth a visit, although it's worth remembering that there's a no smoking zone inside the temple and for about 200metres around the temple. Basically don't smoke within sight of the temple.

PR

This is one of my favourite places in the world. Not only is the Temple itself breathtaking, but the feel of the place is incredible. There is something tranquil, moving, relaxing and inspiring about sitting in the shadows of this testament to the Sikh faith. You really don't have to be in any way religious to appreciate it - and even if you're not there is bound to be something of the spiritual which rubs off on you here. You could easily while away hours here (as I did!) - and it's worth visiting at different times of day to appreciate the changes in light. There is constant recital from the Sikh Holy Book which acts as a fantastic soundtrack to the whole experience. You can also visit the 'langar' (community kitchen) where delicious food is served (for free). People sit in rows with a metal plate and volunteers walk up and down the line dishing out delicious food. It's a great place to chat and interact with the locals. Remember that you will need to cover your head to enter, so either bring a headscarf (or you can borrow one on arrival). Whilst there is no charge to enter the temple there are donation boxes to make use of.

My trip to Amritsar was realy unforgetable with my friend shanky, as we ride on bike from Delhi to Amritsar. In this trip one of our best destination was Golden Temple. The ambience and surrounding were cam and quite. Despite its great sacred status, the Golden Temple is open to visitors, like all Sikh temples. The only restrictions are that visitors must not drink alcohol, eat meat or smoke in the shrine. And unlike many other Indian temples, visitors to the Harmandir Sahib are made to feel truly welcome and not pressured to buy anything. The information office left of the main gate gives helpful advice and information, as well as booklets on Sikhism. There were lots of photos of the eminent people who fight for their pind (community) against Islam. Weapons, coins, etc also were exhibited at that museum, which were really good to explore.

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When I was there you were able to stay for a maximum of 3 nights for free. Just be aware there has unfortunately been a history of tourists theiving from others while they sleep. They are wise to the 'valuables in the sleeping bag' trick and have been known to slit the bottom of the bag to access the goodies while you slumber. Best bet is to place any valuables on your person or in your pillow and sleep on it! Just to clarify - this problem has been with westerners stealing from fellow westerner tourists. Don't let this stop you making the most of this amazing complex and the hospitality shown - just be aware.

A stupendous Sikh temple in Amritsar. Completed in 1604, the golden temple sanctum sits in the midst of water, the Sarovar, which is surrounded by terraces. This sanctum is gilded and full of beautiful marble work. Pilgrims of any faith are welcome at the temple (with appropriate dress). There are shared rooms set aside for pilgrims - you sleep on the floor - and basic meals of dhal and chapatti are provided free. It's been a while since I've been so check these details before expecting free accommodation.