Visiting the Golden Temple, rules and dress code are essential to know before you step into the holy complex of Sri Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning, understanding these guidelines will help you respect the sanctity of the Golden Temple and enjoy your visit smoothly.
What Are the Golden Temple Rules and Dress Code?
The Golden Temple rules and dress code ensure that visitors maintain respect for the sacredness of this iconic Sikh shrine. Both men and women must cover their heads with a scarf or handkerchief. Don’t worry if you forget yours — scarves are available free outside the temple entrances. If you want to purchase it, you can get it from any nearby shop or vendor at a very low cost.
Footwear must be removed and stored in designated cloakrooms (Jorha Ghar) before entering the complex. Visitors are required to wash their feet & Hands by walking through small pools provided at entrances. This ritual cleansing is a mark of purity before stepping into the Golden temple.
Important Golden Temple Rules Every Visitor Must Follow
- Head Covering: Wearing a scarf or any head covering is mandatory for everyone inside the Golden temple complex.
- Remove Shoes and Wash Feet: Shoes must be left at shoe stands, and feet washed in the pools at the entrance.
- No Intoxicants: Please note that cigarettes, tobacco, alcohol, and chewing gum are strictly prohibited and should not be carried inside the complex.
- Mobile Phones: Switch off or keep phones silent.
- No Photography Inside: Photography is only allowed in the outer Parikrama (outer walkway). To take photos inside, you must get permission from the sevadars stationed around the Sarovar, identifiable by their blue attire and spears (Barsha) in hand.
- Respect the Sarovar: Bathing is allowed, but swimming and the use of soap or shampoo in the holy Sarovar are strictly prohibited.
- Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, miniskirts, sleeveless tops, and tight clothing for all.
- No Eating or Loitering: Eating in the Parikrama and roaming with uncovered heads is not allowed.
- No Selling or Reading Newspapers: You need permission to hold a religious gathering.
- Safety of Valuables: Deposit valuables in official counters; don’t pay money to Sewadars as it’s free.
What Should You Wear at the Golden Temple? Dress Code Explained
The Golden Temple rules and dress code emphasize modesty and respect:
- Cover your head with a scarf, dupatta, or handkerchief (mandatory).
- Wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
- Avoid sleeveless dresses, shorts, and tight outfits.
- Jeans are allowed, but remember to maintain modesty and head covering.
How to Follow Golden Temple Rituals Before Entry?
Before entering the temple:
- Remove your shoes and deposit them at the shoe stand.
- Walk barefoot through the cleansing water pools and wash your hands.
- Cover your head properly.
- Switch off your mobile phone or keep it silent.
Following these rituals shows respect for the sanctity of the Golden Temple and Sikh traditions.
FAQs: Golden Temple Rules and Dress Code
What rules must visitors follow in the Golden Temple?
Visitors must cover their heads, remove shoes, avoid intoxicants, and respect the temple’s peaceful environment by following guidelines on photography and behavior.
What rituals must be performed before entering the Golden Temple?
Remove shoes, wash feet in the pool, and cover the head are the main rituals before entry.
What to wear while visiting Golden Temple?
Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, wear a headscarf, and avoid leather accessories.
Are jeans allowed in the Golden Temple?
Yes, jeans are allowed but ensure your head is covered and you follow the dress code.
Is photography allowed inside the Golden Temple?
Photography is allowed only in the outer Parikrama. Inside photography requires permission.
What are the important points of Golden Temple?
Cover your head, remove shoes, follow temple rules on cleanliness and behavior, respect rituals, and enjoy the free langar (community meal).
Best Time to Visit the Golden Temple to Avoid Crowds
To enjoy a peaceful visit and avoid long queues:
- Visit between 4 PM and 7 PM on non-festival days.
- Early morning visits are also recommended for a serene experience.
- Stay late to witness the Guru Granth Sahib’s Sukhasan Sahib ceremony around 9–11 PM.
Extra Tips for Your Visit to the Golden Temple
- Always take a token when depositing your shoes, and take a photo of the token on your mobile for backup and safety..
- Avoid accepting food from strangers.
- Use the Wet Clothes Room after bathing in the Sarovar.
- Participate in the langar sewa (volunteering) to experience Sikh hospitality.
- Visit Gurudwara Baba Atal Sahib for panoramic views.
- Learn to tie turbans on Sundays in the community kitchen terrace.
Official Updates and News on Golden Temple Rules
For the latest updates on temple timings, events, and official rules, visit the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) website.
Conclusion
Understanding the Golden Temple rules and dress code is vital for a respectful and fulfilling visit to Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar. This sacred place welcomes everyone with open arms, but following the rules helps keep the visit peaceful and respectful for all.