Golden Temple, AmritsarImage Credit source: PTI
Golden Temple Darshan New Year 2026: If you want to start the new year with peace, devotion and positive energy, then there is hardly any better place than the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar. This is the reason why every year on January 1, lakhs of devotees reach the Golden Temple in Amritsar to pay obeisance. This holiest pilgrimage site of Sikhism not only gives spiritual peace but also gives a wonderful message of service, equality and humanity. If you are planning to visit the Golden Temple on New Year, then know here the complete information about darshan timings, rules, service process, VIP darshan, how to reach and places to visit nearby.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is not only the holiest religious site of the Sikhs, but it is also a symbol of peace and brotherhood for the entire humanity. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had covered its upper part with gold, after which it came to be called the Golden Temple. The main attraction here is the sanctum sanctorum situated in the middle of the sacred lake, where the recitation of Guru Granth Sahib continues continuously.
Darshan timings and rules
The gates of the Golden Temple are open 24 hours for all religions and communities.
Palki Sahib Service
Between 4:00 and 5:00 in the morning, Guru Granth Sahib is brought from Akal Takht to the main temple. This scene is very supernatural.
rules of entry
It is mandatory to cover the head before entering the temple premises. If you don’t have one, there are free ones available at the entrance.
Discipline
Shoes and socks have to be removed and deposited in the ‘Joda Ghar’ and one has to go inside barefoot only after washing hands and feet with water.
tobacco and alcohol
Carrying any kind of intoxicant, cigarette or tobacco inside the premises is strictly prohibited.
Is there a provision for VIP darshan in the Golden Temple?
There is no arrangement for VIP darshan in the Golden Temple. Equality is very important in Sikhism, hence no matter who the person is, everyone has to stand in the same queue to have darshan. Sevadars sometimes assist the elderly or disabled, but there is no separate arrangement for VIP darshan for anyone.
Langar and Karseva
The langar of the Golden Temple is one of the largest community kitchens in the world. Every day thousands of people sit together and eat food here. You can serve here by washing utensils, cutting vegetables or serving langar. While eating food in langar, one has to sit on the floor and utmost care is taken to ensure that the food is not insulted.
Also read: Complete guide to Ayodhya Darshan on New Year, timings, tickets, rules and places to visit
How to reach Golden Temple, Amritsar from Delhi?
The distance from Delhi to Amritsar is approximately 450 kilometers. Where you can come from any part of the country. There are three main means of reaching here:
by train
Many superfast and Shatabdi trains are available from Delhi to Amritsar.
Travel Time: about 67 hours
by flight
Delhi to Amritsar flights
Flight Time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Distance from Airport to Golden Temple: About 13 km
by the road
You can go via NH44 by your car or Volvo bus.
distance: about 450 km
Time: 89 hours (via NH-44)
Other Sightseeing Places in Amritsar
Jallianwala Bagh
Located very close to the Golden Temple, this historical place reminds of India’s freedom struggle.
Wagah Border
The beating retreat ceremony held in the evening on this border, located about 30 km from Amritsar, is very exciting.
Durgiana Temple
Its structure is similar to the Golden Temple and it is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Partition Museum
It is located near the Town Hall and preserves the stories of the partition of the country.
Religious importance of Golden Temple
The Golden Temple is also called Harmandir Sahib, which means the house of God, which is open to all. It was established by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of Sikhism. There are four gates around the temple, which symbolize that people of every caste, religion and class are welcome here. Taking bath in the Amrit Sarovar located here is considered very sacred.
Also read: Complete guide to Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan, timings, tickets, rules and places to visit nearby