The Akal Takht that translates to the throne of the timeless one or throne of the immortal is the highest political institution of the Sikhs. This timeless throne is one of the five takhts (seats of power) that sits in the grandeur building structure which is situated directly opposite to the Golden Temple. This architectural marvel stands tall and is located amidst the Golden Temple complex that reflects the sheer beauty of the Sikh religion. The Akal Takht in Amritsar symbolizes the dispensing of Justice and temporal activity of the Sikh religion and is the highest seat of the ‘Khalsa’ which is a military and civil authority in Sikh culture. It was built by the 6th Guru, Guru Hargobind ji and was established as a symbol of opposition to the tyranny of the 17th and 17th-century rulers.
Amritsar is a cultural centre of the Sikh community in the state of Punjab that houses many historical and religious landmarks and monuments that are jotted down with so much history and rich heritage culture of Punjab. Amritsar’s main attraction which is the Golden Temple attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims from across the globe every year who leave with a high impression of the captivating beauty that the Golden Temple represents. Surrounded by absolute calm and serenity, the Akal Takht in Amritsar is a modern five-story building with marble inlay and gold-leafed dome.
Important Details About Akal Takht In Amritsar
Location: Harmandir Sahib, Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 2:30 am – 10 pm
Architectural Style: Sikh architecture
Best Time To Visit: October – March
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History Of Akal Takht In Amritsar
The construction was started in 1606 by Shri Guru Hargobind and he was the 6th Sikh Guru who laid down this foundation with a view to create a central place for justice and consideration of temporal issues. The original structure of Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar was a simple platform for the Guru to sit. Later, an open air semi circular structure supported by marble pillars was also added to the original structure. Today, the Akal Takht this structure is a 5-storey building including a marble dome plated with gold. The Akal Takht was attacked by the Indian Army during operation Blue Star but, later it was restored by the Sikhs.
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Significance Of Akal Takht In Amritsar
These takhts represent the power and authority among the Sikh community, and the place of Jathedar, the highest spokesman among them. The Akal Takht is meant as a symbol of political sovereignty and justice, where the spiritual and earthly concerns of the Sikh people could be addressed and examined. The original structure of the Takht (seat) was a simple platform, where the Guru used to sit and address the issues of the Sikh community. It is also said to be the place where the Guru played as a child back in the days.
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Architecture Of Akal Takht In Amritsar
The Akal Takht in Amritsar, Punjab is a beautiful white marble structure with a golden-leafed dome that exudes so much beauty and calm, located in the Golden Temple complex. The captivating beauty of the grandeur religious and historic structure leaves all the travelers with only positive and good vibes. The sikh architecture reflects the sheer beauty of Sikh religion against the stunning backdrop of the Golden Temple. The tall two flags symbolize the two swords of Guru Hargobind that are a representation of his spiritual authority (Piri) and earthly power (Miri) by the Akal Takht. The elevated platform inside the structure stands as a symbol of rebellion against the Emperor Jehangir, who has ruled that only an emperor can sit on a raised platform. This architectural marvel has also been compared to the popular Piazza Saint Marco in Venice. The Akal Takht is one of the most beautiful sights in Amritsar to witness when it is illuminated during Guru Nanak Gurpurab, one of the major festivals of the Sikh.
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How To Reach Akal Takht In Amritsar
Being the most important religious centre in Amritsar, Akal Takht can be easily reached via different modes of transport like Akal Takht train, bus, or cab.
The nearest airport to Akal Takht is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport which is approximately 13 Km away.
The special Akal Takht express runs from Kolkata to Amritsar passing through a number of cities. For local transfers from railway station to Akal Takht, one can hire a tuk tuk, a cab or board a local bus.
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The Akal Takht in Amritsar is a mark in the history and religion of the Sikh Community that stands tall and exudes the power and authority of The sikh, situated opposite the Golden Temple. Amristsar is a hub for the Sikh culture where many tourists and devotees travel from across the globe to witness the golden-leafed dome and be captivated by its charm. The high 5-story structure is a place that boasts intricately designed marble inlays and complements the splendour beauty of the Golden Temple. If you’re planning a trip to Punjab, make sure you visit the Akal Takht in Amritsar, a sheer resemblance of spiritual authority and earthly power.
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Being an army kid, Yashasvi has had a fair share of traveling around the country and collecting erratic experiences in her little adventure jar. Choosing to follow her heart and combining her passion into a full-time job, she has been writing blogs about travel, lifestyle, and food for 2 years.
