Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib: The Abode of Sikh Scripture
Visit the serene Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib in Amritsar, the historic site where the sacred Guru Granth Sahib was compiled.
Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib holds a special place in Sikh history as the site where the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, compiled the Adi Granth, which later became the Guru Granth Sahib. In the early 17th century, after the completion of Sri Harimandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in 1601, Guru Arjan Dev Ji sought a quiet and secluded spot to focus on this important task. He chose a serene location about 1 km away from the bustling town, and to enhance the peaceful environment, he had a tank dug, naming it Ramsar after his father, Guru Ram Das Ji. Here, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, along with his scribe Bhai Gurdas Ji, spent over a year compiling the holy hymns of the first four Gurus and adding his own compositions, as well as writings from Hindu and Muslim saints. The selection was based on the principle of the unity of God and the brotherhood of mankind. The completed Adi Granth was then installed with honor in Sri Harimandir Sahib in 1604. Today, Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib stands on the bank of the Ramsar Sarovar, which is the smallest of Amritsar's five holy sarovars. The gurudwara, built in 1855, features a marble-lined hall topped by a gilded, fluted lotus dome. It continues to be a revered place for Sikhs, symbolizing the preservation of their sacred scriptures and the embodiment of the Gurus' philosophy. The printing of the Guru Granth Sahib is also done here in modern times.
Local tips
- Remember to cover your head with a scarf or cloth before entering the Gurudwara as a sign of respect.
- Remove your shoes and socks before entering the main hall; free shoe storage is available.
- Maintain silence and avoid talking loudly inside the Gurudwara to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
- Volunteers offer 'Karah Prasad' (holy offering); accept it with humility and respect.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful and avoid taking pictures during prayer services.
A brief summary to Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib
- JV7J+GCM, Near Sahida Sahib Gurudwara, Karori Chowk, Katra Ahluwalia, Sahida Sahib, Amritsar, Amritsar Cantt., Moni Chowk, Katra Ahluwalia, Punjab, 143001, IN
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From the Golden Temple, exit the complex and head towards the main road (Maharaja Ranjit Singh Road). Turn left and walk straight until you reach Katra Ahluwalia (approximately 1 km). Once you are at Katra Ahluwalia, look for the Sahida Sahib Gurudwara which is near Karori Chowk. Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib is a short distance away from there.
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Public Transport
Local buses and auto-rickshaws are readily available and affordable in Amritsar. You can take an auto-rickshaw from the Amritsar Bus Stand to the Golden Temple, with fares ranging from ₹20 to ₹40. From the Golden Temple, you can then take another auto-rickshaw to Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib. The cost of a local bus or auto-rickshaw ride is typically less than Rs. 50.
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Auto-Rickshaw
From the Golden Temple, take an auto-rickshaw to Katra Ahluwalia. Ask the driver to drop you at Karori Chowk. The fare should be around 30-50 INR. Upon reaching Karori Chowk, you will see the Sahida Sahib Gurudwara nearby. Gurudwara Sri Ramsar Sahib is just a short walk from here.
