SWEET AND SPICE - KNOWN AND UNKNOWN PLACES OF PUNJAB BY ASMITA GHOSAL

 PUNJAB - "The land of five rivers"

 Punjab, is a state bordering Pakistan, is the heart of India’s Sikh community. The city of Amritsar, founded in the 1570s by Sikh Guru Ram Das, is the site of Harmandir Sahib, the holiest gurdwara (Sikh place of worship). Known in English as the Golden Temple, and surrounded by the Pool of Nectar, it's a major pilgrimage site. Also in Amritsar is Durgiana Temple, a Hindu shrine famed for its engraved silver doors. Punjab, famously referred to as ‘The land of five rivers’, is situated in the north western part of India. This fertile land ranks amongst the most ancient civilizations in the world. Punjab is also famous for its religious diversity as it was here many religious movements were initiated. 

1. Golden Temple

                         

                                         

                                

                                                  Source - Google

 

One of the most spiritual places in India, the Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in all of Sikhism. Located right in the heart of Amritsar and being easily reachable from any part of the city, the stunning golden architecture of the temple and the daily Langar (community kitchen) attract a large number of visitors and devotees each day. The temple is open to devotees of all faiths and serves over 100,000 people free food from all walks of life. 

2. Wagah Border 

Source - Google 

Located at a distance of 22 km from Lahore, Pakistan and 28 km from Amritsar in India, the Wagah Border marks the boundaries between Indian and Pakistani borders, running along the Grand Trunk Road. The Wagah Border Ceremony or the Beating Retreat Ceremony, held every day, is the prime attraction. Every evening, just before sunset, the soldiers from the Indian and Pakistan military meet at this border post to engage in a 30-minute display of military camaraderie and showmanship.

3. Ram Tirath Temple 

                                                                    

                                 Source - Google 

As per the mythological beliefs, the place chronicles back to the period of Ramayana. The temple is known for the ashram of sage Maharishi Valmiki. As per the inscriptions, the sage gave shelter to Goddess Sita at this ashram when she was abandoned by Lord Rama after the Lankan victory. The temple houses a hut that marks the birthplace of Lord Rama’s sons, Luv and Kush, and the ancient tank that was believably dug by Lord Hanuman, Rishi Valmiki’s hut and the stairwell where Goddess Sita used to take bath are also housed inside the mandir complex.

4. Sirhind 

Source - Google 

Known for its spectacular history and attracting a number of religious travellers, Sirhind is an important city for the Sikhs. Located in Punjab, this city is known for its history and culture. It is huddled midway between the two dazzling cities of Ludhiana and Ambala. The name of the city is derived from Sar-i-hind which means The Frontier of Hind. The city is well-known for its strategic location as it was considered to be a gateway to Hindustan by the Mughal invaders. However, the forts and bastions depict the military splendor of the city. The city is adorned by many forts, museums and gardens that will help you relive the old world charm and appreciate the architectural grandeur.