Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, also known as Patna Sahib, is a prominent Sikh shrine in Patna, Bihar, India. The shrine is considered one of the holiest sites in Sikhism and is believed to be the birthplace of the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
The Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji is a magnificent white structure adorned with intricate gold work and marble inlay. The shrine's main entrance is a towering archway that leads to a large courtyard, surrounded by the main building and smaller shrines. The square is lined with ornate tiles and features a water fountain at the centre.
Visitors can see the sanctum sanctorum inside the main building, which houses the holy scripture of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib. The scripture is placed on a raised platform covered in fine fabric and is surrounded by a canopy. The walls of the sanctum are covered in golden plates and are adorned with intricate designs and motifs.
The Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji is also home to several other important Sikh relics, including a pair of sandals believed to have been worn by Guru Gobind Singh and a handwritten copy of the Guru Granth Sahib by the guru himself. Visitors can also see a museum on the shrine's premises that showcases Sikh history and culture.
The shrine is open to people of all faiths and is visited by thousands of devotees yearly. It is particularly crowded during important Sikh festivals like Baisakhi and Guru Gobind Singh's birth anniversary.
Places To Visit In Bihar Near Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji
If you are looking for places to visit near Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji in Bihar, there are several options you can consider. Here are some suggestions:
Located in Patna, approximately 140 kilometres from Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, Patna Sahib Gurudwara is a significant Sikh pilgrimage site. It is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The gurudwara holds immense religious and historical importance and attracts devotees from all over the world.
Nalanda, situated around 130 kilometres from Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, is famous for its ancient Nalanda University, which was one of the world's first residential universities. While visiting Nalanda, you can explore the ruins of the university and visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum to learn about its rich history.
Rajgir:
Rajgir, located about 120 kilometres from Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, is an important historical and religious site. It holds significance in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. You can visit places like the Venu Vana, Ajatshatru Fort, and Griddhakuta Hill (where Buddha delivered many sermons) in Rajgir.
Pawapuri, situated approximately 160 kilometres from Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, is a holy site for Jains. It is believed to be the place where Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, attained nirvana (salvation). The Jal Mandir, a temple located in the middle of a large pond, is a major pilgrimage spot for Jains.
Bodh Gaya:
Bodh Gaya, located around 180 kilometres from Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major attraction in Bodh Gaya.