History
Baba Atal Gurudwara marks the memory of Baba Atal Rai Ji, the young son of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Born in 1619 in Amritsar, Baba Atal is remembered for rare spiritual insight in childhood. Popular lore recounts that he once revived a friend; admonished for employing divine power, he chose to end his earthly life at the age of nine (c. 1627). A simple memorial at this spot evolved over time into today’s iconic nine-storey tower.
Nine floors for nine years: the tower is a vertical meditation on the brevity of life and the depth of devotion—an enduring landmark of Sikh heritage within the Golden Temple precinct.
Baba Atal Today
Form & Layout: A distinctive octagonal tower rising roughly ~40–45 m (130–150 ft), with four cardinal entrances (principal approach from the east). Thick masonry walls house a double stair that ascends to upper storeys crowned by a gilded dome.
Sanctum & Art: On the ground floor, Guru Granth Sahib Ji is enshrined under a brass canopy. Interior walls feature Janamsakhi-inspired frescoes and Sikh historical scenes; brass/silver-worked doors show floral and sacred motifs.
Ritual life: Recitation and kirtan continue daily. A simple bread-cake parsad tradition is observed. Nearby, the Kaulsar Sarovar is associated in local lore with blessings (even rain in lean monsoon years).
What to Expect
Enter via the eastern doorway, pay respects at the ground-floor sanctum, then—during permitted hours—ascend the stair for panoramic city views. From upper levels, you can see the shimmering Golden Temple, old bazaars, and the dense historic fabric around the precinct.
Highlights: Octagonal massing; brass/silver-worked doors; gilded crown; mural program across levels; double stair tucked in wall thickness.
Upper floors (typical): Morning 7:30–10:30 & Afternoon 3:00–5:30. Hours may vary on festival days or during maintenance.
Plan Your Visit
Opening Hours
Good to Know
- Photography is generally fine in outer areas; be respectful near sanctum
- Upper-floor access can pause on festival days or for maintenance
- Combine with Golden Temple, Heritage Street & Jallianwala Bagh
Contact & Address
Local Tips
- Carry a light scarf/cap for head cover; marble can get warm mid-day.
- Climb during permitted morning/evening slots for softer light and views.
- Loop by the nearby Kaulsar Sarovar for a quiet pause.