Amritsar’s five sarovars are much more than water reservoirs; they are revered spiritual sites, each carrying deep significance for Sikhs. These sarovars symbolize essential virtues, offering a sacred journey for pilgrims through devotion, reflection, wisdom, contentment, and spiritual cleansing. Each sarovar has a unique history tied to the Sikh Gurus, their teachings, and Sikhism’s development. The pilgrimage includes visiting each sarovar in a particular order, performing ishnan (ritual bathing), and embracing the spiritual practices that connect individuals to divine guidance and purity.
1. Ramsar Sarovar
Embarking on a pilgrimage to the five sarovars of Amritsar was one of the most profound spiritual experiences of my life. Starting at Ramsar Sarovar, which was built by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1602. Seeking solitude for spiritual work, Guru Arjan Dev Ji chose this peaceful location to compile the Adi Granth, the sacred Sikh scripture, which later became Guru Granth Sahib Ji. I felt an overwhelming sense of peace as I reflected on Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s efforts to compile the Guru Granth Sahib in this serene location. The water seemed to carry an energy of deep devotion, and I realized that this was the perfect place to begin my journey.
2. Santoksar Sarovar
As I moved to Santoksar Sarovar, the second stop, I understood why this sarovar is connected to contentment. Santoksar Sarovar was excavated by Guru Ram Das Ji and completed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1589. The site was discovered during the construction of Amrit Sarovar, and a yogi named Santakha, who was meditating for salvation, was found and blessed by the Guru. The sarovar was named after him and represents santokh, or contentment.
Santoksar symbolizes inner peace and contentment, making it the second stop on this sacred journey. Bathing here is believed to bring a sense of calm and fulfillment.
3. Bibeksar Sarovar
Next came Bibeksar Sarovar, built by Guru Hargobind Ji. Guru Ji often meditated by this sarovar and taught the concept of bibek, which means discernment between right and wrong. Guru Hargobind Ji emphasized the importance of righteousness and a balanced approach to spiritual and temporal power (Miri-Piri).
Bibeksar Sarovar encourages righteous living and moral clarity, symbolizing the power of wisdom. It’s the third sarovar to visit, representing the need for discernment and thoughtful action.
Here, the sarovar reminded me of the importance of making ethical decisions in life, embodying the concept of bibek—discernment between right and wrong. Meditating beside this sarovar, I experienced a clarity of mind, understanding that spirituality is about more than rituals; it is about living righteously.
4. Kaulsar Sahib Sarovar
At Kaulsar Sahib Sarovar, the fourth stop, which is located near the Sri Harmandir Sahib and was named after Bibi Kaulan, a devout follower of Guru Hargobind Ji. Raised in a Muslim household, Bibi Kaulan found her spiritual home in Sikhism and became an example of unwavering faith. The sarovar was constructed in her honor and represents her selfless devotion and humility.
I found myself moved by the devotion of Bibi Kaulan. Her faith and humility reflected in the tranquil waters of the sarovar left a lasting impression. It was a reminder that true spirituality requires complete surrender to the divine, much like Bibi Kaulan’s journey of unwavering faith.
5. Amrit Sarovar (Golden Temple Sarovar)
Finally, reaching Amrit Sarovar at Sri Harmandir Sahib felt like the culmination of a sacred odyssey. Guru Ram Das Ji began its excavation, and Guru Arjan Dev Ji completed it in 1589. Guru Arjan Dev Ji famously recited the verse:
“ਦਿਠੇ ਸਭੇ ਥਾਵ, ਨਹੀ ਤੁਧੁ ਜੇਹਾ”
Dithe sabh thav nahi tudh jeha
(“I have seen all places, but none can compare to You.”)
This pangti expresses the unmatched beauty and spiritual power of the Golden Temple and the sarovar that surrounds it. The Golden Temple’s sarovar represents the ultimate cleansing of the soul. As I took a dip in the sarovar, I felt a profound connection to the divine and a sense of spiritual renewal that words fail to capture.
Performing Ishnan: The Sacred Bathing Ritual
At each sarovar, I performed ishnan, the sacred bathing ritual. I started with ardas, offering a prayer to Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and then recited Japji Sahib or Waheguru Simran before entering the water. This process allowed me to not only cleanse my body but also purify my mind and soul. After the ishnan, I walked around the sarovar in parkarma(circumambulation), chanting satnam waheguru allowing me to feel a deeper connection with the divine with each step.
For those unable to perform full ishnan, there’s an option of Panj Ishnan, where you wash the five essential parts of the body- two hands, two feet, and the face (5 parts = Panj). Even this simplified version of the ritual carries great spiritual significance
The Order of Visiting the Sarovars
For a complete spiritual journey, the sarovars are visited in this particular order:
1. Ramsar Sarovar
2. Santoksar Sarovar
3. Bibeksar Sarovar
4. Kaulsar Sarovar
5. Amrit Sarovar
Each sarovar has a unique lesson—devotion, contentment, discernment, humility, and purification—and by following this path, I felt guided through the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. It is more than just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual awakening.
Why You Should Visit
Visiting Amritsar’s five sarovars is not just a religious act; it’s a transformative spiritual experience. Whether you can do full ishnan or choose Panj Ishnan, the journey through these sacred waters offers peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with Sikh history and teachings. This pilgrimage has the power to cleanse your soul and leave you feeling spiritually enriched. I encourage every seeker of spirituality to undertake this journey and experience the divine energy that flows through these sacred waters.
