Goindwal Sahib

Goindwal Sahib, on the Beas in Tarn Taran district, grew in the 16th century under Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, and was the main centre of the faith during his time. Legend says a trader named Goinda, a Marvaha Khatri, wanted to found a settlement by the Beas ferry crossing, on its western bank, but kept meeting misfortune. He asked Guru Angad to send one of his sons to settle there; when none agreed, the Guru sent his disciple Amar Das, who later became Guru.

The gurdwara follows the usual Sikh style, with a large dome and gold finial, and murals of Sikh history at the entrance. Its langar is linked to the story that Emperor Akbar ate in the community kitchen before meeting Guru Amar Das. Goindwal is also where Guru Amar Das first met the future Guru Ram Das. Next to the gurdwara is the baoli, or stepwell, built by Guru Amar Das, with frescoes from his life on its domed entrance.