Shri Ram Tirath Mandir, Amritsar

• Temples
• Amritsar Mandir Puja Ramtirath Temple travel

The Shri Ram Tirath Mandir, located around 11 km west of Amritsar, Punjab, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site associated with Lord Rama and Sage Valmiki. This ancient temple is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama’s sons, Luv and Kush. The temple is also famous for its sacred pond (sarovar) and Valmiki Ashram, where the Ramayana was composed. It holds immense mythological and religious significance and attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the Ram Tirath Fair.

Religious Significance

• The Shri Ram Tirath Mandir is believed to be the site where Mata Sita took refuge after being exiled by Lord Rama.
• According to legend, Sage Valmiki gave shelter to Sita Mata and it was here that she gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush.
• The temple is associated with the Ramayana, as Valmiki’s ashram was the place where he composed this epic.
• It is also believed that Luv and Kush captured Lord Hanuman and fought with Lord Rama’s army at this site.
• Devotees take a holy dip in the sarovar (pond), as it is believed to cleanse sins and bring prosperity.

Temple Architecture

• Style: The Shri Ram Tirath Mandir showcases traditional North Indian temple architecture, featuring ornate carvings, domes, and decorative embellishments.
• Main Shrine:
  • The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) houses idols of Lord Rama, Sita Mata, Luv, and Kush.
  • The idol of Sage Valmiki is also enshrined in the temple.
• Valmiki Ashram:
  • The temple complex includes a replica of Valmiki’s ashram, where Sita Mata is believed to have lived.
• Sacred Pond (Sarovar):
  • The large sacred pond located in the temple complex is considered holy for ritualistic baths.
  • Devotees believe that taking a dip in the pond cleanses them of sins.
• Hawan Kund:
  • The temple features an ancient hawan kund, which is said to have been used by Sage Valmiki for performing religious rituals.
• Temple Complex:
  • The complex is adorned with murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, including Sita Mata’s exile, Valmiki’s penance, and the childhood of Luv and Kush.

Mythology

• According to Hindu mythology, after Lord Rama abandoned Sita Mata, she sought refuge in the ashram of Sage Valmiki.
• It was at this ashram that Sita Mata gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush.
• The young princes were raised and trained by Sage Valmiki in warfare and dharma.
• The Ramayana describes how Luv and Kush unknowingly captured Lord Hanuman while he was delivering Lord Rama’s horse during the Ashwamedha Yagna.
• Lord Rama later arrived at the site and recognized Luv and Kush as his sons.
• The temple is considered the spiritual birthplace of Luv and Kush, making it a significant site for Lord Rama’s devotees.

How to Reach Shri Ram Tirath Mandir

• Location: Ram Tirath Road, Amritsar, Punjab
• Distance from Amritsar Railway Station: 11 km
• Nearest Airport:
  • Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar (approximately 20 km away)
• Road Connectivity:
  • Well-connected by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
  • Easily accessible from Amritsar city center.

Best Time to Visit

• Temple Timings:
  • Morning: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Aarti Timings:
    • Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM
    • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
• Best Months:
  • October to March: Pleasant weather for temple visits.
  • Ram Tirath Fair: Held annually in November, this is the best time to experience the temple’s cultural and religious festivities.
• Avoid Summer:
  • April to June: Summers can be hot and humid, making it less comfortable for pilgrims.
• Winter Season:
  • November to February: Cool and comfortable weather for pilgrimage.

Rituals and Festivals

1. Daily Rituals:
   • Morning Aarti: The day begins with mangal aarti performed by the priests.
   • Abhishekam: The idols are bathed with milk, honey, and water.
   • Shringar: The idols are adorned with new clothes, jewelry, and garlands.
   • Evening Aarti: The temple glows with lamps and bhajans are sung.
2. Ram Tirath Fair:
   • The most significant event celebrated with grandeur.
   • Held annually in November, the fair attracts thousands of pilgrims.
   • Religious discourses, kirtans, and bhajans are performed.
   • The sarovar is illuminated with floating diyas, creating a divine ambiance.
3. Special Offerings:
   • Devotees offer sweets, coconuts, and prasad.
   • Havan and yagya are performed in the ancient hawan kund.
4. Festive Celebrations:
   • Diwali and Dussehra are celebrated with special pujas and lighting ceremonies.
   • Devotees also participate in Rama katha recitations.

Nearby Attractions

1. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib):
   • Located 12 km from the temple.
   • The holiest Sikh shrine, known for its divine aura and spiritual significance.
2. Jallianwala Bagh:
   • Located 12 km from the temple.
   • Historical site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, featuring a memorial and museum.
3. Durgiana Temple:
   • Located 10 km from the temple.
   • A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, resembling the Golden Temple’s architecture.
4. Partition Museum:
   • Located 12 km from the temple.
   • A museum showcasing partition-era artifacts and stories.
5. Gobindgarh Fort:
   • Located 14 km from the temple.
   • A historical fort with museums and cultural exhibits.

The Shri Ram Tirath Mandir in Amritsar is a sacred pilgrimage site that offers spiritual solace, divine blessings, and cultural heritage. Its mythological importance, grand Ram Tirath Fair, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for devotees and travelers alike.