Amritsar
( Punjab )
Introduction
Amritsar — the holy heart of Punjab — is a city of devotion, bravery, culture, and unforgettable food.
Home to the Golden Temple, one of the most peaceful places on earth, Amritsar welcomes visitors with warmth, spirituality, and its iconic Punjabi hospitality.
From the patriotic energy at the Wagah Border, the historic scars of Jallianwala Bagh, the bustling markets of Hall Bazaar, to the delicious flavors of Amritsari kulcha and lassi — the city blends faith, history, and culture beautifully.
Amritsar is more than a destination; it is an emotion of love, unity, and devotion.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Punjab, North India |
| Best Time to Visit | November–March |
| Ideal Duration | 2–3 Days |
| Famous For | Golden Temple, Wagah Border, food, history |
| Nearest Airport | Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport |
| Railway Stations | Amritsar Junction (ASR) |
| Local Transport | Autos, cabs, e-rickshaws |
| Language | Punjabi, Hindi, English |
| Currency | Indian Rupees |
City Overview
Amritsar is divided mainly into:
Old Amritsar
Golden Temple, bazaars, heritage streets, temples & eateries.
New Amritsar
Markets, malls, restaurants & modern infrastructure.
Border Region
Wagah Retreat Ceremony & military area.
The city is vibrant, devotional, patriotic, and full of flavors.
Top 11 Attractions in Amritsar
1. Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)
Famous For: Sikhism’s holiest shrine
Timings: 24 hrs (Langar 24 hrs)
Expanded Description:
A spiritual sanctuary covered in gold, surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar.
Peaceful prayers, kirtan, and community meals create a divine atmosphere.
Tips:
• Cover your head
• Visit early morning for serenity
2. Jallianwala Bagh
Famous For: Freedom movement history
Timings: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Expanded Description:
Memorial garden remembering the 1919 massacre — preserved bullet marks & museum.
Tips:
• Visit after the Golden Temple
3. Wagah Border (Attari Border)
Famous For: Beating Retreat Ceremony
Timings: 4 PM – 7 PM (seasonal timing changes)
Expanded Description:
Energetic military parade on the India–Pakistan border filled with cheers & patriotism.
Tips:
• Reach 1–2 hours early for good seating
4. Partition Museum
Famous For: India–Pakistan partition archives
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Monday)
Expanded Description:
Emotional displays, audio stories, letters & belongings of families affected during 1947.
Tips:
• Allocate at least 1–2 hours
5. Durgiana Temple
Famous For: Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Expanded Description:
Golden architecture similar to Harmandir Sahib, surrounded by a holy pond.
Tips:
• Evening visit recommended
6. Gobindgarh Fort
Famous For: Live cultural shows
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
300-year-old fort offering museums, shows, 7D experiences & Punjabi performances.
Tips:
• Try Amritsari food inside the fort
7. Heritage Street (Town Hall to Golden Temple)
Famous For: Photo spots & shopping
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Colorful walkway filled with lights, cafés, shops, and heritage architecture.
Tips:
• Best visited at night
8. Hall Bazaar
Famous For: Shopping
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
Famous for phulkari, juttis, handicrafts, spices & Punjabi wear.
Tips:
• Bargain politely
9. Khalsa College
Famous For: Architectural beauty
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A stunning heritage building known for photography and its grand Indo-Saracenic design.
Tips:
• Perfect for morning photo shoots
10. Ram Tirth Temple
Famous For: Mythological significance
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
Believed to be the birthplace of Lav–Kush, with a huge sarovar & devotional environment.
Tips:
• Combine with Durgiana Temple visit
11. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum & Panorama
Famous For: Sikh empire history
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
Museum showcasing the life, wars & contributions of the Lion of Punjab.
Tips:
• Don’t miss the 3D panoramic show
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Kesar Da Dhaba
Famous for: Dal makhani, phirni, paranthas.
2. Amritsari Kulcha Land
Must try: Amritsari stuffed kulcha with lassi.
3. Bharawan Da Dhaba
Pure veg Punjabi food.
How to Reach
By Air:
• Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport → 12 km
• Taxis & auto-rickshaws easily available
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Spiritual & Historic
Golden Temple (sunrise)
Langar
Jallianwala Bagh
Heritage Street
Durgiana Temple
Day 2: Patriotism & Culture
Partition Museum
Gobindgarh Fort
Hall Bazaar Shopping
Wagah Border Ceremony
Day 3: Extended Attractions
Khalsa College
Ram Tirath Temple
Local food tour
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 200–500/day |
| Local Travel | 100–300/day |
| Entry Fees | Mostly free or ₹20–200 |
| Shopping | Optional |
Hidden Gems of Amritsar
1. Ram Bagh Garden
Beautiful stay facility inside Temple complex.
2. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai
A historic fort built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Pul Kanjari
Historic site of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.