Amritsar City History

Founded in the sixteenth century by the fourth Sikh Guru, Ram Das Ji, Amritsar is a city that one just can’t afford to overlook on a trip to Punjab. Named after the sacred water tank of Amrit Sarovar that encircles the Golden Temple, Amritsar is located in northwestern India. The city is also noted for two infamous events of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre and Operation Blue Star.

The second most populated city in Punjab, Amritsar is built in a unique architectural style with ‘katras’ and narrow streets. The awe-inspiring and divine complex of the Golden Temple is surrounded by narrow streets filled with sheer pandemonium. While the Old City of Amritsar south of the Railway Junction is a delight to explore on foot with numerous sights and sounds, the northern half of the city features a few historical structures worth checking out with the help of an Amritsar tourist map. The city is a harmonious blend of tradition, history, culture, and food.

Golden Temple Amritsar (Harmandir Sahib) <!-- [if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--> <!--[endif]-->

The Golden Temple in Amritsar, actually adorned with gold and precious stones, is a visual treat and a humbling structure. Also known as Harmandir Sahib, the gurudwara complex is home to the world’s largest free community kitchen run by volunteers

Akal Takht Amritsar

Located inside the Harmandir Sahib complex, it is one of 5 takhts of the Sikhs. Its name translates to the “throne of the timeless one”. Akal Takht and Amrit Sarovar make the city of Amritsar the holiest place in Sikhism.

Tarn Taran Sahib Amritsar

Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib, located about 30 km from Amritsar, is famous for the gathering of pilgrims in every month at the Amavas no-moon night. Established by the fifth guru, Guru Arjan Dev, the site features the largest sarovar (water pond) of all the gurdwaras.

Jallianwala Bagh Amritsar

Pay a visit to nearby Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar near the Golden Temple to pay homage to those souls lost in the infamous 1919 massacre. A guided tour of the gardens and the infamous well is available for tourists.

Gobindgarh Fort in Amritsar

Built in 1760, the fort was constructed for Gujjar Singh and later owned by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. For those keen in learning about Sikh religion and its history, the museum inside Gobindgarh Fort is one of the best places to do it. It exhibits artifacts owned by the royal family, weapons, coins, armor, and paintings. Partition Museum in Town Hall is another place to check out city’s tumultuous past.

Durgiana Temple Amritsar

Also called Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this Hindu temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga along with idols of Goddess Laksmi and Vishnu. Built in 1921, its architectural style is similar to the Sikh Golden Temple.

Wagah Border in Amritsar

Ideal for a one day trip from Amritsar, the Wagah Border lies about 28 km from the city. The famous Retreat ceremony or the “lowering of the flags” ceremony starts every day before sunset. As a prelude, people on both sides of the border cheer for their nations as the security forces engage in animated displays and parades.

Sri Ram Tirath Temple and Pul Kanjari are also popular places to visit near Amritsar.

Top Food Places in Amritsar

From eateries in narrow streets to upscale restaurants, Amritsar has got it all. Guru Ka Langer at Harmandir Sahib is a must-visit place for foodies and devotees. Bharawan Da Dhaba and Kesar Da Dhaba are popular places to taste makki ki roti with sarson da saag and stuffed kulchas. Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner, Ram Lubhaya Aam Papar Wala, Khubi Halwaai Katra Ahluwalia, Beera Chicken House, and Mame Da Dhaba are other famous places to eat in Amritsar.

Hall Bazaar Shopping in Amritsar

This shopping complex is one of the oldest markets in Amritsar. It is one of the most popular places to buy gadgets, trendy accessories, jewelry, textiles, and local handicrafts in Amritsar. The iconic Gandhi Gate is the main entrance points of Hall Bazaar in Amritsar.

Fairs and festivals are an integral part Punjab and Amritsar in India. Festivals like Guru Nanak Jayanti, Baisakhi, Lohri, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated here with great fervor. Travelers can also catch a glimpse of folk dances of Punjab such as Bhangra, Giddha, and Gatka – a local martial art form. For shopping lovers, the city has another reason to visit, the century-old handloom and carpet industry. Make sure to shop for phulkari suits, Punjabi juttis while gulping down lassi after a hearty plate of roti and saag. Guru Bazaar and Hall Bazaar are the best spots for shopping in Amritsar.

Gobindgarh Fort, Durgiana Temple, Mandir Mata Lal Devi, and Hanuman Mandir are other popular points of interest in Amritsar. Nature lovers can pay a visit to Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary in the winter season. The best time to visit Amritsar is from October through March when the weather in Amritsar is pleasant.