Amritsar Tourism

From stunning shrines to flavorful food, Amritsar tourism is characterized by historical sites, lively bazaars, and sights of Bhangra or Giddha with sounds of toomba or dhol, and most importantly the military ceremony at Wagah Border. 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. So, grab a map of Amritsar with all major places to visit in Amritsar and popular things to do and start holidays in the Golden City of Punjab. Here’s our detailed Amritsar travel guide which includes the best means to reach, best time to visit, popular attractions, Amritsar shopping places, and everything that a tourist needs to know:

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.

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 and Amrit Sarovar make this complex the holiest place in Sikhism. Pay a visit to nearby Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar to pay homage to those souls lost in the infamous 1919 massacre. For those keen in learning about Sikh religion and its history, the museum inside the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh 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.

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.

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.