Amritsar, the cultural and spiritual heart of Punjab, is best known as the home of the magnificent Golden Temple. Amritsar is a city in the state of Punjab, situated in northwest India on the border with Pakistan. Of the 25 million Sikhs in the world today, 75% of them live in Punjab. Amritsar is the centre of Sikhism, it’s where it was founded, and it is their principal place of worship.
This guide takes you on a journey through Amritsar’s vibrant history, remarkable landmarks, and unforgettable experiences. From the sacred Golden Temple and the poignant Jallianwala Bagh to the electrifying Wagah Border ceremony, this city is a treasure trove of history and tradition. Additionally, Amritsar is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine and the warm hospitality of its people. Dive in to discover the 10 best places to visit in Amritsar, each offering a unique glimpse into the soul of this incredible city!
Modes or traveling
Amritsar, a cultural and historical hub of Punjab, is well-connected to major cities in India and beyond. Whether you prefer the convenience of air travel, the charm of rail journeys, or the flexibility of road trips, Amritsar offers multiple modes of transportation to suit your needs. Here’s how you can reach the vibrant city.
By Air
Travellers can easily reach Amritsar via a flight as the city has its own airport – Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (approx. 11 km from the city centre). The international airport serves as the gateway to both domestic and international flights. Top airlines such as Air India, Qatar Airways, IndiGo, Turkish Airlines, Air Canada, SriLankan Airlines and SpiceJet offer direct flights to Amritsar at regular intervals.
By Rail
Amritsar enjoys easy accessibility from all major destinations in India via express and superfast trains. Amritsar Junction (ASR) railway station is the gateway for trains entering the city. Travellers can easily find cabs and auto-rickshaws from outside the station.
Major train stations in Amritsar: Amritsar Junction (ASR), Verka Junction (VKA), Mananwala (MOW), Tangra (TRA)
By Road
Amritsar has an integrated road network via which travellers can easily access the city from neighbouring places. NH 3, NH 54 and Grand Trunk Road are among the most prominent arterial roads in Amritsar. For those who opt for inter-state buses, ISBT Amritsar is the prime bus station in the city.
Interstate bus terminals and major bus stations of Amritsar: Amritsar Inter state bus terminal (ISBT)
Top 10 Places to Visit in Amritsar
Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural heart of Punjab, is a city that offers a rich blend of history, tradition, and modern charm. Famous as the home of the Golden Temple, Amritsar has much more to offer than its iconic religious site. From historic landmarks and vibrant bazaars to delicious cuisine and serene gardens, the city provides a unique experience for every traveler. We’ll take you on a journey through the Top 10 Places to Visit in Amritsar, showcasing the best this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a spiritual seeker, Amritsar promises to leave you enchanted!
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
The Golden Temple Amritsar India (Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar) is not only a central religious place of the Sikhs, but also a symbol of human brotherhood and equality. Everybody, irrespective of cast, creed or race can seek spiritual solace and religious fulfilment without any hindrance. It also represents the distinct identity, glory and heritage of the Sikhs.The Golden Temple is spiritually the most significant shrine in Sikhism. It became a centre of the Singh Sabha Movement between 1883 and the 1920s, and the Punjabi Suba movement between 1947 and 1966. In the early 1980s, the gurdwara became a centre of conflict between the Indian government and a radical movement led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.In 1984, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent in the Indian Army as part of Operation Blue Star, leading to the deaths of thousands of soldiers, militants and civilians, as well as causing significant damage to the gurdwara and the destruction of the nearby Akal Takht. The gurdwara complex was rebuilt again after the 1984 attack on it. Sri Guru Granth Sahib (scripture of the Sikhs), after its compilation, was first installed at Sri Darbar Sahib on August 16, 1604 A.D. A devout Sikh, Baba Budha Ji was appointed its first Head Priest.The Golden Temple Amritsar India (Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar) has a unique Sikh architecture. Built at a level lower than the surrounding land level, The Gurudwara teaches the lesson of egalitarianism and humility. The four entrances of this holy shrine from all four directions, signify that people belonging to every walk of life are equally welcome
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening (all year round)
Location: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours
Jallianwala Bagh
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, also known as the Amritsar massacre.The memorial at this site estimated 2000 Indians who were killed or wounded, shot indiscriminately by the British under the command of Gen Michael O”Dyer on April 13, 1919 while participating in a peaceful public meeting.This was one of the major incidents of India’s freedom struggle.The story of this appealing massacre is told in the Martyr’s Gallery at the site. A section of wall with bullet marks still visible is preserved along with the memorial well, in which some people jumped to escape. “The impossible men of India shall rise and liberate their mother land”, declared Mahatma Gandhi, after the Jallian Wala massacre. “This disproportionate severity of punishment inflicted upon the unfortunate people and method of carrying it out is without parallel in the history of civilized govt.” wrote Rabindra Nath Tagore the noble laureate while returning knighthood.
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
Location: Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Wagah Border
The international border between India and Pakistan. The pomp and pageantry of the Beating Retreat and the Change of Guard within handshaking distance of the Indian and Pakistani forces makes for a most charming spectacle. Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border – between Amritsar and Lahore, is an elaborate complex of buildings, roads and barriers on both sides. The daily highlight is the evening “Beating the Retreat” ceremony. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause.
Best Time to Visit: November to March (beating the heat)
Location: 28 km from Amritsar, near Wagah village
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm { Beating Retreat Ceremony: 4:15 PM to 5:15 PM (summer), 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (winter) }
Gobindgarh Fort
Gobindgarh Fort – the very symbol of Punjab. A character of the times when Punjab was forged. Spread across a grand 43 acres, right in the heart of Amritsar city, this magnificent heritage site has a glorious history of its own. It spans 263 years, right from the era of the Bhangi Misl to Maharaja Ranjit Singh to the British East India Company to the Indian Army. Now finally, it opens its gates to the people of Punjab.
Despite being under restoration, the Gobindgarh Fort has gained popularity in such a short time and has become one of the best tourist places in Punjab. Due to its importance in Amritsar’s history. Many visitors have already declared it one of India’s best places.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Location: Old Cantt Road, Vijay Chowk, Amritsar
Entry Fee: ₹25 to ₹200 (depending on attractions)
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Fort show detail
The fort houses interactive museums, traditional art displays, and an unforgettable “Whispering Walls” sound and light show that narrates its glorious past. A visit to Gobindgarh Fort is not just a walk through history but also an opportunity to witness Punjab’s cultural vibrancy in all its glory.
Sher-e-Punjab
Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Language: Punjabi with English Subtitles
Note: Tickets are sold until 5:00 PM
Whispering Walls Show
First Show Timing: 7:00 PM
Second Show Timing: 7:45 PM
Pagdi and Sikh Art Museum
Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Toshakhana (Coin Museum)
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Open Days: Tuesday to Sunday
Note: Closed on Mondays and Government Holidays
Warfare Museum
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Open Days: Tuesday to Sunday
Note: Closed on Mondays and Government Holidays
Tarn Taran Sahib
Steeped in antiquity, Tarn Taran dates back to the times of the fifth sikh Guru Shri Guru Arjan Dev ji (1563-1606). He laid the foundation of this city in 1596 and the milestone was laid for the welfare of people with the establishment of Shri Tarn Taran Sahib Temple. Tarn Taran Sahib was part of the Bhangi Misl ruled by a powerful Sikh family of Dhillon clan from (1716-1810). In 1947, the year of the Partition of India and the Partition of Punjab, Tarn Taran was the only tehsil (district) in Punjab along with Shiekhupura, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Hoshiapur, Kapurthala, Amritsar, Lyallpur, Patiala with a majority Sikh population. The city was a center of the Sikh insurgency during the 1980s and early 1990s .Guru Sahib created this city for the welfare of people. He was the first to initiate the noble cause of curing the leprosy patients. It was later strengthened by the setup of leprosy Home by Church Missionary society in 1885.Tarn Taran is the pivot of Sikh culture and has many historical Gurdwaras. With so many Gurudwaras of historic importance, this makes the Majha belt a historic sikh centre of gathering and interest. Tarn Taran Sahib is a city in the state of Punjab, in far northern India. Tarn Taran district was formed in 16th Jun, 2006, during the celebrations marking the 400th martyrdom day of Shri Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The declaration to this effect was made by Captain Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab. With this, it became the 19th district of Punjab. It is 5059 Sq. Km in area. It is surrounded by District of Amritsar in the North, District Kapurthala in the East, District Ferozepur in the South and Pakistan in the West. This is the city which connects Amritsar with all the cities of Majha. The main occupation in this area is agriculture and agro industry with very few other industries.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening (all year round)
Location: Tarn Taran District, 22 km from Amritsar
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours
Partition Museum
The legacy of the partition of India continues to cast a long shadow over generations, both young and old, whether directly impacted or not. Delving into this sad chapter of India’s history is painful, but if you are driven to understand, the Partition Museum is an indispensable destination.Located in Amritsar’s town hall, once the British headquarters and a jail, the museum opened its doors to the public on August 25th, 2017. At its core, the Partition Museum is a pivotal hub, offering a comprehensive narrative of one of the most tumultuous events in South Asian history. From the pre-partition era to the independence movement and the eventual division of the country, the museum traces the trajectory of partition and its aftermath. As a people’s museum, it strives to portray the human experience with a significant collection of artefacts donated by survivors and their families. These items, from practical belongings to cherished mementoes, are poignant reminders of the losses and hardships endured during that time.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Location: Town Hall, Amritsar
Entry Fee: ₹10 (Indians), ₹250 (Foreigners)
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Durgiana Temple
The Durgiana Temple has architectural echoes of both the Golden Temple and conventional Hindu temples. It rises from the centre of the tank and is designed like a Sikh temple, complete with canopies and a central dome.
#Trivia: Gur Shai Mal Kapoor proposed building the temple, and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, one of India’s greatest reformers and political figures, laid the building’s foundation stone.
The temple is named after the mighty Goddess Durga. You will find Goddess Lakshmi’s and Lord Vishnu’s idols alongside Goddess Durga. During Dussehra, Janmashtami, and Diwali, many tourists visit the temple to enjoy the festivities and offer obeisance to Maa Durga. You can see a unique statue of Lord Hanuman taking a nap in the shrine’s courtyard. It is also well-known for its collection of Hindu scriptures. During your trip to Amritsar, you must spend a few tranquil moments soaking in the gorgeousness of the Durgiana Temple and its tranquility.
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Location: Near Lohgarh Gate, Amritsar
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Hall Bazaar
If you’re in Amritsar and have the urge to experience the best of the street shopping, then you cannot miss the Hall Bazar. Counted among the oldest marketplaces in India, the Hall Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling shopping destination that is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of goods. It is a go-to place for both locals and tourists alike and is indeed an excellent excursion spot for a delightful evening.
Hall Bazaar offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences. The narrow lanes of the bazaar are lined with numerous shops, boutiques, and stalls selling a wide variety of products. From traditional Punjabi garments like Phulkari suits and turbans to intricately designed handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, you can find an array of unique items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Punjab.
One of the highlights of Hall Bazaar is its exquisite collection of Punjabi juttis, which are traditional handcrafted footwear. These colorful and intricately embroidered shoes are highly sought after by visitors looking for a distinctive and stylish accessory. Additionally, the bazaar offers an assortment of spices, dry fruits, and local delicacies, allowing you to savor the flavors of the state.
Best Time to Visit: Evening hours (4:00 PM to 9:00 PM) for a lively atmosphere and vibrant shopping experience.
Location: Hall Road, Near Gandhi Gate, Amritsar, Punjab.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Sadda Pind
Nestled in the vibrant city of Amritsar lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored – Sadda Pind. A visit to this cultural village promises a journey back in time, immersing you in the rich heritage and traditions of Punjab.As you step foot into Sadda Pind, you are greeted by the sights and sounds of a bygone era. The village is a living museum, showcasing the authentic way of life of rural Punjab. Traditional mud houses, intricately carved wooden doors, and vibrant hand-painted frescoes transport you to a world where simplicity and beauty coexist harmoniously.One of the highlights of Sadda Pind is the opportunity to witness age-old Punjabi customs and rituals come to life. From folk dances like Bhangra and Giddha to melodious renditions of Punjabi folk songs, every corner of the village resonates with the spirit of Punjab. You can also witness artisans at work, creating intricate Phulkari embroidery, crafting exquisite pottery, and weaving colorful Patiala shawls – a true testament to the craftsmanship of the region.
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather for exploring).
Location: Main Bypass Road, GT Road, Amritsar, Punjab.
Entry Fee: INR 650 per person (adults), INR 400 per child (prices may vary).
Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
Ram Tirath Ashram
Located 12 Km west of Amritsar on Chogawan road, dates back to the period of Ramayana, Rishi Valmiki’s hermitage. The place has an ancient tank and many temples. A hut marks the site where Mata Sita gave birth to Luv & Kush and also, still extant are Rishi Valmiki’s hut and the well with stairs where Mata Sita used to take her bath. The Bedis of Punjab (Guru Nanak Dev, the founder Prophet of Sikhism was a Bedi) trace their descent from Kush and Sodhis (the 10th Prophet of Sikhism, Guru Gobind Singh was a Sodhi) from Luv. A four day fair, since times immemorial is held here starting on the full moon night in November. 16 kilometres west on Choganwan road is Ram Tirath, commemorating Maharishi Valmiki Ji´s heritage
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Location: 11 km from Amritsar on Chogawan Road
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Best food in amritsar
Langar and Kada Prasad-Sacred meals offered at Gurudwaras, symbolizing equality and community service.
Amritsari Kulcha-Crispy stuffed bread served with chole and chutney, a local favorite.
Lassi-A refreshing yogurt-based drink, perfect for cooling off in Amritsar’s heat
Puri Chole – Deep-fried bread with spicy chickpea curry, a popular breakfast option.
Amritsari Pinni – A sweet made with desi ghee, jaggery, and nuts, often served during festivals.
Butter Chicken – Creamy and flavorful chicken curry, a must-try Punjabi delicacy.
Makke di roti and Sarson ka Saag – Cornbread paired with mustard greens, a traditional winter delight.
Things to Do in Amritsar
Explore the Heritage Walk: Stroll through the old city lanes, visiting hidden gems like old havelis, temples, and bustling bazaars.
Relish Punjabi Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to Amritsari Kulcha, butter-drenched parathas, and creamy lassi at iconic eateries like Kesar Da Dhaba and Bharawan Da Dhaba.
Light & Sound Show at Gobindgarh Fort: Learn about Punjab’s history through this captivating show.
Shop for Souvenirs: Pick up traditional crafts, embroidered clothing, and Amritsari Papad from local markets.
Pay Respect at Gurudwaras: Apart from the Golden Temple, visit Tarn Taran Sahib and other gurudwaras to experience Sikh traditions.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The best time to visit Amritsar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
A 2-3 day trip is sufficient to cover major attractions like the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, and more.
Yes, the Wagah Border ceremony is a unique experience showcasing patriotism and Indo-Pak camaraderie. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
Don’t miss Amritsari Kulcha, Makki di Roti with Sarson da Saag, Lassi, and local desserts like Phirni and Jalebi.
Dress modestly, especially while visiting religious sites.
Carry a scarf or dupatta for covering your head at gurudwaras.
Plan an early morning visit to the Golden Temple for a serene experience.
Conclusion
Amritsar is a city that beautifully blends spirituality, history, and vibrant culture. From the tranquil Tarn Taran Sahib to the bustling streets of Hall Bazaar, every corner of this city has something unique to offer. Whether you’re seeking peace at the Golden Temple or reliving history at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar promises an enriching experience for every traveler. Make sure to explore the lesser-known gems and indulge in the authentic Punjabi flavors that define this vibrant city.
Plan Your Amritsar Journey Today!
Start planning your trip now and dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic city. Share your experiences and let us know your favorite places in Amritsar in the comments below!
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