amritsar famous places to visit

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023

A trip to Amritsar is like striking travel gold. The largest urban area in Punjab, Amritsar is one of India's most deeply spiritual cities. Tens of thousands of devout Sikhs and cultural tourists alike make a pilgrimage to Amritsar every day for one main reason: A visit to the famous Golden Temple. There's nothing quite like strolling around the glistening structure and sitting down for a communal meal from the temple's massive, volunteer-run kitchen with dozens of other visitors.

But as you dig deeper into this soulful, frenetic city, you'll have tons of other fascinating experiences that will make you fall in love with Amritsar. You can adventure to the border of Pakistan and watch the daily Wagah Border Ceremony , tuck into incredible Punjabi food , wander around the funhouse-like Mandir Mata Lal Devi, and tour the Summer Palace. Plus, Amritsar is an excellent spot to shop for Indian textiles.

Ready to experience all the magic Amritsar has to offer? Plan your trip to this beloved city with our list of the best places to visit in Amritsar.

1. The Golden Temple

2. wagah border ceremony, 3. partition museum, 4. punjabi restaurants, 5. mandir mata lal devi, 6. jallianwala bagh, 7. baba atal tower, 8. ram bagh gardens, 9. khalsa college, 10. gobindgarh fort, 11. shri durgiana mandir, 12. sri ram tirath temple, 13. hall bazaar, 14. khairuddin mosque, map of attractions & places to visit in amritsar, amritsar, india - climate chart.

The definitive top attraction in Amritsar is the Golden Temple, a two-story structure covered in real gold and surrounded by a 5.1-meter-deep manmade lake. But not merely a tourist site, this legendary religious shrine is one of the most sacred places in the world for Sikhs, many of whom make a pilgrimage to the temple at least once in their lifetimes.

To enter the Gurdwara complex, where the Golden Temple resides, you'll need to cover your hair, remove your shoes, and step through a small stream of running water to cleanse your feet. Then, you'll walk clockwise on the inlaid marble path that flanks the pool, as worshippers chant and bathe in the water.

Making your way to the glistening inner sanctum of the temple, where priests chant songs from the Guru Granth Sahib holy text, is just one of many things to do at the Golden Temple. This attraction is home to the world's largest community kitchen , welcoming anyone to sit on the floor and savor a free vegetarian meal with other visitors. It's mesmerizing to see hordes of volunteers chopping onions, peeling garlic, and cooking huge vats of lentils and roti for up to 100,000 diners every day.

You can also see a collection of holy Sikh weapons inside the Akal Takhat (a seat of power inside the Golden Temple complex) and learn more about Sikhism in the Golden Temple Interpretation Centre , tucked beneath the clock-tower entrance of the temple.

The Golden Temple is an inspiring place, and one that you can get personally involved with, if you wish. You can volunteer at the Golden Temple Kitchen , and bond with locals as you prepare lunch. You can also sleep at the Golden Temple in one of its pilgrim hostels for up to three nights. Sleeping here gives you easy access to the Golden Temple at sunrise–the best time of day to see the structure shine.

Address: Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar

Official site: https://www.goldentempleamritsar.org/

A 31-kilometer drive west from the city center of Amritsar will take you to the border of Pakistan , where a curious border-closing ceremony takes place at sunset every afternoon. Full of pomp and circumstance, the Beating Retreat Ceremony involves an ostentatious display of goose-stepping guards from the Indian Border Security Force and the Pakistan Rangers saluting each other, lowering and folding their flags, and closing the gates at the border.

The experience gives tourists (typically seated in a special VIP section , once they flash their foreign passport) the chance to see the stark differences between Pakistan and India. On the Pakistan side, you'll see men and women sitting separately in stadium-style seating, and the vibe is much more subdued.

On the Indian side, however, it's a patriotic party. Bollywood music blasts from speakers as women dance in the street, while those in the stands wave Indian flags.

While just 45-minutes long, the entire ceremony gives you enough memories for hours of storytelling back at home.

Address: Wagah Border, National Highway 1 PB, Amritsar

Official site: https://amritsar.nic.in/tourist-place/wagah-border/

The year 1947 was a big one for India. Not only was it the year that India gained its independence from Great Britain, it was also the year it split into the two different entities of India and Pakistan–an event known as the Partition of India.

Tourists in Amritsar can learn about this defining moment in history at the Partition Museum, the only institution in the world devoted entirely to Partition. It features a haunting collection of newspaper clippings, antique photographs, and oral histories with people who experienced the violence leading up to the separation of the two countries, and the resettling of refugees after the event. The experience will give you a deeper understanding of the source of rivalry between India and Pakistan.

On your way out of the museum, jot down a message on a green leaf and hang it on the Tree of Hope .

Address: Hall Road, Town Hall, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar

Official site: https://www.partitionmuseum.org/

Punjabi cuisine has become known around the world for its spicy curries, pillowy breads, and tandoori-fired meats . If you're looking to indulge in this tradition of colorful feasts, there's no better place to do it than in Amritsar.

Bharawan Da Dhaba , located kitty-corner to the Partition Museum , whips up downright decadent Amritsari kulcha (mildly leavened flatbread) stuffed with Indian cheese or potatoes and served with spiced chickpeas.

Tear into the Punjabi breakfast staple of chole puri (puffy bread with chickpea curry) at Kanha Sweets , just a block away from the BBK DAV College for Women .

Dig into tandoori chicken from a decades-old recipe at the Beera Chicken House , across from the New Bhandari Hospital.

And if you've got a sweet tooth, treat yourself to piping-hot jalebi (deep-fried spirals of maida flour batter dunked in sugar syrup) at Gurdas Ram Jalebi Wala , a hole-in-the-wall sweets shop just 400 meters away from the Golden Temple.

The Mandir Mata Lal Devi is as bizarre as the Golden Temple is elegant. Legend has it that this Hindu temple, dedicated to the female saint Lal Devi, can boost the fertility of women who visit. But to non-devotees, the labyrinthine attraction resembles a funhouse.

You'll wander down dark, narrow passages that lead to garish rooms covered in mirrored mosaics , walk through the open mouths of funhouse-style animal carvings , see giant wooden cobras, and crawl through a watery cave to the shrine of Lal Devi .

The entire experience will give you a new perspective on Hinduism and the ways devotees practice their spirituality. It'll also prove to be one of the most fun things to do in Amritsar.

Address: 61/62, Model Town, Rani Ka Bagh, Mohindra Colony, Amritsar

Tucked behind the Golden Temple, tourists will find another important site in Amritsar: Jallianwala Bagh. The public garden memorializes the estimated 1,500 people who were killed or injured when British soldiers were ordered to fire on peaceful protesters who were demanding the release of imprisoned leaders of the Indian Independence Movement in 1919. You can still see bullet holes in the walls that hundreds of victims hid behind in attempt to dodge the gunfire.

The memorial site's Martyrs' Gallery displays the portraits of important figures of Indian independence. You can also check out a humbling exhibition on the victims and see an eternal flame .

Address: Golden Temple Road, Jallan Wala Bagh, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar

Often overshadowed by the neighboring Golden Temple, Baba Atal Tower is a worthwhile attraction in Amritsar in its own right. The structure is an architectural marvel, with nine octagonal stories stacked 40 meters high, making it one of the tallest structures in Amritsar.

Baba Atal Tower is dedicated to Atal Rai, the son of a Sikh guru. Legend has it that Atal Rai performed the miracle of bringing someone back from the dead, and then gave up his life in penance for the sin of interfering with God's work. The sightseeing opportunities from the top of the tower are some of the best in all of Amritsar.

Address: Clock Tower Building, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar

Looking for a serene escape from the hectic streets of Amritsar? Head to Ram Bagh Gardens, a sprawling public park. The green space brims with rare plants , flowers, and trees, and features refreshing water features filled with goldfish. You'll also find statues throughout the gardens, including a memorial for Ranjit Singh , leader of the Sikh Empire in the early 1800s.

At the center of the park, tourists can check out the historic Summer Palace. While significantly less elaborate than other palaces you'll find throughout India, the two-story, red-stone building offers a sense of place, with scalloped doorways, inlaid marble floors, and pretty balconies.

In the northwest corner of Ram Bagh Gardens, tourists will discover another prominent attraction: the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum And Panorama . This institution contains a collection of important artifacts to Sikh culture, including garments worn by warriors, antique coins, and beautiful works of art. Its most famous exhibit, though, is a multimedia diorama that depicts Maharaja Ranjit Singh's early life and greatest battles. Sound effects of battle cries bring the diorama to life.

Address: Mall Road, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Nagar, Ram Bagh, Amritsar

Architecture buffs, make a point to visit Khalsa College on Grand Trunk Road in Amritsar. The historic educational institution doubles as a premier example of 19th-century Indo-Saracenic architecture, a mash-up of Western European aesthetics with the exuberance of Indian and Persian styles.

With elegant onion domes and scalloped archways, Khalsa College's palatial main building is impressive and has served as the setting of many Bollywood films . Spend some time wandering the tranquil campus and gardens, but keep in mind that the academic and administrative buildings are reserved exclusively for students and staff–this is still a working university, after all.

Address: Grand Trunk Road, Putligarh, Amritsar

Official site: http://khalsacollege.edu.in/

More than 250 years old, the Gobindgarh Fort has become one of the most iconic symbols of Punjab. The heritage site hails from a time when the Indian subcontinent was divided into small principalities and ruled by kings. At one point, some 12,000 soldiers manned the fort to protect Amritsar from potential invaders.

In modern days, Gobindgarh Fort has transformed into an educational attraction dedicated to the history and culture of Amritsar. The complex contains four museums, including a Warfare Museum showcasing rare weapons, a Turban Museum explaining headgear from the region, and a Sikh Art Museum. Stick around after dark for the captivating light and sound shows projected on the fort's Colonial Bungalow.

Address: Old Cantt Road, inside Lohgarh Chowk, Vijay Chowk, Amritsar

Official site: https://fortgobindgarh.com/

Take one look at Shri Durgiana Mandir ( Durgiana Temple ), and you might think you're seeing double. With its half gold, half marble facade, the domed structure looks almost identical to the Golden Temple–it's even housed in the center of a sacred lake.

While the two temples may not differ much in looks, they certainly have distinctive purposes. Durgiana Temple is a Hindu religious site, where devotees pay tribute to warrior goddess Durga; wealth goddess Laksmi; and Vishnu, the protector of the universe. The attraction is mostly visited by religious travelers, but even everyday tourists will appreciate the magnificence of the inlaid marble and spiritual atmosphere of the temple.

On your way inside, pay attention to the exquisite silver doors , depicting holy figures. The distinctive feature is responsible for Durgiana Temple's nickname as the Silver Temple.

Address: Shree Durgiana Tirath, O/S. Hathi Gate, Goal Bagh, Amritsar

Official site: https://www.durgianamandir.com/

Another popular thing to do in Amritsar is visit the Sri Ram Tirath Temple. Located about 12 kilometers west of the city center, this Hindu temple honors the birthplace of Lava and Kusha, the twin brothers of the hero of the Ramayana epic, Rama, and his wife Sita.

The star attraction of this temple complex is its idol of Valmiki , author of the Ramayana. Standing eight feet tall and plated in roughly 800 kilograms of gold, it's a sight to behold. You can also see a sacred water tank , a congregational hall with capacity for 5,000 devotees, a library of Sanskrit texts, and an enlightening museum .

Hot tip: The best time to visit the Sri Ram Tirath Temple is roughly two weeks after Diwali, during the attraction's annual five-day festival. It draws around 100,000 pilgrims, who take ritualistic baths in the water tank and light special lamps handmade from flour and ghee.

Official site: https://amritsar.nic.in/tourist-place/ram-tirath/

Step through Gandhi Gate to get a heavy dose of retail therapy at Hall Bazaar–the go-to place for souvenirs in Amritsar. Located in the heart of the city between the Golden Temple and the Partition Museum, this attraction is thought to be one of India's oldest markets. Its streets contain thousands of shops selling jewelry, textiles, tailored suits, electronics, and practically anything else you can imagine–at bargain prices, to boot!

If you get hungry during your shopping trip, check out the food stalls scattered throughout the market. Bade Bhai ka Brothers Dhaba has become a popular spot for tourists to sample Punjabi cuisine in a thali (a platter comprised of many different dishes). You can also enjoy fish fried to perfection at Pehelwan Amritsari Fish Shop or succulent curried meats at Bheeri Gali wali Dukan .

While Amritsar is often associated with its Sikh residents, it's also home to Muslims, many of whom practice their religion at Khairuddin Mosque. Built by Muhammad Khairuddin roughly 150 years ago, this mosque is an impressive example of Islamic architecture. The stately green-and-white structure features three domes and four minarets, along with intricate artwork on its walls.

More than just a beautiful sight, Khairuddin Mosque is also an important historical attraction for its role in India's struggle for freedom. This is where Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari, urged the Indian people to fight back against the British colonizers.

Address: Katra Sher Singh, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar

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Exploring Mumbai and Delhi: Many travelers arrive in India in Delhi or Mumbai. Some travelers simply transit through, but for those who take the time to look around a little, the rewards can be great. To help plan your time, see our guides to the Top Attractions in Mumbai and Top Attractions in Delhi .

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Top 12 Places to Visit in Amritsar for a Memorable Trip (with Photos)

Welcome to Amritsar, a vibrant city that boasts a rich blend of history, spirituality, and cultural wonders. If you’re seeking an extraordinary travel experience, look no further than these top 12 places to visit in Amritsar. From iconic landmarks to serene spiritual retreats, this city has it all.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Golden Temple, the spiritual heart of Sikhism. Witness the captivating beauty of this gilded marvel, where devotees from around the world find solace and peace. Take a stroll through the historic lanes of the walled city, where every corner exudes old-world charm.

Explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant memorial that commemorates the tragic event of 1919. Feel the weight of history as you stand on the very ground that witnessed a significant chapter in India’s struggle for independence. Indulge your taste buds in the bustling streets of Amritsar, renowned for its mouthwatering street food, including the famous Amritsari kulcha and lassi.

Table of Contents

Top Visiting Places in Amritsar Ratings

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, Amritsar promises to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. Get ready to be enthralled by the enchanting blend of culture, tradition, and warm hospitality that awaits you in these remarkable places to visit in Amritsar. Plan your journey now and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Top 12 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Amritsar:

• To experience the Sikh faith and culture.
• To see the Golden Temple, one of the holiest shrines in Sikhism.
• To witness the daily flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah Border.
• To learn about the history of the Partition of India at the Partition Museum.
• To shop for traditional Punjabi handicrafts in Hall Bazaar.
• To sample the delicious street food in Amritsar.

1. Golden Temple Amritsar

The Golden Temple , also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is an iconic spiritual destination that radiates tranquility and devotion. With its magnificent gold-plated exterior and serene Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar), it attracts millions of visitors each year. Entry is free, and the best time to visit is early morning or evening when the temple is beautifully illuminated. Reach the Golden Temple by taking a taxi, rickshaw, or walking from the nearby areas. Don’t miss the chance to savor the langar (free community meal) offered to all visitors, symbolizing equality and selfless service.

• Location : Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings: Open 24 hours; every day  
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Hotels: Budget Hotels near Amritsar Airport | Budget Hotels near Golden Temple

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2. Wagah Border Amritsar

Witness the awe-inspiring Beating Retreat Ceremony at the Wagah Border , where India and Pakistan come together. This daily military ritual showcases the synchronized lowering of flags and is a testament to the vibrant patriotism of both nations. Entry is free, and the best time to visit is in the afternoon before the ceremony starts in the evening. Reach Wagah Border by hiring a taxi or taking a shared auto-rickshaw from Amritsar city.

• Location : Wagah, Hardo Rattan
• Timings: 04:15 pm to 05:00 pm (For the ceremony during winter) 05:15 pm to 06:00 pm (For the ceremony during summer)

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3. Jallianwala Bagh Amritsar

Step into history at Jallianwala Bagh , a solemn memorial commemorating the tragic massacre of innocent civilians in 1919. This serene garden resonates with the echoes of the past, serving as a poignant reminder of India’s struggle for independence. Entry is free, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening to avoid the crowds. Jallianwala Bagh is centrally located and easily accessible by walking or taking a short rickshaw ride from the city center.

• Location : Golden Temple Road
• Timings: 06:30 am to 07:30 pm; every day

4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Delve into the captivating history of the Sikh Empire at the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum . Housed in the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, this museum showcases artifacts, paintings, and personal belongings of the legendary ruler. The entry fee is nominal, and the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The best time to visit is during the morning or early afternoon. Reach the museum by hiring a taxi or taking an auto-rickshaw from the city center.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10

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5. Durgiana Temple Amritsar

Experience spiritual bliss at the enchanting Durgiana Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. This temple, resembling the Golden Temple in its architectural style, attracts devotees and tourists alike. The entry is free, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening aarti (prayer ceremony). The temple is easily accessible by taxi, rickshaw, or even a leisurely walk from the city center.

• Location : Hathi Gate, Goal Bagh
• Timings: 06:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day

6. Gobindgarh Fort Amritsar

Embark on a historical journey at Gobindgarh Fort, a majestic fortress that showcases the valor and grandeur of Punjab. Explore the various exhibitions, including the ancient artifacts, cultural performances, and a thrilling 7D show that brings history to life. The entry fee is nominal, and the fort is open throughout the week. The best time to visit is in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Gobindgarh Fort is conveniently located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or rickshaw.

• Location : Old Cantt Road, Vijay Chowk, Inside Lohgarh Chowk
• Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; every d
• Entry Fee: Packages varying from ₹ 150 to ₹ 649 per head for Indians; packages varying from ₹250 to ₹1000 per head for foreigners

7. Hall Bazaar Amritsar

Indulge in a shopper’s paradise at Hall Bazaar, the bustling heart of Amritsar’s market scene. From traditional Punjabi attire to vibrant handicrafts and jewelry, this vibrant marketplace offers a plethora of options. The entry is free, and the market is open throughout the week. Visit during the morning or evening to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience. Hall Bazaar is centrally located and can be reached by walking or taking a short rickshaw ride.

• Location : Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

8. Partition Museum Amritsar

Immerse yourself in the poignant tales of the Partition of India at the Partition Museum. This unique museum showcases personal stories, photographs, and artifacts that depict the human cost of the partition.

• The entry fee is nominal, and the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
• The best time to visit is during the morning or early afternoon.
• Reach the museum by hiring a taxi or taking an auto-rickshaw from the city center.

9. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai Amritsar

Discover spiritual serenity at Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, a beautiful nine-story Sikh temple. It is dedicated to the memory of Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind Sahib. The entry is free, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening prayers. The Gurudwara is centrally located and easily accessible by walking or taking a short rickshaw ride from the city center.

• Location : Golden Temple Complex, Amritsar Cantt.
• Timings: 07:00 am to 06:00 pm; every day

10. Bibi ka Maqbara Amritsar

Marvel at the architectural brilliance of Bibi ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum that resembles the famous Taj Mahal. Built-in memory of Dilras Banu Begum, the wife of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, this monument is a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal architecture.

• The entry fee is nominal, and the best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon.
• Bibi ka Maqbara is located in the city center and can be reached by taxi or rickshaw.

11. Ram Tirath Ashram Amritsar

Uncover ancient legends and mythological tales at Ram Tirath Ashram, a revered pilgrimage site associated with the epic Ramayana. This tranquil ashram features a sacred pool and a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. The entry fee is nominal, and the best time to visit is during the morning or early evening. Reach Ram Tirath Ashram by hiring a taxi or taking an auto-rickshaw from the city center.

• Location : Ram Tirath Road, Kaler
• Visit Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm; every day

12. Jama Masjid Khairuddin Amritsar

Experience the architectural splendor of Jama Masjid Khairuddin, an exquisite mosque that reflects the blend of Mughal and Persian architectural styles. Admire the intricate details and serene ambiance of this sacred place of worship. The entry is free, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening prayers. The mosque is centrally located and easily accessible by walking or taking a short rickshaw ride from the city center.

• Location : Hall Bazar, Katra Sher Singh, Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings: 07:00 am to 07:00 pm; every day

Frequently Asked Questions About Amritsar:

Q: what is the most visited place in amritsar.

The Golden Temple is the most visited place in Amritsar. It is a Sikh gurdwara (place of worship) that is known for its stunning architecture and its free kitchen that serves food to all visitors.

Q: What is the famous thing in Amritsar?

The Golden Temple is also the most famous thing in Amritsar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sikhism.

Q: How many places are there in Amritsar to visit?

There are over 100 places to visit in Amritsar. In addition to the Golden Temple, there are many other religious attractions, such as the Wagah Border, Jallianwala Bagh, and the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum. There are also many historical sites, such as the Gobindgarh Fort, and the Hall Bazaar, which is a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi handicrafts.

Q: How many days are ideal for Amritsar?

3-4 days is ideal for Amritsar. This will give you enough time to visit the most popular attractions and to explore some of the lesser-known gems.

Q: What is there to see in Amritsar besides religious attractions?

In addition to religious attractions, there are many other things to see in Amritsar. The Wagah Border is a popular tourist attraction where you can see the daily flag-lowering ceremony. Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial to the victims of the 1919 Amritsar Massacre. The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire.

Q: What are the best things to buy from Amritsar and from where?

The best things to buy from Amritsar are Punjabi handicrafts, such as carpets, shawls, and jewelry. You can also buy Amritsari halwa, a delicious dessert made with sugar, milk, and almonds. The best place to buy these items is Hall Bazaar, which is a large marketplace in the heart of Amritsar.

Q: How is the food scene in Amritsar?

The food scene in Amritsar is delicious and diverse. You can find everything from traditional Punjabi cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular dishes include tandoori chicken, butter chicken, and Amritsari kulfi.

Q: Is there an airport in Amritsar?

Yes, there is an airport in Amritsar. It is called Sri Guru Ramdas Jee International Airport and it is located about 11 kilometers from the city center.

Q: Which trains get to Amritsar?

Many trains get to Amritsar. Some of the most popular trains include the Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express, and Amritsar Mail.

Q: How to reach Amritsar by road?

You can reach Amritsar by road by bus or car. The road distance from Delhi to Amritsar is about 450 kilometers.

Q: How to travel from Amritsar transit hubs to the Golden Temple?

There are many ways to travel from Amritsar transit hubs to the Golden Temple. You can take a rickshaw, taxi, or bus. The bus is the cheapest option, but it can be crowded. The rickshaw is a more expensive option, but it is more convenient. The taxi is the most expensive option, but it is the fastest option.

Q: Are there any hill stations near Amritsar?

Yes, there are a few hill stations near Amritsar. Some of the closest hill stations are Dalhousie, Khajjiar, and Manali.

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Amritsar and the Golden Temple: The Complete Guide

Amritsar, the spiritual capital of the Sikh religion, is best known for its landmark Golden Temple (officially called Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib). The city's name comes from the water body surrounding the temple and means "Holy Tank of Nectar of Immortality" . As one of the top places to visit in north India , Amritsar is also famed for its local cuisine and heritage related to The Partition of India. This travel guide will help you plan your trip.

Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru of Sikhs, founded Amritsar after being appointed in 1574. It's thought that the land was donated by Emperor Akbar. In order to establish his new base, the guru invited merchants and artisans from nearby areas to settle with him there. In 1977, Guru Ram Das inaugurated the excavation of the holy tank, which became the center point of the city. His youngest son and successor, Guru Arjan Dev, later designed and built the temple complex. Its foundations were laid in 1588 by popular Muslim Sufi saint Miyan Mir (in keeping with the notion that people of all faiths are welcome) and construction was completed in 1604.

The Golden Temple complex was further developed by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh guru, who added the Akal Takht in 1606. This throne of spiritual authority is one of five seats of power for Sikhs. Unfortunately, the original temple sustained extensive damage during fighting between Sikhs and Muslims. In 1762, Afghan invaders led by   Ahmed Shah Abdali blew up the temple, but fortunately, it was quickly rebuilt. The temple didn't get its glorious golden glow until more than 200 years after it was originally constructed. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the 19th century Sikh Empire, sponsored the gold plating and other marble work in 1830. It was during the fair and courageous reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh that Amritsar truly had its golden years.

British rule followed, and in 1919 Amritsar was the site of an horrific but defining incident in India's struggle for Independence -- the massacre at Jallianwala Bagh, where British troops opened fire on more than 10,000 unarmed protesters in an act that propelled Gandhi's independence movement.

In order to spruce up Amritsar and boost its image, the government completed a series of city beautification projects in 2016. Part of this included revamping the heritage street that runs between the Town Hall, Jallianwala Bagh, and the Golden Temple. A towering statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was installed in the plaza near the temple, and a Partition Museum established in the refurbished Town Hall.

Amritsar is located in Punjab state in the northwestern India. The city is about 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the Pakistani border.

How to Get There

Amritsar's airport has direct flights from various cities in India including Delhi, Srinagar , Chandigarh, and Mumbai . However, northern India (including Delhi and Amritsar) suffers from fog in winter, so flights can often be delayed during that time. An alternative option is to take the train. There are frequent services from major Indian cities. From Delhi, the  12013/New Delhi-Amritsar Shatabdi Express will get you there in six hours. It departs from New Delhi Railway Station at 4.30 p.m. and arrives in Amritsar at 10.30 p.m.

You can also travel to Amritsar by road. Regular bus services run from Delhi and other destinations in North Indian. Travel time from Delhi by bus is around 10 hours. Check Redbus.in for options (if you're a foreigner, you'll need to use Amazon Pay to book because international cards aren't accepted).

Numerous companies offer tours to Amritsar from Delhi. An inexpensive option is the one-night Indian Railways Amritsar Rail Tour Package  that includes train travel on the Swarna Shatabdi Express , all meals, accommodations, transport, and sightseeing. The itinerary includes the Golden Temple, Wagah Border, and Jallianwala Bagh. It departs early Friday and Saturday mornings from New Delhi Railway Station.

Amritsar has quite an extreme climate, with very hot summers and very cold winters. The best months to visit are October and November, and February and March. If you don't mind feeling a little chilly, December and January are also good times to visit. The temperature starts to climb in April and the  monsoon rain arrives in July.

Most of the festivals that take place in Amritsar are religious in nature. Diwali , Holi , Lohri (bonfire harvest festival in January), and Baisakhi (Punjab new year and commemoration of the founding of the Sikh religion brotherhood in April) are all celebrated there on a grand scale. Baisakhi is particularly boisterous, with lots of bhangra dancing, folk music, and fairs. Major celebrations are organized at the Golden Temple on this occasion, and it becomes carnival like outside. There's also a street procession. Other festivals in Amritsar include Guru Nanak Jayanti in November, and the Ram Tirath Fair, also in November a fortnight after Diwali.

How to Visit

Amritsar is divided into old and new parts of the city. The Golden Temple is located in the old part, which is full of bazaars, only 15 minutes from the railway station. The temple's management committee runs frequent free shuttle buses around the clock from the railway station to the temple. However, these buses are very basic and get awfully crowded during peak times.

For tourists, a special Hop-On-Hop-Off sightseeing bus links 11 of the city's top attractions. Do note that museums and Jallianwala Bagh are closed on Mondays.

If you're feeling energetic, City on Pedals conducts themed bicycle tours of the city.

What to See and Do

The Golden Temple is the main attraction in Amritsar, and it's what makes this otherwise normal Punjabi city so special. The temple—so exquisite, it was formally named Sri Harmandir Sahib, "The Abode of God,"— is the central place of worship for all Sikhs. It attracts pilgrims from all over the world who pay their respects and do voluntary service in numbers that rival the yearly visitors to the  Taj Mahal in Agra. The temple also provides a place of worship and shelter for everyone, irrespective of their faith.

The temple looks particularly arresting at night when its imposing pure gold dome is illuminated. In addition to the dome, one of the temple's most incredible features is the langar, or free food from the community kitchen, provided to pilgrims or anyone else in need. The temple is said to have the largest free community kitchen in the world and feeds up to 100,000 people per day. It's possible to take a tour of the kitchen—an opportunity you should not miss—and even volunteer there.

If you have time, the Golden Temple is well worth two visits—one during the day and one at night. Special rituals are performed at dawn, when the  Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) is taken out, and upon closing when it's returned to bed. The scripture is treated as a living person, or guru, out of respect. Sikh weapons are put on display at around 8 p.m. after the evening scripture. The temple is open almost 24 hours a day. Details of its schedule is available here . Visitors note:  Heads must be covered and shoes removed when you enter the temple complex.

Other Things to Do in Amritsar

Amritsar's Old City is really worth exploring. This Heritage Walking Tour of Amritsar will guide you through its narrow lanes. On the walk, you'll get to see historic mansions, traditional trades and crafts, and captivating architecture with intricately carved wooden facades.

Amritsar is known for its hearty street food. There are various options for guided walking tours including this  Amritsari Food Trail  offered by Amritsar Magic, and  Amritsar Food Walk  offered by Amritsar Heritage Walk.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre site has a memorial with an Eternal Flame of Liberty. The walls of the garden still bear bullet marks, and the place where the firing was ordered can also be seen. A gallery with pictures of Indian freedom fighters and historical memorability is another attraction there.

Amritsar's new Partition Museum is dedicated to recording and preserving the experiences of those affected by the 1947 Partition of India, which was enacted as part of the deal to grant India independence. It's one of the top museums in India  and showcases an important event in India's history that has had wide-ranging effects of world politics.

Gobindgarh Fort, on Old Cantt. Road in Amritsar, is worth visiting as well. This fort was the heart of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's empire. It housed an armory and mint, and has almost 300 years of fascinating history. The government opened the restored fort to the public in 2017. It has been developed into a cultural center with a museum dedicated to Punjab’s history.

Where to Eat and Drink

Century-old  Kesar Da Dhaba  is an iconic eatery in the Old City, near the Golden Temple. You'll need to take a cycle rickshaw there or walk, as it's tucked away in a narrow lane. Do note that it only serves vegetarian food.

For lunch, try the Amritsari kulchas (with potato, cauliflower or cottage cheese fillings) at Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale, situated down a side street between Jallianwala Bagh and Golden Temple.

Near the Town Hall, Bharawan da Dhaba has been in business since 1912 and is best known for its winter specialty of sarson da saag (mustard greens) with makki ki roti (cornmeal flatbread). One of the owners opened the equally popular Bare Bhai Ka Brothers Dhaba next door.

If you're a hardcore carnivore, head to  Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner  or Beera Chicken House (known for its roast chicken).

Adventurous foodies shouldn't miss sampling hot paaya (a curry made with goat trotters) and keema parathas (flatbread stuffed with spicy minced goat meat) at Pal Dhaba at Hathi Gate.

Where to Stay

Some reasonably priced budget options are Hotel City Park , Hotel City Heart , Hotel Darbar View , and Hotel Le Golden. These are best for those who prefer to stay close to the Golden Temple, but this area won't suit everyone because the streets are congested. The contemporary new Taj Swarna Amritsar is the best luxury hotel in the city. Golden Tulip Amritsar is a decent mid-range option close to the railway station.

For a characterful heritage hotel, head to the WelcomHeritage Ranjit's Svaasa . This boutique Ayurvedic spa retreat is housed in a 200 year old mansion, just off Mall Road (around 10 minutes drive from the Golden Temple). Expect to pay 6,000 rupees upwards for a double. 

Alternatively, Amritsar has some fabulous boutique properties on the outskirts of the city, such as the  Farmer's Villa  farmstay.

If you'd prefer to stay in a guesthouse, Mrs. Bhandari's Guesthouse receives good reviews. It's situated in a peaceful area surrounded by a garden and has a swimming pool. Double rooms are available from 2,600 rupees per night.  Jagaadus Hostel is the most popular backpacker hostel in Amritsar and arranges local tours.

What Else to Do Nearby

Most people who visit Amritsar also take a day trip to the Wagah Border between India and Pakistan. The big attraction there is the flag lowering ceremony , which happens at the checkpoint every evening at sundown. It has been going on since 1959 with great fanfare. You can get there by taxi (about 1,000 rupees return), auto rickshaw, shared jeep (150 rupees per person), or join one of the many tours.

Boutique tour companies also conduct day trips to local villages, farms, and wetlands for birding and nature walks.

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Places to Visit in Amritsar

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Tourist Places to Visit in Amritsar

Here is the list of some best places to visit in amritsar:.

Originally known as Akal Bunga, Akal Takht is one of the five takhts in Sikhism. Takhts are the sacred seat of Sikh Gurus and they work as a place where everyone can get justice. Akal Takht is located next to the Golden Temple and is one of the finest tourist attractions in Amritsar. Akal Takht is visited by many tourists as it also houses some of the oldest and holy books and scripts of Sikhism. Location: Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006 Entry Fee:  There is no price or entry fee to visit the Akal Takht. Timings: Monday to Sunday 5 AM to 10 PM Best time to visit: The Winter Season (October to January) is the best time to visit Akal Takht as the temperature is suitable and pleasant. During the nighttime, the area around Akal Takht is decorated with lights and garlands.

Wagah Border

Wagah Border or Wagah-Attari border is the last Indian area before the Pakistan mainland. It hosts a ceremony where the soldiers of India’s Border Security Force and Pakistan’s Pakistan Rangers march and parade making it among the top tourist attractions in Amritsar. The area is filled with people on both sides celebrating the patriotic vibe. Location: Attari-Wagah, Wagah Border, Amritsar, Punjab. Entry Fee:   There are no entry charges to this place. Timings: The border gate remains open from 10 AM to 4 PM and the 45-minutes ceremony starts in the afternoon and lasts till sunset. Best time to visit: Winter Season is the best time to visit Wagah Border as the climate is best to enjoy a splendid show at Wagah Border.

Top Experiences To Do in Wagah Border

Jallianwala Bagh

A historic garden and a memorial, Jallianwala Bagh is one of the highly visited tourist places in Amritsar.  It was built in the memory of those people who died on 13th April 1919 in the bagh. The 7-acre garden complex is located near the Golden Temple and is visited by many tourists from all corners of the globe. Among the various structures, well is very popular and important. It is said that during the shooting, many people jumped inside the well to save their lives. Location: Jallianwala Bagh, Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006 Entry Fee:  There is no entry fee to the Jallianwala Bagh. Timings: Monday to Sunday 6.30 AM to 7.30  PM Best time to visit: To enjoy your visit to Jallianwala  Bagh, it is advisable to visit the place in Winter Season as the climate is cold and pleasant and you can wander around the locality at ease.

Top Experiences To Do in Jallianwala Bagh

Gobindgarh Fort

Located in the heart of Amritsar, Gobindgarh Fort is one of the most historic tourist attractions in Amritsar. The fort was under the control of the Indian Army and was only for their usage until 2017 when it was open to public viewing. Gobindgarh Fort is being developed as a live museum and art gallery. The place will be home to some of the oldest documents and art of Sikhism. Also, Gobindgarh Fort houses the famous Zamzama Cannons. Location: Old Cantt Road, inside Lohgarh Chowk, Vijay Chowk, Amritsar, Punjab 143001 Entry Fee:   For Indians: Rs 180 to Rs 649                    For Foreigners Rs 375 to Rs 1000 Timings: Monday to Sunday 10 AM to 10 PM Best time to visit: Best time to visit Gobindgarh Fort is in the winter season as the cold climate will make your visit more memorable.

Durgiana Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Durgiana Temple or as it is popularly known as the Lakshmi Narayan temple is among the most popular places to visit in Amritsar. The temple got its name from the idol of Goddess Durga. Alongside the idol of Goddess Durga, one can also find the idols of Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth) and Lord Vishnu (Protector of the world). The temple is visited by many tourists during the festivals of Dussehra, Janmashtami and Diwali. The courtyard around the temple is famous for being one of the places where Hanuman landed (while on his journey to the Himalayas) and took some rest. Entry Fee:  There is no price to visit the temple. Timings: Monday to Sunday from 5 AM to 9 PM. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Durgiana Temple is during the festivals of Dussehra, Janmashtami, Rama Navanami and Diwali as there are various events and celebrations taking place.

Top Experiences To Do in Durgiana Temple

Attari border crossing.

The Attari Border Crossing is between the Indian city of Amritsar and the Pakistani city of Lahore visited by millions making it one of the top places to visit in Amritsar. You can travel by bus to reach the Pakistani side. The very main purpose of this initiative is to promote unity and friendship between the two nations.To travel to the Attari Border Crossing, one has to carry their passport and other valid documents. Location: Wagah, Hardo Rattan, Punjab 143108 Entry Fee:   There is no entry fee to the  Attari Border Crossing. You would have to pay other fees like travelling and conveyance fees. Timings: Monday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM Best time to visit: Best time to visit Attari Border Crossing is any time of the year.

Partition Museum

The Partition Museum is located in the city of Amritsar and is one of the most popular places to visit in Amritsar. The museum aims at keeping the various important documents, story materials and other things related to the partition of India and Pakistan. The primary reason to establish this museum was to remember those who were affected by the India-Pakistan partition. The Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust of the United Kingdom helped the Punjab Government to establish the museum. Location: Hall Rd, Town Hall, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006 Entry Fee:   For Indians Rs 10                    For Foreigners Rs 250 Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday) Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Partition Museum is the winter season (October to January) as the climate is cold and pleasant and you can enjoy your visit to the museum.

Tarn Taran is a small district in the state of Punjab and is one of the most popular tourist places in Amritsar. The place is very popular for its gurudwara, Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib. The complex of the Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib has the biggest Sarovar (pond) among all the other gurudwaras in Amritsar. People from all corners of India visit this place. Location: Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib, Tarn Taran, Amritsar, Punjab. Entry Fee:  There is no price to enter the Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib. Timings: Monday to Sunday from 5 AM to 9 PM. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib is during the day of Amavas which falls in March. During this day, the gurdwara is decorated with garlands and lights of various colours.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Replacing the Ram Bagh Palace, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum in the year 1997 and was built to store the various artefacts and other items of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh which is now regarded as one of the top tourist places in Amritsar. One of the top places to visit in the museum is the upper level where 6 paintings of the various battles of Maharaja Ranjit Singh are kept for public display. The museum has 2-dome shaped buildings and a big tower making it one of the most picturesque places in Amritsar. Location: Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Lawrence Road, Ram Bagh, Company Bagh, Amritsar, Punjab 143001 Entry Fee:   Rs 10 is the entry fees for Indians as well as Foreigners. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday). Best time to visit: The best time to visit Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is in the winter season as the climate is cold and one can enjoy a pleasant visit to the museum.

Khairuddin Mosque

Popularly known as the Jama Masjid, the Khairuddin Mosque is located in the heart of the city. Khairuddin Mosque was built in 1876 by Muhammad Khairuddin and is one of the top tourist places in Amritsar. The place is of cultural, historical importance and is widely known for its architecture in the Islamic style with various inscriptions on the walls and calligraphy style writing.The mosque was once the place where Shah Attaullah Bukhari waged the war on the Britishers. Location:  Hall Bazar, near Hotel Grand Park, Amritsar, Punjab 143006 Entry Fee:  There is no price to visit the Khairuddin Mosque. Timings: Monday to Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM (It remains closed during the hours of daily Namaz). Best time to visit: The best time to visit Khairuddin Mosque is during the month of Ramzan (May-June) as it is the holy month of the Muslims and the entire mosque and nearby places are decorated with flowers and lights.

Sun City Park

One of the most fun places to visit in Amritsar, this 12-acre waterpark and theme park is one of the top places with adventure and fun activities in Amritsar. Sun City Park has around 14 fun and adventurous rides which can be enjoyed by people of all the age-groups. There are two places in Sun City Park - Theme Park and Water Park. Both these places are filled with many adventure places. Location: Batala Rd, opp. Power House, Sun City, New Rajesh Nagar, Amritsar, Punjab 143001 Entry Fee:  Rs. 350 for Sun City Amusement Park                    Rs. 600 for Sun City Water Park                    Rs. 700 for Combo ticket (Sun city Amusement Park + Sun City Water Park). Timings: Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 8 PM. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Sun City Park is during the summer season as the climate is hot and one can enjoy a day at leisure by swimming and enjoying the various rides.

Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib

Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib is located on the Chabal-Amritsar road and is one of the popular places to visit in Amritsar. The gurdwara is dedicated to Baba Budha who lived his life in this shrine and looked after a small ‘bir’ or forest for the local cattle to graze. Bir Baba Sahib lived for more than 100 years and anoint five succeeding gurus of the gurdwara. Location: Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib, Chabal-Amritsar road, Amritsar, Punjab. Entry Fee:  There is no price to visit the gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib. Timings: Monday to Sunday from 6 AM to 9 PM Best time to visit: The best time to visit gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib is in the Winter Season as the climate is most suitable and pleasant.

Thunder Zone Amusement And Water Park

One of the most wonderful and fun places to visit in the city, Thunder Zone Amusement and Water Park is filled with fun rides and other adventures. It is located on the outskirts of Amritsar and is spread over an area of 12-acres. With 4-giant swimming pools and more than 20 fun rides, Thunder Zone Amusement and Water Park is one of the most popular water parks in North-India. Location: Mohali, Sirhind - Morinda Rd, Near, Landran, Punjab 140307 Entry Fee:  Rs 800 for Water Park and free entry from children under 3 feet. Timings: April to October 10 AM to 7 PM                 November to March 10 AM to 5.30 PM Best time to visit:  Summer Season (February to May) is the best time to visit Thunder Zone Amusement and Water Park to enjoy the various pool rides and beat the heat.

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Lal Devi Mata Mandir

Lal Devi Mata Mandir is a must-visit place as it is popular for its shrine of Lal Devi and the unusual interior and the colourful old shrines. People from nearby villages visit the temple during the time of  the various types of Aartis and Pujas performed in the temple. Location: Param Pujya Lal Devi Mandir, 61/62, Model Town, Rani Ka Bagh, Mohindra Colony, Amritsar, Punjab 143001 Entry Fee:  There is no price to visit the temple. Timings: Everyday from 5 AM to 11 PM. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Lal Devi Mandir is during the winter season to enjoy the splendid climate.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Amritsar

Amritsar is a dazzling city in the heart of Punjab that celebrates the vibrant colours and energy of life as we know it. Possessing immense strength, the people of Amritsar have fought injustice since time immemorial with unparalleled valour. Founded in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh guru, Amritsar is graced with a divine presence that you will resonate with as soon as you set foot on the holy grounds of the city. Amritsar has witnessed some of the most significant events in history that rattled the nation to its very core, and changed the dynamics of the city forever. Today, this city presents a perfect fusion of history, culture, spirituality and modernity, and the places to visit in Amritsar highlight all these features . The warmth the city possesses is reflected in the smiling faces and hospitable nature of the locals. It doesn’t matter if you prefer stepping back in time or expose yourself to the heartious spirit of the locals; the places to visit in Amritsar provide you with an opportunity to experience it all.

Places to visit in Amritsar: Religious Spots

Amritsar, amidst modernity, is a city that is deeply connected to its roots. The religious places to visit in Amritsar are all exceptionally peaceful that leave you with a sense of inner calm and a better understanding of the world around. This city is a melting pot of cultures and religions, where differences are embraced and celebrated. People from every corner of the world come to see these places to visit in Amritsar.

Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple The Harmandir Sahib of Amritsar is the pride of not only Sikhs, but of the entire nation. The gold-plated exterior of this Gurdwara has earned it the name of the Golden Temple. Famed as one of the most arresting places to visit in Amritsar, the Golden Temple receives thousands of people every year. The gates of this gurdwara are open to everyone, irrespective of caste, creed or religion.

According to a popular legend, Guru Arjan Dev (the fifth Sikh Guru) urged his friend Pir Mian Mir to lay down the foundation stone of the Golden Temple. This legend shines a light on the foundation on which the Golden Temple was built—peace and communal harmony. . The city gets its name from the gleaming waterbody surrounding the Golden Temple. Amrit means immortal nectar and sar, means pond. Devotees come together to commit themselves to voluntary work or karsewa. This includes cooking meals, serving food and washing dishes among other things. Out of all the places to visit in Amritsar, the Golden Temple receives the maximum number of tourists – more than 50,000 – per day. The fame of the Golden Temple has made it synonymous with the city of Amritsar.

Durgiana Temple Durgiana Temple is an ancient temple in Amritsar dedicated to the goddess Durga. Modeled after the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple is often called the Silver Temple because of its marble walls and huge silver doors. One of the most pious places to visit in Amritsar, Durgiana Temple should definitely be on your list.

When you are here, do not miss the detailed carvings of various incarnations of goddess Durga as well as the idols of Goddess Laxmi and Narayana. This temple also houses ancient shrines dedicated to Sita and Hanuman. The temple is surrounded by a pristine water body believed to wash away the sins of previous lives, and the ghat of this temple is always brimming with devotees waiting for their turn to take a dip in the holy water. The festivals Dussehra, Diwali, Ram Navami and Janmashtami are celebrated with much pomp and show here, so plan your holiday to this tourist place in Amritsar accordingly if you do not want to miss the festivities.

Khair-ud-Din Masjid Situated in the bustling Hall Bazaar, the Khair-ud-Din Masjid stands tall with elegant dome and minarets. Not only is this mosque a showcase of architectural brilliance, but has also played a significant role in the struggle for independence. It is from this mosque that Shah Attaullah Bukhari beckoned the people of the city to come and wage a war against the British tyrants. This is one of those places to visit in Amritsar that has both religious and historical significance.

Built by Muhammad Khairuddin in 1876 AD, the mosque is also known as Jama Masjid. The beauty of its white marble structure is enhanced by splashes of green painted on the walls of this mosque. Adorned by inscriptions, Khair-ud-Din Masjid is a sight that instills a sense of peace and reverence. Undoubtedly, Khair-ud-Din Masjid is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Amritsar.

Places to visit in Amritsar: Historical Places

Amritsar has braved and stood up against the tyrannies of various rulers. From the Chhota Ghallughara Massacre in 1762 to the more recent Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy in 1919, this city is a museum of stories and events of bygone days and the places to visit in Amritsar reflect that spirit.

Jallianwala Bagh There is no Indian who is not saddened by the tragic incident that took place at Jallianwala Bagh a hundred years ago. On 13th April 1919, a small gathering of people met at this garden to peacefully protest against the arrest of two prominent freedom fighters and were mercilessly shot at by the British Indian Army. Today, this park stands as a reminder of the brutality meted out by the British to the people of India. For years, Jallianwala Bagh has been one of the most frequented places to visit in Amritsar owing to its tragic history.

The walls of the buildings in the park feature bullet marks that serve as a reminder of the horrific incident that claimed innocent lives. The well that people jumped into to escape the bullets is well preserved. A visit to Jallianwala Bagh is a heartbreaking experience, and there are no other places to visit in Amritsar that narrate such a harrowing tale.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum Maharaja Ranjit Singh ruled the northwestern part of India during the 19th century. His strength and prowess in the battlefield earned him the nickname ‘Lion of Punjab’. This Sikh ruler played a crucial role in bringing major reforms in Punjab, and had a huge hand in the unification of different religions under his governance. The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is an interesting attraction you can add to your list of places to visit in Amritsar if you intend to know more about the history of Punjab.

The summer retreat of Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been turned into a museum that houses ancient coins, records, swords, clothes and statues belonging to the valiant king. This historical place to visit in Amritsar takes you back in time as you admire the paintings on display featuring the city of Lahore, portraits, and battles fought by the king. An afternoon in this museum is an afternoon well spent for you will surely gain a lot of insight into the culture and history of this mighty state.

Gobindgarh Fort Almost 260 years old, the Gobindgarh Fort was built by Gujar Singh Bhangi, a local chieftain, and was later taken over by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. This place was recognised as a historical site by the Government of Punjab in 1964. There are many intriguing and entertaining places to visit in Amritsar, but Gobindgarh Fort is possibly the best of them all.

The Gobindgarh Fort hosts a number of exhibitions and houses a few museums. Out of them, the Turban Museum is one of the prime attractions that make this place such a sought-after tourist place in Amritsar. A number of paintings depicting Sikh history, religion and culture are on display here. You can learn about the Indian struggle for independence and the subsequent partition of the nation from the museum. Visitors gather here everyday to watch the Light and Sound Show and the Laser Show. When you are here, do not miss out on the 7-D show on the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The entire presentation is a very mesmerising experience. End your day of exploring the places to visit in Amritsar with an authentic Punjabi dinner in one of the restaurants nearby.

Places to visit in Amritsar: Other Landmarks

The city has a lot to offer in addition to the iconic historical and religious sites that you can add to your places to visit in Amritsar itinerary. Visiting these landmarks will definitely be a memorable and enjoyable experience. It is only after dropping by these tourist places in Amritsar can you return home with a suitcase full of pleasant memories!

Wagah Border There is a certain amount of emotions attached to Wagah Border that bring people from all over the country to this remarkable place to visit in Amritsar. Wagah Border is the line that divides India and Pakistan. It is through this border that people migrated to Pakistan after the Partition of India in 1947.

Wagah Border is one of the most popular tourist places in Amritsar, and not just for its historical significance. The Wagah Border Change of Guard ceremony is attended by people from all parts of India. In this ceremony, two guards from both nations put up a cordial competition where they raise their legs in a kicking motion as high as they can, much to the amusement of the spectators. This goes on for a while before the flags of both India and Pakistan are pulled back and the border is closed for the day. You would love to take a seat in the bleachers, which are filled with enthusiastic Indians who cheer, dance and rejoice. Bursting with life and energy, Wagah Border is one of the most thrilling places to visit in Amritsar, and the memories made here will surely stay with you for the rest of your life.

Khalsa College Khalsa College is one of the oldest colleges in Amritsar, set up to protect and promote the culture and heritage of Punjab. This 127-year-old college continues to be a seat of learning and reform where the primary focus is to eradicate social evils through education. A pioneer in its field, Khalsa College is one of the most academically prestigious places to visit in Amritsar.

Occupying 300 acres of land, Khalsa College is a treat to the eyes with its red-sandstone exterior and bright red domes, a stunning example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The green garden out front provides a wonderful contrast to this red-walled building. It is one of those remarkable places to visit in Amritsar that have been featured in a number of Bollywood movies. If you plan on spending your morning here, you would need permission from the authorities.

Places to visit in Amritsar: Markets Market places to visit in Amritsar are always abuzz with life and activity. No other destination in your list of places to visit in Amritsar will give you a better peek into the lifestyle of the locals than the markets tucked away in the lanes of this city. Bubbling with various sights, smells and sounds, the markets in this city are ideal spots to learn more about its culture.

Hall Bazaar With numerous shops selling a multitude of colourful items, Hall Bazaar is a dream come true for shopaholics. There is nothing you cannot find here—from readymade garments, ornaments, bags and jewellery to electronics, watches and books. One of the oldest places to visit in Amritsar for a quality shopping experience, some of the shops here have been operating for years and through generations. Due to the experience of the shopkeepers, you’ll have to polish your bargaining skills before coming here. The entrance to the bazaar is through the Gandhi Gate, a Mughal-style entrance gate where you can get a clear view of the rushing crowds. A visit to Hall Bazaar is incomplete without checking out its spread of woollen carpets, blankets, and shawls. We suggest buying the trendy Lahori shoes which won’t be too hard to spot. Among all the places to visit in Amritsar, Hall Bazaar has the best phulkari-work suits (phulkari is a traditional Punjabi design of embroidery).

Guru Bazaar One of the oldest places to visit in Amritsar, Guru Bazaar is a jewellery lover’s paradise. Wedged between Guru ka Mahal and the Golden Temple, Guru Bazaar is a gleaming corner selling authentic gold and silver jewellery.

This jewellery market is frequented by hundreds, but is especially loved by women, owing to the various types of earrings, necklaces and bangles—gold, silver, or studded with semi-precious stones. There are more than 2500 shops selling not only jewellery but other fascinating items like earthen lamps and idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi. Hall Bazaar is one of the only places to visit in Amritsar where you can buy Jadau jewellery, which is made by using a traditional Indian jewellery-making technique.

Lahori Gate Market Lahori Gate is a city landmark adjacent to a dynamic market where tourists and locals crowd day and night. Packed with shops, showrooms and hotels, the enthusiasm and vibrancy of Lahori Gate Market is a spectacular sight. Shoppers can find the best cotton suits, Kashmiri shawls and footwear in this amazing place to visit in Amritsar without burning a hole in their pockets.

Places to visit in Amritsar: Eateries

The world drools over the butter-laden, spicy and aromatic dishes that Punjab has to offer. The places to visit in Amritsar for culinary delights offer an assortment of dishes that are guaranteed to fill your tummy and satisfy your soul.

Kesar Da Dhaba More than a hundred years old, Kesar Da Dhaba is no doubt the best place to visit in Amritsar if you wish to taste authentic Punjabi food. Originally established in Pakistan, Kesar Da Dhaba moved to Amritsar after partition, and brought with it the delightful taste of kulcha, paratha, lassi, choley and palak paneer. Many famous personalities such as Lala Lajpat Rai and Indira Gandhi have dined at Kesar da Dhaba.

Despite being located in a small lane with a simple exterior, you will be able to find Kesar Da Dhaba effortlessly with the help of locals. We suggest going there as early as possible to secure a seat, because the queue gets longer as the day progresses. One taste of the delectable Malai Kofta or Dal Makhani, and you will know why Kesar da Dhaba is the most ionic place to visit in Amritsar. The deliciousness of the rich buttery Lachha Paratha is a guaranteed ticket to food paradise.

Gurdas Ram Jalebi Wala If you happen to be a sweet lover, then this place will be nothing short of heaven to you. Easy to access and easier on the pockets, this shop is possibly one of the ‘sweetest’ places to visit in Amritsar. You will need to wait for your turn because this place is one of the most crowded sweet shops in the city. Situated near the Golden Temple, this outlet has been serving jalebi for more than a hundred years. Also famous for gulab jamun, the taste of these sugary delights will compel you to momentarily forget the world around you. Take a bite of a hot and crispy jalebi, and end your day of touring the places to visit in Amritsar on a sweet note.

Written by Baishali Dutta, an in-house Tripoto writer.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Amritsar

A Journey Through Sikhism, History, and Culture

Amritsar, a city nestled in the northern Indian state of Punjab, is a captivating blend of spirituality, history, and cultural vibrancy. Renowned as the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion, Amritsar is also famous for its historical landmarks and warm hospitality. In this extensive travel blog, we will embark on a journey through the top 10 must-visit places in Amritsar while providing detailed insights on how to get there.

1. Golden Temple: The Spiritual Heart

Our journey begins at the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, the holiest shrine in Sikhism.

How to Get There: The Golden Temple is located in the heart of Amritsar and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or even on foot if you’re staying in the city center.

What to Expect: Experience the divine atmosphere, listen to the soul-soothing kirtan (spiritual music), and partake in the langar (community meal).

2. Jallianwala Bagh: Remembering History

Our next destination is Jallianwala Bagh, a historical site associated with a tragic event in India’s struggle for independence.

How to Get There: Jallianwala Bagh is located near the Golden Temple and can be reached on foot.

What to Expect: Explore the garden, view the memorial, and pay homage to those who lost their lives in the 1919 massacre.

3. Wagah Border: Beating Retreat Ceremony

Our journey takes us to the Wagah Border, where India and Pakistan perform the Beating Retreat Ceremony.

How to Get There: The Wagah Border is about 28 kilometers from Amritsar and can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

What to Expect: Witness the spectacular border ceremony with patriotic fervor and watch the lowering of the flags.

4. Durgiana Temple: A Hindu Marvel

Our next destination is the Durgiana Temple, often referred to as the “Silver Temple.”

How to Get There: The Durgiana Temple is centrally located in Amritsar and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walking.

What to Expect: Explore the beautiful temple complex dedicated to Goddess Durga and witness the Hindu religious rituals.

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5. Partition Museum: A Tale of Two Nations

Our journey takes us to the Partition Museum, which commemorates the tragic partition of India in 1947.

How to Get There: The Partition Museum is located near Jallianwala Bagh and can be reached on foot.

What to Expect: Explore the museum’s exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts related to the partition.

6. Ram Bagh: A Royal Garden

Our next destination is Ram Bagh, a historic Mughal-style garden.

How to Get There: Ram Bagh is centrally located in Amritsar and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walking.

What to Expect: Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the garden, visit the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and admire the lush greenery.

7. Gobindgarh Fort: Historical Insights

Our journey takes us to Gobindgarh Fort, a historic fort with a rich past.

How to Get There: Gobindgarh Fort is centrally located in Amritsar and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walking.

What to Expect: Explore the fort’s museums, exhibitions, and witness the cultural performances.

8. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: Royal Legacy

Our next destination is the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, dedicated to the legendary Sikh ruler.

How to Get There: The museum is located near Ram Bagh and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walking.

What to Expect: Discover artifacts, paintings, and relics associated with Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s reign.

9. Pul Kanjari: A Historic Stop

Our journey takes us to Pul Kanjari, a historic site with a unique love story.

How to Get There: Pul Kanjari is located about 35 kilometers from Amritsar and can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

What to Expect: Explore the historic well, temple, and the picturesque surroundings.

10. Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai: Sacred Serenity

Our final destination is Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai, dedicated to the son of Guru Hargobind.

How to Get There: The gurdwara is located near the Golden Temple and can be reached on foot.

What to Expect: Visit the serene gurdwara, pay your respects, and witness the religious activities.

Amritsar, with its profound spirituality, historical significance, and vibrant culture, offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Each of these top 10 places provides a unique perspective on the city’s heritage and dynamic spirit.

So, pack your bags, embark on this enlightening journey, and let Amritsar’s unique charm and spiritual ambiance captivate your senses. Amritsar is not just a destination; it’s a profound exploration of Sikhism, history, and the human spirit.

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Must-Visit Places in Amritsar, India

Amritsar is a must-visit city if you’re interested in honouring or just learning about Sikhism. This city in Punjab, which neighbours Pakistan, is considered the spiritual and cultural centre for this religion. In 1577, the fourth Sikh guru Ram Das founded the city, which is bisected by railway lines today. Here’s our pick of the top places to visit in Amritsar.

Partition museum.

Amritsar’s moving Partition Museum tells the story of the largest migration in human history. In 1947, the British divided the nation into two countries, India and Pakistan, displacing up to 20m people. More than a million people died from disease, massacres and famine, while many more lost everything they owned. The museum showcases newspaper clippings, photos and artefacts belonging to Partition survivors, along with stirring artwork and audiovisual stations that bring this torrid history to life.

Bharawan da Dhaba

Brothers Dhaba

Can’t get a seat at Bharawan da Dhaba? Head next door to another branch of the famous restaurant, run by the family’s eldest brother. You can expect all the Punjabi favourites served at the original restaurant, including parathas stuffed with herby potato, wafer-thin dosas and lassis. There’s also a sprinkling of western additions to the menu, and if you come for breakfast, opt for a special platter featuring curried potato and deep-fried kulcha (leavened flatbread).

Mata Lal Devi Temple

There’s no shortage of colourful Hindu temples in Amritsar, but Mata Lal Devi, in the Rani Ka Bagh area, definitely stands out from the crowd. Modelled on the Vaishno Devi cave temple, you’ll find a series of shrines and grottos mixed with mirrored mosaic walls and deity statues. At one point, you even pass through a lion’s mouth and exit through a snake’s head. Women from all over India come here to pray to the female saint Lal Devi for fertility.

Wagah Border Crossing

Wagah, known as the “Berlin Wall of Asia”, sits on the Grand Trunk Road, marking the dividing line between Pakistan and India. A retreat ceremony, the “lowering of the flags”, has taken place here every single evening since 1959 and is witnessed by hundreds of people every day on both sides of the border. It’s free to watch and starts 30 minutes before sunset. The Border Security Force (BSF) jawans (officers) encourage women and children to wave the national flag, run towards the gates and dance to lively Bollywood songs.

Hall Bazaar

Off Hall Road, the Hall Bazaar is the busiest shopping centre in Amritsar. This one-stop shopping destination stocks a wide range of products, including electronics, books, handicrafts, home decor and clothing. Many people visit to buy quality woollen items, too, such as carpets, blankets and shawls. You’ll also find great accessories here, including wooden bangles and fine silver jewellery. Hungry? It also houses many reputable restaurants and tasty food stalls.

Golden Temple

You haven’t seen the soul of Amritsar until you’ve visited the Golden Temple – the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. Known to Sikhs as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, the gurdwara is part of a larger complex. The Guru Granth Sahib (holy book of Sikhs) is taken to the temple every morning and returned to the Akal Takht, also in the complex, at night. Make sure you remove your shoes on entry and bring a suitable head covering.

Jallianwala Bagh

On 13 April 1919, British troops, on General Dyer’s order, opened fire on a group of innocent Indians participating in a meeting at the Bagh, killing hundreds. As you walk the narrow passage leading to the Jallianwala Bagh, the first thing you’ll notice is an inscription on a stone plaque: “People were fired at from here.” This park is now a memorial for those who sacrificed their lives, with bullet holes marked for visitors to observe.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Sitting within a beautiful garden known as the Ram Bagh, this museum was once the summer palace of the first king of the Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Today, the museum holds a fascinating exhibit of arms, armour, old coins and manuscripts – items that relate to the king – while the paintings lining the galleries highlight his court and camp, giving insight into the palace’s history.

Central Sikh Museum

The Central Sikh Museum preserves the horrifying history of the Sikhs’ martyrdom at the hands of the Mughals, the British and Operation Bluestar. Established in 1958, the gallery houses a collection of portraits, including Sikh gurus, saints, warriors and prominent leaders, coins, arms and ancient manuscripts. You’ll also find a library.

About 11km (7mi) west of Amritsar is Ram Tirath, an ancient pilgrimage site associated with the period of Rāmāyana . It’s believed to be where Lord Rama and Sita’s twins, Luv and Kush, were born and where Valmiki wrote the epic Rāmāyana – the poet’s old hut is still on the grounds. This sacred site also features a well believed to have been dug by the Hindu god Hanuman, a devotee of Rama.

Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Partition Museum

#1 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1 km from Golden Temple, and 2 km from Amritsar Junction, the Partition Museum is a public museum located in the Town Hall in Amritsar, India. Situated near Harmandir Sahib, it is one of the must-visit Amritsar tourist places. The Partition Museum is the world's first museum dedicated to the Partition of 1947. The museum was opened on 17th August 2017, marking the day as Partition Remembrance Day, as it was on 17th August 1947 that the actual boundaries of India and Pakistan were announced. The museum was housed in the historic Town Hall building, which was constructed in 1870 by architect John Gordon. The building used to house the court of small causes, city police headquarters, municipal offices, a free library, and a meeting room. It suffered severe damage during the Punjab uprising of 1919 and was subsequently rebuilt, witnessing violence again in 1947. The museum is a part of the newly inaugurated Heritage Street at Amritsar, which begins from the Golden Temple .....

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Golden Temple / Harmandir Sahib

#2 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 2 km from Amritsar Junction, Golden Temple is most sacred Sikh pilgrimage site situated in Amritsar town of Punjab state. Popularly known as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, Golden Temple is acclaimed as one of the most visited pilgrimage centers in India. Sri Guru Ram Das Ji, 4th Sikh Guru, started the digging of Amrit Sarovar in 1577 AD on the orders of 3rd Sikh guru Sri Guru Amar Das Ji. Which was later on brick-lined by Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the 5th Sikh Guru, in 1588 and he also started the construction of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Sri Guru Granth Sahib was first installed at Harmandir Sahib in 1604 AD. The temple had to be substantially rebuilt after it was destroyed in fire accident in the 1760s. In the early 19th century, 100 kg of gold were applied to the inverted lotus-shaped dome and decorative marble work took place under the patronage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Fondly known as Swarn Mandir, Sri Harmandir Sahib is built on 67 feet square platform in .....

Jallianwala Bagh

#3 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 3 km from Amritsar Junction and 1 km from Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial garden located in Amritsar town of Punjab. Situated near Harmandir Sahib, it is one of the top places to visit in Amritsar. Jallianwala Bagh is the unfortunate site where thousands of innocents were brutally killed by British troops on 13th April 1919, which was the day of Baisakhi festival for the people of Sikh religion. In order to celebrate this festival, a big crowd of many villagers had gathered in the Jallianwala Bagh to celebrate the day that Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699, and also known as the 'Birth of Khalsa.' On hearing that a meeting had assembled, Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer with his army of 150 troops ordered open fire at the crowd. According to British Raj sources, around 379 people were dead and 1500 wounded people were left to die in the well within the garden. Today, this public garden houses a memorial, which was established in .....

Wagah Border

#4 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 30 km from Amritsar Junction, Wagah Border is the only road border between India and Pakistan. The border lies on the Grand Trunk Road between the cities of Amritsar, India and Lahore, Pakistan. Also known as 'Berlin Wall of China', Wagah Border is the only open border which is officially accessible by both the nations and also one of the top places to visit in Amritsar. The border has a huge arch named 'Swarn Jayanti Dwar', and gates of both the countries. Also known as Attari, Wagah is mainly known for its 'Beating Retreat Ceremony'. The Beating Retreat Ceremony was started in 1959 and it was agreed by the government of both the countries. It is a symbol of the rivalry between the two countries. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Indian Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers. Women guards of BSF have also been a part of this ceremony from July 2011. Almost 5,000 people visit the border to see the ceremony with great patriotism. The highlight of this .....

Durgiana Temple

#5 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction, Durgiana Temple is Hindu temple situated near Lohgarh gate of Amritsar, Punjab. It is a Hindu version of the Amritsar Golden Temple and also one of the top pilgrimage places to visit in Amritsar. Durgiana Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Durga Tirath and Sitla Mandir. The original temple was built in 16th century and was rebuilt by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor in the architectural style of the Sikh Golden Temple in 1921 CE. The newly built temple was inaugurated by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. The temple is also called the Silver Temple due to its carved silver doors. The temple stands on middle of the sacred lake known as Durgiana and a bridge connects easily to the temple. The dome of the temple is gilded and marble is extensively used in the temple's features. Its dome and canopies are similar to that of the Golden temple of Amritsar. There is a huge collection of Hindu scriptures .....

#6 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 22 km from Amritsar Junction, Tarn Taran is a Sikh pilgrimage town and also the district headquarters of Tarn Taran district in Punjab. It is one among the most popular Sikh pilgrimage sites in India and also one of the top places to visit in Amritsar. Tarn Taran is an ancient and Historical town closely related with Sikhs. This town was founded in 1590 CE by the 5th Sikh Guru, Sri Arjan Dev Ji and he laid the foundation of Gurudwara Sri Darbar Sahib in the heart of the town. Tarn Taran was ruled by the strong Sikh Family of Dhillon Clan and was the part of Bhangi Sikh Dynasty. Tarn Taran was well-known as a center of the Sikh revolution and it was believed to be the capital of Khalistan, the proposed Sikh independent nation. Tarn Taran is well known for Gurudwara Sri Darbar Sahib, also known as Gurudwara Tarn Taran. The shrine is an elegantly designed 3 storeyed structure which resembles the Amritsar Golden Temple. The temple's entrance is through a double .....

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

#7 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction and 4 km from Amritsar Golden Temple, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is a popular museum situated in the middle of a beautiful Ram Bagh Garden in Amritsar, Punjab. It is one of the best museums in Punjab and also one of the top tourist attractions in Amritsar. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum was originally the summer palace of first king of Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Later, it was converted in to museum in 1977 CE. It is a treasure house of the history, art and architecture of the Sikhs of the 18th and the 19th century AD. The museum offers insights into the life of the Sikh monarch Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The Museum displays objects connecting to Maharaja Ranjit Singh such as arms and armour, outstanding paintings and centuries old coins and manuscripts. The paintings displayed in the galleries of the museum showcase the court and camp of the king. Among all the paintings, one that depicts the city of Lahore is most famous. .....

Gobindgarh Fort

#8 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction and 2 km from Harmandir Sahib, Gobindgarh Fort is a historical fort located in the city of Amritsar, Punjab. Initially known as 'Bhangian Da Qila', Gobindgarh Fort is one of the famous places to visit in Amritsar. Gobindgarh Fort was built by the army of Gujjar Singh Bhangi of Sikh Misls in 1760 CE. This fort was reconstructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh between 1805 and 1809 CE. The British authorities occupied it in 1849 CE and it was in the army's possession for nearly 150 years. The Darbar Hall, Hawa Mahal and the Phansi Ghar were added to the fort during British rule only. After the Indian Independence, Indian army took control over the fort and was used to provide temporary shelter to a large number of refugees from Pakistan during India-Pakistan partition. Gobindgarh Fort was constructed with brick and lime on a square pattern with a parameter of 1500 square meter with two strong gates, four large bastions and well-defined .....

War Memorial & Museum

#9 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 9 km from Amritsar Junction, Punjab State War Heroes Memorial & Museum is situated in Amritsar - Attari Road on the outskirts of the holy city of Amritsar in Punjab. Since, it is located on the NH-1, and near to Wagah border makes it a prominent landmark and source of attraction for the tourists. Built at the cost of Rs 130 crore, the Punjab State War Heroes Memorial & Museum was inaugurated in October 2016, by the then Chief Minister of Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal. The memorial museum is directed to showcase the fabulous gallantry deeds of the brave hearts of Punjab. It is planned to immortalize the deeds of brave soldiers and to inspire and infuse the spirit of patriotism in the youth. It is designed by an Indian architectural firm 'Kapoor and Associates' of New Delhi. The beautiful structure has 45 m high stainless steel sword on the central edifice, representing the strength and courage of the people of Punjab while defending the nation in the hour of .....

Harike Wetland & Sanctuary

#10 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 60 km from Amritsar Junction, Harike is one of the largest man-made wetlands of northern India, located in Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Also known as Hari-ke-pattan, Harike Wetland is a famous destination for bird watchers and also one of the best places to visit near Amritsar. Harike Wetland came into existence in 1953 after the construction of barrage near the confluence of rivers Sutlej and Beas. The popular Harike Lake lies deep within the park. It occupies an area of 4100 hectares and spreads into three districts of Punjab namely Amritsar, Ferozpur and Kapurthala. It is also a water source for the Indira Gandhi Canal, situated in Rajasthan. The area was declared as a sanctuary in 1982 and was declared a Ramsar site by the International Body of Wetlands under the UNDP in 1990. The sanctuary is a bird watchers paradise and attracts thousands of migratory birds during winter. Around 375 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. The lake is particularly .....

Pul Kanjari

#11 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 35 km from Amritsar Junction and 5 km from Wagah Border, Pul Kanjari is a historical village situated on Amritsar-Lahore road, near the villages of Daoka and Dhanoa Kalan in Punjab. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and also one of the top heritage places to visit in Amritsar. Pul Kanjari was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, used to take rest while travelling to distant lands with his officials and army. It was one of the important trade centres at that time. The village was named after a pul (bridge) that was built by the king for a dancer Moran who was of Kanjari caste. According to legend, once a dancer named 'Moran' was passing through the pool located in Pul Kanjari to perform at the king's palace. Suddenly her shoe slipped into the pool and she refused to perform until her shoe was retrieved. Hearing the news, Maharaja ordered to construct the bridge on the canal and named as 'Pul Kanjari'. The place contains a bathing pool, a temple, a Gurudwara and .....

Gurudwara Goindwal & Baoli Sahib

#12 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 25 km from Tarn Taran and 48 km from Amritsar Junction, Gurudwara Goindwal Sahib is a Sikh shrine situated at Goindwal Sahib town in Tarn Taran district of Punjab. It is one of the major pilgrimage places in Punjab and also one of the best Amritsar tourist places. The Goindwal Baoli is the first Sikh pilgrimage which was set under the supervision of Shri Guru Amar Das Ji in 16th Century. Guru Amar Das, the 3rd Sikh Guru, stayed in Goindwal for 33 years. Here, he constructed a Baoli or a well with 84 steps. The entrance to the Baoli has been artistically decorated. There is a row of frescoes, depicting scenes from Sikh history. It is said that someone who takes a bath in the well and recites the Japji Sahib, attains Moksh. Goindwal is the place where Guru Amar Das met Guru Ram Das and is also the birth place of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Adjoining the Baoli, a magnificent Gurdwara has been built. The Gurdwara is an example of typical Sikh architecture with a large .....

Iskcon Temple

#13 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1 km from Golden Temple and 5 km from Amritsar Junction, ISKCON Temple, also known as Sri Gaur Radha Krishna Mandir, is a prominent Hindu temple situated in the heart of Amritsar, Punjab. ISKCON Temple in Amritsar is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was founded by The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). ISKCON was founded by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhakti Vedanta Swami (Shrila Prabhupada) in the West in 1966. ISKCON belongs to Gaudiya Vaishnavism, a devotional tradition based on the teachings of Bhagavad Gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam. The Bhagwad Gita is the principal scripture of The Hare Krishna Movement Organization. The temple houses the idols of many Hindu gods and goddesses with Sri Krishna and Goddess Radha being the most important. The ISKCON temple is open to all. There are regular prayers conducted here and all the visitors are given Prasad free of cost. One can buy spiritual books, pictures of gods, and other items from the stalls put .....

Khalsa College

#14 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 4 km from Amritsar Junction, Khalsa College is an historic educational institution located on the Amritsar-Lahore highway adjoining Guru Nanak Dev University campus in Amritsar. It is one of the ancient and top colleges of education in India and also one of the popular attractions in Amritsar. Khalsa College was established by the leaders of the Singh Sabha Movement in 1892 AD. It was built as an educational institute during the British Raj in India when Sikh scholars thought about providing higher education to Sikhs and Punjabis within Punjab. Sprawling over 300 acre campus, Khalsa College has the honour to be recognized by N.C.T.E. and accepted as a Nodal Institution of India. The main building is a glorious example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, with an imposing domed red-sandstone facade fronted by grassy fields. The college was designed by Bhai Ram Singh, principal of the Mayo School of Arts, Lahore, with the help of engineer Dharam Singh .....

Mata Lal Devi Mandir

#15 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1 km from Amritsar Junction and 3.5 km from Harmandir Sahib, Mata Lal Devi Mandir is a sacred Hindu temple situated in Rani Ka Bagh, Amritsar. Popularly known as Pujya Mata Ji, Lal Devi Mandir is one of the top religious places to visit in Amritsar. Lal Devi Mandir is dedicated to a 20th-century female saint, Lal Devi and was built in 1989. Mata Lal Devi ji was born in 1923 at Kasoor in Lahore district of Pakistan. A brahmacharni, belongs to Marwaha Khatri Family lived on fruits and milk. After Partition, she came to Amritsar, attained nirvana in 1994. Mata Lal Devi Temple is a replica of the Vaishno Devi Shrine situated in Jammu and Kashmir. Often referred to as the Mother India Temple, Lal Devi Temple is considered to be full of miraculous powers and is visited by large number of devotees from far and near specially by women wishing to have children. The temple houses many statues of gods and goddesses with the sacred seat of Pujya Mata Ji in the center. .....

Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib

#16 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 20 km from Amritsar Junction, Gurdwara Beerh Baba Buddha Sahib is situated on Chabaal - Amritsar road near Chabaal Khalan village in Amritsar district of Punjab, India. Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib popularly known as Bir Sahib is the place where Baba Budha Ji spent much part of his life (1506 - 1631). This is also the place where Guru Arjan Dev Ji and his wife Mata Ganga were blessed with the son, Sri Hargobind Sahib. According to the legend, Baba Buddha used to live here in the jungle outside Amritsar. Being without a child for many years Guru Arjan Dev's wife Ganga Devi became anxious. Ganga Devi went to seek the blessings of Baba Buddha. She presented Baba Buddha with many delicacies to eat but Baba refused to take the food. Later Mata Ji herself prepared missi roti and an onion and visited Baba. Baba blessed Mata Ji with a son Guru Hargobind Singh Ji. The present complex of the gurudwara was built by Baba Kharak Singh, a follower of Sant Gurmukh Singh .....

Dera Baba Jaimal Singhji

#17 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 49 km from Amritsar Junction, Dera Baba Jaimal Singh Ji is a village located on the banks of the Beas River in Baba Bakala tehsil of Amritsar district in Punjab. It is an important religious center in Amritsar and also one of the most visited sites in Amritsar. The pilgrimage site is dedicated to Dera Baba, who studied the holy book Guru Granth Sahib and realized that the sacred text rejected rituals like fasting, temple worship and bathing on pilgrimages. Baba Jaimal Singh, popularly called Baba Ji Maharaj, was a Punjabi who became a disciple of Soami Shiv Dayal. He joined the army and retired from the army On June 7, 1889. He came back to his village and started living in a small hut on the banks of River Beas. One of his devotees donated three beeghas of land for establishment of Dera. Hence, Dera Baba Jaimal Singhji was established. Dera Baba Jaimal Singh Ji is the world center of Radha Soami Sastang Beas Organization. Baba Jaimal Singh was the first chief .....

Khairuddin Masjid

#18 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction and 1.5 km from Amritsar Golden Temple, Khairuddin Masjid is situated in the Hall Bazar of Amritsar. It is one of the most admired religious centres in Amritsar for both locals as well as tourists. Khairuddin Masjid, also known as Jama Masjid, is a beautiful mosque built by Muhammad Khairuddin in 1876 CE. The mosque holds great importance in India's freedom struggle. It was from this mosque that Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari, called upon the people to wage war against the British rulers. Renowned for its architectural beauty, the Jama Masjid reflects traditional Islamic architecture with beautiful calligraphy adorning its walls. The mosque is built of white marble and is decorated with miniature green color paintings. The place looks magical beneath the blue skies. The Masjid is frequented by a sizeable patronage for the daily namaz. Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM

Gurudwara Guru Ka Mahal

#19 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction, Gurudwara Sri Guru Ka Mahal is situated near Golden Temple across the main street known as Guru Bazar in the holy town of Amritsar. It is one of prominent gurudwaras in Amritsar and also one of the popular places to visit in Amritsar. Gurudwara Guru Ka Mahal was built as a humble hut in 1573 CE by Guru Ram Das Ji, the 4th Sikh Guru. It was the residential house of Sri Guru Ram Das, the founder of Amritsar. Guru Arjan Dev got married as well as appointed as a Guru in this Mahal. Baba Atal Rai and Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur were born at this place and Sri Guru Hargobind Singh was also lived here for some time. Later, it was enlarged and modified by Guru Arjan Dev and his son, Guru Hargobind. Now it has been converted into a gurudwara. Guru Ka Mahal is famous for the sacred book of the Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib and is placed on a platform raised on the ground floor inside this three storeyed shrine. The basement has a meditation room .....

Gurudwara Mata Kaulan

#20 of 20 Places to Visit in Amritsar

At a distance of 2 km from Amritsar Junction, Gurudwara Mata Kaulan or Gurudwara Kaulsar Sahib is a sacred Sikh shrine situated on the back side of Harmandir Sahib or Golden Temple in Amritsar town of Punjab. It is one of the historical gurudwaras in Punjab and also one of the top places to visit in Amritsar. Gurudwara Mata Kaulan is dedicated to Bibi Kaulan, a spiritual Muslim Lady, daughter of Qazi of Lahore. Her father had pronounced her death, due to her devotion to Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Saint Main Mir ji who was living in the same village rescued her and brought her in the protection of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Bibi Kaulan spent her rest of life devoting to service of mankind and meditation. The Samadhi of Mata Kaulan lies at the western end of the Kaulsar Gurdwara. The sarovar lies next to the Gurudwara Mata Kaulan is known as Kaulsar Sahib or Kaulsar Sarovar. Kaulsar is one of the five holy tanks in the holy city of Amritsar and was got excavated on the orders .....

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• 14 Places To Visit in Amritsar For A Glimpse Of The Momentous Past In 2024!

Being a bordering city, Amritsar is of tremendous national significance as it holds the renowned Wagah ceremony on India-Pakistan border at the close of each day. Moreover, the city is an abode to the glorious Golden Temple, the most pious religious site for Sikhs in India. It is also famous for Jallianwala Bagh , where hundreds of innocent and unarmed Indians were massacred by the troops of British Indian Army in 1919. These are a few of the many amazing places to visit in Amritsar . It is also a delightful place for foodies as it offers a wide array of sumptuous and mouth-watering Punjabi dishes. Let’s dive deep into the constitution of Amritsar and find out the wonders that it offers to the travelers coming here.

Top 14 Places To Visit In Amritsar 

• Golden Temple – Up, Close, & Personal With Divine Intervention
• Wagah Border – Epitomizing Patriotic Fervor
• Jallianwala Bagh – Reminder Of Brutal History
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum – Showing The Best Of Regal Past
• Popular eateries – To Relish Delectable Amritsari Cuisine
• Other City Attraction – For Walking & Cycling Tours
• Guru Ke Mahal – Home To The Sacred Sikh Book
• Hall Bazaar – Oldest Marketplace
• Gurdwara Mata Kaulan – Shrine Of A Devotee
• Bibeksar Sahib – An Attractive Meeting Spot
• Partition Museum – One Of Its Kind
• Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree – Sacred Foliage
• Akal Takht – The Throne Of The Immortal
• Gobindgarh Fort – An Historic Affair

1. Golden Temple – Up, Close, & Personal With Divine Intervention

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The Golden Temple has to be first on this list as it is the holiest Gurudwara in the entire country. Also known as Harmandir Sahib, it is the religious temple for the Sikh community and welcomes people from all faiths and walks of life. The architecture of the temple is a visual delight. Golden plates surround the upper floor and dome of Hari Mandir or Darbar Sahib, which is the holiest part of the entire temple complex.

The temple complex is embellished with graceful marble sculptures and a holy lake called ‘Pool of Nectar.’ The temple also serves langar or free food to the visitors and devotees and is known to be the largest free kitchen in the world.

Timings: 3 am to 10 pm

Must Read: 20 Best Restaurants In Chandigarh To Relish The Real Taste Of Punjabi Tadka!

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2. Wagah Border – Epitomizing Patriotic Fervor

A trip to Amritsar is incomplete if you failed to immerse yourself in the nationalistic zeal of the Wagah Border Beating Retreat ceremony. This border separating India and Pakistan witnesses this ceremony every day in the evening. The ceremony is performed by the soldiers of both the countries as they advance towards the gate when it is opened in the evening.

The national flags of both the countries are lowered with reverence as the soldiers salute each other. The entry is done through a security check and so it is preferable to arrive one hour before the ceremony begins to grab a seat with a good view.

Timings: 10 am to 4 pm (the ceremony starts from 4:15 pm in summer and 5:15 pm in winter)

Suggested Read: Visit These Revered Temples In Punjab To Seek A Profound Experience

3. Jallianwala Bagh – Reminder Of Brutal History

Jallianwala Bagh is a dire reminder of the extreme human brutality as it commemorates the massacre of the peaceful congregation by British occupying forces. This historical site has been converted into a public garden and is also an abode of a national memorial, managed by the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust.

A visit to Jallianwala Bagh can be bundled up with your sojourn to the Golden Temple as it is one of the places to visit in Amritsar near Golden Temple.

Timings: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm

Suggested Read: 5 Simple Yet Interesting Things To Do In Amritsar For All Kinds Of Travelers!

4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum – Showing The Best Of Regal Past

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the most valiant and widely-adored rulers of Punjab and his capital was the city of Lahore. He included Amritsar in his kingdom in 1802 and constructed a double-storeyed palace for him to stay on his visits to this city. The palace is surrounded by a garden and has been converted into a museum.

It gives an insight to the visitors into the most glorious era of Punjab’s history under the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Suggested Read: 7 Impeccable Things To Do In Bathinda That Will Take You Down The Punjabi Lanes!

5. Popular Eateries – To Relish Delectable Amritsari Cuisine

Apart from Langar Prasad at the Golden Temple, Amritsari cuisine is known for its legendary food dishes and exclusive flavors. The city offers delicious butter-drenched and potato-cauliflower stuffed kulchas, heavenly subtly-spiced tandoori chicken, incredibly soft shami kebabs, scrumptious and tender mutton tikkas and many other mouth-watering vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Just get lost in the food streets and outlets of the city to experience the gratification of exquisitely palatable food. Popular eateries in Amritsar: Kesar Da Dhaba, Surjit Food Plaza, Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner Amritsar since 1962

Suggested Read:  15 Famous Places To Visit Near Golden Temple Which Will Give A Glimpse Of Punjab!

6. Other City Attraction – For Walking & Cycling Tours

Many travel service providers design full-day or 3 to 4-hour cultural tours of the city. These tours are designed to cover places to visit in Amritsar in one day. They take you to the most prominent sites in the city and explain to you their history and significance. These tours require you to walk a lot while exploring different places. If you enjoy the joy and adventure of cycling, you can take pedal tours.

These tours are conducted in groups and offer an excellent chance to discover the charm and culture of the city. You are accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who can give you any information you seek easily.

Suggested Read: 12 Places To Visit In Punjab To Witness The True Beauty Of The State

7. Guru Ke Mahal – Home To The Sacred Sikh Book

Image Credits: amritsar.tourismindia One of the top places to visit in Amritsar , Guru Ka Mahal is sitting near Golden Temple, just across the main street that is named Guru Bazar. It is amongst the well-known gurudwaras in Amritsar. It was constructed as a humble hut back in 1573 under the command of Guru Ram Das Ji, who was the 4th Sikh Guru. Once a residential house of Sri Guru Ram Das, the founder of Amritsar, in the present day it has been converted into a gurdwara. Guru Ka Mahal also earned its fame for the sacred book of Sikhism, Guru Granth Sahib. The basement here is a meditation room where the Sikh gurus used to meditate and compose sacred hymns. Timings: 5 am to 10 pm

Suggested Read: Explore These Stunning Temples In Ludhiana That Are An Architectural Marvel Of The Culture In Punjab!

8. Hall Bazaar – Oldest Marketplace

Image Credits: Sheebamadanloewinger for Wikimedia Commons It is amongst those places to visit in Amritsar that you should not miss out on. Sitting in Amritsar, Hall Bazaar is one of the oldest marketplaces that attracts the history buffs to the city. It is counted as one of the busiest shopping destinations of Amritsar. From electronics to books, apparel to jewellery, ornaments, and Chinese lanterns, you find anything and everything here. The market is famous for selling the traditional Phulkari embroidery and Amritsari juttis. Apart from the merchandise, this town is also known for its Mughal archway entrance named Gandhi Gate and the overall architecture of the market. There are many restaurants to relax as well. Timings: 9 am to 7 pm

Suggested Read: Catch A Glimpse Of Phillaur Fort Ludhiana: A Symbol Of Punjab’s Rich Heritage

9. Gurdwara Mata Kaulan – Shrine Of A Devotee

Image Credits: Karantsingh for Wikimedia Commons Gurdwara Mata Kaulan aka the sacred shrine of Mata Kaulan, is situated in the western region of the Golden Temple. It is one of those places to see in Amritsar that fall in the category of must-visit spots. This Gurudwara has been named after Bibi Kaulan, a devotee of Guru Har Gobind. Her kirtans are still remembered by the members of the Sikh community. Located right next to the Gurdwara Mata Kaulan is Kaulsar Sarovar, a holy place that Guru Har Gobind advised believers to take a dip in before heading towards the Amrit Sarovar. It is an idyllic spot for tourists to feel a sense of serenity and indulge in some meditation. Timings: NA

Suggested Read: 10 Festivals Of Punjab You Must Experience To Get The Real Essence Of The Rich Culture

10. Bibeksar Sahib – An Attractive Meeting Spot

Image Credits: tripadvisor Bibeksar Sahib is another one of the interesting places to see in Amritsar .If you seek solace, peace, and calmness in the city of Amritsar, you should consider heading to this place of worship. Sitting on the banks of Bibeksar Sarovar is the Bibeksar Sahib. It was constructed by Maharaja Ranjith Singh. The place is renowned for being the congregation spot of followers of 6th Sikh Guru of, Guru Hargobind Singh ji. This is what attracts locals and tourists to this quaint spot. Timings: NA

Suggested Read: Moorish Mosque: Why You Should Visit This Historic Gem In Punjab

11. Partition Museum – One Of Its Kind

Image Credits: Dranujpa for Wikimedia Commons We all know the brutal history of Amritsar under the reign of the British Empire. Partition Museum is one of the popular places to see in Amritsar for all the history and culture buffs out there. Partition Museum is famous for being the first-ever museum in the entire world that focuses on the dreadful tales of the millions who had to go through the consequences of a cruel partition. It was developed by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust (TAACHT). You can find newspaper clippings, photographs, and various personal items that were donated by people who witness the Partition. The museum is devoted mainly to the victims, survivors, and their lasting legacy. Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Suggested Read: 20 Best Restaurants In Chandigarh To Relish The Real Taste Of Punjabi Tadka!

12. Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree – Sacred Foliage

Image Credits: Devoshri for Wikimedia Commons Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree is for those who are looking for sacred places to see in Amritsar . This is sitting within the Golden Temple complex and is considered as the most sacred tree in the region. Dating back around 400-year-old jujube tree, it is sitting on the eastern side of the great Amrit Sarovar and is greatly revered by Sikhs. It has a legend attached to itself. It is believed that Bibi Rajni’s leprosy stricken husband was miraculously cured after a dip in the pond that is sitting close to the tree. It was then named Dukh Bhanjani which translates to ‘eradicator of suffering’. Guru Nanak is said to have rested at this holy spot while singing Gurbani in deep devotion to Waheguru. Timings: 7:30 am to 7:30 pm

Suggested Read: Nehru Garden In Jalandhar: A Smart Guide To Explore Hidden Beauty In The Punjab City!

13. Akal Takht – The Throne Of The Immortal

Image Credits: Amarpreet.singh.in for Wikimedia Commons Akal Takht also known as the Throne of the Immortal is famous for being the highest political institution of the Sikhs. It is one of the interesting tourist places in Amritsar . This spot was founded by Guru Hargobind in 1606. Located in the Golden Temple complex, the Akal Takht is one of the five Takhts of the Sikhs. These Takhts are seats of authority and power in the Sikh community. It is the place of the Jathedar, the highest spokesmen among them. The Akal Takht is meant to be a token of political sovereignty and justice, where the spiritual concerns of the Sikhs could be addressed and examined. Timings: 4 am to 11 pm

Suggested Read: 6 Astonishing Places To Visit In Kapurthala In Punjab For An Exciting Vacay!

14. Gobindgarh Fort – An Historic Affair

Image Credits: Gobindgarh Fort Gobindgarh Fort is one of the most exquisite tourist places in Amritsar . It shouts the grand tales of the history of Punjab. This historic fort was built around 257 years and has witnessed quite the history till then. It began with the Bhangi Misl era and ended with the Indian Army during times of The British East India Company. Gobindgarh Fort was initially named as ‘Bhagian da Qilla’ and was constructed by Gujar Singh in 1760’s. The area has now been developed into a live museum that acts as a reservoir of Punjab’s History. The Toshakhana, museum in the fort, was initially used to store the famous Kohinoor diamond. Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

Further Read: 15 Famous Places To Visit Near Golden Temple Which Will Give A Glimpse Of Punjab!

Amritsar weaves together the colorful threads of every dimension of human life and presents to you the most beautiful and admirable tapestry. Plan a trip to Amritsar soon and explore the wonderful historical city!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Amritsar

Is one day enough for Amritsar?

Yes, one day is enough for Amritsar if you just want to see the top sights including Sri Harmandir Sahib, Jallianwala Bagh, Partition Museum, Akal Takht and Sadda Pind.

What are the most popular things to do in Amritsar with children?

The most popular things to do in Amritsar with children include visiting Amritsar Heritage Walk & Golden Temple Tour, Central Sikh Museum, Museum of Sikh history & culture, Gandhi Gate, Gurudwara Santokhsar Sahib, Saragarhi Memorial Gurudwara, Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib, Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, Dukh Bhanjani Beri, Gurudwara Guru ke Mahal, Martyrs Well, Sun City Amusement & Water Park etc.

What is Amritsar famous for?

Amritsar is known for the famous Golden temple. It is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar. Many travelers visit the temple throughout the year and seek prayers.

What can I do in 2 days in Amritsar?

You can visit the major tourist attractions of Amritsar in 2 days without any hassle like Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah border, Durgiana temple, Heritage walk and more.

How far is Wagah border from Amritsar?

Wagah border is located at a distance of 28 km from Amritsar.

What is the best time to visit Amritsar?

The best time to visit Amritsar is from November to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant to go out and explore.

What is good to buy in Amritsar?

You can buy beautiful cotton suits and charming footwear from Amritsar. Lahori Gate is one of the best markets in Amritsar.

Is Amritsar safe to visit?

Yes, Amritsar is safe. However, you must be aware of the pick-pocketers.

How many days are enough for Amritsar?

Two days are enough for visiting Amritsar.

Is it good to visit Amritsar in December?

Yes, December is a good time to visit Amritsar. Do not forget to carry woollen clothes as it gets chilly during the night.

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Places to Visit in Amritsar – Beyond Golden Temple

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Planning a trip to Amritsar Punjab? The holy city, a seamless blend of religion, history, culture , and food is one of the top bucket list places in India and attracts people from around the world, especially culture lovers .

When visiting Amritsar City, the only thing that comes to mind for most travelers is the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh. But there are many things to do in Amritsar that will make the experience simply worthwhile.

Read our curated list that includes unique places to visit in Amritsar and enjoy the Amritsar attractions.

History of Amritsar

Amritsar finds its origin from the words ‘Amrit’ and ‘Sarovar’ which literally mean ‘The Lake of holy waters. The city was founded by the fourth Sikh guru Sri Ramadass Ji. When he arrived in 1574 A.D., the city was covered in thick forest. He loved the place and settled in the eponymous Ramdaspur where he even built a huge man-made tank. He believed that the waters of this lake have healing powers or is ‘Amrit’. Later the city got its name after this ’Amrit Sarovar’.

As of today this holy lake on which the Golden Temple was later built, is the focal point of the city.

Amritsar Weather – Best Time to Visit Amritsar

The best time to visit Amritsar is during the winter months of November to March as the temperatures are cool. It is not advisable to visit during the peak scorching summer.

Where to Stay in Amritsar? – Hotels in Amritsar

Amritsar is a city rich in culture, heritage, and food and this is reflected in the hotels in Amritsar as well. There are many options depending on the requirements – if you want to stay within walking distance of Golden Temple and other attractions or a relaxed and comfortable stay away from the chaos. We have curated a list of the Best Hotels in Amritsar that will have an option for everyone. Click here to read.

Tourist Places in Amritsar

What to see in Amritsar? For me Amritsar some years back, was mainly Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and the old markets for their delectable eateries and shopping options. But during my recent Amritsar sightseeing, I unraveled a different facet of this beautiful city that most people don’t know.

So dive in for this spiritual and patriotic journey colloquially called Ambarsar .

Golden Temple Amritsar

Amritsar’s visit is incomplete without paying homage to this holy shrine. Even though it is known by many names – Harmandir Sahib (God’s abode), Golden Temple , Darbar Sahib , or Swarn Mandir , Gurudwara Amritsar echoes the same feeling of spirituality, oneness, and peace. The temple built on the holy lake is one of the biggest spiritual centers of Sikhism and one of the most famous places in Amritsar. Built by the fifth Sikh Guru Sri Arjun Dev Ji , it welcomes people of all religions and of all strata with an open arm. The temple was later adorned with gold by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The Gurudwara complex has 4 entrances in all four directions signifying that people from all walks and corners are welcome to this holy place.

The sacred sanctum in the gurudwara has the holy Guru Granth Sahib (the religious scripture of Sikhism) that is prayed. You will see hymns from the book being sung the whole time. While exiting the path from the sanctum, there is a Sweet prasad that is given. (Don’t forget to take it with both hands joined. Taking it with only a single hand is a sign of disrespect.) Walk around the lake on the marble floor, or sit by the lake gazing at the reflection of the temple. The feeling of peace is something that can’t be expressed but only experienced. That’s the reason people from around the world keep returning to Golden Temple India.

You can’t leave the gurdwara by eating langar (free vegetarian meal) cooked in one of the world’s largest community kitchen s. Sit down with everyone and eat the humble meal. Devotees throng the Golden Temple during the major festivals of India like Baisakhi, Lohri, and Gurupurab.

Expert Tip: To avoid the crowd, and experience peace, try and visit early morning or late at night.

P.S. You need to remove your shoes and cover your head before entering the gurudwara. There are many hankies kept at the entrance that you can tie on your head for the visit and return it back on exiting. It is advisable to dress modestly while visiting.

Jallianwala Bagh

Right next to the Golden Temple is the Jallianwala Bagh, one of the historical places in Amritsar. Having etched a mark in history as one of the most brutal massacres in the world. On 13 April 1919, when the people gathered as a community on the occasion of Baisakhi, General Dyer of the British East India Company opened fire on the crowd unannounced killing nearly 400 people and wounding thousands including women and children.

At the entrance is a statue of Udham Singh and inside is a flame called ‘Amar Jyoti’ in honor of the martyrs. There are bullet wounds on the wall and the ‘Martyr’s Well‘ in which many people jumped to save themselves. This event acted as a catalyst for the struggle for Indian Independence. Visit the Jallianwala Bagh takes you down the memory and gives chills down the bone.

Timings: 6:30 am – 7:30 pm

Gobindgarh Fort

A historic fort that was built to protect the city from the invaders around 250 years ago has tales of valor, patriotism, and prosperity on every wall. Maharaja Ranjit Singh renamed this fort Gobindgarh Fort after the Sikh guru Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This was his fort that became a symbol of his rise and acted as a treasury of his weapons and treasure including the famous Kohinoor diamond.

A few years back, Amritsar Tourism opened the Gobindgarh Fort as a theme park to throw light on the history of Punjab and Maharaja Ranjit Singh. There are many cultural events showing the folk songs and dances of Punjab. The fort has many museums including the interesting ‘Pagdi Museum’ that displays the many styles of turbans. There are interesting shows including a 7-D show that takes you on a ride through Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s journey and a light and sound show in the evening.

It’s rightly called ‘The Center of Punjabiyat’.

Timings: 10 am – 10 pm (Some museums close at 7 pm and do not open on Monday)

Tickets: The tickets range from INR 199 to INR 358 depending on the shows added.

Partition Museum

India gained its independence in 1947. In one sense it was a happy feeling that we were free from British rule, a democratic country. But it brought a bigger pain along with it, the agony of the partition where around 1-2 million people lost their lives and around 15 million were displaced. The lives of people across the borders were turned upside down. The legacy will always have a lot of blood and pain that the people can’t forget. I have heard those stories from my grandmother with tears in her eyes. And I felt the same emotions when I visited the Partition Museum in Amritsar.

Partition Museum, located in the Town Hall in Amritsar was opened to the public in 2017 and added to the list of Amritsar attractions. It is a central repository of stories from people, artifacts, memoirs, personal belongings, letters, newspaper clippings and so much more that gives you a sneak peek into that painful era. I highly recommend everyone add this museum to their itinerary when visiting Amritsar and plan to spend at least 1 – 2 hrs exploring the treasure.

P.S. Taking pictures inside the museum is prohibited.

Insider Tip: The museum is just a few steps across from the Golden Temple and doesn’t have parking of its own. You need to park your car in the Golden Temple Parking.

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (Tues to Sun), Closed on Mondays

Tickets: INR 20 (INR 10 ticket + INR 10 for Covid sanitation)

Durgiana Temple

Durgiana Temple or Laxmi Narayan Temple is a Hindu temple worshipping Goddess Durga along with other Hindu deities like Goddess Laxmi (Goddess of wealth), and Lord Vishnu. But its architecture and design will remind you of its similarities with the Golden Temple. The temple is built on a holy tank and has a domed-shaped design with a big golden dome on the top. The temple even has a Sanskrit school in its complex and runs free community meals (called langar) for the poor and needy.

Timings: 6 am – 10 pm

Local Street Food – Restaurants in Amritsar

Amritsar aside from being a holy city is also a food lover’s paradise. From the by-lanes of the old city, come wafting the aroma of lip-smacking food being cooked. Some of the must-visit dishes and places to eat in Amritsar are –

• Bharawan da Dhaba (Brother’s Dhaba) – near Partition Museum. (must try thali, Sarson ka saag, Makki roti, and Amritsari Kulcha)
• Kesar da Dhaba
• Kulcha land (for Amritsari Kulcha that originated in this city)
• Ahuja Milk Bhandar (for lassi. You got to finish your meal with a glass of lassi)
• Kanha sweets (for poori with potato sabzi)
• Amritsari fish fry

And besides this, there are many more things. It is said that ‘rivers of milk and curd flow in Punjab’ and it is so true. Enjoy scrumptious meals at every nook and corner cooked in desi ghee.

Shopping in Amritsar

What to buy in Amritsar? Let us help you with iconic Punjabi stuff that you should be buying from Amritsar. Thank us later. Stroll along the maze of lanes in the old city to shop for traditional Punjabi clothes and footwear. The Phulkari literally meaning ’flower work’ is the traditional embroidery work from Punjab that dates back to the 15th century. There are beautifully crafted Phulkari dupattas (bigger size stole), shawls, and ladies’ Phulkari suites that are a must-buy. Men wear colorful turbans which are sold all across the market. Besides clothes, flat belly footwear called Punjabi jutti is available for men, women, and even children. It gets confusing looking at the wide variety of these juttis with artistic threadwork on them. Threads in all colors, even gold, and silver along with sequins, and trinkets embellished on these leather sandals. I really love wearing them and just can’t do without them. Also, Amritsar is famous for its papad (thin crisp flatbread in many flavors that is roasted or fried) and wadiyan (sun-dried paste of pulses with spices). To balance the spicy taste on the tongue, buy Aam Papad (thin chewy fruit bars made from mango) from Ram Lubhaiya Aam Papad waale (for a variety of Aam Papad.)

Places to Visit near Amritsar

Not just Amritsar, there are many places near Amritsar that must be explored.

Wagah Border

32 km away from Amritsar lies the Indo-Pak Border of Wagah. Amritsar to Wagah border is around a 1-hour drive away. It is famous for the heart-pumping ceremony of lowering the Flags in the evening by both India and Pakistan. I can bet that you will be aroused with patriotic feelings.

Attari Railway Station

The last railway station in India en route to Pakistan is at the village of Attari around 25 km from Amritsar. The famed Samjhauta Express (‘Friendship Express) passes through Attari station. Since this is the last station before the border, there is a Customs and Immigration Department for those traveling between the two countries.

PS: When we visited, the station wore a deserted look as the trains had been suspended between the two countries.

Did you know Luv and Kush, the twins of Lord Ram and Mata Sita were born near Amritsar? Yes, we didn’t know that either. So when we heard of Ram Tirath, the place where they were born, we decided to pay a visit. One of the temples in the Ram Tirath complex dates back to the Ramayan period and this was the ashram of Sage Valmiki.

Ram Tirath is around a 20-minute drive from Amritsar. We were left spellbound by the beauty and serenity of this place. There is a beautiful temple dedicated to Sage Valmiki, in the middle of a holy lake. It is so peaceful inside with a beautiful chandelier hanging from the high ceiling.

In the complex, there are other temples including a temple of Goddess Sita and the hut where she lived and gave birth to Luv and Kush. They were educated and trained by Sage Valmiki himself. Walk around the complex and gaze at the huge statue of Lord Hanuman or sit on the steps by the lake and feel the gentle breeze.

Timings: 6 am – 8 pm

Have you ever been to Amritsar, Punjab? Did you visit the Golden Temple? Which other famous places in Amritsar did you like? Hope you didn’t miss gorging on the scrumptious delicacies of Amritsar.

Neha Kulshrestha

10 thoughts on “Places to Visit in Amritsar – Beyond Golden Temple”

I had an amazing experience at the Golden Temple. It’s such a beautiful place. This temple feels very welcoming & has a wonderful ambience. It’s good to hear there’s lots more to do in Amritsar…

Wow! It’s good to hear that you had a great visit to the Golden Temple. Yes absolutely it is very welcoming atmosphere. Did you get an opportunity to eat the langar (the free community meal) there? Yes there’s so much more to Amritsar and you should visit it the next time you are here.

Such a wonderful place! Unfortunatelly I didn´t have time to visit during my trip to India but I definitely intend to do so the next time. Loved India and can´t wait to be back, thanks for sharing this lovely post 🙂

Oh, you must add it to your itinerary for the next visit to India. But yes not during summer time. Glad you loved India.

This looks like such a beautiful area to explore, with a lot of fantastic historical locations to visit which is a big draw for me.

Absolutely, this is one of the historical places in India brimming with culture and historical tales and places. Then you must add it to your bucket list.

Thank you so much for this post! I’ve lived in Lahore Pakistan for the past six months, only twenty minutes drive from Amritsar, and I had always been dreaming of crossing the Wagah Border and visiting there once. But unfortunately due to covid, the border remains closed and India isn’t allowing any foreign tourists. What a bummer! I really wish to explore Amritsar and the rest of India one day and will definitely remember this post to help me plan my perfect trip!

Oh..You are too close. Yes Covid has put a lot of restrictions for safety for everyone. Hopefully things will be better soon and you would be able to cross the border into this beautiful country. Do email us if you need any suggestions.

Just now came across your blog, felt really good and thank you for detailing the tour plan that I should have. Keep posting, now you have made a follower 🙂

Regards Diana Varghese

Wow, your comment just made our day, Diana! I’m so thrilled to hear that you found the blog useful and even happier to welcome you as a new follower. We promise to keep dishing out travel plans that’ll make your wanderlust sing. If there’s a specific destination you’re curious about, don’t hesitate to let us know. Safe travels and thanks for joining the journey!

Cheers, Anjali

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Visiting the Golden Temple, Amritsar: A Complete Guide (2024)

Amritsar’s beautiful Golden Temple (or Harmandir Sahib) is the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs. It’s home to the largest community kitchen in the world , which serves free food to approximately 100,000 people every single day. Visiting the Golden Temple is a unique experience that you cannot miss during a trip to Amritsar , in the state of Punjab.

Being one of the most famous landmarks in India , the Golden Temple attracts thousands of visitors every day. Everyone is equal according to Sikhism and all people are welcome in their temple.

The Golden Temple is the highlight during a visit to Amritsar and it was my favourite place to visit in this city! This is one of India’s best cultural destinations and a great place to learn more about Sikhism.

You will find everything you need to know if you’re planning on visiting the Golden Temple in this post, from the dress code for ladies as well as for men to what to see here. This is an enormous complex and there are some important things you should know before your visit.

So, let’s dive into it!

The Golden Temple in Amritsar: A Little History

The Golden Temple was built by Guru Ram Das Sahib, the fourth Sikh Guru, in 1604. It used to look completely different, though, as it was only plated with 24-karat gold 224 years after it was built.

Throughout history, the temple was destroyed several times, both by the Mughal as well as Afghan armies. The temple that you can see today was built at the beginning of the 19th century.

It’s interesting to note that the Golden Temple was built at a lower level than the surrounding grounds. This was done as a symbol of humbleness.

In the 1990s, the Golden Temple was renovated and re-plated with a whopping 500 kg of gold. It took four years to complete the renovations.

6 Things You Should Know Before Visiting the Golden Temple

1. There’s a dress code (not officially, but still)

There might not be an official dress code to visit the Golden Temple, however, visitors are expected to dress modestly as this is a holy place. Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees, this is the case for men as well as women.

You will also have to take off your shoes before entering the Golden Temple. There’s a free shoe-drop-off service on the left side of the temple.

After dropping off your shoes, you will have to wash your hands near the entrance and cover your head. Cloths to cover your head are available for free at the entrance of the temple. You will find plenty of shops selling these in the streets of Amritsar, but there’s no need to buy one unless, of course, you want to have one for yourself.

2. Photography is not allowed but you can take pictures

Yes, you read that right – welcome to India!

In 2019, photography and videography were suddenly banned at the Golden Temple . However, hardly anyone is stopped when they’re taking pictures or filming.

When you walk around the Golden Temple, you will notice that nearly everyone is taking pictures with their phones despite the “no photography” signs. I brought my (enormous) camera with me and took plenty of pictures too and no one stopped me.

A friend of mine was stopped when he was filming, though, but this too seems to depend on the guard’s mood.

Note that it is forbidden to take pictures inside the Golden Temple’s inner sanctum, but chances are you won’t want to go inside anyway when you see the enormous queues.

3. Everyone can eat in the kitchen (Langar) for free

The Golden Temple is famous for hosting the largest community kitchen in the world, which is called “langar”. It costs millions of dollars a year to keep this kitchen running and this is possible thanks to numerous donations and thousands of volunteers.

A beautiful thing about Sikhism is that everyone is seen as equal. The community kitchen is open to all religions, castes, colours, you name it – everyone is welcome here 24/7 and the menu changes every day!

Unfortunately, I ate something bad before visiting the Golden Temple and I wasn’t feeling very well so I didn’t eat there. I did go to the langar to see what it’s like and it’s pretty impressive, to say the least! Seeing so many volunteers working together and serving food to so many people is really heartening.

4. It’s possible to volunteer too

Just like everyone can eat at the Golden Temple, everyone can volunteer too. This is how it’s possible to sustain such a large free kitchen, after all.

All you need to do to volunteer is start! You can join people who are washing dishes, for example, or ask someone who’s doing something else to show you how to do that specific task.

5. The Golden Temple is always open

The Golden Temple and the community kitchen are open all day and all night every day of the week, so there’s no need to keep opening hours in mind here.

I highly recommend visiting the temple during the day as well as in the evening or at night, when it lights up beautifully – it’s a completely different experience.

6. You can stay at the Golden Temple for free

Not only Sikh pilgrims but tourists too are allowed to stay at the Golden Temple for free. You can stay in a dorm for tourists with a shared bathroom for a maximum of three days, and make a donation when you leave.

I didn’t do this myself but it’s a nice way to save some money if you’re on a tight budget and I’m sure it must be quite a unique experience!

>> Read next: What is India Famous For? 29 Interesting Facts

7 Things to See at the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple complex is pretty big and there are quite some things to see here. You will find the most important ones below.

1. Ghanta Ghar Deori (clock tower)

The clock tower is the Golden Temple’s main entrance and it has an interesting history.

This tower was not a part of the temple’s original design. There once was another building here that’s now called “the Lost Palace”. The Sikh community opposed the destruction of this building, but it was ignored by the British colonials and they replaced it with a red-brick clock tower in 1874.

After the British left in 1947, the Sikhs demolished this clock tower and built the one that you can see today instead.

2. Harmandir Sahib (the Temple)

Although I gazed at it for quite some time and inspected it from every possible angle, I have to admit that I didn’t enter the Golden Temple when I was there.

It is possible to do so, but the queue is enormous and it takes up to 2 hours to reach the inner sanctum on a weekday, even more on weekends and holidays.

In all honesty, I think the Golden Temple is more impressive on the outside anyway, so I don’t think seeing the inner sanctum is a necessity unless you’re a pilgrim.

3. Guru ka Langar (community kitchen)

Ah, the Golden Temple’s famous community kitchen – this place is heartwarming and you MUST see it when you’re in Amritsar!

I won’t get too much into detail about the kitchen here as I’ve already covered this part in the “Everyone can eat in the kitchen for free” section of this post, but you cannot go to the Golden Temple and not see (or eat at) its famous langar.

>> Read next: How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need

4. Diwan Hall

This is the central prayer hall of the Golden Temple. It has a capacity of a whopping 5,000 people and this is the place where the Guru Granth Sahib, the religious scripture of Sikhism, is read by a so-called Granthi every day.

The Diwan Hall is located on the opposite side of the community kitchen, across the park.

5. Gurudwaras

Apart from the Golden Temple itself, you will find many other Gurudwaras in the Golden Temple complex. Some of the most impressive ones are Gurudwara Thara Sahib and Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Ji , which is located in a 9-story tower.

You don’t have to visit them all, but it’s definitely worth entering some of them. Chances are you will see some religious ceremonies if you decide to do so.

6. Sacred trees

You will find three sacred jujube trees in the Golden Temple complex – Ber Baba Budha Sahib, Dukh Bhanjani Beri and Elaichi Ber. They’re all over 400 years old and they’re a symbol of rich heritage.

These trees carry berries that are not plucked. However, when the berries fall, people take them with them because they’re considered blessings.

>> Read next: 17 Things NOT to Do in India

7. Central Sikh Museum

Last but not least, you will find a museum on the left side of the entrance. This is a nice place to visit if you would like to learn more about the history of Sikhs.

It’s full of paintings of Sikh gurus, saints and warriors, and displays a collection of coins, armour and old manuscripts as well.

Best Time to Visit Amritsar and the Temple

The best time to visit Amritsar is during the Winter months, between November and March . This is when the weather is at its best in Punjab (13.5°C to 26.9 °C or 56.4°F to 80.4°F).

Do note that it can get quite cold in January , with temperatures averaging 11.5°C (52.9°F). If you prefer warmer weather (and want to avoid fog), the months of November and March are ideal.

Summer lasts from April to June and it gets boiling hot at this time of the year (up to 39.2 °C or 102.6°F), so this is not the best time to visit Amritsar.

The monsoon season will start in July and ends in October . At this time of the year, it will still be quite hot (and humid) and there will be a lot of rainfall too. This is an okay period to visit the city if you don’t mind the rain, but the Winter is better.

When it comes to the Golden Temple itself, I would recommend visiting it early in the morning to avoid crowds. If you can, opt for a weekday instead of weekends too, as it can get very crowded during the weekend.

I visited the Golden Temple around 8:30 am on a Monday morning and it was already pretty crowded. It wasn’t nearly as crowded as when I visited in the evening, though.

Other Places to Visit in Amritsar

There are plenty of other places worth seeing in Amritsar when you’re done visiting the Golden Temple. You will find the most important ones below:

• Jallianwala Bagh: Jaillanwala Bagh is a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of the massacre that took place here in 1919. Over 10,000 people gathered at the square to protest against the Rowlatt Act, which was enforced by the British and allowed them to arrest people without a warrant. Colonel Dyer then ordered 50 soldiers to fire into the gathering without a warning. This led to 400 deaths and 1,200 wounded civilians.
• Partition Museum: This interesting museum tells the story of the partition of British India, which consisted of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh . You will find plenty of touching stories, photographs, newspaper clippings and other artefacts here.
• Durgiana Temple: If you would like to see a beautiful Hindu temple too, the Durgiana Temple is the place to go. It was built in the 16th century and its architecture is quite similar to that of the Golden Temple.
• Wagah Border Ceremony: The Wagah Border Ceremony is a military parade that takes place at the border between India and Pakistan every day and this has been the case since 1959. It’s one of the Indian travel bucket list adventures that you cannot miss during a visit to Amritsar!

Jallianwhala Bagh and the Partition Museum are very close to the Golden Temple, so it would be most logical to visit these first.

Where to Stay in Amritsar

As Amritsar is a famous destination, there are plenty of hotels here. You will find my top recommendations that are close to the Golden Temple below.

• SureStay Heritage Walk By Best Western (⭐ 8.7/10): This hotel offers nice and clean rooms with all the amenities you might need. It’s located in a street full of restaurants, close to Amritsar’s top tourist attractions.
• The Earth Amritsar (⭐ 8.4/10): If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay, The Earth Amritsar is the one for you! This is one of the best hotels in Amritsar, complete with an outdoor swimming pool and garden. This hotel is 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from the Golden Temple.

Visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar: Final thoughts

And there you have it – everything you need to know if you’re planning on visiting the beautiful Golden Temple in Amritsar! I hope this guide helps you plan your trip.

The Golden Temple is a place I loved visiting. I had heard so much about it before coming here, and it did not disappoint!

I will have to come back here to eat in the community kitchen and volunteer, though. It was a bad timing for an upset stomach.

All in all, the Golden Temple is a place that you cannot miss during a visit to Amritsar. This is the perfect place to indulge yourself in and learn more about Sikh culture.

Did you visit the Golden Temple already? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments below!

Check out my post on how to spend 1 or 2 days in Amritsar next for some inspiration!

Read more about India:

• Wagah Border Ceremony, Amritsar: A Complete Guide
• Amritsar to Lahore: Crossing the Wagah Border from India to Pakistan
• 39 Indian Landmarks to See on Your Trip
• 10 Places to Visit in McLeodGanj (+ 4 nearby)
• 17 Things NOT to Do in India
• What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas
• 19 Reasons Why You Should Visit India

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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I hate these types of places. Where there are such stupid restrictions of covering heads in the name of respect. I as an INDIAN went to Amritsar 3 times in my life but not to this stupid so called Golden Temple ( Golden Gurudwar ) in my life. and I will never because my Hindu Conscious won’t allow me to go to these types of stupid worship places.

Well, no one is forcing you to go there.

What a captivating read! Your vivid descriptions truly transported me to the serene ambiance of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The intricate details you provided about the architecture, the spiritual significance, and the cultural practices surrounding this sacred site were both enlightening and immersive.

I particularly appreciated how you intertwined personal experiences with historical context, adding depth to your narrative. Your mention of the langar, the communal kitchen serving free meals to all visitors, highlights the essence of humility and equality that the Golden Temple embodies.

Moreover, your tips for visitors, from respecting customs to embracing the tranquility of the sarovar, are invaluable for anyone planning a pilgrimage to this revered destination.

Thank you for sharing your journey and insights. Your blog post not only serves as a practical guide but also as a heartfelt tribute to the spiritual magnificence of the Golden Temple. I’m inspired to embark on my own pilgrimage, guided by the wisdom you’ve imparted.

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9 Of The Best Places To Visit In Amritsar

The culture-rich city is warm and welcoming. Find out what Amritsar has to offer.

Amritsar is known for its serene and religious atmosphere. Although the city was founded by the fourth Sikh guru, Amar Das, its cultural heritage extends beyond Sikhism. There are many places to visit in Amritsar, and none of them treat you like a stranger. It always feels like you belong to Amritsar no matter who you are. The city is of course home to the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine for Sikhs. There are many more gurdwaras and temples here, like the Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib, Baba Atal Tower, and Mata Lal Devi temple. It is also believed that no one in the city goes to sleep hungry because of the langars in the gurudwaras that provide free food to people, regardless of their religion.  

Best Places To Visit In Amritsar

1. amritsar’s most visited place: the golden temple.

We cannot talk about Amritsar without talking about the Golden Temple. The holy shrine is also known as the Sri Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib. It doesn’t discriminate against any community, so people of all ages and religions are allowed inside the temple. The Gurudwara complex has a few rules, where you need to take off your shoes and cover your hair. The temple is a two-storeyed building and there are both Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. The temple is covered in real gold and is surrounded by a lake called the Amrit Sarovar, which makes the setting more ethereal. One of the best places to visit in Amritsar, the temple’s interiors are beautiful and the walls are adorned with meenakari and glasswork using semi-precious stones.

The temple also houses the holy book of the Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib. Another interesting aspect of the temple is its langar . One of the world’s largest community kitchens, the langar provides free vegetarian meals to everyone who knocks on its door. There are many that volunteer in this kitchen and help out. The best time to see the Golden Temple is at sunrise. As the golden rays fall on golden walls, the entire place seems like a slice of heaven. 

Also read: 8 Places To Explore True Indian Spirituality

2. Preserving The Justice: Akal Takht

A temple that is as important as the Golden Temple, Akal Takht is one of the five seats that represent power and authority in Sikhism. Amongst the five seats, Akal Takht is believed to be cardinal. The other four seats are Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur), Patna Sahib, Hazur Sahib, and Damdama Sahib.

Akal Takht has five storeys and a golden dome, is influenced by the architectural style of the Sikhs, and is situated opposite the Golden Temple. The word akal means timeless and takht means throne so it translates to Throne of the Immortal. It is believed that Guru Hargobind Ji sat on this throne and solved all the disputes in the Sikh community, and made sure that justice prevailed. On June 15, 1606, the first stone of this structure was laid by Guru Hargobind Sahib. Such places to visit in Amritsar are deeply rooted in the history and culture of the region. 

3. A Unique Experience: Wagah Border

Located 30 km from Amritsar, the Wagah border is also called the ‘Berlin Wall of India’. It is the road that identifies the boundary that separates India and Pakistan. There is also an important ceremony that happens at this border that makes it an important place to visit in Amritsar. The Beating Retreat is performed by the soldiers of both India and Pakistan. The soldiers lower the flags of their respective countries and perform military exercises. This retreat ceremony has been held every day since 1959. Different from most tourist places of Amritsar, the ceremony at Wagah Border is 45 minutes long. You can watch it free of cost but make sure to arrive an hour early to get the best seats. The retreat starts 30 minutes before dusk, so in winter, it takes place from 4:15-5 PM and in summer from 5:15-6 PM. 

4. Paying Respect To Lost Lives: Jallianwala Bagh

“This is the place where the bullets were fired from,” reads a plaque at Jallianwala Bagh. The massacre of men, women, and children will be remembered as one of the worst massacres in the history of the Indian struggle for freedom. On April 13, 1919, on Vaisakhi (the Sikh harvest festival), General Dyer of the British army, opened fire on innocent Indians who had gathered for a peaceful meeting at Jallianwala Bagh. In a garden spread across 6.5 acres, a large stone memorial was built by American architect Benjamin Polk after India gained independence. You can also still see the bullet holes on the walls of the garden, as well as the well into which many people jumped to escape the gunfire. Since there was only one exit and entry point back then (which General Dyer blocked), many people lost their lives because they couldn’t escape. 

5. Hindu Mythology In Amritsar: Ram Tirath Ashram 

Ram Tirth Ashram is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Amritsar. Attached to Hindu mythology, it’s a pilgrimage centre, believed to be the place where the sage Valmiki penned the epic of Ramayana. It’s located 11 km from Amritsar. It’s also believed that this is where Sita gave birth to her children, Luv and Kush. It is also called the Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal because Valmiki’s ashram (hermitage) is said to have been here. The temple was built to commemorate the holy site, and there is also a statue of the sage, that is gold plated.

6. House Of The Warriors: Gobindgarh Fort

Now open to the public as a heritage museum, the Gobindgarh Fort was first built by a Sikh warrior called Gujjar Singh Bhangi and his army. The fort was renovated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and named Gobindgarh Fort, after the 10th Sikh guru, but before that, it was called the Bhangian da Killa. The fort was constructed in a square pattern using brick and lime. It has two gates, the main one is called Nalwa Gate and the second is called Keelar Gate. An interesting thing about the Keelar Gate is that it is believed to be joined to a tunnel that leads to Lahore. Until February 10, 2017, the fort was under the control of the Indian army.

Different places to visit in Amritsar have different significance, and this fort has played an important role in the history of Amritsar, both pre and post-independence. Now there are many theme parks and museums like the warfare museum, coin museum, haat bazaar and a 7D show experience with interactive videos, motion chairs along with light and sound effects, that depict the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Earlier, the fort had 25 cannons. Later, from the mid-19th century to 1947, the British army introduced many features like the Hawa Mahal, Phansi Ghar, and Darbar Hall, as well as defence upgrades.

7. The Sikh Culture And Heritage: Central Sikh Museum

The Central Sikh Museum depicts the bloodshed of the Sikh community at the hands of the Mughals, British, as well as Operation Blue Star ordered by former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It is one of the most important places to visit in Amritsar as it sheds light on Sikh history. The museum is also a way of preserving the heritage of the Sikh community with exhibits highlighting the sacred words and meanings behind their sacred banner, paintings, and drawings of Sikhs at war, paintings of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and other exhibits that depict Sikh traditions like weddings and festivals. The Central Sikh Museum was established in 1985 and maintains a collection of ancient manuscripts, coins, and warfare artefacts. The museum also has a gallery with portraits of important people in the Sikh community, including their gurus, saints, warriors, and leaders. 

8. Remembering The Dark Past: Partition Museum

The partition of India and Pakistan was one of the biggest genocides in the two countries’ history, and the largest exodus. Punjab was particularly affected by this division because of its proximity to the Indo-Pak border. Many peoples’ lives, dignity, family members, wealth, and houses were forcefully taken away from them. The Partition Museum, located in the Town Hall building in Amritsar, details the timeline, from the early demand of different states for Hindus and Muslims to the struggle for independence and the partition. It strives to retell the experiences of the people who had to suffer through partition.

The museum displays objects carried by refugees like utensils, clothes, and jewellery among others. These artefacts were once owned by people from different backgrounds showing how the trauma prevailed regardless of social differences. It also has audiovisual stations with interviews with refugees that give them a platform to voice their stories. The museum also has art and literature regarding the India-Pakistan Partition. 

9. Give Your Taste Palate A Treat: Kesar da Dhaba

Amritsar is a food paradise for vegetarians. The Amritsari kulcha with chole is famous throughout India. One of the most visited tourist places of Amritsar, Kesar da Dhaba gives you the Amritsari taste with pure ghee spread over parathas, accompanied by lassi , dal and phirni. Tucked away in the small lanes of the Chowk Passian, lies Kesar da Dhaba. At first glance, you might think of it as any other dhaba, as it lacks any grandeur. Don’t be deceived, as it is one of the most sought-after dhabas in Amritsar.

This eatery was started by a couple, Lala Kesar Mal and Parvati, in 1916 in Sheikhpura, Pakistan. After Partition, the couple shifted the dhaba to Amritsar. Their thali is the most famous dish, with palak paneer , dal makhani , malai kofta curry, Punjabi chole , cucumber raita , salad , and lachcha paratha . All these dishes are very tasty and are priced very reasonably. You can also step inside the kitchen and watch the magic unfold. 

Everyone’s City 

The city also has a shopping centre called Hall Bazaar. It has everything from textiles and electronic gadgets to accessories. The street food in Hall Bazaar is a must-try. The entire city generates a feeling of ‘community’ which is imbibed in Sikh religion and culture. People here are warm and welcoming and make you feel involved, as opposed to being a mere visitor witnessing it from the outside. Indians and foreigners alike feel a sense of belonging. The gurudwaras and langars are open most of the time, they do not have many restrictions and don’t turn anyone away. The city gives importance to equality and faith and celebrates them. 

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"Gateway to Punjab - home to Golden Temple"

Amritsar tourism.

Amritsar, colloquially known as Ambarsar, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. It stands as a prominent cultural and religious hub in the heart of Punjab, as the second largest city of India. The city is most renowned for the Golden Temple , the holiest shrine in Sikhism. The resplendent temple, surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar), is a testament to Sikh architecture and welcomes people from all walks of life with open arms.

Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh Religion. Baisakhi festival brings out Amritsar's resplendent face with its finest food, clothes and merry-making. This place is also infamous for its Jallianwala Bagh massacre and its proximity to Wagah Border . From Operation Blue Star in the Golden Temple to the tragedy of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Amritsar has seen the worst of situations and yet emerged like a phoenix through testing times. Amritsar today is a thriving city with active trade and tourism industries. Wandering through the bustling streets of Amritsar, one encounters the vibrant bazaars and the lively atmosphere of Hall Bazaar , where local delicacies, colorful fabrics, and traditional crafts captivate the senses.  Delving deeper into Amritsar's spiritual tapestry, the Durgiana Temple , often referred to as the Silver Temple, and the peaceful Ram Tirth, associated with the sage Valmiki, add layers to the city's religious diversity.  A day in this peaceful city starts with the spiritual prayers from Gurudwaras. Culinary enthusiasts are in for a treat with Amritsar's rich gastronomic offerings. The city is famed for its delectable Punjabi cuisine, including the iconic Amritsari Kulcha, Makki di Roti, and Sarson da Saag. The bustling streets come alive with the sizzle of street food stalls, inviting locals and tourists alike to indulge in the flavors of Punjab . The best time to visit Amritsar is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, allowing visitors to explore the city comfortably. One of the most agriculturally productive cities of India, Amritsar is well connected with most of the important cities of India.

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14 Best Places to visit in Amritsar: Location, Timing, Entry Fee

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Amritsar > 14 Best Places to visit in Amritsar: Location, Timing, Entry Fee

Amritsar may have been founded as recently as the 16 th century by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh guru. However, the lore and legends weave a mythical link between the place and the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is believed that Amritsar is the location of Maharishi Valmiki’s ashram where Sita gave birth to her twins, Lav and Kush. Intertwined with the history of Sikhism, this city is home to the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. At the same time, Jallianwala Bagh continues to depict Amritsar’s vital position in the country’s freedom struggle. Fascinating legends, religious structures, historic edifices, bustling bazaars , colorful festivals, and delicious food all come together to mark it as a vibrant tourist destination .

If you are planning a trip to this holy city, here’s your guide to all the amazing Amritsar tourist places that deserve to be visited and cherished. 

Tourist Places in Amritsar:

Amritsar is a city that is to be experienced more than to be seen. Here are some of the must-visit tourist places that you can cover during a two-day trip to the city.

1. The Golden Temple

Golden Temple | #1 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

The crown jewel of Amritsar, the Golden Temple is unquestionably its main center of attraction. Built in the 16 th century, the shrine is an open house of worship for people belonging to all walks of life and religious affiliation. It is also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib and is one of the most visited tourist places in India. The shrine exhibits a spectacular architecture, which is a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic artistic styles. Adorning the inner walls of the temple are semi-precious stones, Meenakari work, and glasswork that are a treat to your eyes. The tranquil water body surrounding the temple enhances its beauty. With its golden sheen and harmonious aura, the shrine stands as the perfect picture of serenity and eternal bliss. 

Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred religious book of the Sikhs, is kept inside this Gurdwara during the day and taken to the Akal Takht at night. A key highlight of the shrine is the Langar – a free vegetarian meal offered to each and every visitor. Make sure to cover your head when you enter the shrine, as is the compulsory custom of this religious site. 

• Location : Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings:  Open 24 hours; every day  
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee
• Hotels: Budget Hotels near Amritsar Airport | B udget Hotels near Golden Temple

2. Wagah Border

Wagah Border | #2 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

One of the best places to visit near Amritsar, Wagah Border is marked with a patriotic high. Located around 30 km from the city centre, it is the only road border crossing that runs between India and Pakistan. Every evening, the border turns into a ceremonial ground before the sunset and attracts hordes of tourists. It is the time when soldiers belonging to both the countries engage in Beating Retreat and Change of Guard ceremonies. It is a daily practice when the lowering of the national flag takes place on both sides of the border by the soldiers, accompanied with elaborate and quick military exercises. This practice has been continuing since 1959. The whole ceremony is a colorful treat for the visitors. Since seats are not reserved, do get there at least one hour before the ceremony begins and carry along a pair of binoculars for a better view. 

• Location : Wagah, Hardo Rattan
• Timings:   04:15 pm to 05:00 pm (For the ceremony during winter) 05:15 pm to 06:00 pm (For the ceremony during summer)
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Wagha Border Road

Budget Hotels in Amritsar

3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum | #3 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is dedicated to the Lion of Punjab , Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The museum is housed in one of his beautiful summer palaces, which is reason enough to pay a visit to this place . Surrounded by manicured lawns, the palace presents a pretty picture. Once you step inside the museum, you will be able to witness a wealth of artifacts and relics that remain a testimony to the glorious times of this great leader. The museum features paintings, dresses, weapons, and coins among other things. You can also see several articles and paintings related to the various battles that were fought by the brave ruler.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10

4. Khalsa College

Khalsa College | #4 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Fancy visiting a century-old college that boasts of a sprawling 300-acre campus and a magnificent edifice that seems to be straight out of a coffee book? Then you got to pay a visit to Khalsa College. This historic educational institution was founded in 1892. The college has made a significant contribution to the country’s struggle for freedom. Apart from its historic importance, another key factor that draws tourists to this college is its brilliant architecture. The main building of the college is no less than a massive castle and is considered to be an outstanding example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.   

• Location : NH 1, Grand Trunk Road, Putligarh
• Timings: College hours; closed on Sundays
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Putli Ghar

5. Ram Tirath Ashram

Ram Tirath Ashram | #5 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Religion and mythology blend together at Ram Tirath Ashram, which is also known as Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal. The place is considered to be the sacred spot where Lord Rama’s sons, Lav and Kush were born. Legends mark this spot as the place where once stood the ashram of sage Valmiki. It is believed that the great sage started writing the Ramayana here. The ashram may be no more today, but you can visit a grand temple that stands here. An 800 kg gold-plated statue of sage Valmiki is the main attraction of this temple.

• Location : Ram Tirath Road, Kaler
• Visit Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm; every day

6. Tarn Taran

Tarn Taran | #6 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib is a famous religious place in Amritsar. The shrine was established in the year 1590 by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh guru. It attracts not just the pilgrims but a large number of tourists as well, thanks to its majestic edifice. The imposing white structure with a golden dome stands surrounded by a serene water body which has the distinction of being the largest one among all the water bodies of the Gurdwaras. 

• Location : Old City, Tarn Taran Sahib
• Timings: 05:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day

7. Mata Lal Devi Temple

Mata Lal Devi Temple | #7 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

A sacred Hindu temple, Mata Lal Devi Mandir is a unique place of worship that is quite popular among Hindu devotees. The temple is dedicated to a 20 th -century female saint known as Mata Lal Devi. Unlike other temples, this place boasts of colorful mirrored hallways, ankle-deep waterways, twisted pathways, tunnels, and even a cave. An interesting feature of the temple is that it houses numerous Hindu deities and features a number of grottoes and shrines. It is believed that the temple is full of miraculous powers and any woman who prays for children at this temple is granted the wish. Visit this place to experience the exceptional ambiance and beauty of this temple which you may not find in any other temple in India or elsewhere. Check more – Temples in Amritsar

• Location : Model Town, Rani Ka Bagh
• Timings: 05:00 am to 11:00 pm; every day
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Rani Ka Bagh

Amritsar Famous Places near the Golden Temple

When you are in the vicinity of the Golden Temple, you can easily immerse yourself in the cultural and  historical places in Amritsar . Surrounding the holy shrine are a number of sightseeing places that are definitely worth your time. Listed below are a few of the major tourist places near the Golden Temple.

8. Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh | #8 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Perhaps there is no other memorial in India that paints such a poignant saga of the freedom struggle as the Jallainwala Bagh. Spread over 6.5 acres, the public garden remains a testimony to the most heinous public massacre that the British Army committed on unarmed Indians. It was almost a century ago, in the year 1919, when the British forces under the command of General Dyer brutally open fired on a peaceful congregation of men, women, and children at this very place and left hundreds dead. The huge stone memorial at the garden is a stark reminder to the black day in India’s freedom history. Even today, you can see the bullet marks on a section of the walls of the garden and the well into which several people had jumped to death on that fateful day. Jallianwala Bagh is a must-visit place where you can go through a dark chapter in the country’s freedom struggle and pay homage to the martyrs. If you visit the place in the evening, you can watch the light and sound show that recreates the horrifying incident. 

• Location : Golden Temple Road
• Timings: 06:30 am to 07:30 pm; every day
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Jallianwala Bagh

9. Akal Takht

Akal Takht | #9 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Among the many Amritsar famous places, Akal Takht holds a timeless position.  It is a Sikh temple that represents one of the five seats of power in Sikhism. Akal Takht is considered to be as significant as the Golden Temple by the followers of the religion. The temple stands just opposite the Golden Temple and is a beauty in itself. The five-storied white structure of the Akal Takht, means the throne of the timeless one, features the Sikh style of architecture, marble inlay, and a gold-leaf dome. It is an incredibly peaceful place that attracts tourists due to its unique aura that has to be experienced in person.

• Timings: 02:30 am to 10:00 pm; every day
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Katra Ahluwalia

10. Durgiana Temple

Durgiana Temple | #10 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Located in the middle of a sacred lake, Durgiana Temple is one of the most visited religious destinations in the city of Amritsar. The temple is known by several other names, such as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Sitla Temple, and Durga Tirath. When you visit the temple, you will notice that its architecture bears a close resemblance to that of the Golden Temple. However, the temple has its own unique ambiance and definitely deserves a visit.

• Location : Hathi Gate, Goal Bagh
• Timings: 06:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Gol Bagh

11. Gobindgarh Fort, Amritsar

Gobindgarh Fort | #11 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Gobindgarh Fort that spreads across 43 acres is a landmark attraction in Amritsar. Tracing its roots to the 18 th -century, the fort has remained witness to much bloodshed that has marked the city’s history. But even today, it stands strong. Until recently, the fort was under the occupation of the army. But as of February 2017, it has been opened to the public as a live heritage museum. Among the major attractions of the fort are a coin museum, ancient warfare museum, haat bazaar , and whispering walls. A unique attraction of the place is Sher e Punjab , a 7D show developed on the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which will take you back in time to the 19 th century and leave you with an immersive experience. You can also take part in games and live dance performances and win prizes. Various food stalls around the place will ensure that you gorge upon mouth-watering delicacies during your visit to the fort . Whether you are a history buff or not, visit this fort for a thrilling experience.  

• Location : Old Cantt Road, Vijay Chowk, Inside Lohgarh Chowk
• Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee: Packages varying from ₹ 150 to ₹ 649 per head for Indians; packages varying from ₹250 to ₹1000 per head for foreigners
• Places to Stay: Hotels in 

12. Jama Masjid Khairuddin, Amritsar

Jama Masjid Khairuddin | #12 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

Jama Masjid Khairuddin, also known as Khairuddin Mosque, was built by Muhammad Khairuddin way back in 1876. It is a historic mosque that holds a significant position in the pages of India’s freedom struggle. Religious and historical importance notwithstanding, the mosque attracts a lot of visitors due to its impressive architecture and beauty. Showcasing Islamic style of architecture, the mosque features three domes and four minarets. Intricate designs adorn the walls of the mosque that lends the structure a one-of-its-kind look.

• Location : Hall Bazar, Katra Sher Singh, Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings: 07:00 am to 07:00 pm; every day

Also check couple friendly hotels in Amritsar

13. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai

Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai | #13 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

A short walk from the Golden Temple will lead you to Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, one of the finest architectural wonders of Amritsar. Unlike other Gurdwaras, this is a nine-storied octagonal tower. It was built around 200 years ago in the memory of Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth guru of the Sikhs. The edifice stands as a moving reminder of the self-sacrifice of Baba Atal Rai in the year 1628. Legend has it that he gave up his life at just nine years after restoring to life one of his close friends from death. The nine stories of the Gurudwara represent the nine years of his life. The shrine is built as per Sikh architectural style and presents an impressive sight to the visitors. If you reach the top of the Gurdwara, you can get a mesmerizing view of Amritsar from the vantage point.

• Location : Golden Temple Complex, Amritsar Cantt.
• Timings: 07:00 am to 06:00 pm; every day
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Amritsar Cantt

14. Hall Bazaar

Hall Bazaar | #14 of 14 Places to Visit in Amritsar

A trip to Amritsar can never be considered complete without a visit to Hall Bazaar, one of the iconic marketplaces of the city. A shopper’s paradise, this ancient bazaar is the hub of many things, including gadgets, trendy accessories, phulkari embroidery work, bangles, local handicrafts, traditional garments, Chinese lamps, and even essential items of daily use. But the marketplace is mainly famous for fancy and colorful jootis . The Mughal-style entry gate of the bazaar, known as Gandhi Gate, is another attraction of the place. Walking and shopping in the narrow lanes of the market that offers a sensory overdose of vibrant sights and sounds can be an experience in itself. Do not forget to collect a few souvenirs from the market as memorabilia of your Amritsar trip. Also, get a taste of the famous delicacies of the region at one of the age-old eateries in the area. 

• Location : Katra Ahluwalia
• Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

Whether you want to get a glimpse into Amritsar’s incredible past or soak in its present flavor, a visit to the city will enable you to come back with an enriching experience. So, head to the city, check into one of the hotels in Amritsar and start your blissful tourist adventures in this amazing land of heritage and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amritsar:

Q: What is there to see in Amritsar besides religious attractions?

A: Witness the Beating Retreat and Change of Guard ceremonies at Wagah Border, explore the artifacts and relics at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum and gain an insight into one of the darkest chapters in the history of India's freedom struggle at Jallianwala Bagh.

Q: What are the best things to buy from Amritsar and from where?

A: Hall Bazaar is the most iconic place to shop in Amritsar. You can buy religious items, phulkari embroidery work, juttis, local handicrafts, traditional garments and other souvenirs from here.

Q: How is the food scene in Amritsar?

A: Like any other city in Punjab, Amritsar too is a foodie's paradise. From Amritsari kulchas, chole puri, ghee roast chicken, fish tikka and mutton chaap to sweet treats like jalebi and kulfa, you will find lots to eat here. Don't miss the langar and karah prashad at the Golden Temple and the creamy lassi available on almost every street across the city.

Q: Is there an airport in Amritsar?

A: Yes. Amritsar is served by Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport, which has daily connections to Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The airport also services many flights to and from destinations in Southeast Asia, Central Asia and Middle East.

Q: Which trains get to Amritsar?

A: Shatabdi Express, Golden Temple Mail, Akal Takht Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Howrah-Amritsar Mail and Paschim Express are some of the major trains that connect Amritsar railway station to major cities in India.

Q: How to reach Amritsar by road?

A: Direct buses are available for Amritsar from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu, Katra and Dharamsala. You can also take a taxi or drive by yourself in a rental car or private vehicle from nearby destinations.

Q: How to travel from Amritsar transit hubs to the Golden Temple?

A: Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available from the railway and bus stations in Amritsar to reach the Golden Temple.

Q: Are there any hill stations near Amritsar?

A: Mcleodganj, Dharamsala, Dalhousie, Khajjiar, Jammu, Chamba and Kangra are among the most popular hill stations near Amritsar within 150 km.

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9 Incredible Places to Visit in Amritsar for First-Timers

Planning a trip and looking for the best places to visit in Amritsar? This guide features famous attractions like the Golden Temple, Wagah Border and more!

Amritsar is situated in north India in the state, Punjab. It’s right near the border with Pakistan and historically has played an important role in India’s history. That being said, there are a lot of places to visit in Amritsar that you have to see!

One of the most famous places to visit in Amritsar is the Golden Temple. You’ll also enjoy seeing the Wagah Border and the daily ceremony that is performed by both sides. There are various temples, gardens, monuments and museums to explore.

I went to Amritsar for a long weekend with another teacher I worked with during my first year of living in India. It really opened my eyes to the history of the country and what people went through. The middle school students from my school take a trip there every year to learn about the history!

This post is all about the best places to visit in Amritsar.

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Places to Visit in Amritsar

#1 partition museum.

The Partition Museum is an absolutely incredible place to learn about India’s history and independence. For a super brief history lesson, the partition happened when India gained independence from Britain and the country was divided. India and Pakistan became two separate countries which led to the displacement of millions of people and widespread violence.

The museum has artifacts and documents that showcase peoples’ experiences during the partition. It’s really shocking and tragic, but there are also stories of resilience and hope. There are a lot of personal stories featured which are very touching.

Prior to visiting the Partition Museum, I knew almost nothing about the partition in India. I really feel this is the best museum I have ever visited in all of India and the way they portray and preserve the history is something that you will never forget.

My personal suggestion is that if you only have time to see one of these places to visit in Amritsar, the Partition Museum should be your #1 choice. It’s really that memorable and impactful.

#2 The Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, is one of the most stunning sights in Amritsar. It’s an important Sikh temple covered in gold and everyone is welcome to visit. It’s probably the most famous of all places to visit in Amritsar!

The temple is surrounded by a sacred pool which is a beautiful place to sit and take in the views. It can get very busy, so it’s best to try to visit early in the morning when there’s a more calm atmosphere.

You can also eat “langar” which is a community kitchen that serves free meals to everyone. Many Sikh temples have these as tradition and it highlights the values of giving and devotion. Since the Golden Temple is one of the most popular attractions in India, there are literally tens of thousands of people who eat there each day. It’s the largest community kitchen in the world!

Another spot to see near the Golden Temple is the Akal Takht which is situated right on the water also. It’s the highest seat of Sikhs and is a central institution in Sikhism that helps govern religious affairs. It’s worth seeing if you are at the Golden Temple.

#3 Wagah Border

The Wagah Border is one of the most interesting places to visit in Amritsar! It’s the border crossing point with Pakistan and the main reason people go is to watch the daily ceremony where they lower the flags at sunset and close the border gate. It’s very theatrical and there is a huge stadium on both sides where people come to watch.

During the ceremony, soldiers march and have a drill performance. Both sides lower the flags at the same time and play patriotic chants. At the end, soldiers from both sides come face to face and they exchange salutes. 

This was one of my favorite things to see in Amritsar (well, on the outskirts)! It’s really about taking pride in the country and a gesture of camaraderie and peace between the two countries.

#4 Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial and garden in Amritsar which has a very dark history. It is where the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place during British rule. Hundreds of people had gathered at the park to peacefully protest and British officers responded by shooting at them without warning. Hundreds of people were killed and many more were injured.

It’s an interesting place to visit and pay homage to those who died there. They have preserved bullet marks on the walls and it’s a place that really makes you think about what people went through during that time. You can walk around the park and see the memorial when you’re there.

#5 Hall Bazar

Hall Bazar is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar for shopping! It’s a bustling area with tons of stalls and shops with a wide variety of things to buy. You can get traditional Punjabi handicrafts, jewelry, textiles and more. It’s also famous for the Amritsari juttis you can find there which are traditional footwear.

It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and also you’ll find a ton of good street food too! Remember when you buy anything from the market, you should expect to bargain. You will especially get ripped off if you’re a foreigner. I hate bargaining and am not very good, plus it’s hard when you don’t really know what the price would typically be. My general rule is to barter 50% of whatever they first ask and then go from there.

There is also a famous gate at the entrance of Hall Bazar which is cool to just check out. It’s a huge structure that you walk through to get into the shopping area, although there are many ways to enter as well.

#6 Durgiana Temple

Unlike the Golden Temple which is a Sikh temple, the Durgiana Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to the goddess Durga. But surprisingly the temples look kind of similar because the Durgiana Temple also has a gold covering but also has silver too.

There’s also a pool surrounding the temple. So, it’s quite beautiful and can be a quick stop or a nice place to sit for a rest while soaking in all the views. The architecture is really pretty and if you enjoy seeing different temples, it’s definitely worth checking out!

#7 Gobindgarh Fort

Gobindgarh Fort is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Punjab! It’s an old military fort from the 1700s which has been under control of various rulers. Nowadays it’s restored for tourists and it is a seriously cool place to explore.

There is a museum and a theater at the fort. They show traditional Punjabi dances and they also play a 7D movie about the history of the fort. I honestly hadn’t even heard of 7D theaters before I went and it was fun, the seats move and it’s super dynamic!

#8 Kesar Da Dhaba – or at least any good dhaba for the food!

Dhabas are kind of like road-side food stops but are super popular for people to eat. They are usually very simple and not very decorative, but the food is absolutely amazing! When I first ate at a dhaba, I became obsessed with north Indian food and ate parathas like every other day.

Kesar Da Dhaba is a really famous and old dhaba in Amritsar. It’s a bit overwhelming because it’s always packed with people. We had to wait in line and then you will likely end up sharing a table with other guests. The food is seriously incredible though and it’s a total experience!

You should order a thali which is a full meal and will come with rice, bread, and several other dishes to enjoy. It’s really filling and cheap, plus you can try a lot of different things with it.

If you don’t make it to Kesar Da Dhaba, you should at least try to visit another Dhaba. Some other famous ones include Bharawan Da Dhaba by the Golden Temple and Brothers Dhaba which is a little more fancy inside compared to typical dhabas.

#9 Khalsa College

Khalsa College is honestly BEAUTIFUL! I’m not usually one to care about seeing college campuses when I travel, but the architecture is really stunning and the campus is definitely worth exploring. 

The college was made in the late 1800s and was intended to be a premier education institution to especially promote higher learning among Sikhs and other communities in the region. It’s most famous for its architecture which has a blend of different styles and reddish domes that are eye-catching.

You can go to the college and walk around or sit and relax in the gardens. There is a lot of lush greenery all around the college and it’s not super crowded, so it’s a peaceful place to spend time.

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This post was all about the best places to visit in Amritsar.

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Visiting the Holy City of Amritsar

Amritsar is the most visited city in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab. The city is known as Holy City since it’s home to the Golden Temple religious complex (one of the most visited places in the world).

It’s the most important city in Punjab, and also the center of Sikhism. The Punjab region of India tells tales of various Sikh warriors, and one can feel their presence in every part of it.

Did you know India’s tallest victory tower is located in Punjab itself? That’s just the beginning. You need about three days in Amritsar (a minimum of two) to experience the fascinating Punjabi culture and history . Let’s dive into a full travel guide to visiting Amritsar, India —when to go, how to get there, and all of the best things to do and places to visit .

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit Around Amritsar

The world famous golden temple.

The Golden Temple of Amritsar is also known as Harmandir Sahib and Darbar Sahib . It holds religious importance as the eternal Guru of Sikhs is located inside the temple . It is called Golden temple in English because it is plated with gold. Initially, the temple was made of marble, it was only later that the entire temple was plated in real gold. The beautiful marble throughout the complex, along with a perfect blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles make the ambiance of the Golden temple very elegant and mesmerizing. This place is not only a prominent pilgrimage site of Sikhism but also a symbol of brotherhood and equality.

Dos & Don’ts Inside Golden Temple

• Cameras are allowed but you cannot take photographs everywhere. Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum sanatorium.
• You can wear any clothes but covering your head is compulsory is to cover your head. If you forget to bring a head covering, you need not worry as they are also provided right at the entrance.
• You can carry your mobile phone, wallet, etc. Though there is also a cloakroom if you wish to deposit your baggage.
• You must leave your footwear at the entrance to the temple.

Central Sikh Museum

The central Sikh museum is dedicated to Sikh gurus, saints, warriors, and other Sikh leaders. This place holds rare paintings, old coins, ancient manuscripts, old arms, cannons, and guns. The museum also exhibits portraits of Sikh martyrs, political personalities, and some handwritten holy books. 

Location: Inside the Golden Temple.

Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai Ji

There are many Gurudwaras in Amritsar city to visit. These are only the must-visit places in the city. Apart from the Golden Temple, Gurudwara Atal Rai Ji is also a Sikh temple worthy of exploring. This nine-story memorial was built between 1778 and 1784 in memory of Baba Atal Rai. Baba Atal had given up his body in the ninth year, which inspired the construction of nine storied Gurudwara . It offers panoramic views of the whole Amritsar city from the top.

Location : At the backside of the Golden Temple.

Heritage Walk

Amritsar is rich in architecture and full of history, all laid out among the old, narrow city streets. One can explore the traditional heritage of old Amritsar on a slow-paced, interactive heritage walk. This is a beautiful place that gives you a chance to know Punjabi culture through sculptures. There is also a good market area to buy almost anything as a souvenir. With many eateries and local street food available in the area, you can truly immerse in Punjabi culture.

Recommended: Spiritual and Cultural walk of Amritsar

Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar. It’s a public garden that houses a memorial of national importance. On April 13, 1919, British troops massacred unarmed Indians who supported Indian self-government. Around 1,000 people lost their lives, and hundreds of people were injured. This is an important memorial to an important event in Indian history.

Durgiana Temple

The Hindu Temple is also known as Durga Tirath and Sita Mandir is an ancient temple located in Amritsar. This Hindu shrine was built in the architectural style of the famous Sikh Golden Temple and thus complements a visit to the more famous temple.

Mata Lal Ji Temple Caves

This Hindu Temple holds a great attraction in the form of a cave designated as Gufa Vaishno Devi Ji and dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi. Thousands of people visit it daily irrespective of religion, color, and creed. It is open from 5am to 11pm. 

Gobindgarh Fort

The Gobindgarh Fort is a unique live museum located in the center of the city Amritsar. It was earlier occupied by the Indian army, but since February 2017 it has been open to the public. This fort is dedicated to the life of Sikh warriors and was named after the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh .   

Attractions in Gobindgarh Fort:

• A 7D show titled “ Sher-e-Punjab ” is not to be missed and takes place within the fort.
• The Ancient Warfare Museum has several replicas of instruments and attires of warfare.
• Discover the spirit of Punjabi culture with several live performances of Bhangra, Gidda , etc, which keep the fort stage alive all day long.
• Amritsari cuisines is on display in the various eateries, providing Punjabi food as well as other tasty options.
• Haat Bazaar provides antique handmade products, including clothes and other accessories.
• The Coin Museum features old and rare coins, including a replica of Kohinoor diamond, which was worn by the Maharaja and is displayed in the coin museum.
• Enjoy the Whispering Walls laser light show, which uses art projection mapping technologies and laser lights each evening after sunset. It’s shown in two languages, Punjabi and English.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

This museum is dedicated to Sikh Empire founder Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It was he who played a decisive role in Indian history and called a lion of Punjab ( Sher-e-Punjab ). The museum displays the Sikh royal heritage through paintings, armors, and other historical objects.

Partition Museum

The museum is a central repository of stories, documents, and materials related to post-partition riots following the division of British India into two independent countries: India and Pakistan. This is the first-ever museum that focuses on the stories, pain, and trauma of those millions of people who suffered the agony of partition in 1947.

Best Things to Do in Amritsar

Experience the community kitchen food.

Try the free meal, known as Langar in Sikhism, from the community kitchen in Gurudwara (Sikh temple). This meal is served in Gurudwaras every day without distinction of caste, religion, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. The meals provided in langar are vegetarian, consists of roti (bread), rice, daal (lentils), vegetable dish, and kheer (dessert). 

Fact: The Golden Temple langar feeds 1,00,000 people every day for free.

Accept the Karah Parshad of Gurudwaras

Karah parshad is sweet, flour-based vegetarian food offered to all Gurudwara visitors as a blessing. This is regarded as a blessed food and should not be refused.

Immerse in Flavorful Local Foods

If you get a chance to visit Amritsar then your visit is not complete without tasting the best food in the city. A must-try dish is Amritsari kulcha, a dish made of maida bread filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes, paneer , and special masalas; it’s baked in a tandoor and served with butter or ghee.

Go Shopping at Hall Bazaar

Hall bazaar is the busiest market in Amritsar. If you’re interested in some sort of Punjabi culture and traditional attire then you must visit this market. For famous Punjabi Fulkari and Punjabi suits, visit Katra Jaimal Singh market in Hall Bazaar. 

Things to Buy : Spices, Punjabi suits (men & women), Punjabi jutti (footwear)

Watch a Beating Retreat Ceremony at Wagah Border

The Wagah border is a post between India and Pakistan, which is famous for its beating retreat ceremony every evening. The border is located 20 km from Amritsar and the ceremony starts before sunset and lasts for 45 minutes.

Timings : 4:15 pm in winters, 4:45 pm in summers.

Things to Know Before You Go:   

• Reach the border one hour before the ceremony as there are always huge crowds.
• Seats are jam-packed on public holidays and weekends.
• There is no entry fee.
• It is easily accessible by road by either bus or car, or on a tour.

Recommended: Private Full-Day Amritsar Tour with Beating Retreat Ceremony

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Amritsar is from November to March (winter season). This is the most pleasant time to explore the city in terms of weather. However, sometimes during the peak winter month of January, the temperatures drop to almost 0 ºC (32 ºF), which is a bit colder than some might anticipate.

Even so, summers in India are too hot to enjoy sightseeing, so don’t plan your visit in the scorching heat of summer (June), which is followed by a long monsoon season (July to October).

How to Get There

An international airport is located 11 km from the city center. It’s well connected to other cities in India, and also international cities. There are daily flights to and from Dubai, London, Toronto , and Tashkent.

The Amritsar railway station is well connected to all the major cities in India. One can reach it by train from New Delhi to Amritsar in approximately six hours—this is the best option for most visitors traveling to Amritsar.

Many bus services connect Amritsar and various other cities in India, which you will need to use if you cannot connect through New Delhi on the train.

Where to stay

Booking.com is the best option for finding great hotels in Amritsar for your stay.

The best areas to stay near—these are the best locations for convenience to the top sites and transportation—include the Golden Temple area, the Mall of Amritsar , Railway Junction , and the Amritsar Bus Stand .

Amritsar is a city full of unique flavors—this place never disappoints any visitor. From history lovers and devotees to foodies, culture buffs, and shopaholics, Amritsar is a place welcoming for everyone.

And if one gets a chance to visit India during “festival of lights” known as Diwali , Amritsar is the best place to experience the festival fervor since the Golden Temple is a surreal place to visit on Diwali eve.

By Supriya Bhardwaj

Traxplorers are family travelers & explorers who travel with their kid and love to explore new places, cultures, historical sites. They are adventure seekers and always keen to explore off the beaten paths. They are the adventure planners in India and their blog offers a wide variety of adventure travel stories straight from their first-hand experiences. Do follow their travels at Instagram and Facebook .

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Five best places to visit in Amritsar

Table of Contents

5 Best places to visit in Amritsar include the Golden Temple, Partition Museum, and the Wagah Border ceremony

Amritsar is a big, busy city in Punjab, near the border of Pakistan. There are many places to visit in Amritsar, owing to its location and history, such as the Harmandir Sahib – Golden Temple – and the Partition Museum. Amritsar has often found itself at the front lines of history because of its location in the country’s north-west – including during the birth of the nation. I visited for three days in March 2017.

On August 15, 1947, history was made when India was declared an independent, sovereign nation – after more than 200 years of British rule and occupation. The Indian flag was hoisted above the Red Fort in Delhi, and independent India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, gave his famous “tryst with destiny” speech.

Two days later, on August 17, 1947, the Partition of India was announced. A British lawyer, Cyril Radcliffe – who had little knowledge of India and used out-of-date maps and census materials – was tasked with drawing a line through Punjab, the gloriously fertile “land of five rivers” in north-west India, and Bengal, in east India.

Chaos erupted as the Partition announcement launched the largest mass migration in human history. Approximately 14 million people were displaced as Hindus streamed from the newly created Pakistan into India; and Muslims streamed from independent India into Pakistan. About one million people died in violent clashes during the mass migration.

Read more about Punjab in Offbeat and Undiscovered Punjab .

1. Places to visit in Amritsar: The Partition Museum

The photos from this time are iconic. Mohandas K. “Mahatma” Gandhi at his spinning wheel in 1946, taken by Margaret Bourke-White for Life magazine. India’s last Viceroy, Lord Louis Mountbatten, standing on the steps of Viceroy House in New Delhi during the Partition Talks. Prime Minister Nehru giving his speech on the ramparts of Red Fort. And, heart-breakingly, images of some of the displaced millions, carrying their meager possessions, crammed into over-stuffed trains, walking long miles on foot, or balanced on bullock carts, as they fled. And gruesome images of the dead lying the side of the road. Trains pulling into stations filled with slaughtered and mutilated corpses. Ad hoc refugee camps in Delhi.

I have long been fascinated by the independence of India movement, and the Partition. This period in Indian history, the mid-20 th century, is one of the most dramatic and world-shaking. The ripples of are still felt to this day. So, I was really excited about finally visiting Amritsar, to see the brand-new Partition Museum, and the many other historic and spiritual places in this fascinating city.

The world’s first Partition Museum  was still under construction when I was there in March 2017. It’s official opening was on August 17, 2017 – exactly 70 years to the day when Partition was announced. Housed in the historic Town Hall, in the centre of Amritsar, it contains exhibits, photos, memorabilia, and creative work that acknowledges the sacrifices, hardships, and triumphs of this historic event. Though a small museum, I still found it to be big in ideas and impact.

Exhibits trace the history of Partition, and provide context and historical background for those who are unfamiliar with modern Indian history. Memorabilia and oral histories bring the events to life and give them a human dimension. A phulkari (Punjabi shawl) and briefcase, for example, were two of the few possessions a young couple carried with them when they fled their homes. Their story is written next to the display – each lost family members to the massacres, and they lost each other, too, before they were miraculously reunited in a refugee camp. Read more about the Partition of India in Remembering Partition,  Unknown and unsung heroes of Partition and  The hidden story of Partition .

2. Places to visit in Amritsar: The Golden Temple

When it comes to places to visit in Amritsar, number one is Harmandir Sahib. Also known as the Golden Temple, this Gurdwara is at the centre of the Sikh religion – and the centre of the city. A large percentage of people in Amritsar (and Punjab) are Sikh, and of course many more are drawn to the city to visit this astounding place. I had long wanted to go, and was not disappointed when I finally visited. It lived up to all my expectations and more.

I took the overnight train from Delhi, and arrived in Amritsar late in the morning of my birthday, March 8. The Taj Swarna Hotel, which had just opened, sent staff to pick me up at the station. For the next three days, this new luxury hotel in Amritsar treated me to a huge suite, warm and hospitable service, excellent food, and some wonderful opportunities to tour and get to know the city. After checking in and having a quick lunch – I was quick to order famous Amritsari fish when I saw it on the menu at the Taj Swarna – the hotel staff drove me to the Golden Temple and gave me a personal tour that lasted the entire afternoon and into the evening.

I immediately loved the atmosphere, which managed to remain serene and peaceful, even though it buzzed with activity as volunteers cleaned, ushered visitors, and of course cooked and distributed massive amounts of food in a practice known as langar. This is the term for the free vegetarian meal that is served at Gurdwaras to all who visit – without distinction of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. At langar, all people eat sitting together on the ground, as equals.

The kitchens at the Harmandir Sahib serve more than 50,000 meals per day. At different times when I was there, I helped distribute rotis, drank milky sweet chai, and sat and ate the langar on the floor, in a long row of people from all religions, all walks of life, all ages. It was an uplifting experience that brought home the message of Sikhism, and of spirituality: we are all brothers and sisters, all part of one family.

I was so impressed with the Harmandir Sahib for both pastoral and spiritual reasons. I truly felt a deeply peaceful, spiritual atmosphere and never wanted to leave. I can understand why some people sleep there. It’s opened 24 hours per day, and the amplified prayers, which are for the well-being of the entire human race, ring out for about 20 hours per day, adding to the soothing vibe.

The Harmandir Sahib is also a very beautiful place, harmoniously designed, spotlessly clean, and dazzling with the picturesque gold-covered Golden Temple in the centre of the Amrit Sarovar , which means “the pond of the nectar of immortality.” The discovery and excavation of this sacred tank of water dates back to the 16 th century, and marks the founding of both the Harmandir Sahib and the city of Amritsar itself. Indeed, the name comes from the “Amrit” that flows in the Amrit Sarovar.

The dedication of the army of volunteers is another focus of my admiration. Not only do volunteers cook, serve, and clean up after more than 50,000 free meals per day, they also donate all the food used in the preparation. To serve is a very important tenet of the Sikh faith. And so is equality.

Anyone who visits the Harmandir Sahib can pick up a packet of free booklets that explain the Sikh faith. I’ve been reading the books, and the more I learn, the more my admiration for this religion grows. It was originally created to unite Muslims and Hindus, to transcend casteism, and to build a peaceful world community. Moral conduct, service to the community, social equality, and hard work are some of the other important aspects of Sikhism. I highly recommend picking up these books.

3. Places to visit in Amritsar: Jallianwala Bagh

Recently, a beautification project in the area around the Golden Temple has made it a very pleasant place to walk and shop. I never saw it before, but now there is a wide, vehicle-free boulevard that retains the historical character of the place, and is dotted with impressive statues, dust bins, and a few benches. At one end is the Town Hall and the Partition Museum, at the other end is the Golden Temple. In between, among the shops and food stalls, is the entrance to Jallianwala Bagh .

On April 13, 1919, British Brigadier General Reginald Dyer’s troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering within the confined space of Jallianwala Bagh and killed hundreds of civilians. It was one of the blackest days in the history of British India. There was nowhere for anyone to escape. Many jumped in a well and died.

There is some controversy about how many people died that day. Colonial records state that about 400 men, women and children died, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000.

I’ve long been haunted by this horrible event, the Amritsar Massacre, and was nervous about visiting the site. I was able to remain calm until I came to the well, which is now covered and called Martyr’s Well. I looked inside and the tears welled up. The tragedy of that terrible day seemed to be concentrated in that dark hole, and the horror and sadness filled me with feelings of grief.

Jallianwala Bagh is now beautifully kept, and honours the memory of the people who lost their lives that day with statues, plaques, artwork and other memorials. At least this incident helped propel India towards independence. And it is not forgotten.

You can more here about the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre on the Britannica website.

4. Places to visit in Amritsar: The old market

I was eventually able to enjoy the lively and vibrant atmosphere of central Amritsar. Together with my guide, we dove in and explored the narrow, ancient laneways of the old city – where the atmosphere is palpable with history and culture … and the smells of Amritsar’s famous foods make you instantly hungry. Amritsar is the acknowledged culinary capital of Punjab, and that’s saying a lot as I think the food I ate while in Punjab was just about the best I’ve had in my life.

As we walked those streets, my guide and I stopped at several places to try Amritsar’s famous thick lassi, stuffed kulcha with chole (also known as chana masala), and gulab jamun. I have eaten gulab jamun all over India, but I have never tasted one as good as the one I had from a tiny, hole-in-the-wall sweet shop that looks like it’s been there a hundred years. Later, I went to Makhan Fish Corner for more Amritsari fish, which is naturally gluten-free and melt-in-the-mouth delicious. I wrote about the food of Amritsar in this post Mustard Fields Forever .

Note to my readers: I am actually a Celiac and have to eat a gluten-free diet. I made an exception in Amritsar to try kulcha and the gulab jamun. I felt unwell for about a day, but it was worth it.

5. Places to visit in Amritsar: The Wagah Border Ceremony

This is actually a place to visit NEAR Amritsar! I never went to see the border ceremony at Wagah. However, Ellie Cleary from Soul Travel Blog  wrote this account from her recent visit:

“Flags and hats with India’s colours were being sold along the admission queue, on the Indian side of the border with Pakistan, where hundreds were waiting for entry to the ceremony. Once inside the stadium, building work to add more seating capacity was visible on both sides of the border. A sign of growing tourist numbers, or a bid to outdo one another? Loudspeakers on either side also bid to outdo one another. While the Indians may have won the numbers game, the Pakistanis definitely had the better music.

The flag bearers ran in and a deafening cheer rose up from the crowds on both sides. Thirty minutes later, we heard a final whistle, and saw high marching, and a blink-and-you’d-miss-it handshake between officers. The gates between India and Pakistan clanged shut once again. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d come to a long-anticipated cricket or football match.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of this experience is that the ceremony takes place at all. Seventy years on from the tragic events of Partition in India, relations between India and Pakistan are arguably as tense as ever. That the line drawn down Punjab in August 1947 resulted in the largest migration crisis in human history is a fact still omitted from too many history books. Knowing that more than 14 million people fled or left their homes when Partition was announced, and seeing that line, makes the border experience even more real. Through the separating trees comes the harsh reminder that Punjab was once happily one. The faces looking at each other from either side of the gate are remarkably similar.

Just 35 kilometres from Amritsar, the famous spectacle of the Wagah border ceremony draws in hundreds every day and is popular with Indian tourists and foreigners alike. You can get a shared pickup or rickshaw from outside the Golden Temple, or for greater comfort and much less waiting around, organize a private taxi.

Thanks to the Taj Swarna Hotel

Thanks to the Taj Swarna Hotel  for hosting me in Amritsar. Newly opened when I stayed there, the Taj Swarna is one of the only luxury hotels in Amritsar. It’s fresh, elegant, and modern … and the history, culture, and design of Amritsar is tastefully incorporated into the decor. I ate classic local dishes such as Amritsari Fish in the Grand Trunk restaurant and my spacious suite was decorated with artful photographs of the historic city. I also tried out the spa, and had an excellent massage, and had a session with a personal trainer in the gym. Away from the centre of Amritsar, the Taj Swarna is a destination hotel, and has a lot to offer.

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About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Amritsar Trip Guide 2023: Best Time to Visit, Where to Stay in Amritsar & More

Are you planning an Amritsar trip soon? If yes, then here is everything you need to know.

Amritsar is a popular city to visit in North India and makes for a good weekend trip from Delhi. If you love food, the Amritsari kulcha, Amritsari Fish, and Amritsari Murg Makhani are some of the best foods to try in Amritsar.

There are also a lot of places to visit in Amritsar such as the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Khairuddin Mosque, Wagah Border, and more.

Wondering how to plan your Amritsar trip? Then, check out our guide. In this article, we will be covering all the major things such as the best time to visit Amritsar, where to stay, how to travel in Amritsar, and more.

Amritsar Trip Guide

Best time to go to amritsar.

First and foremost, when should you visit Amritsar? Well, it depends on a lot of factors and mainly on what are you planning to do here. Here is a brief breakdown of what you can expect in Amritsar in different seasons.

Summer Season (April – June)

Frankly, summer is one of the worst times to visit Amritsar as the temperatures can rise as high as 49 degrees Celsius. You will be sweating the entire time you are exploring the city which can seriously damper your trip experience.

However, if you do end up visiting Amritsar in the summer season, you will get really good flights and hotel rates. As this is the off-season, there are fewer tourists as well in the city.

You can plan your tours early morning or evening to escape the heat and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Winter Season (October to March)

Although you can visit Amritsar throughout the year, the best time to visit Amritsar is between the months of October and March.

Amritsar temperature in the winter is cool and pleasant for a few months except December and January when it can get extremely cold. Somedays it can be as low as 1 degree Celsius as well, especially during nightfall.

So, if the cold bothers you, then you can plan your visit in the months of October, November, February, and March. However, do plan your trip ahead as this is a popular time for visiting Amritsar so most hotels and hostels can be sold out.

Monsoon Season (July – September)

Another great time to visit Amritsar is the monsoon months of July to September. The monsoon brings heavy rainfall to Amritsar so, if you don’t like rain then this might not be the best time to visit.

That being said, rain also means that the city is fresh and lush green, making it a sight to behold.

How to Travel in Amritsar

You won’t find buses as such in the city, especially to travel between the railway station and the Golden Temple. There is only sightseeing buses available and hop-on-hop-off bus for Wagah Border.

Autorickshaws

One of the best and most budget-friendly ways to travel from one place to another in Amritsar is an autorickshaw. Make sure to bargain properly but you don’t have to worry too much.

An autorickshaw from the railway station to the Golden Temple won’t cost you more than 40-50 INR.

Cabs and Taxis

Of course, if money is not an issue and you are looking for convenience over budget, then cabs and taxis are the best way to travel in Amritsar. You can easily take a cab for around 2000 – 3000 INR to explore the attractions in Amritsar.

Rental Scooty

If you wish to travel to far-off places in Amritsar, then you should rent a scooty for 500 INR per day. This way, you can not only travel to attractions in the city but also places like Wagah Border and more.

One of the best ways to explore Amritsar is definitely on a bicycle, trust me I have tried it. The city is small enough that you can travel to most attractions by cycling and make the most of your time here.

Plus, you can easily rent cycles for 150 – 300 INR per day from most places. Or you could even join an Amritsar cycling tour and learn more about the heritage sites in the city.

Famous Food in Amritsar That You Must Try

If you are a foodie, here are a few top dishes that you should try in Amritsar.

Langar Ka Prasad

Well, one thing that you annot miss out on is Golden Temple’s Langar ka Prasad. You will find the most amazing food and prasad here to tickle your taste buds.

At the langar, you will enjoy roti, dal, and sabji for free. It is served by volunteers and is offered to all visitors, regardless of their age, caste, gender, or religion.

Amritsari Kulcha

Of course, when you are visiting this city, you have to try the most famous food in Amritsar – Amritsari Kulcha.

This is the perfect breakfast dish and can be found in most restaurants in Amritsar. Filled with potato or paneer, the kulchas are served with a side of chole and spicy chutney.

One of the most famous places for kulchas is Kulcha Land which has been operational since the partition of India and Pakistan.

Gur Ka Halwa

One thing that I absolutely loved in Amritsar was Gur ka Halwa. It is an Amritsar specialty and quite different from the regular halwas that you eat.

You generally don’t find it in other cities in India which is why if you love halwas, then you should try this. Gur ka Halwa might sound like it is extremely sweet but that’s not the case, it has the exact amount of sweetness and tastes amazing!

Sarso da Saag and Makki di Roti

The best thing to try in Amritsar in winter, Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti is a must-try. Made from fresh mustard leaves, the smooth and ghee-soaked saag is served with corn-flavored rotis. You can find this also at most of the dhabas in Amritsar.

Lassi and Chhaas

Another great drink that you must try in Amritsar is Lassi and Chhaas. Of course, you can get it at a lot of places around the city but the best one has to be in Ahuja.

The lassi is really creamy and rich in texture and served with a dollop of butter. Make sure you try this when you are visiting the city.

Although you can find chaat, Tikki, gol gappe, and more in most parts of India, they taste different in each state.

The same can be said for Amritsar as well. You can find different kinds of tikkis here such as moong dal tikki, paneer tikki, aloo tikki, and more.

Tandoori Chicken

Beera Chicken House at Majitha Road is one of the best places to eat tandoori chicken in the city.

At this place, they take a whole chicken and marinate it using spices then roast it to perfection. They used the same recipe since 1972 which is why it is quite popular all around India.

Amritsari Fish

Another amazing food in Amritsar that is a must-try is the Amritsari Fish, especially the fish tikkas.

These fish tikkas are perfectly spiced with the right amount of masala and just melt in your mouth. You should also eat the fish fry at the Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner in Amritsar.

You would have had Kulfi many times before but Kulfas is a bigger and better version of it found in Amritsar.

Prepared with a layer of phirni and scoops of falooda and kulfi, some edible gum, and a dash of syrup and rose water, Kulfas are completely delicious.

Where you can get this? You can get it at A-One Kulfa in Crystal Chowk for 50 – 100 INR.

Jalebi and Gulab Jamun

Another great place to eat in Amritsar is Gurdas Ram Jalebi Wala where you can get the best jalebis and gulab jamuns that you would have ever tasted.

Where to Stay in Amritsar

Now, let’s come to the next important thing when planning a vacation to Amritsar. Where can you stay in Amritsar? There are a lot of options that we will be covering below.

Hotels and Resorts

There are a lot of high-end hotels and resorts available in Amritsar that you can book for your stay. But if you are visiting Amritsar for a short duration, then choose a stay close to the city center so that you don’t have to travel far to explore the city.

A lot of these 4-star and 5-star hotels are located on the city outskirts so, it can become a little difficult to commute. This is especially true if you don’t know how to ride a scooter or drive a car as you will always need to book a cab to get to the city center.

You can easily get a hotel for anywhere between 800 INR and 5000 INR .

A few hotels that you should check out here are Country Inn, Hotel Shiraz Continental, Hotel Avista Lifestyle, Hotel Amritsar International, and so on.

If you are traveling solo or on a budget, then, of course, you might be looking to stay in a hostel in Amritsar. Thankfully, the city has a few hostel options now that you can choose from.

Depending on when you visit, you can easily find a hostel in Amritsar for anywhere between 250 INR and 800 INR .

A few popular hostels to try here are WOW Backpackers Hostel, Madpackers Amritsar, Blue Eye Backpackers, Nutz Backpackers, goSTOPs, and more.

For those traveling to Amritsar with family or friends, an Airbnb is the best option for staying in Amritsar. You can find everything from an apartment to a villa and can spend some quality time with your loved ones.

There are both affordable and luxury options available in Amritsar. So, you can easily find a stay for as low as 500 – 1000 INR per night for 1 person or as high as 2500 – 4000 INR per night for 1 person.

Stay for Free at Golden Temple

Last, but not least, if you are traveling on a shoestring budget and want to experience staying in a gurudwara, then you can stay at the Golden Temple. For FREE!

Yes, that’s correct. You can use the dormitory accommodation called ‘Guru Arjan Nev Diwas’ here. It is a simple accommodation that provides you with a bed and a shared bathroom.

Tourists can use this facility for free for 3 days.

ATMs in Amritsar

You will find all the major bank ATMs in Amritsar including the State Bank of India, HDFC, Axis Bank, and more.

So, you don’t have to worry about withdrawing cash when visiting the city. In the present year, lots of hotels, restaurants, and shops have started accepting Google Pay as well. But it is always a better idea to carry cash in an unknown city.

Network Connectivity in Amritsar

In terms of mobile network connectivity, Airtel works the best in Amritsar. You will get both 4G and 4G+ connections here.

Jio and BSNL also have a decent connection but they are not as good as Airtel. If you wish to work here or need Internet while traveling in Amritsar, then carry an Airtel SIM with you.

Amritsar is a lovely city to visit and brings a sense of peace and calmness that no other city does. You can spend some time at the Golden Temple, taking in the positive vibes and eating the delicious langar served here. If you are looking for a spiritual awakening, then volunteering at the temple is a great idea too.

Apart from the Golden Temple, there is a lot to do and explore in Amritsar. Whether you wish to learn about the history of India’s partition or want to try the famous Amritsari Kulcha, you have to plan a trip here.

I hope this guide helps you plan a perfect and budget-friendly trip to Amritsar soon.

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