Is Amritsar safe to visit now? That’s one of the most common questions travelers are asking after the recent rise in India-Pakistan tensions during early May 2025. Amritsar, home to the world-famous Golden Temple, sits close to the international border, raising valid concerns about safety and travel plans.
This post provides the most up-to-date Amritsar travel safety advisory as of May 26, 2025. Whether you’re a pilgrim, an international tourist, or an NRI planning to visit family, here’s what you need to know now.
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Latest Updates – As of May 26, 2025
- Ceasefire Agreement in Place: Since May 14, both India and Pakistan have upheld a diplomatic ceasefire.
- Airport Open: Amritsar’s Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport resumed operations on May 22.
- No New Alerts: No missile or drone activity has been reported since May 15.
- Government Clearance: Punjab Government declared Amritsar “safe for travel” in a press statement dated May 24.
With security forces maintaining high vigilance and life returning to normal, tourists can now resume plans to visit Amritsar with precautions.
On-Ground Safety in Amritsar
Amritsar city is calm and operating smoothly. Markets, public transportation, hotels, and temples are open. While security presence remains high, it’s a preventive measure — not a sign of risk within the city itself.
Visitors should avoid the 10 km zone near the Pakistan border. However, everything from shopping at Hall Bazaar to spiritual visits at Golden Temple is now back to normal.
Golden Temple Travel Update
The Golden Temple is open for devotees, operating on its usual schedule. Entry protocols include:
- Light security checks at all gates
- Bag restrictions
- Foot sanitization and water dispensers available
- Free langar (community kitchen) service running 24/7
Crowd flow is normal, and no disturbances have been reported. Early mornings are the most peaceful time for darshan.
Amritsar Airport & Transport
Flights have resumed at the Amritsar International Airport as of May 22. Check with your airline for updated routes or layover changes.
Train services, including Shatabdi and Express routes from Delhi and Chandigarh, are operating. Bus stations and taxi services (including Uber/Ola) are available throughout the city.
International Travel Advisories (Updated)
- UK: Avoid 10 km border zone, Amritsar city safe.
- US: Level 3 advisory near border only.
- Canada: Same — Amritsar not flagged, but avoid rural Punjab near border.
- Australia/Germany: Standard travel alerts, no red flags for Amritsar.
Travelers should register with their embassy upon arrival for security updates and assistance if needed.
Is It Safe to Visit Amritsar Now?
Yes — Amritsar is considered safe to visit now, provided travelers follow government guidelines and avoid restricted areas. The city has resumed religious tourism, business travel, and cultural activities.
Whether you’re visiting for the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, or to explore Punjab’s heritage — now is a reasonable time to travel again.
Wagah Border Ceremony Update
Acc. to The Economic Times, The famous Wagah Border Ceremony is now open again for visitors. It was paused for a short time after the sad terror attack in Pahalgam earlier this month. The ceremony has now restarted, but with a few changes. For example, the usual handshake between Indian BSF soldiers and Pakistan Rangers has been removed for safety reasons. Security has also been increased, and seating is more organized. If you plan to visit, try to reach early and don’t forget to carry a valid ID, as the number of people allowed in is being managed carefully.
Safety Tips for Tourists
- Avoid border-adjacent areas (e.g., Attari, Wagah)
- Use apps like NDTV, TOI, or InShorts for alerts
- Book hotels in central Amritsar
- Keep embassy numbers and ID ready
- Travel in groups where possible
Final Thoughts
Amritsar has faced tense moments in May 2025, but the city’s spirit remains unbroken. With the return of peace and the temple bells ringing again, Amritsar welcomes you — just stay alert and informed.
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- Top 5 food places of Amritsar: Read More
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FAQs
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Is Amritsar safe to travel to in late May 2025?
Yes, current government advisories and on-ground updates confirm it is safe within city limits.
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Is the Golden Temple open now?
Yes, the Golden Temple is fully open and operational.
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Are flights operating from Amritsar?
Yes, flights resumed on May 22, 2025.
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Is the Wagah Border ceremony open to the public?
Yes, the Wagah Border Ceremony has also reopened to the public. Following a brief suspension after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, the beating retreat ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border has resumed with certain restrictions — notably, the traditional handshake between BSF personnel and Pakistan Rangers has been suspended.
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Should I cancel my June 2025 trip to Amritsar?
No need to cancel — monitor updates, but current conditions support safe travel.