Discovering the Heart of Punjab: A Complete Amritsar Tour Guide

Introduction

Amritsar – a city packed with historical stories, spirituality, and Punjabi vibes. It’s the second-biggest city in Punjab, attracting thousands of tourists every day. Every street and building has a story to tell. It’s not just a city; It’s a place where you can walk through time and experience the beauty of traditions. Let’s take a journey through Amritsar, discovering its special places, culinary delights, local markets, and hidden gems.

Historical Significance

Amritsar is a special city with deep-rooted historical importance, especially in Sikhism. In 1577, the 4th Sikh guru, Sri Guru Ramdas Ji, established Amritsar. Before the city was founded, the area was covered with thick forests and had several lakes. There are two stories exist Regarding the land Guru Ram Das ji acquired for the site:

1. Based on a Gazetteer record; the land of Amritsar was purchased with sikh donations of 700 Rupees from the residents of the neighboring villages Gumtala and Tung during the time of Guru Amar Dass ji (1479-1574) 
2. According to some other sources, This land was a gift from the Mughal Emperor Akbar to Guru Amar Das’s daughter Bibi Bhani Ji. Later, Bibi Bhani ji married to Guru Ram Das Ji.

After founding the city, Guru Ramdas Ji, with the help of Baba Budda Ji (not related to the Buddha of Buddhism), started digging the sacred tank called Amrit-Sarovar. This tank is what gave the city its name, “Amritsar,” meaning Pool of Nectar. The city was then expanded further by his son and the 5th Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

A really important place in Amritsar is the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, built in the 15th century. It’s like the heart of Sikhism, where they keep their holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This place isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of equality and devotion.

A long time ago, Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism, and as the years passed, Amritsar became part of many massacres like the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy in 1919, the Amritsar Massacre of April 13, 1978, and the Operation Blue Star in 1984 are some of these sad events where innocent people were hurt. These are parts of the city’s history that still make people feel sad.

Besides these events, many historical happenings and wars took place in Amritsar from the 16th to the 19th century. You can explore more in this article.

So, when you explore Amritsar, you’re not just seeing a city; you’re stepping into stories of faith, history, and crucial moments for Sikh people. The city has seen both happy and tough times and holds memories of all these events.

What Amritsar is famous for

Amritsar is the second-largest city in Punjab after Ludhiana. It’s not just a city; it is a thriving tourist destination that welcomes 100,000 visitors every single day. Because of the Holy Golden Temple, the most renowned Gurdwara for Sikhs, it holds the honor of being the holiest city for Sikhs.

In Sikhism, the Golden Temple is the most important place of worship. The dome of this spiritual heaven is covered with pure gold. Precious marble and copper mixtures were used to build the walls of the Golden Temple, which were then finished with beautiful hand-painted and embroidery patterns by well-known artists.

Besides the Golden Temple, Amritsar is well known for its delicious kulchas, of which the aloo wala kulcha is the most popular. Beyond the delicious food, Amritsar is also famous for its traditional clothes/footwear for women like Punjabi jutis or Punjabi suits. 

Best time to visit Amritsar

The best time to visit and explore Amritsar is from October to March because the weather is nice and not too hot or too cold. During these months, it’s easier to go sightseeing and do outdoor activities. The temperatures are around 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). However, it’s important to note that weather conditions can vary from year to year. In the past, it could be colder, but these days, it’s a bit warmer during the daytime in winter.

Many people visit during this time, so it’s busy with tourists. You can see famous places like the Golden Temple, Jalliawala Bagh, Gobindgarh Fort, Wagah Border, and many more streets without it being too hot.

If you go in December or January, it can be quite cold, so bring warm clothes.

It’s not a good plan to visit from July to September because that’s the monsoon season. During these months, there can be a lot of heavy rains, which might cause issues for traveling and doing outdoor activities. However, it’s worth noting that the weather can change from year to year. In previous years, some seasons might have had more rain, but this year, in 2023, it seems there will be less rain.
So, make sure to check the weather updates for Amritsar for the next 10 days, which you can access from here: accuweather.com

How to Reach

Amritsar is a District of Punjab, India which is situated just 28 km (17.4 mi) away from the border of the India-Pakistan, 47 km (29 mi) north-east of Lahore, Pakistan, 217 km (135 mi) north-west of Chandigarh, and 455 km (283 mi) north-west of New Delhi. This is the northern side of Punjab and the northwestern side of India. To reach Amritsar we have many options available, and here’s a simple guide to help you reach Amritsar hassle-free.

By Air

If you’re coming from a distant place, flying is probably the best way to get to Amritsar, whether you’re traveling from within India or internationally. Amritsar has an airport called Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport. You can take a direct flight or make a connection through major cities. To Book Flights you can go with official website aai.aero or can book from other sites. Once you arrive, the airport is just a short ride away from the city center. The distance from the Amritsar airport to the Golden Temple is approximately 12.9 km, and it takes about 30 minutes to cover this distance via the fastest route, which includes Airport Rd and Ajnala Rd/Court Rd. You can find the route on Google Maps by clicking here (Click Here)

To reach the Golden Temple from Amritsar Airport, you have several options. The fastest and easiest way is to book a cab online, which will cost you around ₹110 to ₹140 and take about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Amritsar Airport to the Golden Temple. Buses run twice daily, every day, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

By Train

Trains are another easy way to get to Amritsar. The Amritsar Junction railway station is well-connected to different parts of India. You can check the train schedule or book your tickets online by going to the official Indian Railways website (irctc.co.in) or other online ticket booking sites. The railway station is close to the city center, so it’s convenient to reach your destination.
The distance between the Golden Temple and the railway station is about 2-3 km, which takes around 7-10 minutes by drive. The quickest route from the railway station to the Golden Temple is via Hall bazaar Road/Way into Golden Temple Road. Here is the quick Google Maps link. To reach the Golden Temple from Amritsar railway station, you also have a free option available – you can take the free bus provided by SGPC for Golden Temple visitors. Alternatively, you can also book a cab or take a public auto.

By Road

For people who enjoy road trips, getting to Amritsar by bus or car is a fantastic choice. The city has good roads, and some buses connect Amritsar to nearby cities. If you’re driving, pay attention to the well-maintained highways that lead to Amritsar. The Grand Trunk Road is a famous route, providing beautiful views during the journey. You can use Google Maps to find the best, easiest, or fastest route without getting stuck in traffic. If you’re coming from your car you also need to pay road tax on the Toll Plaza of Grand Trunk Road.

Where to stay

Choosing the right place to stay in Amritsar can greatly enhance your travel experience. If you’re eager to be near the famous Golden Temple, consider accommodations nearby. There’s a range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious choices, providing the convenience of being just a short walk away from this revered site.

For those arriving by train, staying around Amritsar Junction is also a smart choice. This Railway side is an ideal location for travelers who are arriving by train, with various hotels and lodges catering to different budgets situated in this area. This Area is also well connected with public transportation to make it easy to explore Amritsar. 

If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, Amritsar has an array of affordable stays. Budget guesthouses, hostels, and affordable hotels are spread across the city, allowing you to save on accommodation and allocate more for exploring Amritsar’s vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. For a unique stay, consider a heritage haveli. These historical mansions blend modern comfort with traditional charm, offering an immersive experience of the city’s rich past.

Streamline your search by using online booking platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb, where you can read reviews and choose accommodations that suit your preferences. For a more personal touch, opt for a homestay, where local families open their homes, providing a warm environment and a chance to connect with the community.

In essence, Amritsar offers a variety of stays, whether you seek proximity to cultural landmarks, budget-friendly choices, or a unique and traditional experience. Consider your needs, budget, and desired experience, and you’ll find the perfect place to stay during your Amritsar visit.

Local Transportation – Moving Around Amritsar

Once you reach Amritsar, getting around is easy. You can find auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and regular taxis easily. For a special experience, try a traditional “tuk-tuk” to discover the city’s charm. It’s not only affordable but also interesting if you haven’t tried it before.

A tuk-tuk ride typically costs 10-20 rupees per location point stop, making it a budget-friendly option to travel between locations via road. It’s especially good for short distances. Cycle rickshaws may charge around 40-100 rupees, but they are ideal for exploring the inside streets of Amritsar.

If you prefer a taxi, the cost depends on the distance you’re traveling. Taxis are available for various budgets, depending on the location and the distance in kilometers or miles.

Food of the Amritsar

Amritsar is a special place where nobody can sleep without eating. Whether it’s food you buy or free meals from the Gurudwaras, Amritsar’s food is as exciting as its culture! Imagine starting your day with Amritsari Kulcha – a yummy special stuffed bread served with butter and spicy chickpeas called Chole. The crispy outside and soft inside makes it super tasty. It’s the most famous food, especially for locals and those trying it for the first time. Many visitors from other cities come here specifically to enjoy Amritsari kulchas.

Then there’s Makki Ki Roti and Sarson Da Saag, a famous winter dish with corn flatbread and mustard greens that taste good together. When you’re thirsty, grab a Lassi – a cool drink made with yogurt, available in both sweet or salty versions. To end your food journey on a sweet note, try Pinni – a traditional Punjabi dessert made with flour, ghee, and jaggery.

Amritsar’s food is like a party in your mouth, offering all kinds of flavors. From street snacks to hearty meals, the city’s food is a warm welcome to Punjabi taste and tradition. So, whenever you come here, make sure to try the top-listed foods and enjoy the yummy journey through Amritsar’s delicious offerings.

Shopping

Just like good food, Amritsar is also a fantastic place for shopping. You can start your shopping adventure at Hall Bazaar – it’s like a busy treasure hunt with stylish clothes, handmade items, and other cute things.

Next, check out Guru Bazaar where local magic happens. Picture small streets filled with the aroma of spices, lots of colorful fabrics, and things crafted by local hands – it’s like stepping into a local story.

If you’re into modern vibes, Lawrence Road is the place to be. There are big shops and trendy stores where you might find that perfect thing you’ve been wanting.

For Punjabi style, visit Katra Jaimal Singh Market. You can grab colorful suits, cool turbans, and stylish footwear like “Punjabi Juti” – perfect for showcasing your unique look.

And don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Papad and Peda markets! Imagine munching on crispy papads and sweet pedals while exploring the market – they also make tasty souvenirs.

Ready to shop? Remember to enjoy the art of bargaining, make sure your finds are top-notch, and connect with locals for insider recommendations. Amritsar’s markets offer a mix of old-world charm and modern flair, ensuring you a shopping day full of surprises.

Places to see

Amritsar is a fantastic city with lots of interesting spots to check out. First up is the Golden Temple. It’s like a shiny gold palace sitting in the middle of a calm, beautiful pool (Sarovar). People from all around come here to feel peaceful.

Then, there’s Jallianwala Bagh. This place reminds us of a sad time in history, but it’s important to visit. It’s a quiet garden with a memorial that tells the story of a tough day for the people.

Wagah Border is another cool place. Imagine a big gate between India and Pakistan. People gather here every day to watch a special ceremony where soldiers from both sides show respect and do a bit of marching.

If you like history, visit the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum. It’s like a big storybook filled with things from the past, like old weapons, paintings, and even a royal bed!

Lastly, Rambagh Gardens is a lovely place to relax. It’s like a green paradise with flowers, a big clock, and even a summer palace. Take a stroll and enjoy the peaceful vibes.

These are just a few places, but Amritsar has a lot more for you to explore.