Are you planning a trip to India? Make sure to add Amritsar to your itinerary and check out these 7 amazing things to do in Amritsar as a tourist!
Amritsar, also known as the “Golden City,” is a vibrant and culturally rich city in the northwestern state of Punjab in India. It is famous for its stunning architectural marvels, mouth-watering food, and, most importantly, the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion, the Golden Temple. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Amritsar has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Here are seven things to do in Amritsar to get the most out of your trip to this vibrant and colorful city.
Visit the Golden Temple – Top things to do in Amritsar
Visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. It is one of the top things to do in Amritsar. Here’s a detailed description of what you can expect during your visit to the Golden Temple:
History and Significance: The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine of Sikhism. It was built in the 16th century by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru. The temple is a symbol of peace, equality, and spiritual sovereignty. It is open to people of all religions and backgrounds, making it one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
Architecture: The temple’s architecture is stunning and unique. It is made of white marble and is covered with gold plating, which gives it a striking appearance. The temple has four entrances, which symbolize that people of all castes and creeds are welcome to enter. The central shrine is surrounded by a man-made lake, which adds to the temple’s beauty.
Spiritual Experience: The Golden Temple is not only a religious site, but it is also a spiritual center. This, visiting it is one of the top things to do in Amritsar. Visitors can participate in the daily prayers and rituals, listen to kirtan (Sikh devotional music), and take a dip in the holy water of the tank. The atmosphere inside the temple is peaceful, and it offers a perfect setting for meditation and reflection.
Food: The Golden Temple offers langar, a free community kitchen that serves food to all visitors. The langar serves vegetarian food, and the meal is served on the floor, which symbolizes equality and humility. The food is delicious and a must-try for visitors., among other things to do in Amritsar.
Culture and History: The Golden Temple is not only a religious site, but it is also a center of culture and history. Visitors can learn about Sikhism, its history and culture, and the temple’s significance from the volunteer guides who are available to give tours.
Crowd: The Golden Temple is a popular tourist attraction, and it attracts a large number of visitors every day. Thus, exploring it is one of the top things to do in Amritsar. The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowd is less.
In summary, a visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar is a unique and unforgettable experience. The temple’s beauty, history, and spiritual significance, coupled with the delicious food and cultural offerings, make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Amritsar.
Witness the Wagah Border Ceremony – Best things to do in Amritsar
The Wagah Border is a border crossing between India and Pakistan, located about 28 km from the city of Amritsar. Witnessing the cermony is one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
The Wagah Border Ceremony is a daily military practice that takes place at the border before sunset, where the flags of both countries are lowered and folded with great pomp and ceremony. Here’s a detailed description of what you can expect during your visit to the Wagah Border Ceremony:
Getting to the Wagah Border: To get to the Wagah Border from Amritsar, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus. It is advisable to leave early, as the ceremony attracts a large crowd and traffic can be heavy. Nevertheless, you will have a great experience trying out the top things to do in Amritsar.
Security checks: Once you arrive at the Wagah Border, you will go through several security checks. Make sure to carry a valid photo ID and leave behind any items that are not allowed, such as cameras and mobile phones.
Seating: The seating area is divided into two sections, one for men and another for women. You will be required to sit on the ground, so it’s advisable to carry a mat or cushion to enjoy things to do in Amritsar.
The ceremony: The ceremony starts with patriotic songs and dances performed by soldiers on both sides of the border. The flags are then lowered simultaneously, and the gates are opened briefly to allow the soldiers to shake hands.
Crowd participation: The ceremony is very lively, and the crowd often participates by cheering and waving flags. You can join in the fun and show your support for your country and get the best out of top things to do in Amritsar.
Post-ceremony activities: After the ceremony, you can visit the souvenir shops and food stalls located near the border. It’s also possible to visit the nearby villages and see the life on the other side of the border, among other things to do in Amritsar.
Overall, the Wagah Border Ceremony is a unique and patriotic experience that gives visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of India and Pakistan. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Amritsar or the Punjab region. So, it is one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
Explore Jallianwala Bagh – Top things to do in Amritsar
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar that commemorates the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, a tragic event that occurred in 1919. It is one of the must-explore things to do in Amritsar. As a visitor, your experience at Jallianwala Bagh is likely to be emotional and reflective, as the site serves as a reminder of a dark chapter in India’s history. Here’s a detailed description of what you can expect during your visit to Jallianwala Bagh:
Historical Significance: Jallianwala Bagh is a significant site that marks the tragedy of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, in which British troops fired on a peaceful crowd of Indian protesters, killing hundreds of people. The incident was a turning point in India’s struggle for independence, and it continues to be remembered as a symbol of the struggle against colonial rule. Undoubtedly, it is one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
Memorial: The site has been turned into a public garden and a memorial, where visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the massacre. The garden is surrounded by walls that bear the bullet holes from the incident. The Martyrs’ Memorial, a structure with an eternal flame, has been erected at the center of the garden to honor the victims. Witnessing this structure is one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
Historical Artefacts: Visitors can also view some of the artefacts from the massacre, such as the well into which many people jumped to avoid the bullets, and a replica of the bullets used by the British soldiers.
Emotional Experience: Visiting Jallianwala Bagh can be an emotional experience, as the site serves as a reminder of the struggles of India’s freedom fighters and the sacrifices made by them. The atmosphere at the garden is somber and reflective, and visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor.
Overall, a visit to Jallianwala Bagh can be a humbling and moving experience, and it is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in India’s history and struggle for independence.
Taste the local food – Best things to do in Amritsar
If you are planning to taste the local food in Amritsar, you are in for a treat. The city is known for its rich and delicious food, especially its street food. Here’s what you can expect from your culinary experience in Amritsar:
Local Specialties: Some of the must-try local specialties include Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Bhature, and Lassi. Amritsari Kulcha is a type of bread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes and is usually served with chana masala, a spicy chickpea curry. Chole Bhature is a dish of spicy chickpeas served with fried bread, and Lassi is a sweet, refreshing drink made from yogurt. Including it in your top things to do in Amritsar will allow you to experience the taste of Punjab!
Street Food: Amritsar is famous for its street food, and you can find vendors selling a variety of snacks and sweets. Some popular street food items include samosas, jalebis, and papdi chaat.
Restaurants: Amritsar has a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Punjabi cuisine, as well as other Indian and international dishes. Some popular restaurants include Kesar Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba, and Kanha Sweets.
Food Tours: If you want to experience the local food scene in Amritsar, you can also take a food tour. These tours take you to different food stalls and restaurants, and you can sample a variety of dishes while learning about the history and culture of the city.
The city’s rich and flavorful cuisine is sure to leave you wanting more. Just make sure to pace yourself, as the food in Amritsar can be quite rich and heavy!
Here are some popular places to eat in Amritsar:
Kesar da Dhaba: Kesar da Dhaba is one of the oldest and most famous dhabas in Amritsar. It is known for its authentic Punjabi food, especially its dal makhani, chana masala, and parathas.
Bharawan da Dhaba: Bharawan da Dhaba is another famous dhaba in Amritsar. It is known for its vegetarian food, especially its chole bhature, which is a must-try.
Beera Chicken House: Beera Chicken House is a popular place to eat in Amritsar, especially for non-vegetarian food. It is known for its tandoori chicken and butter chicken.
Kanha Sweets: Kanha Sweets is a popular sweet shop in Amritsar, known for its delicious sweets and snacks. Make sure to try their laddoos, barfis, and samosas. Including such things to do in Amritsar in your list will allow you to enjoy to the fullest.
Amritsari Kulcha Land: Amritsari Kulcha Land is a popular eatery in Amritsar, known for its delicious kulchas. They serve a variety of kulchas, including paneer kulcha, aloo kulcha, and gobi kulcha.
Surjit Food Plaza: Surjit Food Plaza is a popular place to eat in Amritsar, known for its Punjabi food. Make sure to try their mutton curry, tandoori chicken, and kebabs.
Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner: Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner is a popular place to eat in Amritsar, especially for seafood lovers. It is known for its delicious fish and chicken dishes.
These are just a few of the many popular places to eat in Amritsar. Make sure to explore the city and try the local cuisine to get the full experience, among other things to do in Amritsar.
Visit the Durgiana Temple – Top things to do in Amritsar
The Durgiana Temple, also known as the Durgiana Mandir or Lakshmi Narayan Temple, is a beautiful Hindu temple located in the city of Amritsar in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the city. Also, visiting this temple is one of the top things to do in Amritsar.
As a visitor to the Durgiana Temple, you can expect to have a spiritual and cultural experience. Here are some details about the temple and your experience:
Architecture: The Durgiana Temple is a stunning example of Hindu temple architecture. It is built in the traditional Hindu style and has a beautiful exterior adorned with intricate carvings and designs. The temple is also known as the Silver Temple due to the silver doors and domes.
Religious Significance: The Durgiana Temple is an important religious site for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga, who is believed to be the protector of the universe. Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess. It will make your things to do in Amritsar list fulfilling.
Rituals and Offerings: Visitors can participate in the daily rituals and offerings at the temple, such as the aarti ceremony, which involves the offering of lamps to the deity. Devotees can also offer flowers, sweets, and other items to the goddess.
Cultural Experience: The Durgiana Temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural hub. Visitors can witness traditional Indian music and dance performances and also participate in the cultural programs that take place at the temple. This way, you can enjoy the top things to do in Amritsar.
Festivals: The temple is also a venue for various festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as Navratri and Diwali. Visitors can participate in these festivals and witness the beautiful decorations and offerings.
Overall, a visit to the Durgiana Temple can be a beautiful and enriching experience for visitors, especially for those interested in Hinduism and Indian culture. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths, and it is recommended to dress modestly and respect the customs and traditions of the temple.
Shop at the local markets -Fun things to do in Amritsar
Amritsar is known for its rich textiles and handicrafts, and the local markets are the perfect place to find unique and authentic items. It is one of the best and fun things to do in Amritsar for shopping enthusiasts. Here are some popular local markets in Amritsar that you can explore for shopping:
Hall Bazaar: Hall Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in Amritsar and is known for its traditional Punjabi textiles and handicrafts. It is a great place to find Phulkari work, which is a popular form of embroidery in Punjab. You can also find traditional Punjabi juttis (shoes) and other souvenirs.
Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar: Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar is another popular market in Amritsar. You can include visiting it in your things to do in Amritsar list. It is known for its textiles and clothing, especially for bridal wear. You can also find traditional jewelry and handicrafts.
Guru Bazaar: Guru Bazaar is a popular market in Amritsar for spices, dry fruits, and sweets. You can find a variety of spices, including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, which are used in traditional Punjabi cuisine. You can also find a variety of traditional sweets, such as ladoos and barfis.
Lahori Gate Market: Lahori Gate Market is a popular market in Amritsar for books and stationery. It is a great place to find books in Punjabi and Hindi, as well as stationery items like pens, pencils, and notebooks.
Shastri Market: Shastri Market is a popular market in Amritsar for electronics and gadgets. You can find a variety of electronic items, including smartphones, laptops, and accessories.
These are just a few of the many local markets in Amritsar that you can explore for shopping. Make sure to bargain and haggle for the best prices and get the full experience of shopping in a traditional Punjabi market.
Take a heritage walk – Top things to do in Amritsar
Heritage walk in Amritsar is a unique experience that allows visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the city. The walk covers the old city area of Amritsar, including the narrow lanes and alleys, historical buildings, and bustling markets. Don’t forget to enjoy such things to do in Amritsar.
Here’s a detailed description of what you can expect during the heritage walk in Amritsar:
Meeting Point: The heritage walk usually starts at the Town Hall, located in the heart of the city. The meeting point is easily accessible from all parts of the city and can be reached by taxi or public transport.
Walk through the Old City: The heritage walk takes you through the old city area of Amritsar, which is known for its narrow lanes, historical buildings, and bustling markets. You will walk through the colorful bazaars of Katra Ahluwalia, and Katra Jaimal Singh, where you can see a variety of traditional Punjabi handicrafts and textiles.
Historical Buildings: The heritage walk also covers some of the most prominent historical buildings in the city, including the Khairuddin Mosque, Gobindgarh Fort, and the Golden Temple. The walk also takes you to some lesser-known historical buildings like the Sunehri Masjid and Akal Takht.
Local Culture: The heritage walk also gives visitors a chance to experience the local culture of Amritsar, including the traditional Punjabi cuisine, music, and dance. The walk includes a visit to a traditional Punjabi home where you can learn about the local customs and way of life, among other things to do in Amritsar.
Professional Guides: The heritage walk is led by professional guides who are knowledgeable about the history and culture of the city. They provide visitors with a detailed explanation of the various landmarks, historical buildings, and local customs, making the experience both informative and engaging.
The heritage walk in Amritsar is a must-do experience for visitors who are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the city. It is a great way to get a glimpse of the local way of life and to learn about the traditional Punjabi handicrafts and textiles.
It’s a wrap!
Amritsar is a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious food. With so many exciting things to do in Amritsar, it’s no wonder that this place has become a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. Whether you want to explore the city’s historic sites, indulge in some of the most delectable cuisine, or simply relax and soak up the local vibe, there is something here for everyone. So pack your bags and head to Amritsar for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
You can also explore Rajasthan if you are looking for another great place to visit. Check out the top places to visit in Rajasthan.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Amritsar?
The best time to visit Amritsar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and exploring.
What are the top tourist attractions in Amritsar?
The top tourist attractions in Amritsar are the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Durgiana Temple, and Ram Bagh Gardens.
How can I reach Amritsar?
Amritsar has an international airport and is well connected by rail and road networks to other parts of India.
What is the best way to get around Amritsar?
The best way to get around Amritsar is by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. You can also use public transport such as buses.
What are the best places to eat in Amritsar?
Amritsar is famous for its delicious food. Some of the best places to eat are Kesar Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba, and Beera Chicken House.
Is it safe to travel to Amritsar?
Yes, Amritsar is a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What should I wear while visiting the Golden Temple?
While visiting the Golden Temple, it is mandatory to cover your head and remove your shoes. It is advisable to wear comfortable and modest clothing.
What are the local festivals celebrated in Amritsar?
The major festivals celebrated in Amritsar are Baisakhi, Diwali, and Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Can I take photographs inside the Golden Temple?
Yes, you can take photographs inside the Golden Temple. However, it is advisable to respect the sanctity of the place and follow the guidelines.
What are the best shopping places in Amritsar?
The best shopping places in Amritsar are Hall Bazaar, Guru Bazaar, and Katra Jaimal Singh Market. You can shop for traditional handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
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