About Amritsar
Amritsar is one of the major cities in the Indian state of Punjab, which was founded by Shri Guru Ramdas ji in the 16th century. This lovely city is one of the best places to experience Punjab's rich and vibrant culture. The city attracts a large number of tourists every year and is home to several religious places that include gurdwaras and temples. Golden Temple is the main attraction of the city, which is visited by a significant number of pilgrims. Historically, the city was an important place as it played a crucial role in the independence struggle of India. Amritsar is also famous for its delicious food items that includes sarson da saag, Amritsari kulcha, chole bhature, gulab jamun, and lassi.
Places to visit in Amritsar
- Golden Temple: Also known as Shri Harmandir Sahib, Golden Temple is the holiest shrine for the Sikhs and visited by a large number of pilgrims. This beautiful shrine is nothing short of a visual treat, with real gold being used on the structure, stunning architecture, and its surrounding lake. The spiritual atmosphere of the temple makes it a great place to relax as well as worship.
- Partition Museum: The Partition Museum is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar as it contains several artefacts such as newspaper clippings, documents, and photographs that tell about the story of partition of India. The Gallery of Hope, where visitors write messages of love and peace, and hang them on a barbed wire tree, is the museum's main attraction.
- Jallianwala Bagh: Located near the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh is an important place that houses a memorial dedicated to those who were killed in a massacre by the British forces in 1919.
- Gobindgarh Fort: The Gobindgarh Fort is a historical place consisting of a museum and cultural theme park that showcases the rich culture and history of Punjab. The fort was initially named as ‘Bhagian da Qilla’ and was constructed in the 1760s by Gujar Singh. It houses a collection of traditional Punjabi clothing, weapons from past eras, and household items. The museum also hosts laser light shows that depict Maharaja Ranjit Singh's life and the history of Gobindgarh Fort.
- Hall Bazaar: One of the oldest markets in India, Hall Bazaar is the busiest shopping destination in Amritsar that attracts both locals as well as tourists. Several shops can be found there selling jewellery, ornaments, clothes, books, electronics, and Amritsari juttis. Try Punjabi cuisine at the many restaurants and food stalls here.
- Wagah-Attari Border: Visiting Wagah-Attari Border will surely be a unique experience as it hosts an electrifying Beating the Retreat ceremony, where soldiers of India’s Border Security Force and Pakistani Rangers march and parade. It is a 30-minute display that involves the closing of border gates and the lowering of the flags. It was started in 1959 and serves as a symbol of cooperation and brotherhood between the two countries. This evening ceremony at the border attracts a large number of tourists.
Amritsar Airport
Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport (IATA - ATQ) is the principal airport serving the city of Amritsar. For the convenience and comfort of the passengers, facilities provided include Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, lounge, duty-free shops, luggage storage, currency exchange, and VIP room.