Amritsar which means "a pool of nectar" in punjabi is located in the state of Punjab, and is one of the most important pilgrimage centers especially for the Sikhs. The city is characterized by some of the must visit religious, historical as well as contemporary sites of importance.

The Golden Temple, where Sikhs from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification is the major landmark of the place.

There are a number of tourist attractions to visit in and around Amritsar. However, most of the places are of religious and historical importance. The Golden Temple, which is located in the heart of the city, is the most visited tourist attraction of Amritsar. The Jalianwala Bagh is a memorial of the martyrs of the 1919 massacre by the British General Dyer. The Durgiana Mandir is a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The Baba Atal Rai Tower, just a few kilometres from the main town, is believed to be the spot where Guru Har Gobind died. Wagah (28 km) is on the Indo-Pakistan border where tourists throng to see the change of guards ceremony by the border security forces of both the countries

History of Amritsar

Legends say that before Sikhism originated and the city was renamed as Amritsar from Ramdaspur; Luv and Kush, the twin sons of Lord Ram, got education and were taught the Ramayana by the learned sage Valmiki in Amritsar.
Today Amritsar is a religious hub of the Sikhs. A major part of the city's history revolves around the Golden Temple and Jalianwala Bagh. It is believed that Guru Ram Das was supposed to have selected the villages of Tung, Gumtala and Sutanwind to lay the foundation of a new village, which would be a centre for the congregation of Sikhs - thus Amritsar came into origin.

How to reach Amritsar

The ever-improving infrastructure in the city has made it easier for visitors to reach it from different parts of the country.

By Air: The Raja Sansi Airport is just 10 km from the main city of Amritsar and taxis are easily available to and from the airport. There are connecting flights from Amritsar to Delhi - London and Delhi - New York.

By Rail: Amritsar is well connected by rail, almost to every corner of the country. There are direct trains to Delhi, Calcutta, Bombay, Puri and other places. The Samjhauta Express also connects Amritsar to Lahore in Pakistan.

By Road: Amritsar is well connected to all the major cities of northern India. Important destinations include Delhi, Shimla, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Kullu, Manali and Jammu. It is at a distance of 234 km from Chandigarh.

Tourist places in Amritsar

Golden Temple: Located in the heart of the city is the Golden Temple, the most visited tourist attraction of Amritsar. Characterised by its four entrance doors (called deoris) in all four directions and the tastefully decorated shrines, in terms of art and architecture, the Golden Temple welcomes everyone regardless of the religion or faith one follows. The stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy tank, flanked by spotlessly clean marble walkways and pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful.

Jalianwala Bagh: A historical monument that tells the sad story of mass killing during the independence movement in India, Jalianwallah Bagh is another must visit in Amritsar. Here lies the memorial of the martyrs of the 1919 massacre by British General Dyer. Presently the place also has a park. The Martyr's Gallery is open from 9 am to 5 pm in summers and from 10 am to 4 pm during winters.

Durgiana Mandir: Amritsar also houses a wonderful temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Easily accessible from the Golden Temple, the Durgiana Mandir also offers puja to deities of Lakshmi and Narayana. Supposedly built during the 16th century AD, the temple lies in the middle of a medium sized lake giving it a wonderful overall view. The temple, a massive structure, was built on the style of the nearby Golden Temple. Worth a visit.

Baba Atal Rai Tower: Located at a distance of few kilometres from the main town, Baba Atal Rai Tower is also a site worth visiting. It is believed that Guru Har Gobind died at this spot. Named after the son of Guru Har Gobind, this nine storied building is an important landmark of the place. Climbing on to the top gives you a panoramic view of the entire area. The first floor of the tower houses some of the miniatures related to Guru Nanak's life and his preaching. Makes a must visit.

Wagah Border: One of the many nearby places to visit from Amritsar is the Wagah Border. Located on the Indo-Pakistan border, Wagah is 28 kilometres from the Amritsar main town. A good number of visitors come to this place to see the change of guards ceremony and the flag hoisting and lowering activities which are done with great skill and precision by the border security forces of both the countries. A site you cannot afford to miss.

Amritsar Excursions

Tarn Taran: Located at a distance of 25 kilometres from Amritsar, Tarn Taran is a famous excursion point. One of the important spots to see here is the sacred tank which is believed to have curative powers. It is believed that if a leper successfully swims across the tank, he or she can be cured of the disease. Tarn Taran also has a highly revered Gurudwara built by Guru Arjan Dev in AD 1768. This Gurudwara is built in memory of Guru Ram Das. It is amazing to see how the architecture of the Golden Temple has influenced the other significant structures. The Gurudwara of Tarn Taran is also made in the same architectural style.

Gobindwal Sahib: Located at a distance of 30 kilometres from Amritsar, the Gobindwal Sahib is another place to visit during your excursion from Amritsar. Here you can also have a look at the final resting place of Guru Angad Devji that stands nearby.

Amanat Khan Serai: Amanat Khan Serai is famous for its ornamental gateway and glazed tile decorations. A must see, it is located at a distance of 38 kilometres from Amritsar.

Cuisine in Amritsar

Tour of Amritsar surfaces an interesting fact about the unique Langar system organized by the Sikh temples. Here you can observe the direct practice of Seva (service), which is a part of the philosophy of Sikhism. The idea behind organizing Langar is sharing equally as desired by the Sikh Gurus. The tradition of langar is intrinsic to the Sikh faith and symbolizes oneness of the humanity. Through the tradition of Langar you can experience the magnanimity of Sikh faith and its belief in equality, hard work and community service.

Amritsar is also the head in the production of milk and dairy products found here at cheap rates and in abundance. You can relish the delicious lassi (buttermilk) served in town, especially at Gyan's is the best found anywhere. Served chilled in long steel Punjabi glasses, it is available in both sweet and sour taste, topped with a clump of thick cream.

The legendary 'Amritsari Fish' continues to be a big favourite amongst the tourists. Just try out the crumb fried river fish seasoned with fresh limejuice. One can even go for the rabri (dessert of thickened milk) that is simply delicious!
Shopping in Amritsar

Shopping options mostly revolve around handicrafts and rugs with prices being competitive, where you require a little bargaining. You can also stock the Woolen blankets and sweaters for winters as they are much cheaper in Amritsar than in other parts of India. Katra Jaimal Singh in the old city is a good shopping area for having a large amount of purchase from clothing to handicrafts. The bustling bazaars in the city are stocked brimful with papadums, vadis, and other spices, and the ampapad (mango slices salted and dried) are something to be carried along with you the way back home.