Discover the Enchanting Places to Visit in Amritsar

Introduction

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Amritsar, ensuring your itinerary is packed with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re interested in Amritsar sightseeing, delving into history, or experiencing local culture, this guide has you covered. So that when you plan your next India tour package, you can plan your itinerary and enjoy your vacation.

1. The Golden Temple

Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, began the construction of this Gurdwara in the 16th century. Hazrat Mian Mir, a revered Muslim saint, laid its foundation stone, symbolizing inclusivity and unity. Guru Arjan Dev, who succeeded Guru Ram Das, completed the construction in 1604 A.D. and later undertook extensive renovations and expansions, ensuring the Gurdwara’s continued significance.

The temple’s golden dome glistens under the sun, reflected in the surrounding Amrit Sarovar, a sacred pool believed to have healing powers. The Golden Temple is not just a spiritual center but also a beacon of peace and humility, serving free meals to thousands of visitors daily. This is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar.

2. Jallianwala Bagh

Visiting Jallianwala Bagh serves as a powerful reminder of India’s fight for independence. This public garden is notorious for the 1919 massacre, General Dyer, along with his armed troops, fired upon a peaceful gathering led by Shri Guru Gobind Singh, resulting in hundreds of deaths on 13th April 1919. The horrific incident of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre still lingers in the hearts of millions of Indians, even after 100 years. This massacre marked a pivotal moment in Indian history, sparking numerous Satyagraha movements.

Today, it is a national monument, featuring an eternal flame that honors those who perished. The preserved bullet marks and the Martyrs’ Gallery offer a poignant and crucial historical perspective. This is one of the best sightseeing places to visit in Amritsar.

Timings: 6:30 Am to 7:30 Pm

3. Wagah Border

Closing the borders of both countries and lowering the flags by the military of both countries is done here. Located close to the Attari Village, Wagah Border is a major crossing between India and Pakistan. It is known for its high-spirited ‘Lowering of Flags’ ceremony which is the major attraction of this place. This ceremony is also known as Beating Retreat at the international level. One of the most exciting activities in Amritsar for tourists is watching the Wagah Border Parade.

The Wagah Border, often referred to as the Berlin Wall of Asia, lies on the Grand Trunk Road, 23 km from Lahore and 28 km from Amritsar. The Beating Retreat Ceremony, initiated in 1959 through an agreement between the governments of India and Pakistan, takes place every evening. This ceremony signifies the official closing of the border and the lowering of the flags of both countries.

Timings: The parade starts at 5:15 PM while during winter it starts at 4:15 PM. The ceremony lasts for 45 minutes.

The Wagah Attari border entrance is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

4. Partition Museum

It offers an extensive collection of photographs, documents, and personal belongings that narrate the stories of those who experienced the partition. As one of the significant places to visit in Amritsar, the museum aims to foster an understanding of the event’s impact on people’s lives.

Timings: 10 Am to 6 Pm (Monday closed)

5. Durgiana Temple

Durgiana Temple is also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple. Along with the idol of Goddess Durga, idols of Goddess Laxmi, and Lord Vishnu, are also worshipped here. The temple’s history dates back to the year 1921 when its construction was initiated by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor. 

This Temple underwent some reconstruction in 2013. The major festival in India, Amritsar is celebrated here. Visiting the beautiful temple and taking the blessing of goddess Durga is one best things to do in Amritsar.

Timings: 6 Am to 10 Pm

6. Gobindgarh Fort

Following Independence, Gobindgarh Fort was under the control of the Indian Army until 2006. Recognizing its historical significance, the Indian Government transferred the fort to the Punjab Government for restoration. Now designated as a historical monument, Gobindgarh Fort in Amritsar is open to the public. 

Today, it is a vibrant cultural hub that offers various live shows, including the 7-D “Sher-e-Punjab” show on Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the “Kanda Boldiyan Ne” light and sound show, and the “Spirit of Punjab” live performance. The fort’s dynamic atmosphere makes it one of the top Amritsar local sightseeing spots.

Timings: 10 Am to 10 Pm 

Entry fee: 180 rs

7. Hall Bazaar

Hall Bazaar is one of the oldest marketplaces in Amritsar, located just 1 km from the railway station and 1.3 km from the Golden Temple. This historical market is renowned for offering world-famous Phulkari embroidery and Amritsari juttis, among various other items. 

Besides its vibrant shopping scene, Hall Bazaar is celebrated for its exquisite old architecture, featuring the Mughal archway entrance known as Gandhi Gate, which boasts a giant clock and the inscription ‘Amritsar – Sifti Da Ghar’ It is the best photographic place in the world. The market also hosts some of the city’s best restaurants and food stalls, serving delicious Punjabi cuisine.

Also Read: Best Photographic Spots in Chandigarh

8. Ram Tirath Temple

The temple complex features a sacred tank, ancient hutments, and a towering statue of Lord Hanuman. The spiritual significance and historical relevance make it a key addition to the list of Amritsar beautiful places. It is believed to be the ashram of Sage Valmiki, where Mata Sita stayed and gave birth to Luv and Kush. This is one of the offbeat places in India,  Amritsar making it a must-visit place for spiritual people or for someone who wants a unique experience. It is 11km away from Amritsar.

9. Tarn Taran Sahib

This Gurdwara, built in the Mughal architectural style, attracts numerous devotees. The size of its Sarovar (pond) measures approximately 1.5 kilometers, making it larger than the Sarovar at the Golden Temple. Admiring the beauty of this Gurdwara and seeking blessings is a must to do when you are visiting the places in Amritsar.

Suggested Read: Adventure activities to do in Chandigarh

10. Mata Lal Devi Temple

Born on February 21, 1923, in Lahore, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Lal Devi was the fourth daughter in her family. After her birth, the family visited the Chintpurni Temple in Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that upon entering the temple, Mata Ji was enlightened with the holy spirit of the deity Chintpurni. The temple priest predicted that she possessed divine powers, and her family soon regarded her as a saintly figure after witnessing numerous miracles attributed to her.

Following the partition, Mata Lal Devi chose Amritsar as her new home. Devotees believe that their wishes and prayers are fulfilled if they visit the temple with sincere faith. The temple is particularly known to help women facing difficulties in getting married or bearing children.

This Hindu temple is known for its mirrored hallways and labyrinthine passages, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. It is a popular site among pilgrims and tourists, adding diversity to the list of Amritsar’s best places for tourists.

Tips for Visiting Amritsar

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore Amritsar is between October to  March when the weather is pleasant.
• Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are convenient for short distances. For longer trips, consider hiring a taxi.
• Cultural Etiquette: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and cover your head. Remove your shoes before entering temples and gurdwaras.

If you are visiting in the summer months make sure to keep yourself hydrated and carry a Sunscreen because it’s too hot in summer.

Conclusion