Located in Punjab, near the India-Pakistan border, Amritsar is one of the most significant cultural cities in India. It is the spiritual and cultural center for Sikhism and has a deep history tied to India's independence movement.
The city is busy, loud, colorful, and yet deeply spiritual. It blends devotion and energy in a way few places do. On one street, you'll see pilgrims walking to a gurdwara, and on another, a crowd watching a dramatic military ceremony.
Amritsar is also a food lover's paradise. You don’t need to look far for authentic Punjabi dishes served with ghee, butter, and generosity.
Dreaming of World’s top destinations but need to keep your budget in check? Use our Travel Budget Calculator for a quick cost breakdown. Travel smart, estimate your expenses today!
Amritsar was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru. The city’s name comes from Amrit Sarovar, meaning ‘Pool of Nectar’, which surrounds the Golden Temple.
Over time, Amritsar became a center of Sikh culture and later, a site of important historical events:
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) became the holiest site for Sikhs.
Jallianwala Bagh was the site of the 1919 massacre under British rule.
During Partition in 1947, the city witnessed large-scale migration and violence.
The Wagah Border, just 30 km away, remains a reminder of India's shared history with Pakistan.
Today, Amritsar remains symbolic of resilience, faith, and hospitality.
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
The spiritual heart of Sikhism
Open 24/7 to everyone, regardless of religion
Don't miss the Langar (free community meal)
Location: Amritsar city center
Jallianwala Bagh
Historical garden and memorial for the 1919 massacre
Now a peaceful park with museum and eternal flame
Location: 5-minute walk from Golden Temple
Wagah Border Ceremony
Daily Beating Retreat ceremony between India and Pakistan
Patriotic, energetic, and theatrical
Arrive 1.5 hours early to get a good seat
Location: 30 km from city (45 mins by cab)
Partition Museum
Powerful exhibits on the Partition of India
Personal stories, photographs, and archival material
Location: Town Hall, close to Jallianwala Bagh
Akal Takht
The highest temporal seat of Sikh authority
Located inside the Golden Temple complex
Often overlooked but significant for Sikh governance
Gobindgarh Fort
Restored fort turned cultural complex
Light shows, museum exhibits, local food stalls
Good for evening visits
Durgiana Temple
Hindu temple resembling the Golden Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Vishnu
Location: 1.5 km from Golden Temple
Join the early morning prayers at the Golden Temple
Try the Langar meal — simple, hot, and served with love
Watch the Wagah Border ceremony before sunset
Explore the Old City with its narrow lanes and colorful markets
Visit Hall Bazaar for phulkari embroidery, Punjabi juttis, and spices
Attend a night-time light show at Gobindgarh Fort
Take a walking heritage tour organized by local tourism offices
Ride a cycle rickshaw through historic neighborhoods
Amritsari food is rich, bold, and full of flavor. It’s heavy on dairy, spices, and tandoori magic.
Local Must-Try Dishes:
Amritsari Kulcha – Stuffed bread baked in a tandoor, served with chole and chutney
Chole Bhature – Spicy chickpeas with fluffy fried bread
Sarson da Saag & Makki di Roti – Winter staple with mustard greens and corn flatbread
Tandoori Chicken – Chargrilled and smoky, available in dhabas
Lassi – Served in tall glasses, thick and sweet, sometimes with a scoop of cream
Paneer Tikka – Cubes of paneer marinated and roasted
Fish Amritsari – Deep-fried and spicy, popular with locals
Famous Places to Eat:
Kesar Da Dhaba – Iconic veg eatery near Town Hall
Bharawan Da Dhaba – Near Golden Temple, very popular
Kulcha Land – Best known for crispy kulchas
Giani Tea Stall – For morning chai and toast
Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner – Non-veg lovers’ favorite
Amritsar offers a wide range of accommodations — from ashram stays to luxury hotels.
Budget Options:
Jugaadus Hostel – Backpacker-friendly, social vibe
Hotel Grace – Clean rooms, near Golden Temple
Hotel City Castle – Budget hotel with basic amenities
Mid-Range Hotels:
Ramada by Wyndham – Good service, central location
Lords Eco Inn – Comfortable and near the temple
Hotel CJ International – Walking distance to Golden Temple
Luxury Stays:
Taj Swarna – 5-star hotel with great dining
Hyatt Regency Amritsar – Modern comfort with pool
WelcomHotel by ITC – Premium stay experience
Golden Temple Accommodation:
Free community Sarai stays inside temple premises (simple bedding)
Book through SGPC or in-person upon arrival
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
Avoid: May-June (hot and dry), July-August (monsoon)
Footwear: Must be removed at religious sites; socks can help on hot floors
Clothing: Dress modestly, cover head inside gurdwaras
Language: Punjabi and Hindi are common; basic English understood
Connectivity: Good 4G mobile data; public Wi-Fi limited
Transport: Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and Uber/Ola available
Safety: Generally safe; exercise standard precautions at night
Currency: ATMs are widespread; cards accepted in most places
Ram Bagh Gardens – Historic garden with a summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Pul Kanjari – Quiet heritage site on the outskirts with ties to Partition stories
All India Pingalwara Charitable Society – Visit to learn about social work in Amritsar
Sadda Pind – Cultural village showing Punjabi life, music, and food
Hall Bazaar’s old bookshops – Great for antique collectors and readers
Khalsa College Campus – Beautiful colonial-era architecture
Early morning darshan at Golden Temple before the crowds
Sat Sri Akal – Hello / Greeting
Tuhada ki haal hai? – How are you?
Shukriya / Dhanwad – Thank you
Langar kitthe hai? – Where is the Langar hall?
Eh kinne da hai? – How much is this?
Mainu Amritsar pasand aaya – I liked Amritsar
Agle milange – See you next time
The locals are warm and always ready to help — don’t hesitate to ask.
By Air:
Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ)
Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and international cities like Dubai and London
By Train:
Amritsar Junction is well-connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other cities
Shatabdi Express from Delhi is a good option
By Road:
6–7 hour drive from Delhi via NH44
Regular buses from Chandigarh, Jammu, and Delhi
Amritsar is more than just a pilgrimage site. It’s a living city where history, food, faith, and everyday life meet. You can spend a morning at a spiritual ceremony and an evening cheering at a border parade — few places offer that contrast.
Whether you’re here for devotion, food, or simply curiosity, Amritsar welcomes you with open arms. Take time to walk, talk, and eat — because that’s how Amritsar is best experienced.
If you slow down, this city has more to offer than just sightseeing. It offers connection — to people, to faith, and to the stories that shaped India.