Amritsar Tour Packages

A trip to Amritsar is like finding gold to travel. It is one of the holy cities of India and the center of the Sikh religion. In the northwestern state of Punjab, the colorful Amritsar is located. It is very close to the Pakistani border. For tourists, the city is interesting primarily for the main monument of Sikhism - the magnificent Golden Temple - standing in the middle of the picturesque Pond of Immortality. The followers of this religion constantly bathe to cleanse themselves and touch the divine. There are many other interesting temples, ashrams, and palaces in Amritsar and its surroundings. Let's come and learn all about a trip to Amritsar.

A bit of history about Punjab and the Sikhs…

The history of Amritsar and Punjab is closely linked to dramatic events over time, either under British rule when India was one of its colonies or by the central government of India, which has always had this area a focus to which special attention should be paid due to its proximity to Pakistan and as a consequence of a marked pro-independence character that even today retains a particular relevance among the Punjabi inhabitants.

Walking through the streets of Amritsar was an exciting historical exercise since many of the places that we visited during our visit were linked to tragic stories against the region and the Sikh community.

Amritsar in facts:

• Population: 1.1 million people.
• In the state of Punjab, Amritsar is the largest city.
• Amritsar has located just 35 km from the India-Pakistan border.
• The climate is arid, semi-arid, with monsoon and the rainy season from July to September.
• The hottest months: from April to June.
• The coldest months of the year: from November to March.

Cultural attractions in Amritsar

In the capital of the Sikhs, you will experience the most moving spirituality of India. The Golden Temple is not the only thing that pushes me to recommend you to visit Amritsar and Punjab.

There are many gurudwaras, temples, and historical places in the city. If you don't mind going out a few kilometers, you can get to know the border of India and Pakistan and the rural Punjabi world.

Golden Temple as the main attraction of Amritsar

Considering the unique culture and traditions of Amritsar, it is not surprising that the beautiful temple of Harmandir Sahib is the main attraction. It is known to many travelers under the unofficial name "Golden Temple" that from the outside, the temple is completely covered with gold. A gilded building with copper domes and white marble walls inlaid with precious stones in floral designs. The temple's construction began in 1574, and over the following centuries, the temple was constantly decorated. In the nineteenth century, the dome in the shape of an inverted lotus was covered with a gold leaf.

Since its foundation, the temple has been the main shrine for residents and people who profess Sikhism. It is noteworthy that it was built in the center of a large reservoir, which is still the essential component of the architectural complex. Before entering the temple, it is necessary to take a bath in a sacred reservoir; only those who profess Sikhism can do such a ritual. Everyone else can see the greatest shrine of the Sikhs only from the outside. Around the temple, there is a vast area lined with marble. 

Even though the number of people on the temple territory is always quite large, a very calm and peaceful atmosphere reigns here. It will be interesting to visit the shrine even in the evening. After sunset, the building is adorned with spectacular lighting. In the heart of Amritsar, this temple is located. Millions of tourists come to Amritsar every year, primarily to visit the Golden Temple. Still, Amritsar is also home to other shrines that honor the memory of gurus, martyrs, and heroes. The religious and cultural heritage of this area of ????Punjab is of great importance to India. Next to it are other outstanding attractions.

Gobindghar Fort

Initially built in the 18th century, Gobindghar Fort was under the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Amritsar since 1805. The fort had been military property until 2017, when it was opened as part of a project to increase the city's tourist attractions.

The fort not only preserves the military architecture of the time but also wants to be a place dedicated to the culture and history of Punjab. Demonstrations of traditional wrestling, percussion, dance, and bhangra music are performed on the Spirit of Punjab stage.

Toshakana

Another attraction is the opening to the public of Toshakana, the place where the Kohinoor diamond was kept. You can see a replica of the world's largest diamond and a numismatic collection. Audiovisual and mapping shows have also been developed to disseminate the history of Punjab.

Ram Bagh garden

Walking in the Ram Bagh garden is popular among nature lovers. It was founded on the territory of one of the newest districts of Amritsar. The garden got its name in honor of the city's founder; it has no equal in terms of the beauty of landscape design. A fascinating collection of coniferous trees has been collected on the garden's territory, and there is also an area where medicinal plants are grown. Many beautiful canals were equipped on the garden's territory, and there is also an artificial pond in which goldfish live. The central part of the garden is decorated with magnificent fountains. It will be challenging to find a better place to relax on a hot day in the city.

Mandir Mata Lal Devi

The city also has preserved ancient Hindu temples. The most remarkable is Mandir Mata Lal Devi. Adherents of any religion can visit it. The temple has a beautiful and exciting design. It is decorated with skillfully made mirror mosaics, wood carvings traditional to Hindu culture, and many sculptures of Hindu gods. Many elements of the temple's design have remained unchanged for more than a hundred years. The ancient temple is a cave. All its halls were carved right into the rock. Among the main features of the temple, it is worth noting the incredibly complex internal structure. 

Partition museum

In 1947 it was very significant for India. It was not only when India got its independence from Great Britain, but it was also divided into the two different areas of Pakistan and India, but an event also called the Partition of India. Travelers in Amritsar can learn about this defining moment in history at the spectacular Partition Museum. The only foundation offered entirely to Partition. It features an alarming collection of newspaper clippings, old images, and oral histories of characters that experienced the terrorism that led to the separation of the two nations.

Mandir Durgiana temple

No less attractive is the Mandir Durgiana temple, which was built in the 16th century. It is also located in the center of a beautiful lake, which the locals consider a sacred reservoir. The temple, modeled on the Golden Temple, was built by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor and is also called the Silver Temple because of the carved silver gates. 

The temple complex includes historic temples, including Sita Mata and Bara Hanuman. Daily rituals dedicated to Durga attract many Hindu followers. Krishna and Vishnu are also worshiped in the temple. Managed to preserve the excellent decoration of past centuries; even massive silver doors survived in the temple. Traditional chants are held every day, which can be listened to in the morning and evening hours. 

Border closing ceremony

Every evening in Amritsar, there is a fun event full of absurdity and curiosity. Residents solemnly close the border between the Indian state and neighboring Pakistan. To get on it, you need to come at sunset to the town of Attari Waga, which is located near Amritsar. The essence of the ceremony is that the military lowers the flag, and the cast-iron gates are tightly closed with a bolt, after which a large number of locks are hung. At the same time, a prerequisite is that the clanging of the gate is very loud. After the ceremony is over, the city falls into a peaceful sleep.

Shopping and shopping in Amritsar

Amritsar is a great place to buy interesting souvenirs with Sikh symbols: hands crescents, Kara’s bracelets, traditional swords, daggers, etc. They are sold in abundance in the store at the Golden Temple. There you can also buy records of Sikh music and the musical heritage of entire Punjab. Souvenirs of the region are colorful Punjabi jutti shoes, which are attractive to look at, and comfortable and multi-colored shawls and saris hand-embroidered in the traditional phulkari technique. Amritsar's edible souvenirs are spiced "varian" beans.

Kaiser Bagh Park

No less attractive place for outdoor recreation will be Kaiser Bagh Park. The park has a fascinating structure and landscape design. You will have the opportunity to walk along beautiful bridges and stairs. This park was also founded many decades ago. There is a beautiful old temple on its territory. Children will enjoy playing in the shade of giant trees. They will be able to watch the birds and insects in the park. With older children, you can make an exciting excursion and see the historical sites that have been preserved in the parking area.

Amritsar food and restaurants

Amritsar cuisine has become famous worldwide for its spicy condiments, stuffed buns, and tandoori-baked chicken. If you want to try this tradition of colorful celebrations, there is no better place to do it than at Bharawan Da Dhaba, located on the corner of the Partition Museum. Prepare a nice Amritsari kulcha stuffed with exquisite Indian cheese or spicy potatoes and chickpeas.

In Amritsar, restaurants are located literally at every turn. You can eat on a budget in a conditionally free dining room at the temple, designed for pilgrims. For those who cannot imagine life without fast food, we recommend going to Pizza Hut. Otherwise, there are establishments both very inexpensive and exquisite. Don't miss the opportunity to try the traditional Punjabi yogurt-based lassi drink.

Khalsa College

If you like spectacular architecture, you can't pass up Khalsa College. This century-old institution is the most prestigious University in Amritsar. The building was designed by Bhai Ram Singh based on the Mughal tradition. It is one of the best examples of Indo-Islamic architecture of the 19th century. You will find it next to the Grand Trunk Road that takes you towards the border with Pakistan.

Amritsar Festivals

Most Hindu and Sikh festivals are concentrated in spring and autumn. Amritsar is an ideal city to live in on special dates since the joy of living and optimism are essential elements in the Punjabi culture. Sikhs call it Chardi Kala! These are the dates of the main festivals that are celebrated in Amritsar.

Excursions from Amritsar

The Punjab region gives you rural landscapes of great beauty. The abundance of water and canals allows for fertile agriculture and a wide variety of crops. Rice, cotton, sugar cane, fruit trees... follow one another on the sides of the road. Every square meter is worked.

The golden dome of the gurudwara distinguishes the villages, and life follows its traditional slow rhythm. If you stop at any of these villages, you will see the generosity and hospitality of the Punjabis, and you will indeed have a good time. It can be the ideal complement after visiting Amritsar.

A trip to Amritsar, tourist tips 

• An airport is ten kilometers from the city, but it serves only domestic flights. The easiest way to get here is with a change in Delhi. The most active transport links have been established with the capital.

• The city has a large railway station, which receives trains from major cities in India every day. Traveling by bus is cheaper, but you will have to spend more time on the road.

• The locals have a very reserved culture. Try not to wear too bright and revealing clothes for a walk, and cover your head when visiting religious sites.

• The attitude towards drinking alcohol and smoking is also negative here. You can't smoke in public places, and if you have a pack of cigarettes peeping out of your pocket, they may not let you into the territory of some attractions.

• Rickshaws are the most popular and widespread type of urban transport. 

• If you want to use the services of local taxi drivers, be sure to check the cost of the trip in advance. Far from all cars being equipped with counters, prices for tourists can be inflated.

• In the market and small private stores, bargain for the product you like. Goods are sold here only in large shopping centers and supermarkets at a fixed price.

• Even the most upscale city hotels have a deficient price level. Be generous when choosing a hotel, and remember that the level of service in local luxury hotels is less high than in many other cities.

• Do not even try to find meat dishes in city restaurants and eateries. The locals do not eat meat. If you cannot do without the usual dishes, look for them in restaurants on the territory of large hotels.

• On the central city temple territory, there is a canteen where you can eat for free. The simplest regional dishes are prepared here from legumes and vegetables, and they also bake cakes

• Before traveling to the city, be sure to stock up on comfortable shoes and a hat. If you are an active tourist, you will have to walk a lot in the open sun.

• If you are going to the closing ceremony of the border with Pakistan, all things will need to be transferred to a transparent plastic bag. Visitors with opaque bags are not allowed at the entrance.

• India is a country with a radically different culture and customs from ours. When traveling to India, you must respect the traditions of the local population and adhere to the norms of behavior in this country.

• No special vaccinations are required before traveling to India. Like almost everywhere in the south, it is not recommended to drink raw tap water: only table water or bottled mineral water should be used

• At the entrance to any temple, guests will be asked to remove their shoes. You will have to go in socks, which are best thrown away ruthlessly at the exit. Therefore, do not forget to recommend tourists stock up on a sufficient number of pairs of socks before the trip.

Best time to visit 

The weather in Amritsar is always warm, but the best time to travel to this part of the world is between October and April. Daytime temperature is about 30 degrees, in summer it rises to 40 degrees, reaching a maximum in June, in winter it drops to fifteen degrees.

How to get Amritsar?

You can get to Amritsar from different parts of India by train, although you have to keep in mind that many times you have to make several connections since there is no direct train, especially if you come from Rajasthan. For this, we recommend you read our India train guide, with all the information to plan your train trip around the country.

• Amritsar has an international airport with flights from Dubai, Doha, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Delhi, and Mumbai. 
• The fastest train from Delhi to Amritsar is the Shatabdi Express. It travels 6 hours, leaving Delhi daily. A dozen less comfortable and slower trains also from Amritsar to Delhi. You can be bought tickets at the railway ticket office in the Golden Temple.
• From Delhi to Amritsar, drive along the NH-1 highway for about 6-7 hours.
• There are daily buses from Delhi to Amritsar.

Final thoughts

Amritsar has tremendous importance nationally as it holds the famous Wagah ceremony on the India-Pakistan border at the end of each day. Furthermore, the city is an abode of the glorious Golden Temple, the holiest religious site for Sikhs in India. 

Here are some of the many unique places to visit in Amritsar. It is also a delightful place for food lovers as it offers a wide range of sumptuous and delicious Punjabi dishes. Let us delve into a trip to Amritsar and discover the wonders it offers to the travelers who come here.