Amritsar – A Comprehensive Guide to India’s Historic City

Amritsar is a city that holds a significant place in the Indian history. Located in the northwest of India, Amritsar has been a home to Sikhs since the early 18th century, when it was founded and named after Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru.

Amritsar is mostly revered as the site of the Harmandir Sahib, which is also known as “the Golden Temple”. It is the most sacred Sikh shrine and millions of pilgrims from all around the world come to visit it each year. In addition to that, there are many other places worth exploring in Amritsar such as Jalianwala Bagh, Durgiana Temple and Wagah Border.

In this guide, we will explore some of the highlights of Amritsar and answer the most frequently asked questions about this amazing city.

What To See in Amritsar?

The Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) is considered to be the epicenter of Amritsar and it is one of the most sacred religious sites of the Sikh community. The enormous Sikh temple is surrounded by a lake and it is usually full of devotees. The Golden Temple offers free meals to anyone who needs it and it’s a great place to experience the religious and cultural heritage of India.

Jalianwala Bagh is an important landmark in Amritsar as it marks an event from India’s freedom struggle. On 13 April, 1919, British troops opened fire on an unarmed gathering of locals and this massacre left hundreds dead and injured. The park today stands as a memorial to those who lost their lives in that tragic incident.

Durgiana Temple is a Hindu temple located near the Golden Temple complex. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, has been given its name after its resemblance with Golden Temple. One can explore its intricately carved spires, intricate columns and its mesmerizing interior décor.

Wagah Border is located between India and Pakistan and it’s a great place to experience two different cultures. Every evening, soldiers from both countries perform a ritual march to lower each other’s flags as the sun sets. The event gets very patriotic as citizens hoist their country flags and cheer for their respective countries.

What to Eat in Amritsar?

Amritsar exhibits a rich food culture which is strongly rooted in its history. The food of the city is characterized by its abundance in dairy products like ghee (clarified butter) and paneer (cottage cheese). Also, due to its proximity to Pakistan, Amritsari food also reflects certain Pakistani influences such as tandoori roti (flatbread) and masala chicken.

Amritsar is known for its street food such as Amritsari Kulcha (stuffed flatbread) and Rajma Chawal (red kidney beans served over rice). There are plenty of restaurants around the city that are famous for their local flavors such as Café Bhangra Paradise, Jodhpuri Kheer House and The Great Indian Foodie Club.

Other classic dishes to try in Amritsar include Mah ki Dal (lentils simmered in butter), Amritsari Fish (fish coated with a spicy batter and deep-fried) and Makki di Roti (corn flour flatbread).

Where Can I Do Shopping in Amritsar?

Amritsar offers excellent shopping experiences for both tourists and locals alike. The city is known for its traditional items such as colorful shawls, vibrant jewelry and juttis (shoes). The market streets of Amritsar are full of shops that specialize in handcrafted goods and you can find just about anything here.

If you are looking for souvenirs, you can find various kinds of traditional handicrafts in shops such as Art Village Emporium and Madras Creations. Those who want to do more serious shopping should head over to Hall Bazaar or Lawrence Road, which are full of shops that offer everything from clothes to electronics at reasonable prices.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About Amritsar?

Amritsar is home to one of the world’s largest kitchen, which serves free meals every day. Also known as Guru Ka Langar, this kitchen feeds approximately 100,000 people a day.

Amritsar was declared a “Holy City of India” in 2003 and it’s also known as the “Heart of Punjab” due to its cultural significance.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre which happened in April 1919 was one of the darkest chapters in the Indian history and it was a turning point in India’s freedom struggle against the British rule.

Amritsar is home to some amazing wildlife, such as tigers, leopards and bears. The sanctuary located near Amritsar is also home to various species of birds and animals.

Conclusion

Amritsar is a city full of history and excitement that should be explored by everyone interested in understanding the culture of India. From holy sites such as Harmandir Sahib, to delicious restaurants offering special dishes originating from Pakistan to historic sites such as Jalianwala Bagh, there is something for everyone in this great city. Whether it’s admiring its monuments or savoring its food, visitors to Amritsar are sure to have an unforgettable experience that will stay with them long after they return home.

Resources:
Amanatrip Guide: What To See In Amritsar?

Hello Travel Guide: What To Eat In Amritsar?

Brightlinespaper Guide: Where Can I Do Shopping In Amritsar?

Theculturetrip Guide: What Are Some Interesting Facts About Amritsar?