Visit to India: What to See In Amritsar?

When it comes to India, one of the first cities that come to mind is Amritsar. It is one of the most fascinating destinations in India, with a number of exciting things to see and do. This bustling city has a vibrant history and is also home to a number of important religious and cultural sites. Amritsar is a great place to visit, and here’s a guide to all the must-see attractions and activities while you’re there.

The Golden Temple

The most iconic attraction in Amritsar is the iconic Golden Temple of Amritsar. This shrine is set amidst the lake and is a serene and beautiful spot to visit. It is also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, and it is one of the most sacred places in India for Sikhs. With its golden domes, marbled pathways and jewel-encrusted walls, this majestic shrine occupies the center of the city, making it unmistakable. It is said that anyone who visits is granted with unconditional peace and serenity. The Golden Temple hosts some of the grandest festivals and offers spiritual nourishment to devotees. You can also find a great dining hall where everyone, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds, can gather and have dinners together.

Jallianwala Bagh

Also known as Jallianwala Bagh memorial, this public garden holds an important role in Sikh history. In 1919, a massacre took place here at the hands of British troops under the orders of Brigadier General Reginald Dyer, who was later sentenced for due punishment by civil unrest as many innocent lives were sacrificed for no offense of theirs. Every year, commemorative ceremonies are held here to honor their memories. The walls of Jallianwalla Bagh are still full of bullet marks from that fateful day, and visiting here is a sobering reminder of the terrible events that transpired here in the bloody past.

Wagah Border

Wagah Border Ceremony is a daily military practice at the border between India and Pakistan. The lively show of patriotism from both countries during the ceremony makes this an unmissable experience for visitors to Amritsar. Every day, just before sunset, the security guards put on an impressive show as they march with elaborate choreography towards the imposing iron gates that mark the border. The crowd roars in delight and applause as they watch the parade with its marching tunes, heart-stopping flag lowering ceremony, and stirring shouts of “Vande Mataram!’ and “Long live India!’.

Gobindgarh Fort

Gobindgarh Fort, constructed in 1805 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh stands sentinel in Amritsar. The fort used to be a stronghold of Sikhism in 18th and 19th century during the reign of Ranjit Singh. It housed the legendary Kohinoor diamond which was later taken away by the British army after defeating Maharaja Duleep Singh in 1849. Gobindgarh Fort has been renovated recently and opened for visitors in 2017. Today, visitors can explore the several small rooms it houses which display interesting artifacts from that era, from weaponry to manuscripts relating to Sikhism.

Durgiana Temple

The Durgiana Temple is also called as Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, Punjab’s most revered temple which celebrates its Hindu roots alongside Sikhism. This beautiful temple is built on a raised platform, surrounded by a large oval-shaped pond and offers colorful views with its vibrant architecture. It is one of the holiest temples in Amritsar and devotees visit throughout the year to seek peace and blessings.

Hall Bazaar

Hall Bazaar is one of India’s busiest markets and it is located right in the center of Amritsar. Here you will find an array of traditional Indian items such as carpets, jewelry, antiques and handicrafts as well as delicious local cuisine. Shopping here is an exciting experience, especially since it houses some exclusive items which can’t be found anywhere else in Amritsar. And if that isn’t enough, the bazaar also comes alive during festivals like Diwali with enthusiastic crowds taking part in traditional celebrations.

Conclusion

Amritsar offers a plethora of attractions and activities to explore, proving you’re never short of things to do. From a visit to the Golden Temple or attending the moving ceremony at Wagah Border to shopping at Hall Bazaar, it’s no wonder why this destination remains so popular among tourists from across the globe. A visit to Amritsar will certainly be memorable and for more information on things to do here, Holidify is an excellent source for planning your trip.

An Insider’s Guide to Amritsar: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of the City

Amritsar is a city of vibrant culture, traditions, and of course, delicious food. But beyond the famous Golden Temple and the Wagah Border, there are several lesser-known attractions that present a different side to the city, providing unique experiences for visitors. Here’s an insider’s guide to Amritsar, bringing to light the city’s hidden gems, local food spots, cultural experiences, and more.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Golden Temple and Wagah Border are undoubtedly the highlights of any Amritsar visit, there are a few hidden gems that visitors often overlook. One such hidden gem is the Pul Kanjari, a historical village located on the outskirts of Amritsar. The village is home to a magnificent gurudwara, still preserved in its original state. It has many stories to tell from the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Another fascinating place to visit is Gobindgarh Fort, situated in the heart of the city. The fort, once a significant military post, offers an in-depth understanding of the history of the city. Visitors can step back in time and experience traditional bazaars, food, and shows that were once a common sight here.

Dining Spots: Uncover the Local Cuisine

Amritsar is famous for its traditional Punjabi cuisine, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. While Kesar Da Dhaba and Brother’s Dhaba are famous and worth visiting for trying out local dishes, there are some other spots worth exploring. Bharawan Da Dhaba, situated in the Old City, has been serving delicious vegetarian Punjabi dishes for over a century.

For non-veg lovers, Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner is a compelling option. The eatery serves some of the city’s best fish and chicken dishes, prepared with traditional Punjabi spices. Make sure to try their specialty, Amritsari fish, for a flavorsome taste.

Cultural Experiences: Unveiling Ancient Traditions

Amritsar is a city that celebrates its culture and traditions with great pride. The city is home to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and performers who keep the local art forms alive. Visitors can experience the colorful and vibrant world of Punjabi folk music and dance performances at the Punjab Cultural Promotion Council.

Visiting The Partition Museum is also an enriching experience. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that help visitors understand the conditions of the partition of India in 1947. The museum tells the story of how ordinary people were caught up in the tragedy and how they forged a new life following their forced migration.

Local History: Colorful Tales From The Past

Amritsar’s rich history is a treasure trove of fascinating stories and legends. One such tale is the legend of Rani Ka Bagh, a beautiful royal garden built by the Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The garden’s centerpiece is a statue of Rani Jindan Kaur, Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s wife, who is said to have retired here after the Maharaja’s death. The garden is a testament to the love story of the King and his Queen.

No visit to Amritsar is complete without a visit to Jallianwala Bagh. This park has become a symbol of India’s struggle for independence. It serves as a reminder of the tragedy that took place on April 13th, 1919, when unarmed Indian protesters were shot down by British troops.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Making the most of your Visit

For a unique experience, visitors can plan a visit to the Guru Nanak Dev University’s astronomy observatory. The observatory has sophisticated equipment that provides a close look at the night sky, an experience that visitors will find both exciting and educational.

Another offbeat experience is a visit to the Bihrar Sahib Gurdwara. The shrine, located on the banks of the Beas river, is only accessible through a small boat ride. The peaceful atmosphere, the rustling of the leaves, and the sound of the gushing river make the journey to the shrine a memorable one.

In conclusion, Amritsar is a city that has something for everyone. By going beyond the popular tourist spots, visitors can uncover a wealth of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and fascinating stories. A visit to Amritsar is not just a trip but an emotional journey, one that visitors will cherish for years to come.