What Is Amritsar?

Amritsar is a city in the Indian state of Punjab, and is one of the oldest and most important cities of India, as it has been home to a number of dynasties and is an important cultural centre for the Sikh and Hindu religions. Located in the northwest of India, it is the administrative headquarters of the Amritsar district, and is home to the Golden Temple – or Harmandir Sahib – which is one of the holiest sites in Sikhism.

Amritsar is literally translated to mean “The Pool of Nectar of Immortality’, and it is here that Sikh pilgrims often go on pilgrimages and take part in rituals. The city is also known for its rich heritage and produces some of India’s best fabrics, carpets and textiles, earning it the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

History of Amritsar

The history of Amritsar can be traced back to 1577 when Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru of Sikhism, founded the city on the land given by Emperor Akbar. Since then, Amritsar has been an important city for the community, and has played a significant role in India’s history. During the early 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh made Amritsar his capital, which in turn attracted new people, culture and art.

In 1919, the City was witness to some of the bloodiest events during India’s freedom struggle. On April 13, 1919 – now known as Jallianwala Bagh Massacre – British troops opened fire on dozens of unarmed civilians participating in a peaceful protest at Jallianwala Bagh.

Famous Attractions in Amritsar

One of the most famous attractions in Amritsar is the Golden Temple – or Harmandir Sahib – which is the most sacred site for followers of Sikhism and attracts thousands of devotees every day. The temple is built on a 67ft square platform surrounded by a pool, known as the Amrit Sarovar or the Pool of Immortality, and the entire temple complex is clad in shimmering gold sheets that reflect off the lake waters.

Aside from that, tourists must also take in the sights at Rambagh Garden – one of the oldest and magnificent gardens in India that contains many varieties of plants and ancient trees. The Mohammad Ali Food Street is also worth a visit to sample some of Amritsar’s iconic street-food. Additionally, historical sites such as the Partition Museum and Jallianwala Bagh should not be overlooked when visiting Amritsar.

Shopping in Amritsar

The shopping district around Lawrence Road is known as one of the most popular shopping precincts in Punjab due to its large selection of stores, roadside vendors and flea-markets. Shoppers can find offerings such as traditional Sikh instruments like Dholak, Rabab and Harmoniums as well as ornate jewellery and fabric materials like Phulkari. The city is also known for its artefacts and handicrafts, including Gota Jewellery and Mola Kari works. For those looking for traditional Indian garments, places like Dal Bazaar offer handmade dresses and accessories with intricate embroidery designs.

Climate in Amritsar

Amritsar experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons – summer, winter, autumn and spring – with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature during this period ranges from 33 degrees Celsius during summer to 8 degrees Celsius during winter. The wet season usually starts around mid-July and lasts until mid-September while monsoons usually start in late-June or early July.

Transportation Around Amritsar

Amritsar International Airport (IATA: ATQ) offers domestic services as well as international flights to cities such as London, Toronto and Birmingham with airlines like Air India Express, Jet Airways and Indigo. The city also features an extensive railway network that connects all major cities like Jalandhar, Pathankot and Delhi through Sealdah Amritsar Express and Delhi Sarai Rohilla Express.
The city also has an extensive bus network that connects Amritsar with cities such as Chandigarh, Delhi and Shimla via Interstate services by Punjab Roadways. Additionally, taxis and rickshaws are widely available to get around town. A transport guide offered by Amritsar Airport plots out all your transportation options in Amritsar along with details such as fares and distances.

All in all, Amritsar is a beautiful city steeped in tradition with an interesting history, amazing attractions, shopping streets and delicious food that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. It is an incredibly vibrant city with something to offer for everyone, so why not explore it for yourself?

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Amritsar – India’s Spiritual and Cultural Hub

Amritsar, nestled in the north-western state of Punjab in India, is a city that brims with spirituality, culture, and flavor. The city is renowned worldwide for its Golden Temple – a place of pilgrimage for Sikhs around the world. Besides the Golden Temple, there are plenty of other hidden gems that the city has to offer. Follow this insider’s guide to explore the lesser-known sides of Amritsar and create unforgettable memories.

Local Attractions – Hidden Gems

While the Golden Temple is undoubtedly the most famous landmark of Amritsar, there are several other local attractions that are not as well-known as they should be. For a unique experience, visit the Partition Museum, which narrates the heart-wrenching stories of the Partition of India in 1947. It is the first museum in the world dedicated to the Partition, and visitors will feel the emotions of the partition through the exhibits and stories.

Another hidden gem is the Gobindgarh Fort, an imposing structure that played a significant role in the history of Punjab. It showcases Punjab’s contribution to the Indian Army and has been often called the “Heart of Punjab,” reflecting the emotions of Punjabi culture, valor, and pride.

Dining Spots – A Celebration of Flavors

Amritsar is a food lover’s paradise, and it would be unjust to leave the city without indulging in its cuisine. Local food options range from street food to fine dining, and every bite promises a unique taste. Kulchas, Chole Bhature, and Amritsari Fish are must-try dishes.

One of the most legendary dining spots in Amritsar is Kesar Da Dhaba, serving authentic Punjabi Cuisine for generations. Here one can savor delicious Punjabi food in a rustic but lively ambiance that reflects Punjab’s spirit. It is a perfect spot for a family meal or a date night with your significant other.

Cultural Experiences – Life in Amritsar

Amritsar is more than just food and history – the city also boasts a distinct and vibrant culture. The city celebrates numerous festivals with zeal and enthusiasm. The most famous festival is the Baisakhi festival, which marks the Sikh New Year, harvest season, and the founding of Khalsa. The spirit of Baisakhi celebrations is contagious, and visitors can join the merrymaking, dancing, and feasting in the city.

A visit to the Wagah Border is a must for anyone visiting Amritsar. It is the only road border crossing between India and Pakistan, just thirty minutes from the city center. Witness the flag-lowering ceremony at the border gate that showcases the patriotism of the people from both countries.

Local History – Beyond the Surface

Amritsar has a long and glorious past that goes back centuries. The city’s history is marked by various events, including ancient times, invasions, and the British colonial empire. One fascinating story involves a beautiful 400-year-old Haveli (mansion) that was built during the Mughal Empire’s reign. Known as the Saragarhi Haveli, it was the scene of one of the most remarkable acts of bravery in military history. The haveli is now being restored and transformed into a museum exhibiting that event and showcasing the culture of the city.

Another example is the Ram Bagh gardens, formerly known as Company Baugh, a well-manicured garden that dates back over 400 years. Apart from being the summer resort of the first King of Lahore and the place where the founder of Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, spent his last days, it is also the birthplace of thirteen battles between the British, Mughals, and Sikhs.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions – For an Unforgettable Experience

Besides all the above, some unique experiences cannot be missed while visiting Amritsar. For example, tourists can take a cooking class and learn to cook Punjabi food. It is a great way to learn more about the city’s flavors and spices while immersing yourself in the local culture. One can also shop for local handicrafts at the Hall Bazaar. The Bazaar has been around since the British Raj and is an excellent place to explore the city’s traditional handicrafts.

In Conclusion, there’s always something new to discover in Amritsar. The city is not just a simple pilgrimage town. It has hidden surprises, rich culture, and a welcoming ambiance that is rare to find. Follow this insider’s guide to explore the lesser-known sides of Amritsar, so make sure to book Amritsar when you plan your next trip to India.