Amritsar, a unique city in Punjab, is globally renowned for its spiritual significance and rich history. Founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das Ji, Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism, with its name closely associated with the sacred Sri Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple.
Every corner of Amritsar tells a story—from the serene and sacred atmosphere of the Golden Temple to the haunting memories of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, this city is deeply rooted in its heritage. Amritsar is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of patriotism and resilience, where the echoes of history are always present.
The city’s delicious cuisine, vibrant bazaars, and warm hospitality make Amritsar even more special. It leaves a lasting impression on every visitor, where religion, culture, and history come alive together.
The Historical Significance of Amritsar
1. Jallianwala Bagh
Perhaps there is no other memorial in India that paints such a poignant saga of the freedom struggle as the Jallainwala Bagh. Spread over 6.5 acres, the public garden remains a testimony to the most heinous public massacre that the British Army committed on unarmed Indians. It was almost a century ago, in the year 1919, when the British forces under the command of General Dyer brutally open fired on a peaceful congregation of men, women, and children at this very place and left hundreds dead. The huge stone memorial at the garden is a stark reminder to the black day in India’s freedom history. Even today, you can see the bullet marks on a section of the walls of the garden and the well into which several people had jumped to death on that fateful day. Jallianwala Bagh is a must-visit place where you can go through a dark chapter in the country’s freedom struggle and pay homage to the martyrs. If you visit the place in the evening, you can watch the light and sound show that recreates the horrifying incident.
- Location: Golden Temple Road
- Timings: 06:30 am to 07:30 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is dedicated to the Lion of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The museum is housed in one of his beautiful summer palaces, which is reason enough to pay a Surrounded by manicured lawns, the palace presents a pretty picture. Once you step inside the museum, you will be able to witness a wealth of artifacts and relics that remain a testimony to the glorious times of this great leader. The museum features paintings, dresses, weapons, and coins among other things. You can also see several articles and paintings related to the various battles that were fought by the brave ruler.
- Location: Wagah, Hardo Rattan
- Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10
3. Gobindgarh Fort
Gobindgarh Fort that spreads across 43 acres is a landmark attraction in Amritsar. Tracing its roots to the 18th-century, the fort has remained witness to much bloodshed that has marked the city’s history. But even today, it stands strong. Until recently, the fort was under the occupation of the army. But as of February 2017, it has been opened to the public as a live heritage museum. Among the major attractions of the fort are a coin museum, ancient warfare museum, haat bazaar, and whispering walls. A unique attraction of the place is Sher e Punjab, a 7D show developed on the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which will take you back in time to the 19th century and leave you with an immersive experience. You can also take part in games and live dance performances and win prizes. Various food stalls around the place will ensure that you gorge upon mouth-watering delicacies during your Whether you are a history buff or not, visit this fort for a thrilling experience.
- Location: Old Cantt Road, Vijay Chowk, Inside Lohgarh Chowk
- Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: Packages varying from ₹ 150 to ₹ 649 per head for Indians; packages varying from ₹250 to ₹1000 per head for foreigners
4. Ram Tirath Ashram
Religion and mythology blend together at Ram Tirath Ashram, which is also known as Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal. The place is considered to be the sacred spot where Lord Rama’s sons, Lav and Kush were born. Legends mark this spot as the place where once stood the ashram of sage Valmiki. It is believed that the great sage started writing the Ramayana here. The ashram may be no more today, but you can visit a grand temple that stands here. An 800 kg gold-plated statue of sage Valmiki is the main attraction of this temple.
- Location: Ram Tirath Road, Kaler
- Visit Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
5. Wagah Border
One of the best places to visit near Amritsar, is marked with a patriotic high. Located around 30 km from the city centre, it is the only road border crossing that runs between India and Pakistan. Every evening, the border turns into a ceremonial ground before the sunset and attracts hordes of tourists. It is the time when soldiers belonging to both the countries engage in Beating Retreat and Change of Guard ceremonies. It is a daily practice when the lowering of the national flag takes place on both sides of the border by the soldiers, accompanied with elaborate and quick military exercises. This practice has been continuing since 1959. The whole ceremony is a colorful treat for the visitors. Since seats are not reserved, do get there at least one hour before the ceremony begins and carry along a pair of binoculars for a better view.
- Location: Wagah, Hardo Rattan
- Timings:
04:15 pm to 05:00 pm (For the ceremony during winter)
05:15 pm to 06:00 pm (For the ceremony during summer) - Entry Fee: No entry fee
6. The Golden Temple
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism and a symbol of spiritual harmony. Located in Amritsar, Punjab, it stands in the middle of a sacred pool called the Amrit Sarovar, from which the city gets its name. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, featuring a blend of Islamic and Hindu styles, with its dome covered in gold leaf, giving it a radiant, golden appearance.
Built in the late 16th century by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, the Golden Temple was designed as a place of worship for people of all religions and walks of life. The four entrances of the temple symbolize its openness and acceptance of all.
Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred religious book of the Sikhs, is kept inside this Gurdwara during the day and taken to the Akal Takht at night. A key highlight of the shrine is the langar – a free vegetarian meal offered to each and every visitor. Make sure to cover your head when you enter the shrine, as is the compulsory custom of this religious site.
- Location: Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia
- Timings: Open 24 hours; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
8 Wonderful Shopping Places in Amritsar That You Can’t Miss
Amritsar offers a vibrant shopping scene that reflects its rich culture and heritage. Here are some wonderful shopping places in the city:
1. Lahori Gate Market
If budget-friendly shopping is on your mind, then head straight to the bustling cloth market at Lahori Gate – an important landmark of Amritsar. You will find a variety of shops and showrooms in this market that offer everything from ladies’ wear, cotton suits and dress materials to Pashima shawls. Remember one thing while making a purchase here – don’t forget to bargain!
Like any other lively bazaar in India, here too you will find a variety of street food to excite your taste buds like kulcha, wadiyan, Amritsari papad, pickles and homemade jams. The market also has some of the offering multi-cuisine delicacies.
- Location:Near Lahori Gate, Amritsar
- Timings:11 AM to 10 PM
2. Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar
Another important and busy shopping hotspot in Amritsar is Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar, where you will find a huge collection of sarees, Pashmina shawls, footwear, woodwork, jewellery, Phulkari design dress materials, wedding attire for men and women and handicraft items. The streets here are crammed with clothing stores and tailor shops that witness the surge of shoppers, day-in and day-out.
Besides, there are a number of restaurants and food outlets in this market, where you can enjoy authentic Amritsari Tandoori Chicken with Paratha and a glass of Lassi.
- Location: Near Hall Bazaar, Amritsar
- Timings:11 AM to 8 PM (Open daily; some shops closed on Sundays)
3. Hall Bazaar
Hall Bazaar is among the oldest markets in Amritsar, and there is a certain rustic charm about it. This market lies on the way to the and can be seen buzzing with tourists around the year. The entrance to the market is through the Hall Gate (also known as Gandhi Gate) that features Mughal-style architecture and has a giant clock on it. In this market, you can shop for electronic gadgets, lamps, garments, fancy juttis and more importantly, Phulkari design dresses and dress materials.
Wandering around the market can be tiring, so we suggest that you head to any of local restaurants here to relish on some authentic Amritsari Chhole Kulche, Lassi, etc.
- Location: Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar
- Timings:9 AM to 7 PM
- Specialty: Juttis, Phulkari designer dresses, Electronic items and Lamps
4. Guru Bazaar
Another heritage market in the city is Guru Bazaar, which is located close to the Golden Temple and Guru Ka Mahal. So when you are visiting any of these two places, do hop to this bazaar for some delightful shopping experience. It is a favourite of ladies since they get the best of gold and silver jewellery here, especially the traditional Jadau one. There are some 2500 shops in this market that are famous for selling not just jewellery but also earthen lamps, diyas and idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
- Location: Shiv Puri, New Amritsar
- Timings:9 AM to 9 PM
5. Kapda Bazaar,
Kapda Bazaar is another famous shopping destination in Amritsar, especially for traditional clothes. Colourful Patiala salwars and salwar suits with gorgeous Phulkari work are something that you will find in almost every shop at this market; something you should definitely invest on! Besides clothes, bracelets, bangles, earrings and bindis are other items available here. So this is one of such places in the city, where women love coming again and again!
- Location: Kapda Bazaar, Amritsar
- Timings:10 AM to 6 PM
6. Hall Bazaar
A trip to Amritsar can never be considered complete without a visit to Hall Bazaar, one of the iconic marketplaces of the city. A shopper’s paradise, this ancient bazaar is the hub of many things, including gadgets, trendy accessories, phulkari embroidery work, bangles, local handicrafts, traditional garments, Chinese lamps, and even essential items of daily use. But the marketplace is mainly famous for fancy and colorful jootis. The Mughal-style entry gate of the bazaar, known as Gandhi Gate, is another attraction of the place. Walking and shopping in the narrow lanes of the market that offers a sensory overdose of vibrant sights and sounds can be an experience in itself. Do not forget to collect a few souvenirs from the market as memorabilia of your Amritsar trip. Also, get a taste of the famous delicacies of the region at one of the age-old eateries in the area.
- Location: Katra Ahluwalia
- Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Whether you want to get a glimpse into Amritsar’s incredible past or soak in its present flavor, a visit to the city will enable you to come back with an enriching experience. So, head to the city, check into one of the hotels in Amritsar and start your blissful tourist adventures in this amazing land of heritage and culture.
8 famous food of Amritsar you have got to try
1. Langar and Kada Prasad
Going to Amritsar means you have to see the Amritsar Golden Temple, and if you go to the Golden Temple, you should try the langar they serve there. Golden Temple has the largest kitchen in the world that’s open 24*7 throughout the year and feeds more than 100,000 people every day for free. It is considered the best place to eat in Amritsar.
The food might seem simple with flatbread, rice, lentils, and vegetables, but it tastes great and fills you up. Eating there is fun too because you sit in a long line with many people. Also, remember to eat the Kada Prasad while you’re there, as it is the world’s tastiest halwa (sweet dish) made with lots of pure ghee, and once you have it, you will probably want more.
2. Amritsari Kulcha
When it comes to Amritsar’s food, it is not possible that we forget about its famous Amritsari Kulcha, which is the most preferred breakfast option for many. This Kulcha is filled with potatoes, cauliflower, paneer, and special spices and cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) with a lot of butter and ghee. People usually eat it with spicy Chole (chickpeas) and sliced onions. It’s so delicious that you might not want to eat anything else so that you can savour the flavour in your mouth all day long.
3. Puri Chole
You know it is a sin if you talk about the famous food of Amritsar and not mention the Puri Chole. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser, with Puri – crispy, deep-fried bread made from whole wheat flour, and Chole – a curry packed with spicy chickpeas full of flavour. Served with a side of raita, tangy chutney, and fresh salad, each bite takes you deeper into the heart of Amritsar’s culinary traditions.
4. Makki ki roti and sarson ka saag
Who doesn’t know about “Makki Di Roti Te Sarson Da Sag”? It’s an emotion. It’s a famous food of Amritsar that people enjoy during the winter months for its warmth and nutrition. Initially, it was a staple for rural people in Punjab, but now it has become one of the iconic dishes of India. If you ever visit Amritsar in winter, trying this Amritsar food is a must.
Sarson da saag, paired with crispy makki roti and topped with butter, is a true desi delight, and one of the best places to eat in Amritsar is . This place has been serving delicious food for around 100 years, and Makki Di Roti Te Sarson Da Sag is its speciality. Despite its simple appearance, the food taste here beats many fancy restaurants. Located near the Golden Temple, Kesar da Dhaba is a must-visit spot on Amritsar’s food street list.
7. Amritsari Pinni
Amritsari Pinni is a famous sweet treat and an excellent choice for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a traditional sweet made with clarified butter (desi ghee), wheat flour, sugar, and lots of dry fruits like almonds, pistachios, and cashews. What makes Amritsari Pinni special are its rich, thick texture and the sweet smell of cardamom and sometimes saffron.
Pinnis are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also packed with energy. People often eat them in winter to stay warm and get a quick energy boost. They also last long, so you can take great gifts to return home. If you’re looking for the best place to eat in Amritsar, go to which started in 1981 and is known for making delicious Pinnis.
8. Gulab Jamun and Jalebis
Gulab Jamun and Jalebis are two of the most common Indian sweets that are enjoyed by millions of people all over the world. So, what makes these sweets so special in Amritsar? The reason is the sweet shops in Amritsar are the oldest and have unique recipes passed down from their generations. One of the most famous sweet shops in Amritsar is Ramesh sharma sweet, known for its delectable sweets, especially its Gulab Jamun and Jalebis. One of the secrets behind the mouth-watering taste of these sweets is the use of pure ghee.
Also, some shops and vendors have devised unique and innovative ways of serving these sweets, like Jalebis with Rabri or warm Gulab Jamun sprinkled with nuts. All in all, the combination of traditional recipes, high-quality ingredients, and innovative serving styles make Gulab Jamun and Jalebis some of the most popular and beloved sweets in Amritsar.
