Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural center of Punjab, is renowned for its iconic Golden Temple, delicious Punjabi cuisine, and historical landmarks. It is a vibrant city that blends spirituality, history, and modernity, attracting tourists from around the globe.

Must-Visit Attractions in Amritsar

1. Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)

• Entrance Fee: Free.
• Highlights: The holiest Sikh shrine, stunning gold-plated architecture, serene Amrit Sarovar (sacred pool), and the Langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to thousands daily.
• How to Get There: Centrally located; accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or walking if nearby.
• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful atmosphere or evening for the illuminated temple.

2. Jallianwala Bagh

• Entrance Fee: Free.
• Highlights: A historic garden commemorating the 1919 massacre; features a memorial and bullet marks preserved as a reminder of India’s struggle for independence.
• How to Get There: A 5-minute walk from the Golden Temple.
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

3. Wagah Border Ceremony

• Entrance Fee: Free.
• Highlights: A daily flag-lowering ceremony with energetic performances by Indian and Pakistani border guards.
• How to Get There: 28 km from Amritsar; accessible by taxi or shared vehicles.
• Opening Hours: Gates open at 4:00 PM; ceremony begins around 5:15 PM (timing varies seasonally).
• Tip: Arrive early for the best seating.

4. Partition Museum

• Entrance Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners.
• Highlights: Chronicles the history of the Partition of India in 1947, showcasing artifacts, oral histories, and photographs.
• How to Get There: Located near the Town Hall, close to the Golden Temple.
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays).

5. Durgiana Temple

• Entrance Fee: Free.
• Highlights: A Hindu temple resembling the Golden Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• How to Get There: 2 km from the Golden Temple; accessible by rickshaw or taxi.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

6. Gobindgarh Fort

• Entrance Fee: ₹180 for adults, ₹100 for children.
• Highlights: Historical exhibits, sound and light shows, live performances, and museums.
• How to Get There: 4 km from the city center; accessible by cab or auto-rickshaw.
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

7. Ram Tirath Temple

• Entrance Fee: Free.
• Highlights: Associated with the Ramayana; believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama’s sons.
• How to Get There: 11 km from the city; hire a cab or auto.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

How to Get Around Amritsar

1. Auto-Rickshaws: Affordable and readily available for short distances.
2. Cycle Rickshaws: Great for exploring the old city and narrow lanes.
3. Cabs and Ride-Sharing Apps: Ola and Uber operate in the city for longer distances.
4. Walking: Ideal for the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and nearby attractions.
5. Public Buses: Limited but economical; better for locals than tourists.

Popular Local Food in Amritsar

1. Amritsari Kulcha: Served with chole (spiced chickpeas) and pickles.

   • Where: Kesar Da Dhaba or Kanha Sweets.

2. Lassi: A creamy yogurt-based drink.

   • Where: Ahuja Milk Bhandar.

3. Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag: A Punjabi winter delicacy.

   • Where: Bharawan Da Dhaba.

4. Fish Tikka: Marinated and grilled fish.

   • Where: Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner.

5. Jalebi and Gulab Jamun: Popular sweets.

   • Where: Gurdas Ram Jalebi Wala.

Top Nightlife Spots in Amritsar

Nightlife in Amritsar revolves around cultural performances, fine dining, and serene evening experiences.

1. Havana Club & Lounge

   • Highlights: Live music, DJ nights, and cocktails.
   • Location: Ranjit Avenue.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry; cover charges may apply for events.
   • Happy Hours: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

2. Peddlers Amritsar

   • Highlights: Retro-themed pub with live bands and a dance floor.
   • Location: Mall Road.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry; minimum spend on drinks.
   • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

3. The BrewMaster

   • Highlights: Microbrewery offering craft beers and multicuisine dining.
   • Location: Celebration Mall.
   • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
   • Happy Hours: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
• Avoid Summers: Extremely hot, with temperatures reaching 45°C.

Festivals Celebrated

1. Baisakhi (April): Celebrating the harvest season and Sikh New Year.
2. Diwali (October/November): Grand celebrations at the Golden Temple.
3. Gurpurab (November): Birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, marked with prayers and processions.

Amritsar offers a blend of spirituality, history, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an enriching experience in India.