Amritsar: Amritsar, colloquially known as Ambarsar and historically known as Ramdaspur is located in the Punjab state of India. It derives its name from Amrit Sarovar which was built by Guru Ram Das in the village of Tung. Guru Ram Das believed that the waters of the lake had healing powers. Amritsar is the largest and most important city in Punjab and is a major commercial, cultural, and transportation centre. It is also the centre of Sikhism and the site of the Sikhs’ principal place of worship—the Harmandir Sahib, or Golden Temple.
Famous Place In Amritsar: Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Jallianwala Bagh, Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Guru Ke Mahal, Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib, Hall Bazaar, Mata Lal Devi Temple, Akal Takht, Gobindgarh Fort, Gurudwara Mata Kaulan, Durgiana Temple, Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree, Bibeksar Sahib, Khair-ud-Din Masjid, Goindwal Baoli, Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib, Gurudwara Shri Tarn Taran Sahib, Khalsa College, Shri Ram Tirth Temple, Punjab State War Heroes Memorial and Museum, Pul Kanjari, Bathinda Fort, Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, ISKCON Temple, Sun City, Rainbow Resorts Water Park, Thunderzone Amusement and Water Park, Bliss Aqua World, Gurudwara Baba Deep Singh Ji, Gurdwara Goindwal Sahib.
Golden Temple: One of the most spiritual places in India, the Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in all of Sikhism. Located right in the heart of Amritsar, the stunning golden architecture of the temple and the daily Langar (community kitchen) attract a large number of visitors and devotees each day. The temple is open to devotees of all faiths and serves over 100,000 people free food from all walks of life. The main Temple housing the shrine is a small part of the vast complex known as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib to the Sikhs. The spiritual focus is the tank, the Amrit Sarovar, which surrounds the glistening central shrine. Around the edges of the compound, there are more shrines and monuments. The Sikh Museum is located inside the main entrance clock tower which shows the oppression endured by the Sikhs at the hands of the Mughals, the British and the Indian Government of 1984. The Ramgarhia Bunga is a protective fortress located at the southeast end of the tank and is surrounded by two Islamic-style minarets. Golden Temple is indisputably one of the most exquisite attractions in the world.
Wagah Border: Located at a distance of 22 km from Lahore, Pakistan and 28 km from Amritsar in India, the Wagah Border marks the boundaries between Indian and Pakistani borders, running along the Grand Trunk Road. The Wagah Border Ceremony or the Beating Retreat Ceremony, held every day, is the prime attraction. Every evening, just before sunset, the soldiers from the Indian and Pakistan military meet at this border post to engage in a 30-minute display of military camaraderie and showmanship. This ceremony includes the closing of the international gates and lowering the flags of both countries. The flag ceremony has been conducted by the Indian Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers since 1959.
Jallianwala Bagh: Located near the famous Golden Temple of Amritsar, Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden that also houses a memorial to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrators by the British forces. Spread over 6.5 acres of land, Jallianwala Bagh is associated with one of the saddest days in Indian History when thousands of innocent people were killed on the orders of General Dyer as they gathered for a peaceful celebration of Baisakhi. The place has now been turned into a beautiful park and is managed by the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust. There is a memorial tablet at the entrance which serves as a record of history. The tragic incident left a deep scar on the country, and a memorial was constructed post the independence for the innocents who lost their lives in this devastating incident. Established by the government of India in 1951, the massacre memorial was inaugurated by Dr Rajendra Prasad on 13th April 1961.
Partition Museum: The Partition Museum in Amritsar is a museum housing a collection of stories, memoirs, art and artefacts that hold the memory of the time before, during and after the partition of British India. Located at the Town Hall in Amritsar and developed by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust (TAACHT), the museum is a part of the newly inaugurated Heritage Street at Amritsar, which begins from the Golden Temple and ends at the Town Hall. The exhibits at the Partition Museum include newspaper clippings, photographs as well as personal items that were donated by people who had witnessed and lived during the Partition. TAACHT aims to establish the Partition Museum as a world-class physical museum dedicated to the memories of the partition of the sub-continent in 1947. The museum is devoted primarily to the victims & survivors, and their lasting legacy.
Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary: Considered to be the largest man-made wetland in northern India, Harike Wetland, also known as ‘Hari – ke – Pattan’ is situated on the border of Tarn Taran Sahib district. Sprawling over 4100 hectares of land area, the wetland is spread over Amritsar, Kapurthala and Ferozepur in Punjab. The highlight of the wetland is the gorgeous lake called the Harike Lake, that is situated in the heart of the region and that draws a large number of tourists to the place. There is also a bird sanctuary in the wetland that is known to attract hordes of birdwatchers and nature lovers. Constructed in 1952, the wetland actually came to exist when a barrage was built at the confluence of rivers Beas and Sutlej. Boasting of a rich biodiversity, the park is considered a haven for birdwatchers as the wetland is home to a large number of exotic and endangered migratory birds who come here during the winter season.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is a museum located in Company Bagh, Amritsar. It served as the summer palace of the first king of the Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, after whom the museum is named. The museum now provides an insight into the life the Maharaja alongside the history, art and architecture of the Sikh community between the 18th and 19th century. The museum is at a distance of 1.5 km from Amritsar Junction and about 4 km from The Golden Temple. Converted into a Museum in 1977, the museum consists of a lot of artefacts and personal items of the Maharaja such as his armour and weaponry. It also displays fantastic paintings, various manuscripts and coins from centuries, long gone.
Guru Ke Mahal: Housing the Granth Sahib and their gurus, Guru Ke Mahal was founded by Guru Ram Das in 1573 as a little cottage that went on to shelter the great gurus of the Sikhs. Gurudwara Guru Ke Mahal is a humble hut situated at the main street of Guru Bazaar near the Golden Temple in the holy city of Ramdaspur (now known as Amritsar). Earlier a residence of Sri Guru Ram Das, the founder of Amritsar city, the structure was modified into a Gurudwara. It is a three-storey tabernacle with a raised platform where the holy book of the Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib is placed.
Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib: Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib is a Gurudwara in the village of Chheharta Sahib, located 8 kms away from Amritsar. One can take a direct bus (74663 Atari) from Amritsar to Chheharta or book a local taxi to reach the Gurudwara. Basant Panchami in the month of Magh attracts lakhs of devotees from around the country and is considered the most significant fair at this historic site. Kite-flying is a significant attraction of this festival, and there are many competitions held for the same. Vistors of this fair can find many men sporting the yellow turban during the festival. The local Gurudwara management organises free medical services during this occasion.
Hall Bazaar: Located in Amritsar, Hall Bazaar is one of the oldest marketplaces in the country. One of the busiest shopping destinations of Amritsar, this historical bazaar is only 1 km from Amritsar railway station and only 1.3 km from the Golden Temple. The many stalls and shops here offer electronics, books, apparel, jewellery and ornaments, handiwork, Chinese lanterns, the world-famous Phulkari embroidery and Amritsari juttis among many other things.
Mata Lal Devi Temple: Mata Lal Devi Temple, popularly known as Sheesh Mahal of Amritsar, is famous among the Hindu pilgrims for its miraculous fertility-improving powers. The temple is dedicated to the female saint Lal Devi and is considered a miniature dimension of the popular Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu. The temple is decorated with shining mirrors that light up the area through the reflecting sunlight and numerous diyas.
Akal Takht: Akal Takht (Throne of the Timeless One) is the highest political and administrative institution of the Sikhs, founded by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind in 1606. Located in the famous Golden Temple complex of Amritsar, the Akal Takht is one of the Five Takhts of the Sikhs. These Takhts are seats of power and authority among the Sikh community, and the place of the Jathedar, the highest spokesmen among them. The Akal Takht is meant to be a symbol of political sovereignty and justice, where the spiritual and earthly concerns of the Sikh people could be addressed and examined.
Gobindgarh Fort: The Gobindgarh Fort is a historical museum and cultural theme park showcasing the history of Punjab and Punjabi culture in all its glory. There are various museums featuring collections of traditional Punjabi attire, household items and even weapons of war from the olden days. The light and laser shows such as Sher E Punjab and Whispering Walls showcasing the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the story of Gobindgarh respectively are quite popular among tourists.
Gurudwara Mata Kaulan: The sacred shrine of Mata Kaulan, also known as the Gurudwara Mata Kaulan, is located on the west side of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. This Gurudwara has been named after a legendary devotee of Guru Har Gobind, Bibi Kaulan. Her kirtans, which she sang religiously every evening, are still remembered by the older members of the Sikh community.
Durgiana Temple: Durgiana Temple, also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, is a Hindu temple located in the city of Amritsar located around 1.6 Km from the Golden Temple. It bears a stark resemblance to the famous Golden Temple while also carrying the same sense of peace, tranquillity and spirituality. Within this historic temple lies a beautiful Sarovar where one can find idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu floating. Gur Shai Mal Kapoor, whose statue can be found at the main entrance of the temple, laid the foundation for this architectural wonder. The rare sculpture of the sitting Hanuman, considered one of a kind, is found in the temple premises. One of the main highlights at the temple is the fountain show which takes place in front of the main temple every evening.
Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree: Found within the famous Golden Temple complex, the Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree is considered the most sacred tree in Amritsar. The 400-year-old jujube tree, situated on the eastern side of the great Amrit Sarovar, is greatly revered by Sikhs due to the legend and faith of Bibi Rajni, whose leprosy stricken husband was miraculously cured after a dip in the pond close to the tree. It was then named Dukh Bhanjani which means ‘eradictator of suffering’. The first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak is said to have rested at this holy spot while singing Gurbani in deep devotion to Waheguru. It is considered greatly instrumental in the founding of Amritsar by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru.
Bibeksar Sahib: Gurudwara Bibeksar Sahib is situated near Chattiwind Gate in the holy city of Amritsar. Lying about 1.5 Km from the Golden Temple and directly opposite Gurudwara Ramsar Sahib, it was the congregation site of followers of the 6th Sikh Guru, Hargobind Singh Ji and son of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Named after the Bibeksar Sarovar (lake), it is believed that Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji used to go hunting and when tired, used to come to this bare piece of land, tie his horse to the Kareer Tree and lay down there. He liked the place so much that he decided to build a Sarovar there. He laid the foundation for the holy tank in the year 1628.
Khair-ud-Din Masjid: Famous for its architecture, Khair-ud-Din Masjid was established by Mohd. Khairuddin in the year 1876. Khairuddin Masjid also known as Jama Masjid, is a beautiful mosque that holds great importance in India’s freedom struggle. Syed Ata Ullah Shah Bukhari, a Muslim scholar and a political leader, called upon the people to take the field against the British Rule from the brackets of this mosque. It was the place from where Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari announced the great call for waging war against the looting British.
Goindwal Baoli: Goindwal (also Goindval) Baoli is a step-well constructed in the 16th century by Guru Amar Das. It is situated 50 km from central Amritsar towards the southeast. Tourists can hire a taxi or an auto from the city to reach the well. The Baoli (open-well) is located on the banks of the River Beas and is an important Sikh centre. It is considered one of the first Sikh pilgrimage sites. Goindwal is said to be the birthplace of Guru Arjan Dev thus granting it great religious significance among the Sikh community. The well was built after the Sikhs were denied access to the River Beas.
Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib: Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib, also known as Bir Sahib, is a Gurudwara dedicated to Baba Budha Ji. The Gurudwara lies south of Amritsar, near the village of Jhabal Kalan, at a distance of 20 Kms. One can hire a private taxi to reach the Gurudwara. On the way to the Gurudwara, tourists can see the rich green paddy and wheat fields of Punjab, showcasing an essence of true rural Punjab. Baba Buddha, who lived for 125 years, was the first Granthi, blessed by the first Sikh Guru Guru Nanak Dev as a boy, and went on to anoint the five succeeding Gurus. Inside the Gurudwara, the holy Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a canopied seat made of white marble. Devotees come to this Gurudwara to seek blessings from Baba Buddha in hopes of a child, as was the case with Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, who came to Baba Buddha in hopes of being blessed with a child.
Gurudwara Shri Tarn Taran Sahib: Gurudwara Shri Tarn Taran Sahib was built by the fifth Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Arjan Dev. It is located 22 kms from Amritsar, in the village of Tarn Taran Sahib. The name ‘Tarn Taran’ was given to the Sarovar which means ‘a boat that takes one across the ocean of existence.’ Built in the Mughal style of architecture, the gurudwara is famous for having the largest Sarovar. The lotus dome that covers the three-storeyed building was damaged during the 1905 earthquake. The holy Gurudwara sees kirtan recitals every day which start from the early hours of the morning and lasts until late evening, which the visitors to the site have the privilege of witnessing. It is also immensely famous for the gathering of pilgrims on the day of Amavas. Vistors and pilgrims believe that the Sarovar’s water has medical qualities and is also said to be capable of curing leprosy.
Khalsa College: Khalsa College is a 124-year-old college in the city of Amritsar, making it a historic educational institution in India. The 300-acre campus has acquired the status of the highest Sikh institute for education with an enriching environment and a progressive outlook towards society. The architectural wonder is built on the same location that Guru Hargobind won his very first battle. Architecturally identical in nature, the Khalsa College in Amritsar and Lahore were constructed in the Indo-Saracenic style with influences of the traditional Indian and Mughal architecture. This historic institution was initially set up to conserve and promote the cultural heritage and language of Punjab. The aim was also to bring about social transformations by providing access to quality education. The college was designed by Bhai Ram Singh, who was the principal of Mayo Scool of Arts, Lahore.
Shri Ram Tirth Temple: The Shri Ram Tirth Temple, located near Amritsar city, was built to honour the birthplace of Luva – Kusha, twins of Rama and Sita. Constructed in lime yellow stone, the temple dates back to the epic of Ramayana where Sita was given in the Ashram of Balamiki after being abandoned by Rama. The battle of Ram’s Ashwamedha force with Luv-Kush is said to have taken place here. The gurukul of the twins, situated in the temple compound, is regarded as an architectural wonder by pilgrims.
Punjab State War Heroes Memorial and Museum: Punjab State War Heroes Memorial and Museum showcases the fabulous Bravehearts of Punjab. The museum immortalizes the bravery of the soldiers of Punjab, displayed throughout with a spirit of patriotism. Built in both a traditional and modern architectural style, it houses a state-of-the-art gallery where Punjab’s martial tradition and military campaigns can be viewed. Numerous illustrations, photographs, paintings, artefacts, weapons and interactive panels can be found here, letting the tourists go back in time. The museum has a collection of photographs of the 1965 and 1971 war. A mural has been built to commemorate the work and pay tribute to the 21 Sikh soldiers who were martyred in the 1971 war. Much like the Gobindgarh Fort, the walls are constructed with the Nanakshahi brick. Tourists can travel back 3 eras, through the pre-British, British and post-independence periods with the special light and sound show organised here. The 7D auditorium is a must-do experience during your visit here, transporting visitors to the war zones of the past.
Pul Kanjari: Pul Kanjari, popularly known as Amritsar’s Taj Mahal, is a village based on the vibrant expression of love by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Situated close the Wagah border, this town is historically significant as Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his troops would rest here while travelling between Amritsar and Lahore. An important trading centre during the 18th century, the town was named after a small bridge built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh over the canal between Amritsar and Lahore for his favourite dancer Moran, a Muslim dancer from the nearby village of Makhanpura. The Government of Punjab has recently renovated and opened the gates for tourists to visit Pul Kanjari.
Bathinda Fort: athinda Fort or Qila Mubarak is an age old fortress in Bathinda. Built by Raja Dab and King Kushana, the fort is believed to be the exact place where Razia Sultan was confined.and Guru Nanak Dev, Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh visited this place. Later, Maharaja Karam Singh built a gurudwara here for the pilgrims.
Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai: Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai is located inside the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. The historic shrine was built in honour of Baba Atal Rai, son of Guru Har Gobind Singh. The 9 storey octagonal tower represents a year in Atal Rai’s life as he passed away at the young age of 9. Originally, a samadhi of Baba Atal Rai the building slowly began transformed into a Gurudwara. It is the tallest tower in Amritsar alongside the Kaulsar Sarovar. This architectural marvel is one of the most visited attractions in Punjab, with millions of pilgrims coming from all around the world. The tower houses many miniature paintings of the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. The last storey of the tower offers visitors a birds-eye view of the bustling town of Amritsar. Not just a symbol of glory and artistic richness, but it also stands as a reminder of the divine power of Baba Atal Rai.
ISKCON Temple: Situated in the heart of the city in Moni Chowk, ISKCON Temple (also known as Sri Gaur Radha Krishna Mandir) is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu gods Krishna and Radha. The temple houses idols of several deities, Radha- Krishna being the most prominent.
Sun City: Situated on the Batala Road in Amritsar, Sun City Water Park is one is one of the most popular and visited water parks in the city. Replete with a plethora of water rides, regular rides, aqua dancing, roller coasters, several swimming pools, the water is the ideal hangout destination among both the adults and the kids.
Rainbow Resorts Water Park: Situated on the Attari Border Road in Amritsar, Rainbow Resorts Water Park offers multi activities. Spread over nine acres of land area, the resort has swimming pools, adventure park, go-karting, paint ball, kitty party hall, boating, restaurant etc.
Thunderzone Amusement and Water Park: Founded and opened to public in 2002, Thunderzone Amusement and Water Park is one of the largest and most popular water cum amusement park in the city. With an array of rides like columbus, mono train, roller coaster, music bob, swinging chairs and activities like boating etc., the park is an ideal day out place for all age groups.
Bliss Aqua World: Bliss Aqua World is an amazing water park in Amritsar with a variety of regular and water rides both for adults and kids. The park also has an amusement park in the premises which has a number of fun games and activities as well.
Gurudwara Baba Deep Singh Ji: Located in Amritsar outside the Chatiwind gate is Gurudwara Baba Shaheed Deep Singh Ji, honouring the valour and martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji, which is why it is also known as the Shahidan Sahib. He was specially renowned for his contribution during 1757 when he fought the Afghani troops led by Ahmed Shah Abdali, from attacking, invading, and blowing up the Golden Temple. He fought bravely alongside thousands of others but was fatally wounded during the fight. Even though he was badly wounded in the neck, he had vowed to take his last breath at Harmandir Sahib and so he fought with all his might and made it all the way back to Amritsar where he finally passed away.
Gurdwara Goindwal Sahib: Located in the Tarn Taran district of Punjab on the banks of river Beas is Gurdwara Goindwal Sahib which is another famous Sikh site. It is known as the 1st Sikh pilgrimage site and is where the 3rd Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Amar Das Ji, lived and preached for 33 years. It is also where he coined the idea of langar or community kitchen and where he built a baoli or well from where people of all caste, colour, creed and religion could drink from.
