The Best Route to Reach Amritsar: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Amritsar, a city in the state of Punjab, India, is known for its rich history and spiritual significance. It’s home to the world-famous Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, which attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. Amritsar also has a significant role in India’s freedom struggle and offers other historical sites like Jallianwala Bagh and the Wagah Border. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, it’s essential to know how to get there, the costs involved, and the timings for entry and exit from major attractions.

Modes of Transportation to Amritsar

1. By Air

The most convenient and fastest way to reach Amritsar is by air. The city is served by Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, which is well-connected to various cities in India and some international destinations.

• Domestic Flights: If you’re traveling from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or Kolkata, there are multiple daily flights available. Major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet operate regular flights to Amritsar. A one-way ticket from Delhi to Amritsar can cost anywhere between ₹2,000 to ₹6,000, depending on how early you book and the season.
• International Flights: If you are traveling from countries like the UK, Canada, or the Middle East, there are several direct and connecting flights to Amritsar. The cost of a one-way ticket from London to Amritsar could range from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000, while from Dubai, it might cost between ₹12,000 to ₹20,000.
• Airport to City: The airport is around 11 kilometers from the city center. You can hire a taxi, which costs approximately ₹400 to ₹700, or use public transportation like buses to reach your destination.

2. By Train

Amritsar is well-connected by rail, and train travel is an affordable and scenic option. Amritsar Junction Railway Station is a major hub, with trains coming from all over India.

• From Delhi: The fastest and most popular train from Delhi to Amritsar is the Shatabdi Express, which takes around 6 hours. The ticket price for an AC Chair Car ranges from ₹800 to ₹1,500. There are also other trains like the Swarna Shatabdi Express and the Amritsar Mail, which take between 6 to 8 hours.
• From Mumbai: The Golden Temple Mail is a popular train from Mumbai to Amritsar. The journey takes approximately 30 hours, and a sleeper class ticket costs around ₹800, while an AC ticket can range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000.
• From Other Cities: If you are coming from cities like Jaipur, Kolkata, or Bangalore, there are several direct and connecting trains to Amritsar. It is advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

3. By Road

Traveling by road is another great option, especially if you enjoy scenic drives. Amritsar is well-connected to nearby cities by national highways, and buses, taxis, and private cars are readily available.

• From Delhi: Amritsar is about 450 kilometers from Delhi, and the drive takes around 7 to 8 hours. If you’re planning to take a bus, you can opt for government-run buses (Punjab Roadways, Haryana Roadways) or private operators like Volvo and Mercedes buses. The ticket price for a government bus ranges from ₹600 to ₹1,000, while a private luxury bus can cost between ₹1,200 to ₹2,000.
• From Chandigarh: The distance from Chandigarh to Amritsar is around 230 kilometers, and it takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach by road. Bus tickets range from ₹300 to ₹800, and hiring a taxi might cost you around ₹2,500 to ₹4,000.
• Self-Drive: If you prefer driving yourself, renting a car is an option. Car rentals in India generally cost around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per day, plus fuel. It’s a good idea to use GPS for navigation since the roads are well-marked but can be tricky in some areas.

Entry and Exit Timings of Major Attractions

Once you reach Amritsar, visiting the city’s key attractions should be your priority. Knowing the entry and exit timings for each place will help you plan your visit better.

1. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)

The Golden Temple is open 24 hours a day, making it accessible at any time. However, the best time to visit is during early morning prayers or in the evening when the temple is beautifully lit. Entry is free, but you should follow the dress code and maintain decorum while inside.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (4:00 AM to 6:00 AM) and evening (6:00 PM to 10:00 PM)

2. Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh is a historic garden that commemorates the tragic massacre of 1919. It is located close to the Golden Temple and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history.

• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

3. Wagah Border Ceremony

The Wagah Border, located around 30 kilometers from Amritsar, is the site of the famous border-closing ceremony between India and Pakistan. Thousands of people gather every evening to watch this patriotic spectacle.

• Timing of the Ceremony: The ceremony starts around 4:30 PM in winters and 5:30 PM in summers. It’s best to reach an hour early to get a good seat.
• Entry Fee: Free, but you can book VIP passes for better seating.

4. Partition Museum

For history buffs, the Partition Museum provides a deep insight into the division of India and Pakistan in 1947. It’s an emotional and educational experience that covers the effects of partition through artifacts, personal accounts, and photographs.

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
• Entry Fee: ₹10 to ₹50, depending on whether you’re a child, student, or adult.

Best Time to Visit Amritsar

Amritsar experiences extreme weather, so it’s important to choose the right season for your visit.

• Winter (October to March): This is the best time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing, and the foggy mornings add a magical touch to the city’s landscape.
• Summer (April to June): Summers in Amritsar are extremely hot, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. It’s best to avoid visiting during this time unless you can bear the heat.
• Monsoon (July to September): Amritsar receives moderate rainfall, and while the weather becomes more pleasant, some days can be humid.