Top 10 Things to Do in Amritsar: A Complete Guide for Travelers
Amritsar, one of the most vibrant cities in India, is known for its rich history, culture, and spirituality. Located in the state of Punjab, it is the spiritual and cultural heart of the Sikh religion. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking spiritual peace, Amritsar has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 things to do in Amritsar, along with entry fees and timings to help you plan your visit.
1. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
The Golden Temple is the most famous attraction in Amritsar. It’s the holiest shrine of Sikhism, attracting millions of visitors every year. The golden structure of the temple is surrounded by a serene water body, known as the Amrit Sarovar. The spiritual atmosphere and the free community kitchen (langar) offering food to everyone, regardless of religion, are what make it a must-visit.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for the beautiful golden reflection on the water.
2. Jallianwala Bagh
Just a short walk from the Golden Temple is Jallianwala Bagh, a historic site where thousands of Indians were killed or injured during a brutal British massacre in 1919. Today, it serves as a memorial, with preserved bullet marks and a museum detailing the horrific event.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Winter), 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Summer)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
3. Wagah Border Ceremony
The Wagah Border, the international border between India and Pakistan, is famous for its Beating Retreat ceremony. Every evening, soldiers from both nations perform an energetic and patriotic ceremony. The event is full of cheers, national anthems, and high-stepping soldiers.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Ceremony starts around 4:30 PM in winter and 5:30 PM in summer. Arrive an hour early for seating.
- Best Time to Visit: Reach early for a good spot as it gets very crowded.
4. Partition Museum
Located near the Town Hall, the Partition Museum is dedicated to the memory of the partition of India in 1947. The museum showcases personal stories, historical documents, and artifacts that reflect the painful division of the country into India and Pakistan. It’s an educational and emotional experience.
- Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning when the museum is less crowded.
5. Durgiana Temple
The Durgiana Temple, resembling the Golden Temple in structure, attracts many devotees and tourists with its dedication to Goddess Durga. The temple, built in the middle of a sacred lake, has an intricate design with silver doors. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for devotees and tourists alike.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a quieter experience.
6. Gobindgarh Fort
Gobindgarh Fort is a historic fort with a rich past, dating back to the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Today, it has been converted into a cultural center with museums, exhibitions, and live performances that showcase Punjab’s history and culture. You can also enjoy a 7D show depicting the fort’s history.
- Entry Fee: ₹180 to ₹649 (depending on the package)
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to enjoy both the museums and the evening performances.
7. Akal Takht
Akal Takht, located within the Golden Temple complex, is one of the five seats of power (Takhts) in Sikhism. It is the place where the temporal and spiritual concerns of the Sikh community are addressed. Visiting this place gives you a deep insight into Sikh philosophy and governance.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime, as it’s within the Golden Temple complex.
8. Ram Tirath Temple
Ram Tirath is a popular pilgrimage site, believed to be the birthplace of Lav and Kush, the sons of Lord Rama. The temple sits on the outskirts of Amritsar and features an ancient tank where devotees take a holy dip. The architecture and mythological significance of this temple make it a fascinating spot to visit.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid the sun.
9. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
This museum, located in the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, offers a glimpse into the life and times of Punjab’s greatest king. You can see a collection of weapons, armor, and coins from his era, along with paintings and manuscripts that reflect his legacy.
- Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning, when it’s not too crowded.
10. Amritsari Food Trail
No visit to Amritsar is complete without tasting its world-famous food. From buttery Amritsari Kulcha to rich Lassi and the delightful sweets like Jalebi and Pinni, Amritsar is a paradise for food lovers. Kesar Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba, and Kanha Sweets are some of the best places to sample these delights.
- Price Range: ₹100 to ₹500 per meal
- Best Time to Visit: Lunch and dinner for the best experience.
