Named after the Amrit Sarovar situated in the Golden Temple, the city of Amritsar is not only the spiritual hub of Sikh religion, it also has a vibrant cultural background which makes it a great tourist spot.
This vacation, live like a Punjabi, as I tell you what not to miss while at Amritsar (Punjab):
Holy Dip at Harmandir Sahib(Photo : Chippu Abraham)
Holy Dip at Harmandir Sahib: The foundation of Harmandir Sahib was laid by Pir Mian Mir of Lahore. It came to be known as the Golden Temple after Maharaja Ranjit Singh rebuilt it, after its destruction by Ahmed Shah Abdali. He embellished the structure with marble, copper and gold leaf. While at Amritsar, participate in the peaceful environs of this beautiful shrine. Take a dip in the Amrit Sarovar Lake. It’s the main attraction that draws millions of devotees, Sikhs as well as others, to this city every year.
Flag down in Wagah Border (Photo: Chippu Abraham)
Flag Down at Wagah Border: Situated in the northern Indian state of Punjab, Amritsar is not too far from Pakistan’s border. Wagah Border is the only road crossing to Pakistan, located 30 kms from Amritsar. Its Indian name is Attari. Each day around sunset, thousands of Indians, Pakistanis and foreigners gather to watch the unique flag down ceremony and the synchronized marching of the guards on both sides of the border. The viewing stands overflows with the cheering crowd, so might want to bring your binoculars to get a good view of the event.
Jallianwala Bagh( Photo : Dev Malya)
Revisit history at Jallianwala Bagh: The horrific massacre that took place in the Jallianwala Bagh has been one of the defining moments in India’s struggle for Independence. There are sections of walls on the opposite side of the park which have visible bullet marks on them. Martyr’s well is another such moving place. If you have watched the movie “Gandhi”, your visit to the park will be an emotional revisiting of the history. But, if one was not familiar with the history of the place, one would think it was a wonderful place to get away from the city’s maddening crowd.
Shree Durgiana Tirath
Shree Durgiana Tirath: Immerse yourself in religious fervor at Durgiana Mandir, which is a focal point of pilgrims both from India and abroad. The temple derives its name from Goddess Durga and is also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple. The Durgiana Committee manages this place and utilizes the offerings of the visitors for service to society. The temple is built on the pattern of the Golden Temple. Some historic temples in the complex are Sita Mata and Bara Hanuman.
Shri Tarn Taran Sahib( Photo: Jyoti)
A visit to Tarn Taran Sahib: Situated near the Amritsar district, this holy city was founded by the fifth guru of the Sikhs, Shri Guru Arjan Devji. It is rightly considered the hub of Sikh culture, with its many historical gurdwaras: Darbar Sahib Sri Guru Arjan Devji, Gurdwara Guru ka Khuh, Gurdwara Bibi Bhani ka Khuh, Gurdwara Takkar Sahib, Gurdwara Lakeer Sahib, Gurdwara Jhulna Mahal and Lalpur (Tapeana Sahib). Gurdwara Sri Darbar Sahib Tarn Taran is home to the largest sarovar (holy tank) in the world.
Khalsa College Campus(Photo: Marathaman)
Walk the Khalsa College Campus: Built in 1892 by the Singh Sabha Movement, the campus and the buildings of this university college are some of the most impressive building complexes in Amritsar. As you stroll along the campus building, you cannot miss its architectural excellence manifested in the dozens of distinctive red domes and arches set in its lawns: a wonderful blend of Indian and Mughal designs, realised by Bhai Ram Singh with the help of an engineer, Dharam Singh. There is also a small museum at the Campus, which now has several schools.
Khair-ud-din Masjid
Namaaz at Khair-ud-din Masjid: The interesting thing about this religious centre is its strategic location near the Gandhi Gate of Hall Bazaar, one of the busiest marketplaces in Amritsar and that is what makes it a crowded shrine throughout the year, with its large courtyards filled with devotees during Namaaz. Khair ud din Masjid is also renowned for its architectural beauty and its historical significance. It is the place where Tootie-e-Hind Shah Attaullah Bukhari first raised his voice against the British rule.
Rambagh Garden(Photo : Maja)
Relax at Rambagh Gardens: Famous as the summer palace of the erstwhile Raja of Punjab, this garden was formerly known as Company Garden. The garden holds the panorama of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, depicting the important events in his life through three-dimensional montages. During the 400th year celebrations of Amritsar city, Rambagh was converted into a national museum. Relax yourselves in its surroundings of rare trees, herbal plants, fountains and gold fish.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s statue at Rambagh gardens
Gaze at Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s statue: While at Rambagh gardens, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the grand statue of the Lion of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The statue depicts him in a charismatic posture, saddled on his horse. This along with the fortified gates of the garden and the excellent architecture of the palace situated within the garden stand for the artistic skills of those days, all of which needs to be preserved.
Kaisar Bagh Park(Photo: Puneet)
Soak up some sun at Kaisar Bagh Park: This garden was built around the 1845-50s. It is also known as Caesar’s Park, a reminder of the reign of Wajid Ali Shah, a former King of Oudh. There is a temple in the middle of the park. A flight of stairs leads to the main entrance, which gives the impression of a bridge. The temple with its unique architectural blend of the Mughal and the Gothic styles and the so-called bridge make for a ready feast for the eyes!
Decorating Punjabi Jutti(Photo: Satpal Gandhi)
Buy a pair of Punjabi jutti: jutti is the traditional footwear in Punjab. However, its popularity goes well beyond the boundaries of the state. As a matter of fact, it’s a rage, especially among foreign visitors of the city. Juttis have come to stand for the vibrant culture of Punjab and this is what makes it very popular among tourists. Buy yourself a pair of Punjabi Jutti studded with sequins, beads, stones and get yourself a compliment!
Learn Punjabi Language
Learn to speak Punjabi: One of the most interesting facts about the Punjabi language is that it is very widely spoken even outside India. It is also a popular language when it comes to Bollywood songs. Media plays a very important role in the increasing influence of this language on the culture of the Indian subcontinent. So while you are at Amritsar, learn to converse in Punjabi. And when you go back home, you can boast about it by doing a Punjabi rap.
Sikh Kirtan
Participate in an evening Kirtan: Kirtan is an integral part of Sikh religious practice. This tradition of singing was first started in the 16th century when the followers of Guru Nanak popularized it. Participate in an evening session of Gurmat Sangeet in Golden Temple or in any other gurudwara of the city. You will notice that the Kirtan is performed with due importance to taal, raga and dhuni. The kirtan singers are called the “Kirtaniyas”. Sikh Kirtan has contributed a great deal to the cultural tradition of Amritsar.
Virasat Haveli
Stay at Farm stay (Virasat Haveli): Situated on the outskirts of the city of Amritsar, this Haveli is an ancient architectural marvel built with Nanashakhi bricks. The best part about your stay here will be the fact that you won’t need to pay room rent! All you need to pay for are the meals, snacks and the conveyance facilities that the home offers. While you’re here, enjoy a morning walk amidst the lush green fields that surround the haveli, walk along the farm, engage in cultural activities that are organised for the guests, go for horse riding, swimming or camel riding!
Guru ka Langar(Photo : Amreet)
Taste Guru ka Langar (free kitchen): The Langar or free kitchen was started by Guru Nanak Dev, an institution designed to express both the principle of equality and the ethics of sharing. In this tradition, everybody, rich or poor, male or female, old or young, sits on the floor together and eats the same food. Generally, the food is served twice a day every day. Taste this simple food at Golden Temple along with hundreds of devotees. You can also volunteer to prepare the Langar.
Punjabi Dress
Dress up in Punjabi attire: Whether it is Ghaghra-choli or kurta-pyjama, the traditional Punjabi dress is not only colourful; but also comfortable. The Churidar Kurta that is invariably worn by Punjabi women is now worn almost everywhere, particularly among the young girls, who team it up with bright coloureddupattas. So go to a store and dress yourself up in Punjabi attire. Even better, learn to tie the Pagri!
Saada Pind( Photo : Preeto)
Experience the village life: “Saada Pind, Saada Virasat” is the tagline of the model village that is being developed by Punjab government at Amritsar. The aim is to conserve Punjab’s village culture and its traditional crafts. Amritsar is the best place to make a base for visiting rural Punjab and getting an idea of the way of life of the farmers there, who produce almost half of the country’s food grains. Appreciate the village craft, watch the rural women dance Gidda; play a rope game with them!
Ranjit’s Svaasa
Stay at a luxury cottage: Book a suite at Ranjit’s Svaasa. It’s a lovely little hotel with a blend of comfort and aesthetics. The dining experience will be exceptional. The rooms are clean and reasonably priced. Do try the Kerala Ayurvedic massage here or go for meditation to relax yourself. The Ranjit’s Svaasa is recommended to anybody who wants to spend some quality time away from the hustle bustle of the city.
Kara and Kirpan
Buy a Kara and Kirpan: For a Sikh, Kirpan is one of the five articles of faith that Sikhs generally wear all the times: Kara (metal bracelet), Kirpan (strapped dagger), Kachera (a type of cotton undergarment), Kesh (uncut hair) and Kangha (wooden comb). Originally a kirpan was used for the defence of the oppressed against their oppressors and a Kara is supposed to symbolise the life as never ending. If you are a believer, buy these articles of faith for yourself and your family.
Do Sewa: The Sikh Gurus have enumerated the rewards that result from doing selfless service. Sewa is an important part of Sikh religion. Various models of voluntary service are organised in the Gurudwaras, for activities such as sweeping, serving water, fanning the congregation. Anybody can volunteer to do these activities, both within and outside the institution. But one needs to practise sewa with great devotion to get true happiness.
Learn Gurbani
Learn Gurbani: Gurbani literally means “Guru’s words”. It can be found in small books or Gutkas, which contains sections of Gurbani. One should wash his/her hands and cover one’s head with a clean piece of cloth before reciting from Gurbani. It’s an inseparable part of Sikh devotion and is usually done in the early hours of the morning, evening and at night before going to bed. Learn Gurbani in Amritsar and spread the faith.
Participate in heritage walks: Various heritage walks are organised in this city from time to time, that showcase the historical and architectural marvels located in Amritsar. Participate in any one of them and rediscover the city’s old charm. Indulge in the ethnic Punjabi cuisine as the walk takes you to traditional cuisine spots! One also gets to see several Akharas, Havelis, Katras and Hatties. It provides you an opportunity to feel part of this sacred city.
Lassi(Photo : Bille de Hatti)
Enjoy a glass of lassi: If you are at Amritsar, you must try Ahuja’s Kesar wali lassi. It’s located near Hindu College and also serves masala tofu. The place has a very basic look but the lassi is very refreshing. Go to Kesar Ka Dhabha, near Loh garh Gate, for excellent phirni. Have it as dessert after a wholesome dinner with friends and family. For the week you are planning to stay at Amritsar, be a glutton!
Sri Sri Radha Gokulananda
ISKCON, Amritsar: Amritsar is one of the ISKCON Centres across India. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISCKON) is located at Chowk Moni Bazaar of Laxmansar. Lose yourself while chanting the name of Lord Krishna, dance to the tune of the Sangeet, taste prasaad and meet a lot of other devotees of Krishna from all over the world!
Punjabi Sweets : Rabdi(Photo : Maria)
Eat Punjabi Sweets: If you have a sweet tooth, Amritsar will give you two! You’ve got to try mouth-watering jalebis with rabdi on top, the rich badam ka seera, my favourite gaajar ka halwa, kaju barfi and kalakand! Most Punjabi sweets have a lot of dry fruits in them and are enjoyed widely across India. You can have it separately or team it up with a proper meal. They are available in almost every eating-joint in Amritsar.
Playing Colors @ Anandpur Sahib (Photo: Boston)
Take part in Sikh Festivals: The holy land of Amritsar hosts a variety of festivals every year which show the Sikhs’ deep sense of devotion. Besides, fairs and festivals become an occasion for people to get together and celebrate which Punjabis love to do anyway! Some of the important Sikh festivals, which one can participate in according to one’s time of visit, are: Baisakhi, Basant Panchmi, Guru Parb, Ram Tirath Fair and Hola Mohalla.
Yellow Chilli Restaurant
Dine at a world-class Punjabi restaurant: Out here is the famous chain-restaurant conceived by celebrity chef, Sanjeev Kapoor, called Yellow Chilli. It is known for its lip-smacking hariyali machchi (mint flavoured grilled fish) and rogan josh (slow cooked mutton in yoghurt and fennel gravy). For dessert, try the delicious blackcurrant kulfi. So hurry get your dinner reservations!
Gataka( Photo :GMK Khalsa)
Learn Gataka: This is a form of martial art associated with Punjab. It is both a sport as well as a ritual. Wooden sticks are used as weapons and it is practised between two opponents. A performance of Gataka usually takes place at all major events in Amritsar, including fairs and festivals. Body training is an important part of learning gataka. Many performers form a troupe and travel across the world demonstrating their talent and delighting people from various cultural backgrounds.
Yogi Academy (Photo : Miri Piri Academy)
Pay a visit to Yogi Academy: The Miri Piri Academy is one of the many academies in Amritsar with a broad based program that combines academics with the practice of Kundalini Yoga. Pay a visit to this academy and see how students come from all over the world to discipline their mind, body and soul. The academy admits students of any race, colour or nationality.
Woolen Carpet
Shop for woollens: While shopping at Amritsar, pick up some woollens as the market here is very good. You can buy woollen cardigans, sweaters, blankets and the carpets that are woven by the rural women of Punjab. Go to Katra Jamal Singh, near the telephone exchange in the old city, and Shashtri Market to shop as the items here are cheap and of good quality.
Patiala Salwaar(Photo : Crafts Villa)
Buy yourself a Patiala: For traditional Punjabi garments, go to Partap Bazaar or Katra Jamal Singh. The Patiala Salwaar worn by women of Amritsar makes an attractive dress. Team your elegant Salwaar with Punjabi Juttis, the traditional Punjabi footwear. The traditional Punjabi wear also makes a gorgeous wedding dress!
Shawl with Phulkari Embroidery (Photo: Rachna Bisht-Rawat)
Buy a shawl with Phulkari embroidery: Different roadside shops in Amritsar sell handicraft items made by the rural women folk. The most famous and intricate among them is the Phulkari embroidery. Check out the lanes at Guru Bazaar, near the Golden Temple. Each lane here sells a different commodity. You can get some of the best shawls with Phulkari patterns on them in the old city Bazaars.
Gobindgarh Fort
Visit the Gobindgarh Fort: Formerly known as Bhangian Ka Kila, Gobindgarh Fort had remained under army control since 1849. Later, after the decline of Bhangi rule, Maharaja Ranjit Singh rebuilt the fort to include a huge “Toshakhana” in the middle of the fort that was used to store grains and provisions for Maharaja’s army in those days. Legend has it that there is an underground tunnel that connects the fort to Lahore. This tunnel was believed to be wide enough to let a mounted horseman pass through. This fort is an embodiment of the history and grandeur of Amritsar.
Chawla Chicken
Take a bite of Chawla’s Chicken: Chawla’s is located on Lawrence road, near Bansal Sweets. Go to them and treat yourself with their signature dish “Cream Chicken”. Chawla’s has many outlets in other cities like New Delhi, Indore, but it was originally started in Amritsar. If you are a non-vegetarian, their cream chicken is to die for! Try Surjit Food plaza on Lawrence road for butter chicken.
Bharvan Da Dhaba(Photo: Bharvan Da Dhaba)
Bharawan da Dhabha: Heard a lot about Amritsari Kulcha? Bharawan da Dhabha is the place to be! Amazing food, quick service and reasonably priced, Bharawan is best known for its kulchas: Paneer kulcha and aloo kulcha. Enjoy it with a bowl of plain curd, lassi, chaas or kheer. They also serve chana along with the kulcha. Also don’t forget to try their makki ki roti and sarson ka saag!
Cloth Market
Splurge at Cloth Market: At the Cloth Market, splurge to your heart’s content. The streets over here are dedicated to different kinds of cloth. For instance, there are certain streets where you will find only wedding clothes. Other streets sell blankets, bed sheets etc. There are few other markets located around the cloth market in Amritsar, like jewellery market, steel market etc.
Akal Takth(Photo : Amarpreet)
Go to see the Akal Takht: Both a primary religious centre and a seat of political assemblies, Akal Takht stands in the Darbar Sahib facing the Golden Temple. It is the oldest of all takhts and the Guru Granth Sahib, which is kept in the sanctum of Golden Temple during the day, is transferred to the Akal Takht at night. It is a symbol of Sikh sovereignty and all Sikh combatants before leaving to the battlefield seek blessings of the guru here. Hukamnamas issued by the Takht are universally applicable to all Sikhs.
Experience the magic of the Jubi Tree: While you are at the Golden Temple, turn to the north-west corner of the complex to locate the Jubi tree. It is believed to have been planted around 450 years ago by Baba Buddhaya and is supposed to bear special powers. Many marriage deals take place under the shade of this tree. It is said that a woman who hangs strips of cloth from its branches will bear a child; such is the magic of the old Jubi tree.
Kesar Da Dhaba(Photo:bandarji)
Dine at Kesar da Dhabha: If you want to get a taste of the best vegetarian food, go to Kesar ka Dhabha. It is located in Shashtri Market and has maintained the same quality of food since 9 decades! Their buttery Maa ki Dal, lachchedaar paranthas and palak paneer will have you coming back to this place over and over again! Top your meal off with a satisfying glass of lassi or rich phirni.
Mata Lal Devi
Get blessings of Mata Lal Devi: For a complete Hindu temple experience, go to Mata Lal Devi Temple which is located 2 kms away from Amritsar railway station. It is similar in appearance to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu. It looks comparatively small on the outside but once you go upstairs, you’ll be amazed by the number of rooms and deities that the caves contain. Walking through ankle deep water might add to a little bit of adventure. Overall, there is a sense of peace and tranquillity in the temple.
Harike Wetland
Experience the flora and fauna of Harike Wetland: It is the largest wetland in northern India, with the Harike Lake situated in the deeper part of it. Also known as Hari-ke-pattan, Harike is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India. Besides being a bird watcher’s paradise, the place is home to Indian wild boar, the jungle cat, the smooth Indian otter and different species of ducks. The wetland’s rich vegetation comprises of the Lotus, Hydrilla and Typha. Major problems faced by the wetland are encroachment, infestation, illegal fishing and poaching.
Shopping at Hall Bazaar
Shopping at hall Bazaar: Entering the Bazaar through the Gandhi Gate, experience for yourself its multi-hued attractions. From reasonably priced Chinese lights to best quality books, this bazaar has a lot to offer. Spice up your meals with warian and roasted papad sold here. So come to Hall Bazaar and take home a slice of Amritsar!
Bibeksar Sahib: Situated near Chattiwind gate, Bibeksar Sahib marks the place where Guru Hargobind Sahib used to tie his horse with the Kareer Tree. Here Guru Sahib used to take rest after his hunting sessions. Discussions on religious topics were held here at the “Sarovar”, the holy tank, the foundation of which was laid by Guru Sahib himself.
Santokhsar Sahib: Guru Ram Das ji had not yet ascended his throne when he came here and started to excavate a holy tank on instructions from Guru Amar Das, which went on to become the first holy tank in Sikh history. It is named after the yogi who had been meditating here before he breathed his last. Guru Arjan Dev ji used to sit under the Tahli Tree, hence the name of the Gurudwara as Shri Tahli Sahib.
Amritsari Machchi
Amritsari Machchi: If fresh pieces of boneless sole coated in a batter of spicy gram flour, rich with a flavour of carom seeds is what you are looking for, go to Makhan da Dhabha at Lawrence Road. The Amritsari Machchi it serves is absolutely sinful! Not really cheap for a dhabha but the food here has been aptly described by a visiting foodie as “bhangra on your tongue”!
Dalhousie(Photo : Puneet)
Go to a nearby Hill station (Dalhousie): Dalhousie is one of the nearest hill station, located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. This small town is a hub of ancient Hindu culture, art temples and local handicrafts. Home to the gaddi and Gujjar tribes, it is a beautiful tourist spot. It has a large number of hotels, villas and bungalows which offer visitors a pleasant staying experience. Major attractions are: Bakrota Hills, Gandhi Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Tibetan Market and Panchpula.
Sit under the Historical Banyan Tree (Shaheedi Bohr): In the 1870s, some people used to sell beef near the Golden Temple. The Kookas reacted violently against them. However, four of them were arrested by the British and hanged from this tree, hence the name. This huge tree with its lush green canopy is located just outside Ram Bagh Gardens and will always remain a reminiscent of British tyranny.
Know the history of Kalianwala Khoo: Kalianwala Khoo is a well located in Tehsil Anjala in Amritsar. According the historical records, when Mangal Pandey started the rebellion against the British in 1857, the information was received by Mr Frederic Cooper, the then Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar. Many soldiers, who were a part of the rebellion, were shot dead and their dead bodies were thrown in this well. Hence this place is of great historical importance and a visit to this place is very moving.
Pay a visit to Samadhi of Shravan: Samadhi of Shravan is one of the oldest heritage sights in Amritsar. Legend has it that during the Ramayana period, Shravan was shot dead by an arrow of King Dashrath, the lord of Ayodhya and that he lies buried here on the banks of an old rivulet. It is located around 6 kilometres from Anjala near Jastarwal.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Pay Homage to Guru Arjan Dev Ji: Guru Arjan was the fifth of the ten Sikh Gurus, who became Guru following the footsteps of Guru Ram Das ji. Located 30 kms south-east of Amritsar is the Samadhi of Guru Arjan Dev ji. It was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1815 A.D. The Samadhi is located within easy reach from Goindwal Sahib, so do stop by and pay a visit.
Pul Kanjari(Spring Dale Senior School)
Know the tales about Pul Kanjari: Located 35 kms away from Amritsar is a small village by the name Pul Kanjari. It is located somewhere around the Wagah Border where Maharaja Ranjit Singh used to take rest while passing by along with his royal troop. The place has a bathing pool, a temple, a gurudwara and a mosque. It also has a monument constructed in the memory of all the jawans who lost their lives in the 1971 war with Pakistan.
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