Location : In the north Indian state of Punjab.
Tourist Attractions :
The Golden Temple, Jalianwala Bagh, Durgiana Temple, Ram Bagh, Wagah Border, Baba Bakala, Tarn Taran.
Best Buys :
Woollen tweeds, suiting, blankets, shawls in traditional weaves, ivory, swords in different designs, jutties (traditional embroidered shoes) and carpets.
Best Hangouts :
The Golden Temple, Ram Bagh
Best Activity :
Shopping
Nearby Tourist Destinations :
Chandigarh, Kangra, Dharamshala, Pragpur
When to Visit :
Any Time of the Year
About Amritsar
Amritsar, meaning the "holy pool of nectar" is one of the major cities in the state of Punjab. It is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India. The legend has it that this was the place where, Luv and Kush, the twin sons of Lord Ram, got education and were taught the Ramayana by the learned sage Valmiki, before Sikhism came into existence and present city came to be known as Amritsar. The city was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas. With the respect of the pilgrims that pulls into Amritsar, the city has become the symbol of Sikhism. Today, Amritsar has evolved as a historical place and a religious hub of the Sikhs. A major part of the city's history revolves around the Golden Temple, which is the prime and distinct attraction in Amritsar.
Major Tourist Attractions in Amritsar
The Golden Temple
Sri Harimandir Sahib, also known as Sri Darbar Sahib or Golden Temple is named after Hari(God) the temple of God. Sikhs from all over the world come here to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund for spiritual purification. The Golden Temple is the major landmark of the place. Founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ram Das, the Golden Temple is a two storey marble structure, with an imposing dome of pure gold.
Jalianwala Bagh
Jalianwala Bagh reminds us of the brutal killing of the innocent people on April 13, 1919 by general Dyer, a British general. The mass massacre took lives of over 2000 unarmed people, who gathered there for meeting. This garden commemorates the martyrs, keeping the tragic episode in its historical context. Today, this site of brutal massacre, encloses a memorial with an eternal flame, dedicated to the martyrs.
Durgiana Temple
Located outside the Lohagarh gate of the old city, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is a centre of pilgrimage for devout Hindus. Other attractions of the city are Baba Atal Rai Tower, Ram Bagh garden, Fatehabad Mosque, Tarn Taran, Harike Wetland Wildlife Sanctuary, Wagha Border.
Getting There
Air :
The Rajasansi airport at Amritsar is well linked by flights with Delhi, Srinagar .It is also an international airport.
Rail :
There are direct links from Delhi. Ambala, Chandigarh, Jammu, Varanasi, Haridwar, Howrah and many other cities.
Road :
463 km from Delhi, 235 km from Chandigarh, 199 km from Dharamshala.
Accommodation
You won't face in any difficulty here. There are numerous respectable accommodations available here with world class facilities and services. Hotels are available in wide range, varying between luxury to budget and cater to every tourist's interest. There are accommodation for luxury seekers as well as for budget travelers.