10 Amazing Things To Do In Amritsar

Amritsar, located in the northwestern state of Punjab in India, is a city rich in culture, history, and spirituality. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Amritsar offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This city is most famous for the Golden Temple, but it has much more to offer to visitors and tourists. If you are planning a trip to this wonderful city, read on to find out the most amazing things to do in Amritsar, whether you are traveling solo or with family.

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Visit Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the most iconic and spiritually significant place in Amritsar. This magnificent temple, covered in real gold, is the central religious and cultural hub of Sikhism. The serene and reflective atmosphere within the temple complex makes it a must-visit for all travelers. If you want to know more about this spiritual sanctuary and are planning a visit to Amritsar exclusively to visit this shrine do check out my post on Best Golden Temple timings & What to expect

Visiting Golden temple is one of the best things to do in Amritsar

Partake in Guru ka Langar (Community Kitchen)

Adjacent to the Golden Temple is the world’s largest community kitchen. Apart from the Golden Temple’s spiritual significance, the langar, or community kitchen, serves as a symbol of Sikh hospitality. Here, volunteers serve free meals to thousands of visitors daily, regardless of their background. Partaking in this selfless act of service is a deeply humbling and spiritual experience and is one of the most important yet underrated things to do in Amritsar.

Witness the Wagah Border Ceremony

If you are a true patriot then visiting the Wagah Border is one of the most unmissable things to do in Amritsar. Wagah Border, just 30 minutes from Amritsar, is where India meets Pakistan aka the Attari border. Every evening, a flag-lowering ceremony takes place, creating an electrifying atmosphere with patriotic fervor on both sides. This event is a must-see for its pageantry and the palpable sense of national pride.

The ceremony features soldiers from both countries dressed in their respective military uniforms and performing a synchronized and elaborate drill. It includes high kicks, goose-stepping, and aggressive movements, accompanied by loud, martial shouts and music.

The event attracts a large crowd of spectators, including tourists, local residents, and even international visitors. The audience often enthusiastically cheers for their respective countries, creating a vibrant and patriotic atmosphere. The lowering of the national flags of India and Pakistan is a significant part of the ceremony. The flags are lowered with great care and folded ceremoniously, and then the gates at the border are closed.

If you plan to witness the Beating Retreat Ceremony at Wagah Border, it’s advisable to arrive early, as it can get quite crowded. There are seating areas for visitors, and it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance, as the timing of the ceremony may change slightly with the seasons. Also, given the hot sun, do remember to grab your caps and cold drinks on the way!

Jallianwala Bagh Memorial

This historical site bears witness to one of the darkest chapters in India’s struggle for independence. In 1919, British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering, leading to the loss of many innocent lives. Today, the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial stands as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made for India’s freedom.

Explore the Durgiana Temple

Often referred to as the ‘Silver Temple,’ the Durgiana Temple is a prominent Hindu place of worship.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is associated with power and strength. While the temple is commonly referred to as the Durgiana Temple, it is often likened to the Golden Temple. Its stunning architecture and serene surroundings make it one of the best things to do in Amritsar for those interested in exploring the city’s diverse religious heritage.

Key features of the Durgiana Temple include:

Architecture: The temple’s architecture bears a striking resemblance to the Golden Temple. It is built with marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and domes, giving it a grand and majestic appearance.
Main Deity: The primary deity worshipped at the Durgiana Temple is Goddess Durga, who is venerated in her various forms. Devotees come to seek blessings and offer prayers to the goddess.
Festivals: The temple is particularly vibrant and lively during Hindu festivals, such as Navratri, Diwali, and Durga Puja. During these times, the temple is beautifully decorated, and there are elaborate processions and cultural performances.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being in a bustling city, the temple offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can find solace and connect with their spiritual side within its premises.
Location: The Durgiana Temple is located in the northern part of Amritsar, near the Lohgarh Gate, and is easily accessible to tourists and pilgrims.
Coexistence: Amritsar is known for its religious diversity, and the Durgiana Temple stands as a symbol of harmony and coexistence. It is not uncommon to find people of various faiths visiting the temple to pay their respects.

Visit the Partition Museum

The Partition Museum in Amritsar is a heart-wrenching but essential stop for those interested in the history of the Indian subcontinent. It offers insight into the traumatic events of the partition in 1947, which split India and Pakistan. The Partition of India resulted in one of the largest and most traumatic migrations in human history, as millions of people were displaced, and communal violence erupted.

The museum’s primary objective is to educate visitors about the events and consequences of the Partition and to commemorate the suffering and sacrifices of those who lived through this tumultuous period. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including personal testimonies, photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the Partition. It also houses oral histories and accounts of individuals who experienced the Partition, providing a human perspective on the historical events. The museum employs various multimedia and interactive exhibits to engage visitors and make the history of the Partition more accessible.

The museum often hosts events, talks, and educational programs related to the Partition to foster community engagement and awareness about this significant historical event. So the Partition Museum in Amritsar is an important institution for anyone interested in understanding the history and consequences of the Partition of India. It provides a platform for reflection and remembrance of the tragic events of 1947, and it is a significant step in preserving the collective memory of this period in South Asian history. Check this link out if you want to know more about the museum – Partition Museum

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Learn about the history of the Sikh Empire and its legendary leader, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, at this museum. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including portraits, paintings, weapons, jewelry, coins, artifacts, and personal belongings of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. These exhibits provide valuable insights into his life and the era in which he lived.

Visitors can view a variety of Sikh art and artifacts, including miniature paintings, manuscripts, and objects that showcase the opulence and grandeur of the Sikh Empire during his rule. The museum also houses a significant collection of arms and armory used during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his generals. These weapons include swords, daggers, guns, and more. It is clearly one of the most essential things to do in Amritsar, for history enthusiasts.

Visit Rambagh Gardens

For a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, visit the Ram Bagh Gardens. This beautifully landscaped garden provides a serene environment for a leisurely stroll and a relaxing afternoon. The well-maintained garden provides a peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and jogging. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to unwind and relax.

In the center of the garden, there is a prominent statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh on horseback. The statue is a tribute to the great Sikh ruler. Ram Bagh has fountains and water channels that add to the charm of the garden. These features provide a soothing and refreshing ambiance. The garden occasionally hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and celebrations, especially during festivals and special occasions.

Taste the Amritsari Cuisine(One of the best things to do in Amritsar for Foodies)

Amritsari cuisine is characterized by its hearty and bold flavors, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, spices, and dairy products. The food is known for its richness and warmth, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors to Amritsar. Amritsar is renowned for its delectable food, especially its street food. Tasting the culinary delights here is one of the unmissiable things to do in Amritsar. Here are some of my top picks and suggestions:

Amritsari Kulcha: Amritsari kulcha is a type of stuffed Indian bread, typically stuffed with a mixture of spiced potatoes or paneer (cottage cheese). It is cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) and often served with chole (chickpea curry) and a dollop of butter.
Tandoori Delicacies: Amritsar is renowned for its tandoori cooking, including dishes like tandoori chicken, tandoori fish, and tandoori lamb. These dishes are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, skewered, and cooked in a tandoor.
Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag: This is a classic Punjabi dish. Makki di roti is a cornmeal flatbread, and sarson da saag is a spiced mustard greens curry. The two are often served together and are a winter specialty in Amritsar.
Butter Chicken: This creamy and rich chicken dish is a staple of Punjabi cuisine, including in Amritsari cuisine. It is made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a tomato and cream-based sauce.
Aloo Paratha: Aloo paratha is a popular North Indian breakfast dish. It consists of unleavened bread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes and is served with curd (yogurt) and pickles.
Amritsari Fish: Amritsari fish is a popular street food. Fish fillets are marinated in a spicy batter and deep-fried until crispy.
Lassi: Amritsar is known for its creamy and thick lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. Sweet lassi, salted lassi, and lassi topped with a layer of malai (cream) are all available.
Punjabi Sweets: Amritsari cuisine also boasts an array of delectable sweets. Popular options include jalebi, gulab jamun, and pinni.
Street Food: The city is famous for its street food culture, with stalls and vendors offering snacks like chaat, samosas, and chhole bhature.

Shopping in Amritsar

Shopping in Amritsar can be a delightful experience and is easily one of the best things to do in Amritsar, as the city offers a mix of traditional and contemporary shopping opportunities. Here are some of the popular places and items you can explore while shopping in Amritsar.

Markets:
- Hall Bazaar: This bustling market is a one-stop destination for shopping in Amritsar. You can find a wide range of goods, including textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, electronics, and more.
- Katra Jaimal Singh Market: Known for its fabric shops and clothing stores, this market is an excellent place to buy traditional Punjabi clothing, including phulkari suits, turbans, and juttis (traditional Punjabi shoes).
- Lawrence Road: This market is popular for its modern shopping experience, with numerous branded stores, boutiques, and malls.
Phulkari Embroidery: Amritsar is famous for its intricate and colorful phulkari embroidery work. You can find phulkari suits, sarees, and stoles at various shops in the city.
Handicrafts: Look for traditional Punjabi handicrafts, including wooden furniture, pottery, and religious artifacts. The markets often have stalls selling these items.
Jewelry: Amritsar is known for its exquisite jewelry, especially gold and silver items. You can also find intricate Punjabi bangles and other accessories.
Dry Fruits and Spices: Amritsar is a hub for high-quality dry fruits and spices. You can purchase items like almonds, walnuts, saffron, and various spices from local markets.
Books: The city has several bookstores and shops selling religious texts, Sikh history books, and other literature. The Guru Nanak Dev University area is known for its bookstores.
Amritsari Juttis: These traditional Punjabi shoes are a unique and popular item to buy in Amritsar. They come in various designs and colors and are often handcrafted.
Pashmina Shawls: Amritsar is also known for its fine quality pashmina shawls and stoles, which make for excellent souvenirs or gifts.
Local Eateries: While not shopping in the traditional sense, don’t forget to explore local eateries and street food vendors for Amritsari delicacies. You can buy local snacks, sweets, and spices from these places.
Spiritual Items: If you’re interested in Sikh religious items, you can find shops selling religious books, paintings, symbols, and other artifacts related to Sikhism.

Amritsar, with its unique blend of spirituality, history, culture, and cuisine, offers a memorable and enriching experience for travelers. From the awe-inspiring Golden Temple to the poignant Jallianwala Bagh Memorial and the lively Wagah Border ceremony, the city has something to offer every kind of visitor. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a seeker of spiritual solace, Amritsar will leave you with indelible memories and a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry of India. I hope the list of 10 amazing things to do in Amritsar that I have curated above can help you plan your trip to this wonderful city.

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