Things To Do
in Amritsar
Distinguished by its historical significance and vibrant culture, this city is home to the Golden Temple, one of the most sacred Sikh shrines in the world. Its bustling streets, rich Punjabi cuisine, and lively festivals reflect a deep-rooted heritage that captivates visitors.
Beyond its spiritual and cultural allure, the city also serves as a poignant reminder of the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre, a crucial event in India's struggle for independence.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Golden Temple. The morning light reflecting off the serene waters creates a peaceful ambiance for spiritual reflection.
Enjoy a delicious langar meal at the community kitchen. Afterward, explore the surrounding Heritage Street, filled with shops and local artisans.
Witness the captivating Palki Sahib ceremony at the Golden Temple. The temple glows beautifully at night, offering a perfect backdrop for photographs.
Begin with a reflective visit to the Partition Museum. Learn about the history and impact of the 1947 partition through diverse exhibits.
After your museum visit, stroll through the nearby Clock Tower area for local snacks. Try Amritsari Kulchas at a nearby eatery to satisfy your hunger.
End your day with a visit to the Jallianwala Bagh to pay respects in this historic park. The evening breeze here provides a calming atmosphere for reflection.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, particularly as the spiritual center of Sikhism.
- Home to the Golden Temple, a major pilgrimage site and a beautiful landmark.
- Vibrant and diverse local cuisine, known for dishes like Amritsari kulcha and lassi.
- Strong sense of community and hospitality among the local population.
- Accessible transportation links, including Amritsar International Airport and well-connected train services.
- High levels of pollution and traffic congestion in some areas.
- Limited infrastructure in terms of modern amenities compared to more developed cities.
- Extreme weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters.
- Safety concerns, particularly at crowded tourist spots.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates in certain sectors.
Best Activities in Amritsar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a world-renowned spiritual and cultural center. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit attraction in Amritsar.
Experience the Wagah Border Ceremony, a daily military practice that takes place at the India-Pakistan border. It's a unique and patriotic experience that showcases the border closing ceremony with elaborate drills and flag-lowering activities.
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar that holds historical significance due to the tragic massacre that took place here in 1919. It's a place to learn about the city's history and pay respects to the victims of the massacre.
Hall Bazaar is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Amritsar, offering a variety of shops selling traditional Punjabi items, clothing, and local food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Tours
Uncover the best of Amritsar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Amritsar
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic and spiritual place offering picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A border crossing between India and Pakistan known for its energetic flag-lowering ceremony and impressive views of the border gate.
Historical public garden with a memorial to commemorate the massacre that took place there, providing a poignant and reflective backdrop for photos.
Food in Amritsar
Amritsar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local bread stuffed with spiced potatoes and cooked in a tandoor, best enjoyed at Kulcha Land or Monu Kulcha Shop.
Must-Try!
A traditional Punjabi delicacy made of cornmeal flatbread and mustard greens, a classic combination served at Beera Chicken House or Kesar da Dhaba.
Fried fish marinated in an assortment of spices, commonly savored at Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner or Beera Fish Corner.
A creamy, frothy yogurt-based drink often flavored with fruits, nuts, and spices, recommended at Ahuja Milk Bhandar or Gian Chand Lassi Wala.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amritsar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a range of street food delicacies such as Samosas, Pakoras, and Jalebis, providing an authentic street food experience.
A vibrant street known for its diverse food stalls serving Chaat, Chole Bhature, and local specialties, perfect for sampling a variety of street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Amritsar, it's important to show respect for Sikh customs, such as covering the head and removing shoes when entering a gurdwara (Sikh temple).
Visitors should adhere to the cultural norms at the Golden Temple, including washing their feet before entering and refraining from public displays of affection.
When dining with locals or in restaurants, it's customary to eat with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean, and to show respect to elders and hosts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amritsar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Amritsar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Amritsar, India, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not expected. If the service charge is not included, a 5-10% tip may be given.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Amritsar, India. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but smaller businesses and street vendors may only accept cash. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amritsar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit as the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher hotel prices.
Expect hot and dry weather with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. This is not the ideal time to visit due to the extreme heat.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity during this time. While the rain may provide relief from the heat, it can also disrupt travel and outdoor activities.
Amritsar at Night
Hiking in Amritsar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 30 km from Amritsar, Harike Wetland is great for nature walks and bird watching, surrounded by scenic landscapes.
A picturesque hiking trail located near Rama Mandi, known for its beautiful views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery.
Around 140 km from Amritsar, the sanctuary offers hiking trails through varied terrains and a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
About 30 km from Amritsar, Taran Taran has a serene environment and trails that are perfect for a peaceful hike.
Located a bit away from the city, this spot features peaceful hiking trails around the pond, perfect for a day out in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Amritsar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Amritsar by plane.
Located in Delhi, this is the primary international airport serving the capital region of India, approximately 450 km from Amritsar.
This is Amritsar's own international airport, located just about 11 km from the city center, primarily serving flights to domestic and some international destinations.
Located in Chandigarh, this airport is around 230 km from Amritsar and serves as an international gateway to the northern regions of India.
Though smaller and primarily domestic, this airport is located about 140 km from Amritsar and is in proximity to Ludhiana city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Amritsar, Punjabis Sikhs form the majority, significantly influenced by the presence of the Golden Temple and Sikh culture.
Significant minority in Amritsar, the Hindu community contributes to the diverse cultural landscape and includes various sub-groups.
A smaller but historically significant community, Muslims in Amritsar contribute to the socioeconomic fabric of the city.
A minority in Amritsar, Christians have a presence primarily through churches and related institutions.
Various other groups, including Dalits and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), form a smaller part of the overall demographics.
The Soul of Amritsar
Discover the essence of Amritsar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Amritsar, played by people of all ages in streets, parks, and local grounds.
Field hockey has a rich history in India, including Amritsar, and is widely played and followed in the region.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport in Punjab, and Amritsar has a vibrant kabaddi scene with many local tournaments.
Football is gaining popularity in Amritsar, with various clubs and schools encouraging youth participation.
Badminton is widely played in Amritsar, with many facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.
Wrestling, particularly in its traditional forms, is popular in Amritsar, often practiced in local akharas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amritsar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Amritsar is a vegetarian-friendly city, with many establishments offering a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for 'Pure Vegetarian' signs and visit traditional dhabas for authentic vegetarian meals.
While authentic Punjabi cuisine heavily features bread and wheat-based dishes, many restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free requests. Communicate your dietary needs clearly, and you can find rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and traditional gluten-free bread alternatives like Bajra Roti.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Amritsar with these cultural adventures.