The Golden Temple, popularly known as Harmandir Sahib, is a remarkable spiritual shrine in Amritsar, Punjab. This revered place is visited by millions of people every year because of its elegantly carved architecture, peaceful surroundings, and historical heritage. The surrounding area is full of interesting places to visit near Golden Temple, which should be visited for sure. From historical landmarks to busy bazaars, these attractions near Golden Temple include a wide range of activities for tourists to explore.
10 Places To Visit Near Golden Temple
Here are some of the best places to visit near Golden Temple which tourists should not miss on their trip to Punjab:
1. Jallianwala Bagh
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Just a few steps from the Golden Temple, the Jallianwala Bagh reminds the nation of India’s fight for independence. The memorial park commemorates the tragic carnage of 1919 when British troops were taking up arms at the peaceful gathering of Indians. The soothing environment of the garden and its historical value are bound to appeal to the visitor’s sense of introspection. This site is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions near Golden Temple.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
2. Partition Museum
Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons
The Partition Museum in Amritsar is the first of its kind, and it tells the history of the partition of India in 1947. It captures a poignant impression of some of the stories related to millions of people who had to leave one home in search of another following one of the greatest mass migrations in human history. Personal artefacts, photographs, letters, and oral histories are parts of an exhibit that give a moving account of how partition affected individuals and their families. It is a reminder of the human cost of political decisions and an attempt at reconciliation of communities split by partition.
Entry Fee: ₹10
Location: Town Hall, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
3. Wagah Border
Photo: appaji / Giridhar Appaji Nag Y / Wikimedia Commons
The Wagah Border, a few miles from Amritsar, is a few miles from India and Pakistan. Here is a symbol of those two countries’ shared history and their rivalry. What gives the border its appeal is the daily Beating Retreat Ceremony in which soldiers of both nations show off their best flag-lowering drill. On both sides of the border, the crowds are huge because the energy that sizzles in this all-pomp parade reflects the spirit of national pride and unity. It is a spectacle depicting military precision and offers a unique atmosphere that borders the sole road between India and Pakistan.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Wagah, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: Evening (Check ceremony timings in advance)
4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is a tribute to the life and heritage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the ruler of the Sikh Empire. Located within the phenomenal summer palace of the Maharaja, it houses the artefacts, weapons, paintings, and manuscripts that mirror his rule and martial power. Exhibitions could be seen focusing on his works in Punjab’s culture, art, and architecture. Indeed, the ornate gardens surrounding the museum add to its charm. History enthusiasts and people interested in Sikh heritage should not miss visiting the complex, one of the best tourist places near Golden Temple.
Entry Fee: ₹10
Location: Ram Bagh, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
5. Durgiana Temple
Photo: Guilhem Vellut / Wikimedia Commons
The Durgiana Temple, one of the important places to see near Golden Temple, is a large Hindu temple in Amritsar dedicated to Goddess Durga. It’s almost as large as the popular Golden Temple and houses a gold-domed roof and still water tank around the complex. It is also famous for the worship of other deities, including Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The devotees throng here for its spiritual atmosphere, especially during the Navratri festivals. The temple, which has carvings, is a perfect destination for any religious or cultural explorer in the city due to its peaceful atmosphere.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Durgiana Temple, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
6. Amritsar Heritage Walk
Photo: Ignatius Menezes / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This is a heritage walk through the historical streets of Amritsar, one of the vibrant places to visit near Golden Temple Amritsar. A guided walk is a great way to unveil this rich city of cultural and architectural heritage. The tour comprises visits to historical places, traditional markets, and eateries so you can enjoy the vibrant culture of Amritsar as best as possible. This is one of the best ways of exploring places to see near the Golden Temple.
Entry Fee: Varies
Location: Starts near Golden Temple, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: Morning
7. Gobindgarh Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Gobindgarh Fort is located in Amritsar, Punjab. It is a part of the historical heritage that was prevalent during the 18th century and has remained under the dominion of the Sikh Empire initially set up by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The enormous defensive walls accompanied by ancient cannons, besides having a museum that displays the artefacts retained from the Sikh era, characterise the fort. Gobindgarh Fort offers an array of colourful cultural performances and light-and-sound shows that tell the stories of its history. A strategic location and historical importance make Gobindgarh Fort an interesting place for lovers of history and even visitors.
Entry Fee: ₹20
Location: Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: 10 AM to 6 PM
8. Guru Ka Langar
Photo: BOMBMAN / Wikimedia Commons
Guru Ka Langar is the most respected community kitchen located at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Free meals are served here to thousands of guests daily. Meals are taken irrespective of caste, creed, and status, again the core Sikh values of humility and community. Volunteers are doing the work of cooking, serving, and cleaning in this very smoothly functioning kitchen. It is filled with the spirit of ‘seva’, or selfless service. This is probably the place where one opens a window into a very deep culture of compassion and hospitality that pervades Sikhism.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Inside Golden Temple Complex, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: During meal times
9. Raja Sansi Village
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Kunwar Thakur Singh Sandhanwalia, the first president of the Shri Guru Singh Sabha and its founder, was born in Raja Sansi Village. During their stay in London, he was instrumental in his brother Maharaja Duleep Singh’s return to the Sikh faith. Maharaja Duleep Singh nominated Kunwar Thakur Singh as Prime Minister of the Government-in-exile. He made a major contribution to the revival of the Sikh community. His sons Gurbachan Singh, Narinder Singh, and Gurdit Singh were adopted by the Maharaja in 1889, which strengthened their family’s reputation and power in the neighbourhood.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Raja Sansi, Amritsar
Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
The surroundings of the Golden Temple are steeped with history, culture, and vibrant natural experiences. From the moving Jallianwala Bagh to the informative Partition Museum, from the energetic Wagah Border ceremony to the tranquil Durgiana Temple, there are many places to visit near Golden Temple suited for diverse tastes and interests. Plan your trip to Amritsar with TripXL to enrich your experience and create good and lasting memories.
Cover Photo: Nav Photography / Pexels