The city of Amritsar is filled with rich heritage and spiritual values that Punjab, a state in India, boasts about through the many places in Amritsar that tourists frequent. From the iconic Golden Temple to the most historical landmarks, there are many places to visit in Amritsar. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, explore the city’s history, or try to mingle with the culture, Amritsar doesn’t disappoint. Due to the vastly varied mixture of tradition and modernity, the city offers an unforgettable experience to the traveller. Some of the famous tourist attractions in Amritsar have been listed herein.
10 Places To Visit In Amritsar
Here is a list of top ten places to visit in Amritsar for a serene retreat.
1. Golden Temple
Photo: NARINDER PAL / Unsplash
Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the city’s most iconic landmark. Being part of India’s most revered spiritual sites, this beautiful temple is adorned with gold and surrounded by the serene waters of the Amrit Sarovar. You can relish the serenity, join the communal kitchen service – Langar, and hear the melodious chanting by its adherents. The temple is a monument of brotherhood and equality, serving people of all classes. Visiting this temple is best done at dawn and nightfall since the temple has impressive lighting at that time.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Jallianwala Bagh
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Jallianwala Bagh is a historical park and memorial that acts as a reminder of the massacre that took place in 1919 when British troops killed hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians. The site has a memorial, a museum, and bullet-marked walls that keep testimony to the reminiscence of the struggle for independence. You can stroll in its gardens- an oasis in this uniquely historic place. A well-kept path leads to the memorial for easy access by one and all. Jallianwala Bagh forms part of the Amritsar tourist places list for its significance regarding India’s freedom struggle.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Wagah Border
Photo: Guilhem Vellut / Wikimedia Commons
The international boundary separating Pakistan and India is known as the Wagah Border. It is located about thirty kilometres from Amritsar. This border has become famous for the flag-lowering ceremony that occurs daily and is viewed by thousands of people. It portrays patriotism and military precision as the soldiers of India and Pakistan perform synchronised marching with all their energy. Wagah Border ceremony is amongst the most thrilling places the Amritsar tour can offer, offering a tremendous experience of the culture and spirit of the country.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Museum
Photo:Vengolis / Wikimedia Commons
The Partition Museum recalls the millions affected by the partition of India in 1947. The museum lies right in the heart of Amritsar. The museum houses a collection of photographs, personal stories, and artefacts that can tell the struggle of people during the turmoil. It shows the intensity with which partition hit the Indian subcontinent and thus is an essential halt for history lovers. The visitor’s interactive displays and audio-visual shows help connect to the tales of those who suffered during the partition. This place is a must-visit if you want to dive in the significant chapter of Indian history.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Gobindgarh Fort
Photo: Gobindgarh / Wikimedia Commons
Gobindgarh Fort is a heritage fort that has now been turned into a hub for the representation of the culture, history, and traditions of Punjab. It houses various museums, live performances, and Punjabi food within it. The place also has a light-and-sound show that describes the history of Amritsar and Gobindgarh Fort. This makes it an ideal site for families and history enthusiasts and one of Amritsar’s best places. The fort and its vibrancy will be even more spectacular during different cultural events and festivals happening at this fort year-round.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Durgiana Temple
Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons
Durgiana Temple is an exquisite Hindu temple built under the name of Goddess Durga, and its architecture resembles that of the Golden Temple. A holy pool surrounds this structure, and its carvings and artwork are intricate. Many people visit this place for blessings since it is a Hindu pilgrimage site. During festivals, especially Navratri, the temple complex wears a vibrant look; special prayers and other celebratory events are organised there. Serenity in the environment and spiritual ambience gives it a peaceful retreat that adds to Amritsar’s significant tourist places.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Amritsar Heritage Walk
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
The Amritsar Heritage Walk allows visitors to go on a guided tour to historical and cultural places of significance in the city. The walk covers visits to ancient havelis, bustling bazaars, and all others that display the town’s rich heritage. It gives an excellent chance to understand the history, architecture, and local culture. Most of these walks include tasting local street food and visiting artisan workshops, making this a cultural experience. This experience is recommended for those planning to venture into the city’s hidden nooks. It is among the best places to visit in Amritsar.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Hall Bazaar
Photo: Fons Heijnsbroek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hall Bazaar is one of the most congested markets in Amritsar and promises a very colourful shopping experience. It is well known for its traditional Punjabi attire, handicrafts, and local delicacies. The bazaar offers tourists a haven from the hustle and bustle while shopping for souvenirs, jewellery, and textiles. It is also among the best places to get the natural feel of the culture and taste highly delicious street food and an amalgamation of authentic Punjabi cuisine. This market is bustling during festivals, finding its place on every Amritsar tourist places list.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
9. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
Photo: Andrew Neel / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The summer palace of the legendary Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh houses the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum. Artefacts, paintings and memorabilia related to the life and reign of the Maharaja are the things one will see in this museum. Visitors can view the history of the Sikh Empire and the great works of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Indian history. The museum possesses various weapons, coins, and personal artefacts of the Maharaja, giving an all-round view of his life. This is an exciting stop for the history enthusiast and one of the places Amritsar boasts of.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
10. Tarn Taran Sahib
Photo: Giridhar Appaji Nag Y / Wikimedia Commons
Tarn Taran Sahib is a significant Sikh pilgrimage town about 30 km southwards from Amritsar. The city bears a magnificent Gurudwara boasting of a sarovar that is the largest in the area. This Gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, and has many people come for spiritual assistance. These peaceful surroundings and spiritual ambience make for an excellent day trip from Amritsar. Such places will increase the list of places to visit in Amritsar. The Gurudwara also presents various community events and langars that stir up the spirit of service and equality.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Amritsar is a beautiful blend of spirituality, history, and culture. Ranging from an array of places to visit in Amritsar, from the iconic Golden Temple to busy marketplaces, everyone has a reason to visit this city. Whether it be history, spirituality, or great local food, Amritsar has everything. Plan your trip to Amritsar with TripXL and get ready to unveil the unique charm of this region.
Cover Photo: Neelakshi Singh / Unsplash