Amritsar is an ethnic and cultural capital of Punjab, famous for its religious and patriotic heritage. This city is known for the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the holiest place in Sikhism, where lakhs of devotees come every year. Amritsar was founded by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das Ji in 1577. This city is also famous for its cultural heritage, tasty Punjabi food and lively markets.
If you are travelling to the ethnic city, then the top things to do in Amritsar for tourists include visiting Jallianwala Bagh, watching the Beating Retreat Ceremony at Wagah Border, and shopping in local markets. The city offers a unique blend of history, spirituality and culture.
Best time to visit Amritsar
The best time to visit Amritsar is considered to be between October to March. During this time the weather is pleasant and cool, so that tourists can easily visit the famous places of the city. In the winter season, the pleasure of visiting tourist places like Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border in Amritsar doubles. In the summer months (April to June) the temperature rises considerably, which can make it a bit difficult to roam. At the same time, during the monsoon (July to September) the atmosphere becomes pleasant with light rain, but this time is less suitable to avoid excessive crowds.
Top things to do in Amritsar for tourists include visiting historical places, savouring traditional Punjabi food and shopping in local markets. Travelling in the right season can make your experience even more memorable.
Major tourist places in Amritsar
Amritsar, a historically and religiously important city in Punjab, is known for many famous tourist places. Tourists visiting here can enjoy various sightseeing in the Top things to do in Amritsar for tourists.
Golden Temple (Harminder Sahib): It is the holiest pilgrimage site of Sikhism, famous for its amazing architecture and spiritual peace. The langar (food service) here is famous all over the world.
Jallianwala Bagh: This site is a witness to the history of the Indian freedom struggle, where innocent people were fired upon by General Dyer in 1919. This garden still reminds of that incident.
Wagah Border: Located on the India-Pakistan border, this site is famous for the Beating Retreat Ceremony, which is held every evening and fills one with the spirit of patriotism.
Durgiana Temple: The architecture of this temple resembles the Golden Temple and is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
Gobindgarh Fort: This historic fort is a symbol of Amritsar’s heritage, where light and sound shows and museums attract tourists.
Apart from all this, Amritsar’s local markets and traditional Punjabi food also provide special experiences to the tourists.
Famous markets and shopping options of Amritsar
Amritsar is known for its historical heritage and religious places as well as great shopping options. Traditional Punjabi attire, handicrafts, juttis and delicious local cuisine are available in the markets here. If you are visiting Amritsar, then shopping in local markets is a must among the top things to do in Amritsar for tourists.
Hall Bazaar: The most famous market of Amritsar, from where you can buy traditional Punjabi suits, phulkari dupattas and juttis. This market is known for its clothes and colorful bangles.
Guru Bazaar: This market is near the temple and is famous for gold and silver jewellery, here you will find a great variety of traditional jewellery at affordable prices.
Lawrence Road Market: If you want to taste the delicious food of Amritsar, then this market also has many famous restaurants and sweets shops, from where you can buy famous Amritsari papad and vadi.
Kapurthala Chowk Market: This market is good for Punjabi Juti, handmade Kadai clothes and Home decorative items.
Delicious dishes of Amritsar and best places to eat
Amritsar is famous all over the world for its amazing Punjabi food. The traditional dishes and delicious street food here attract every tourist. If you are planning a trip to Amritsar, then enjoying the local food is one of the top things to do in Amritsar for tourists.
Amritsari Kulcha: This stuffed naan is served with butter and is eaten with chickpeas and curd. To enjoy it, do visit famous places like “Bhara Kulcha”, “Kulcha Land” and “Kanhaiya Lal Kulcha”.
Lassi: The cold and sweet lassi of Amritsar is very delicious in taste. Lassi of “Ahuja Lassi” and “Giani Tea Stall” is very popular among tourists.
Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti: This dish available in the winter season is the identity of Punjab, which can be tasted at “Bhara Bhojanalaya” and “Krishna Dhaba”.
Pindi Chole Bhature: Spicy Chole and crispy Bhature are the special identity of Amritsar. Tasting them at “Brother Dhaba” and “Kulcha Junction” is a memorable experience.
The food of Amritsar is not only delicious but also presents a true glimpse of Punjabi culture, which attracts tourists.
Nearby Attractions (Attari Border, Tarn Taran Sahib etc.)
Amritsar is not only known for the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh but also for the amazing attractions around it. If you are visiting this historic city, then make sure to visit its nearby places in the Top things to do in Amritsar for tourists.
Attari-Wagah Border: Situated on the India-Pakistan border, this place is famous for the Beating Retreat ceremony.Thousands of people come here every evening to watch the parade ceremony done by the Indian BSF and Pakistan Rangers, which strengthens the spirit of patriotism.
Tarn Taran Sahib: Located about 25 km from Amritsar, this Gurudwara is a very sacred place for the Sikh community. It was founded by Guru Arjan Dev Ji and has the largest Sarovar (sacred reservoir).
Khaira Sahib: It is a calm and spiritual place, which provides peace of mind to the devotees.
A visit to these places makes Amritsar tour even more memorable, which enriches the experience of every tourist
Conclusion
Amritsar and its nearby attractions not only have religious and ethnic significance, but they also give a cultural experience to the tourist. Whether it is the patriotic fervour at the Attari-Wagah border, or the spiritual peace of Tarn Taran Sahib, each place has its own unique feature. If you are going to visit Amritsar, then these places must be included in your travel list, as this city is a wonderful amalgamation of history, culture and devotion.
A visit to these nearby attractions among the top things to do in Amritsar for tourists will prove to be an unforgettable experience, where you will get a true glimpse of Punjabi heritage and tradition. A trip to Amritsar and its surroundings will remain in your memories forever.
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