One of the locations that come to mind as soon as we hear the word Amritsar is the Golden Temple. Since Amritsar is one of the most well-known cities in Punjab, many of its tourist attractions welcome visitors of all faiths as well as Sikh pilgrims. Having the Wagah border on the India-Pakistan border, Amritsar has enormous national significance as a bordering city. We have put together a list of some of the most well-liked tourist attractions in Amritsar, including both historical buildings like the Golden Temple and retail areas where you can purchase trendy things.
21 Best Places to Visit in Amritsar:
So without more delay, browse the list of locations, include them in your schedule, and make full use of them.
1. Golden Temple:
The nation’s holiest Gurudwara, the Golden Temple, is one of Amritsar’s most visited tourist attractions. This Sikh social temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is open to people of all backgrounds and religions. The Hari Mandir or Darbar Sahib’s dome, which is covered by golden plates, is the most revered area in the complex of temples. The ‘pool of love’, a sacred lake in the temple complex, is located there. It is decorated with elegant marble statues, which might be lovely to look at. One of the largest free kitchens in the world, langar is provided to devotees and guests.
- Activities: The temple complex’s exquisite marble statues might be beautiful to look at.
- Timing: 3 AM to 10 PM.
- How to Reach:
- The golden temple is almost 2 km away from the Amritsar railway station. You can hire a taxi or cab to reach the temple in 8 minutes.
- Amritsar is well connected to all the major cities in India via road, rail and airways.
- Best time to Visit: is November to March.
2. Jallianwala Bagh:
One of the historical sites in Amritsar is Jallianwala Bagh, which serves as a sombre reminder of the sheer brutality of the British military’s killing of a peaceful gathering. The national memorial is housed at this historic location. It was constructed on April 13, 1919, and is now a public garden that is run by the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust.
Near the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Jallianwala Bagh is a popular destination for travellers from around the world. It is thought that many individuals dove into the well to escape the gunfire, making it a well-known and important site to see.
- Things to do:
- You can experience the brutal history of the extreme brutality of the British on Indian protestors in this national memorial.
- You can also relax in the public garden.
- Timing: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM, Monday to Sunday.
- How to Reach:
- Jallianwala Bagh is easily accessible because it is located on Golden temple road. Moreover, you can take a cab or taxi from Amritsar railway station to the park. You can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to this historical park once you visit the temple. The distance between Jalianwala Bagh and the Golden Temple is 1.3 km.
3. Gobindgarh Fort:
One of the most significant and well-known tourist destinations in Amritsar is the 43-acre Gobindnath Fort, which is situated in the city’s centre. However, the fort was only accessible to the general public as a live heritage museum as of 2017, before to which the Indian Army controlled the location. The fort’s main attractions are the coin museum, whispering halls, ancient combat museum, and haat bazaar.
A special feature of the area is Sher e Punjab, a 7D spectacle created by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. You’ll have a memorable, time-travelling experience of the 19th century after seeing this presentation. Even if you are not a history buff, going to this fort may be an exciting experience because it is home to some of Sikkim’s oldest documents and art.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the Sher e Punjab, a 3D show displaying the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, taking you back to the 19th century.
- You can enjoy delicious food from the stalls around the place.
- Win prizes by participating in games and enjoying live dance performances.
- Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Gobindgarh Fort is located inside the Lohgarh Chowk, on the Old Cantt road in Amritsar, which is easily accessible by all modes of transportation.
- Amritsar Junction railway station is at a walkable distance from the fort, which is about 1.3 km.
- The fort is 12 km away from the Amritsar International Airport.
4. Partition Museum:
Amritsar is a famous tourist destination in Amritsar for history enthusiasts and everyday people alike since it is a testament to the horrific past of the British empire throughout its reign. The Split Museum is the first museum in history to highlight the experiences of millions of people who suffered as a result of India and Pakistan’s split. The Punjab Government received assistance from the UK’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust (TAACHT) in creating this Museum. Newspaper clippings, photos, and other personal objects were contributed by those who saw the partition and are now on exhibit in this museum. In this Museum, the victims’ and survivors’ enduring legacies are exquisitely on exhibit.
Things to do:
- You will get to know the brutal history of Amritsar under British rule.
- You can also look at the partition witnesses’ items, photographs, and clippings.
- Timing: 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday).
- Best time to Visit: October to January.
5. Punjab State War Heros’ Museum:
The Punjab State War Heroes Museum, a popular tourist destination close to Amritsar, honours the bravery and valour of the people of Punjab. This museum preserves the heroic acts of brave warriors and serves as a source of patriotism for young people. The centrepiece of this stunning campus is a stainless steel sword that rises 45 metres high atop the main building. This famous monument, which is perched atop the elliptical platform, is surrounded by water. With an inscription of approximately 3500 martyrs’ names, the memorial is 4 metres above the ground. The information about the Museum’s galleries is as follows:
- Gallery 1- Orientation and Antiquity.
- Gallery 2- Guru Hargobind Ji till the rise of the Sikh Empire.
- Gallery 3- The Sikh Empire And Anglo-Sikh Wars.
- Gallery 4- British Rule up to Partition (1846-1947).
- Gallery 5- J&K Ops 1947-48.
- Gallery 6- Indo China War 1962.
- Gallery 7- Indo-Pak Wars (1965-1971) and OP Pawan/OP Cactus.
- Gallery 8- Kargil War 1999. Arcade
Things to do:
- The 45-meter-high stainless steel sword on the central edifice is the main attraction of this campus.
- You can also see the memorial built at 4m elevation on which the names of nearly 3500 martyrs are inscribed.
- Timing: 10 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Monday).
How to Reach:
- The Museum is located in the suburbs of Amritsar and is 18 km from the international border with Pakistan. You can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the location from Amritsar.
- Amritsar Airport is 16 KM, and the Railway station is 10 KM from the war memorial.
- Best time to Visit: is October to January.
6. Akal Takht:
One of the top attractions of Amritsar is Akal Takht, one of the five takes in Sikhism. The Sikhs regard this location, also known as the Throne of the Immortal, as their ultimate governmental authority. Guru Hargobind established this tourist destination in the Golden Temple complex around 1606. Because tickets are the revered residence of Sikh gurus, they are places where anybody can obtain justice. As a result, the Akal Takht, a symbol of political sovereignty and justice, could be used to study and answer the spiritual issues of the Sikhs.
Things to do:
- You can view some of the oldest scripts and holy books of Sikhism.
- You can also enjoy the serene atmosphere of the place.
- Timing: 4 AM to 11 PM.
How to Reach:
- Several local transportation like buses, cabs, and Akal Takht train through which you can reach Akal Takht.
- The special Akal Takht Express passes through several cities from Kolkata to Amritsar.
- You can hire a tuk-tuk, a cab or board a local bus from the railway station to Akal Takht.
- Best time to Visit: October to January
7. Amritsar Heritage Walk:
Heritage Walk is the ideal choice if you wish to enjoy a guided tour deep within the 400-year-old city of Amritsar’s tiny streets and alleys. In-depth examinations of the Hatties, Havelis, Akharas Bungas, and Katras are included in this guided tour. Additionally, this history tour enables you to see how town planning, traditional commerce, and crafts have been produced here for many years in the same way. You feel a part of the thriving, revered, and stunning city during this stroll. Additionally, this location provides you with a variety of entertaining activities. By hiring a tour, you may better comprehend Amritsar’s history and discover more about the local way of life. The walk covers 14 major locations, including the following:
- Town hall.
- Gurudwara Saragarhi.
- Qila Ahluwalia.
- Jalebiwala Chowk.
- Udasin Ashram Akhara Sangalwala.
- Chitta Akhara.
- Darshani Deori.
- Baba Bohar.
- Thakurdwara Dariana Mal.
- Chaurasti Attari.
- Taksal.
- Thakurdwara Raja Tej Singh.
- Crawling Street.
- Ancient Passage.
- Golden temple.
- Things to do:
- You can cover 14 famous tourist spots during this walk.
- You can witness the place’s traditional trade, crafts and town planning.
- How to Reach:
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. You can reach the city by air, road and railway.
- Best time to Visit: Winter.
8. Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib:
The hamlet of Chheharta Sahib, which is 8 km from Amritsar, is home to the Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib. During Basant Panchami in the month of Magh, thousands of visitors come from all across the nation to this ancient site. Several kite-flying events are organised, and they draw interest. The management of the nearby Gurudwara has also planned free medical services for this event. The enormous well that Guru Arjan Dev dug to commemorate the birth of Guru Hargobind, his son and successor, is where this gurudwara gets its name. Persian wheels that were said to have healing qualities are still clearly visible on the well.
Things to do:
- Go through the expansive complex that features a domed temple. You can enjoy the tilted interiors and pond.
- The gurudwara provides langar for visitors of all faith.
- Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the major cities in the country by road, rail and airways.
- Furthermore, you can hire an auto, taxi or a direct bus to reach the Gurudwara.
- Best time to Visit: Winter.
9. Wagah Border:
Let’s say you missed the nationalistic atmosphere of the Wagah Border pounding retreat ceremony. Your journey to Amritsar is thus not complete. Every day in the evening, this event is witnessed at the Wagah border, which divides India and Pakistan. The troops from both nations move to approach the ceremony’s gate in the evening. The national flags of the two countries are respectfully lowered as the troops greet one another. Since there is a security check upon admission, it is best to come one hour before the event starts. Additionally, getting their early guarantees you a nice spot to watch the event.
Things to do:
- You can watch the change of guard ceremony of India and Pakistan, which attracts visitors from all over the country.
- Timing: 10 AM to 4 PM.
- The ceremony during winter is from 4:15 to 5 PM, and the ceremony during summer is 5:15 PM to 6 PM.
How to Reach:
- Wagah border is 30 km from the city centre. Several minibuses are available, which take you to the place whose tickets are given near the golden temple.
- You can also hire a private taxi to reach the place for a comfortable ride.
- Best time to Visit: Winter.
10. Sadda Pind:
Sadda Pink is one of the greatest locations to go to in Amritsar if you want to experience Punjab’s old-world charm. So that you may appreciate the regional music, tales, food, folk dances, crafts, and cultural acts of Punjab, visit Sadda Pind to connect with your Punjabi heritage and enjoy live Punjabi culture. Additionally, if you come as a guest, you may observe, engage with, and take part in a variety of activities with the villagers. The traditional arts on display here include phulkari, ironwork, durries, agricultural equipment, clay toys, and Punjabi jutti. The village also comes alive with festivities, lights, colours, and traditional dances.
Things to do:
- You can experience the local culture of the Pind in Amritsar in a Punjabi cultured living village.
- For dinner or lunch, you can also enjoy delicious local cuisines like Makki di roti, Sarson da saag and Chatti di Lassi.
- Explore the traditions and rich culture of Punjab.
- Timing: 10:30 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Sadda Pind is easily accessible anywhere in India by rail and air routes.
- The Sadda pind is located behind Guru Nanak Dev University on the Main Bypass road, which can be reached by road.
- Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
11. Mata Lal Devi Mandir:
Hindu followers are widely familiar with the Mata Lal Devi Mandir, which is a holy and distinctive site of devotion. Unlike other temples, this one is devoted to Mata Lal Devi, a well-known saint from the 20th century, and it features vivid mirror halls, winding paths, ankle-deep streams, and even a cave. Another fascinating aspect of this temple is that it has several shrines, caverns, and residences for Hindu deities. Many people think that because this temple is endowed with mystical abilities, it may fulfil the desires to women who pray for children.
Things to do:
- You can learn about the temple’s history, which houses several Hindu deities.
- Timing: 5 AM to 11 PM.
How to Reach:
- The temple is located at a distance of 1 km from Amritsar junction. You can hire local auto or taxi to reach the temple.
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the country’s major cities by road, rail and airways.
- Best time to Visit: Winter.
12. Shri Durgiana Temple:
One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Amritsar is the Shri Durgaina Temple, also known as the Lakshmi Krishna Temple, which is why it bears the name. Additionally, there are idols of Goddess Durga, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi. Several holidays, including Janmashtami, Diwali, and Dussehra, draw large numbers of visitors to this temple. Many people think that Hanuman arrived at this temple and rested there on his way to the Himalayas.
Things to do:
- Like the Golden Temple, you can enjoy the temple’s spiritual ambience and architecture.
- Timing: 5 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can use any local transport like a bus, tuk tuk or taxi to reach the temple if you travel within the city.
- Amritsar is well connected to all the major cities by railways, airways and roadways.
- Best time to Visit: During the festivals of Diwali, Rama Navami, Janmashtami and Dussehra.
13. Khalsa College:
One of the biggest tourist attractions in Amritsar is Khalsa College, a 300-acre campus that is 4 kilometres from the Amritsar junction and next to the Guru Nanak Dev University campus on the Amritsar-Lahore highway. It is not only the main attraction of Amritsar, but it is also a renowned institution of higher learning in India. This venerable institution of higher learning, founded in 1892, made a vital contribution to the battle for independence in our nation. Apart from its historical significance, this college’s outstanding architecture—an example of the Indo-Saracenic style—is another important aspect that draws tourists.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the brilliant architecture of this college.
- It also represents the state’s contribution to the country’s freedom struggle.
- Timing: 8:30 AM to 5 PM (Saturday and Sunday holidays).
How to Reach:
- You can take any local transportation from any significant station in Amritsar to reach the college.
- All the major cities in the country are well-connected to Amritsar by road, rail and airways.
- Best time to Visit: Throughout the year, during college times.
14. Bhagwan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal:
In Amritsar, Bhagawan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal, also known as Ram Tirath Ashram, is a must-see location where mythology and religion converge. The birthplace of Lord Rama’s sons Lav and Kush is revered. According to mythology, here is where the sage Valmiki’s ashram stood when he began to write the epic Ramayana. Even if there may no longer be an ashram there, you may still see the impressive temple that exists in that location. This temple’s 800-kilogramme, gold-plated statue of the sage Valmiki is its greatest draw.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the view of the retained huts believed to be used by the sage Valmiki.
- You can enjoy the cultural extravaganza during Valmiki Jayanthi.
- Timing: 5 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can hire any local transportation to Bhagwan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal because it is in the city’s heart.
- Best time to Visit: During festivals and throughout the year.
15. Hall Bazaar:
Without visiting Hall Bazaar, one of the greatest tourist destinations in Amritsar, your itinerary for the city would be incomplete. It is a nexus of many items and one of the city’s most recognisable markets. From Chinese lanterns to traditional gardens, local handicrafts, phulkari embroidered work, modern accessories, and electronics, this market has everything you could possibly want to buy. However, the biggest draws of this market are the elegant and vibrant jootis. Gandhi Gate, the location’s Mughal-style entrance gate, is yet another draw.
Additionally, the market’s small aisles are the only way to experience the market’s sensory overload of sounds and bright sights. Don’t forget to order some souvenirs from this market if you want to amass mementoes of your vacation to Amritsar. Finally, savour the region’s historic restaurants’ famed specialities.
Things to do:
- Shop to your heart’s content for items only in Punjab.
- You can enjoy the famous delicacies of Punjab.
- Timing: 9 AM to 7 PM.
How to Reach:
- Hall Bazaar is just 1 km away from the Amritsar railway station. So you can easily reach the spot by walking.
- Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
16. Khairuddin Mosque:
Muhammad Khairuddin constructed the Khairuddin mosque, also known as the Jama Masjid Khairuddin, in 1876, thus the name. This ancient mosque played a major role in India’s war for independence. Despite its importance in terms of religion and history, the mosque is popular due to its stunning design. The mosque exhibits Islamic architectural design with four minarets and three domes. The complex decorations that decorate the mosque’s walls are what give it its one-of-a-kind appearance.
Things to do:
- You can observe the Islamic architecture of the mosque with several inscriptions.
- Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM (Closed during Namaz hours).
How to Reach:
- The Masjid is 1.5 km away from the Amritsar junction. You can hire local transportation like auto or taxi to reach the destination.
- Best time to Visit: is May to June (The months of Ramzan).
17. Iskcon Temple:
Among the many tourist attractions in Amritsar, the ISKCON temple is another important destination. The Sri Gaur Radha Krishna Temple, often known as the ISKCON temple, is located near Chowk Moni Bazar in Amritsar. Built-in 2011, this stunning temple is one of the well-known ISKCON locations across the world. This temple is home to several goddesses and gods, in addition to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha, providing visitors with a profound sense of spirituality. The temple also engages in other activities including singing, drumming, and spiritual discourse. Every year in December, the temple commemorates Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra for three days.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the serene and spiritual ambience of the temple in addition to its beautiful architecture.
- You can also purchase spiritual books, god’s images and many other goods.
- Timing: 4:30 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- Tourists can easily reach the ISKCON temple by any local transportation because it is located in the centre of Amritsar.
- The temple is 13 km from the Airport and 3 km from the railway junction. You can cover this distance by hiring a cab or any local transport.
- Best time to Visit: In December or Winter, Rath Yatra Maha Mahotsav of Lord Jagannath.
18. Tarn Taran Sahib:
Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib is one of the well-known sites of worship in Amritsar. In 1590, Guru Arjan Dev—the fifth Sikh guru—founded this location. This location draws a large number of visitors—not just pilgrims—thanks to its magnificent structure. The most prominent body of water in Gurudwara is the one that surrounds the majestic white building with the golden dome.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the serene atmosphere owed to the waterbody surrounding the golden dome.
- Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- The most feasible and accessible option is to hire a local taxi or car to reach Tarn Tarn, 28 km from Amritsar.
- The nearest railway station to Gurudwara is Amritsar railway station which is 1 km away.
- Best time to Visit: The Amavas in March, October to March.
19. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai:
A short distance from the Golden Temple lies one of Amritsar’s best architectural marvels, Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai. This is a nine-story, octagonal tower that was constructed in Guru Hargobind’s honour. Guru Hargobind served as Baba Atal Rai’s sixth guru and was a Sikh. The tower serves as a poignant reminder of Baba Atal Rai’s self-sacrifice in 1628. Legend has it that Baba Atal Rai gave up his life after saving the life of one of his close companions when he was nine years old. The nine storeys of the Gurudwara are a wonderful representation of the nine years of his life. When you arrive at the top of the Gurudwara, you may use this as a vantage point to see Amritsar in all its captivating glory.
Things to do:
- You can see a mesmerizing view of Amritsar from the top of the Gurudwara.
- Enjoy the impressive sight of the Sikh architectural style of this Gurudwara.
- Timing: 7 AM to 6 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can reach Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib ji by hiring local autos or tuk-tuks.
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the country’s major cities by road, rail and airways.
- Best time to Visit: Winter.
20. Rose Garden:
The Rose Garden in Amritsar might be ideal if you want to have a great time with your family and friends away from the city. You may engage in a number of activities in this garden, including table tennis, basketball, volleyball, slides, bike riding, sports areas, and sculptures. There are also stone seats in this park where you may relax while admiring the waterfalls, swings, and play areas.
Things to do:
- You can spend a memorable time in the Rose Garden by planning a picnic with your family.
- There are several activities you can participate in to entertain yourself.
- Timing: 6 AM to 8 PM.
How to Reach:
- Rose Garden is 9 km away from Amritsar railway station. So you can hire any local transport like a car, cabs or autos to reach the garden.
- Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
21. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Garden:
Built on the north side of the city in honour of the fourth Sikh teacher Guru Ram Das, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Park is the oldest and most creative park in all of India. The first Sikh ruler, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, constructed a 14-foot-high border wall around this 84-acre park in 1818. In the middle of the garden stands a two-story mansion with a basement known as Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s palace. Later, in 1977, the Indian government opened a museum where manuscripts, paintings, armour, weaponry, and coins from the 18th and 19th centuries were on exhibit.
Things to do:
- An excellent walk around the garden gives you a glimpse of organic herbs and vegetables.
- There are also several rides that can be entertaining for kids.
- Timing: Open 24 hours
- Best time to Visit: is November to March.
Amritsar has been compared to the most exquisite and magnificent tapestry, one that brings together the vibrant threads of all facets of human existence. In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the majority of the top tourist attractions in Amritsar, so you can choose whether you want to visit a holy site, go shopping, or just eat some delicious cuisine. Explore this amazing historic city by visiting the places on the list. If you thought the article was useful, don’t forget to let us know!