Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion, is a city in the north-western state of Punjab, India. It is a city that pulsates with history, culture, and spirituality. It's an ancient city that dates back to the 16th century and has been a hub of Sikhism since its inception. Amritsar is home to one of the most visited places in India, the Golden Temple. But the city has much more to offer than just its spiritual side. It's a city that is rich in history, culture, and cuisine.
As already mentioned, one of the must-see attractions in Amritsar is the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib. It is the holiest shrine of Sikhism and attracts millions of visitors every year. The temple is made of white marble and is surrounded by a pool of water known as the Amrit Sarovar. The name "Golden Temple" refers to the gold plating that covers the temple's upper level. The temple is open to people of all religions and is a symbol of religious harmony. The temple is a serene and peaceful place, and visitors can spend hours sitting by the pool and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Another significant attraction in Amritsar is the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden that has been turned into a memorial to commemorate the massacre of innocent civilians by British troops in 1919. The garden is a sobering reminder of the brutal history of the British Raj in India. Visitors can see the bullet marks on the walls and listen to stories of the tragedy that took place in this very spot.
The Wagah Border Ceremony, a military ceremony that takes place every day at the India-Pakistan border, is also a popular attraction for visitors to Amritsar. The ceremony includes a parade by soldiers from both sides, as well as a lowering of the flags ceremony.
Amritsar is also known for its street food, and no visit is complete without trying some of the local delicacies. One of the most famous street foods in Amritsar is the Amritsari Kulcha, a type of bread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes and served with chole (chickpea curry) and pickles. Other popular street foods are: The Amritsari fish (a deep-fried fish served with a side of tangy mint chutney), tandoori chicken, lassi, and jalebi (a sweet, crispy dessert).
Apart from food and historical sites, Amritsar is famous for its colourful bazaars. The old city is home to a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that are filled with shops selling everything from textiles to jewellery to spices. The bazaars are a shopper's paradise, and visitors can spend hours wandering through the colourful and vibrant markets.
One of the best times to visit Amritsar is during the festivals. The city comes alive during festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Baisakhi. During these festivals, the streets are filled with vibrant colours, music, and dancing. The Golden Temple is also beautifully decorated during festivals, making it an even more special experience.
Amritsar is a city that is steeped in history, spirituality, and culture. Its significance to the Sikh religion and its importance in Indian history make it a must-visit destination. From the Golden Temple to the Jallianwala Bagh, from the street food to the bazaars, Amritsar will not disappoint you. Experience the history and food of Amritsar by booking an affordable holiday tour package with Brightsun Travel.