Udaipur | The Venice of India

Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, may have founded Amritsar as recently as the 16 th century. Legends and lore weave a mythical connection between Amritsar and the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to legend, Amritsar was the site of Maharishi Valmiki's ashram, where Sita gave rise to her twins, Lav (and Kush). This city, intertwined in the history of Sikhism and the Golden Temple, is the home of the Sikhs' holiest shrine, the Golden Temple. Jallianwala Bagh continues to portray Amritsar's crucial role in the country's freedom fight. Thanks to its fascinating legends, historical edifices, vibrant bazaars and delicious food, it is a vibrant tourist destination.

Amritsar's Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, Amritsar's crown jewel! It's the most popular attraction. The shrine was built in the 16 th century and is open to worshippers of all religions. Sri Harmandir Sahib and Darbar Sahib are also known as one of India's most popular tourist destinations. It is known for its unique mix of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. The temple's inner walls are decorated with semi-precious stone, Meenakari work and glasswork. They are truly a delight to the eyes. The temple's tranquil water body enhances its beauty. The shrine is a perfect example of eternal peace and serenity, thanks to its harmonious aura and golden sheen.

Wagah Border, Amritsar

A patriotic high often marks visits to the Wagah border. Wagah, located around 30km from Amritsar, is the only road crossing between India and Pakistan. The border transforms into a ceremonial site every evening, attracting thousands of tourists before sunset. This is when soldiers from both countries participate in the Beating Retreat or Change of Guard ceremonies. This daily practice involves the soldiers lowering the national flag on each side of the border. Elaborate and fast military exercises often accompany it. Since 1959, this practice has been going on. Visitors are treated to a colourful celebration during the entire ceremony. You can't reserve seats, so ensure you arrive at least an hour before the ceremony starts.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Amritsar

The Maharaja Ranjit Singh museum is dedicated to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Lion of Punjab. It is located in one of his stunning summer palaces. This is a good reason to visit. Beautifully maintained lawns surround the palace. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts, relics, and other relics that are a reminder of the glory days of this great leader. The museum has paintings, coins, weapons, and dresses. The museum also has many paintings and articles that relate to the different battles fought by the brave ruler.

Khalsa College in Amritsar

You might like to visit a century-old college with a 300-acre campus and an impressive tower that looks straight out of a coffee shop. Khalsa College is the next stop. This historical, educational association was founded in 1892. This institute has been a significant benefactor to the battle for freedom in the country. Its historical significance is not the only reason tourists flock to this college. The college's brilliant architecture is another. The college's main building is a huge castle, a great example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Ram Tirath Ashram in Amritsar

Religion and mythology mix at Ram Tirath Ashram (Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Shal). This sacred spot is believed to be where Lord Rama's two sons, Lav (and Kush), were born. Legends claim that this is where the Ashram of Sage Valmiki once stood. This is where the great Sage Valmiki wrote the Ramayana. Although the ashram no longer exists, you can still visit the grand temple. This temple is home to the main attraction, an 800-kg statue of the sage Valmiki in gold.

Mata Lal Devi Temple in Amritsar

Mata Lal Devi Mandir, a sacred Hindu temple, is very popular with Hindu devotees. It is dedicated to Mata Lal Devi, a female saint of the 20th century. This temple is unique because it boasts colourful mirrored hallways and ankle-deep waterways. It also features winding pathways, tunnels, caves, and other interesting features. It houses many Hindu deities and has numerous caves. The temple is said to be full of miracle powers. Any woman praying at the temple for her children's welfare is granted this wish. This temple is unique in India and offers a beautiful atmosphere.

Jallianwala Bagh (Amritsar)

The Jallainwala bagh memorial is perhaps the most poignant in India and tells the story of India's freedom struggle. The public garden, which covers 6.5 acres of land, is a reminder of the worst public massacre the British Army committed against unarmed Indians. Nearly a century ago, the British forces under General Dyer opened fire on peaceful civilians at the same place. Hundreds were killed. The huge stone memorial in the garden is a stark reminder of the dark day in India's history of freedom. You can still see bullet marks on one section of the garden's walls and the well where many people died that fateful day. Here you can see a dark period in the country's liberation struggle and pay tribute to the martyrs. You can also see the sound and light show that recreates the horrific incident if you visit the site in the evening.

Akal Takht, Amritsar

Akal Takht is the throne, the eternal one. It is a temple dedicated to Sikhism that represents one of five seats of power. The followers of the religion consider Akal Takht as important as the Golden Temple. It is located right opposite the Golden Temple, and it is beautiful. The white five-story structure of the Akal Takht has marble inlay and Sikh-style architecture. It also features a gold-leaf dome. The unique aura of the Akal Takht is a peaceful spot that attracts many tourists.

Durgiana Temple, Amritsar

Durgiana Temple, located in the middle of a sacred lake, is one of the most popular religious destinations in Amritsar. There are many other names for the temple, including Sitla Temple and Durga Tirath. The temple's architecture is very similar to the Golden Temple.

Jama Masjid Khairuddin, Amritsar

Jama Masjid Khairuddin (also known as Khairuddin Mosque) was built in 1876 by Muhammad Khairuddin. This historical mosque is an important part of India's freedom struggle. The mosque is of historical and religious importance, but it attracts many people due to its beautiful architecture. The mosque is built in Islamic architecture and features four minarets and three domes. The mosque's walls are decorated with intricate designs that give it a unique look.

Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, Amritsar

Just a short distance from the Golden Temple, you will find Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, one of the most impressive architectural marvels in Amritsar. This Gurdwara is unique in that it has a nine-story octagonal tower. It was constructed in memory of Baba Atal Rai (the son of Guru Hargobind), the sixth guru among the Sikhs, around 200 years ago. It is a powerful reminder of Baba Atal Rai's self-sacrifice in 1628. Legend says that he died at nine after saving one of his closest friends from death. The Gurudwara's nine stories represent nine years of his life. It is constructed in Sikh architectural style. The shrine offers a stunning view to visitors. The Gurdwara's top can be reached from where you have a stunning view of Amritsar.

Hall Bazaar, Amritsar

Hall Bazaar is a must-see on any trip to Amritsar. This ancient bazaar is a shopper's delight. It sells everything from gadgets to phulkari embroidery work to bangles to traditional clothes and Chinese lamps. The marketplace is best known for its colourful jootis. Another attraction is the Gandhi Gate, a Mughal-style entrance gate to the bazaar. It is worth walking and shopping through the market's narrow streets, which offer an overwhelming sensory overload of vivid sights and sounds. As a souvenir of your Amritsar visit, don't forget to pick up a few souvenirs at the market. You can also enjoy the local delicacies at one of the many old eateries.

Believe us, Amritsar is the ideal place to escape from the daily grind. It has places like the Golden Temple, which can help you relax. But it also offers many entertainment places that will make your mood brighten. These places are worth a visit to Amritsar.