Amritsar, literally Pool of Nectar, derives its name from the Amrit Sarovar that surrounds the famous Golden Temple in the city. True to its name, the heart of the city is the temple complex, which is the holiest of Sikh shrines. The Golden Temple complex itself is surrounded by a maze of narrow lanes, or katras, that house one of the busiest markets in India.

At first glimpse, Amritsar city is like any place in northern India, with bustling markets, haphazard traffic and congestion. But the Golden Temple is a serene presence, radiating a spiritual calmness that makes people bow their heads in reverence.

How to Reach Amritsar?

By Air : The Rajasansi airport, about 11 kms from town, is connected by domestic flights to Delhi and Chandigarh. You can get to town by a pre-booked rented car, taxis or auto-rickshaws.

By Rail : Amritsar is connected by direct trains to major Indian cities like Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Nagpur, Calcutta and Puri. The most convenient train from Delhi is the Swarn Shatabdi which takes about 6 hours.

By Road : You can drive into Amritsar from neighbouring states. Bus services also connect Amritsar with most north Indian towns, including Chandigarh (235 Kms), Delhi (450 Kms), Shimla, Kulu, Manali, Dharamshala and Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh, Dehradun and Rishikesh in Uttar Pradesh and Jammu.

Best Time to Visit Amritsar

The best time to visit Amritsar is between October and March, when the climate is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

During the winter season, stretching from November to March the level of mercury can fall up to 4°C. The maximum temperature observed during this season is 18°C.

The summer months, from April to June are extremely hot with temperature rising up to 49 °C. It is better not to visit Amritsar during this time. Summer months are followed by monsoon, stretching from July to October. Amritsar receives heavy shower during this season. You can visit this place during the monsoon months but be prepared for the heavy showers. The best time to visit Amritsar is between October and March, when the climate is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

During the winter season, stretching from November to March the level of mercury can fall up to 4°C. The maximum temperature observed during this season is 18°C.

The summer months, from April to June are extremely hot with temperature rising up to 49 °C. It is better not to visit Amritsar during this time. Summer months are followed by monsoon, stretching from July to October. Amritsar receives heavy shower during this season. You can visit this place during the monsoon months but be prepared for the heavy showers.

Things to do in Amritsar

Amritsar is a town where most activities and things to do are centered around the Golden Temple. The temple itself is a gleaming structure whose gleaming gold dome is visible from afar. Sitting in the middle of the Amrit Sarovar lake, the Golden temple draws in millions of devotees and visitors, Sikhs and every other religion who come to take part in the wonderfully peaceful environs of the beautiful shrine.

Right next to the temple complex is the Jallianwala Bagh which serves as a reminder of the Indian Independence struggle during the days of the British rule. An hour’s drive away is the famed Wagah border – here every evening is held the change in guard and lowering of the flag ceremony at sundown and it is treat to watch both Indian and Pakistani soldiers show off their goose stepping prowess.

The cuisine of Amritsar is almost legendary. Sample the most delicious chole kulchas and Amritsari fish at the dhabas that line the streets. Shop for the phulkari suits and exquisitely embroidered juttis and ofcourse the wadis and papads!

So venture forth to Amritsar for a calm and wonderful experience.

Places Near Amritsar

One of the places near Amritsar that is a must visit, is the Wagah Border.

Wagah Border lies about 28 kms from Amritsar, is the border station of Atari and the Wagah checkpost between India and Pakistan. This is the only overland opening between the two countries, which continue to have hostile relations ever since independence in 1947. The checkpost has now become a popular site for tourists, who come to see the change of guards and retreat of troops at sundown. The drill, choreographed with aggressive posturing and sabre-rattling, draws loud cheers from spectators on both sides. It is thrilling to see the energy with which both sides try to outdo the other - a not to be missed sight definitely! Taxis can be hired from Amritsar for the visit.

Hotels in Amritsar – Choice is Yours

There are numerous hotels in Amritsar ranging from 3-star, 4-star and 5-star deluxe to budget hotels.