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Want to visit a city that offers a mix of history and spirituality? That’s Amritsar. From the electrifying Wagah Border ceremony to shopping for juttis
in its colourful markets, every moment here is packed with excitement. Whether you are waking up early for a ceremony or riding a rickshaw through the lanes of Amritsar’s markets, this city will never let you get bored for even a second. Here are some things and places you can visit in Amritsar:
Golden Temple
The Golden Temple is the spiritual and cultural heart of Amritsar for Sikhs and welcomes tourists from all around. The best time to visit is early morning during the Amrit Vela (4am to 6am) or late in the evening when lights shimmer on the water. You can even stay for a community meal at the langar hall, where volunteers cook and serve food to all.
Also, don’t miss the Central Sikh Museum, located within the temple complex, which chronicles Sikh history and struggles through paintings and portraits.
Partition Museum
Located in the Town Hall, this museum provides an in-depth look at the partition of India in 1947. Inside, you will find letters from people who fled their homes overnight, documents, maps, photos, and even worn saris. All of these items, along with oral histories, showcase the emotional impact of the event.
Wagah Border
The boundary separating India from its neighbour, Pakistan, is just 30 km away from Amritsar. Every evening, as the sun sets, the flag ceremony is held, followed by the gates being closed for the day. You can witness the electrifying beating retreat ceremony at the border, where women and children dance to patriotic songs, followed by a 30-minute parade.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum in Amritsar is dedicated to the great Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh. The walls inside the museum are inscribed with Sikh teachings and display many belongings of the king, including his armour, swords, jewellery, manuscripts, and more.
Outside the palace is the delightful Ram Bagh garden, featuring a variety of beautiful flowers, water fountains, and ponds.
Shopping Places in Amritsar
Shopping in Amritsar is definitely a must-do. Some of the famous markets are Hall Bazaar, Guru Bazaar, Shastri Market, and Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar. If you are looking for jewellery pieces, Guru Bazaar should be your stop. Shastri Bazaar is famous for its cotton apparel and a variety of colourful juttis.
How to Reach Amritsar
The most convenient way to reach Amritsar is by flying into Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport, from where you can easily find taxis. By train, Amritsar Junction serves as the main station and is well-connected to major cities across India. If you are driving from Delhi or elsewhere in Punjab, the highways are well-maintained and convenient.
This article has been written by Khushi Sukhija.
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