Amritsar, founded in 1577 by the fourth Sikh guru, Guru Ram Das, is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities in Punjab. Known for its iconic Golden Temple and role in the independence struggle, Amritsar is a city soaked in history and culture. Nestled on the outskirts of Amritsar, the Country Inn Amritsar provides a traditional countryside experience with friendly service and beautiful views of surrounding farmland. From serene sites of worship to lively markets, there are plenty of places to visit in Amritsar that will give you a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
The Golden Temple
The magnificent Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine for Sikhs. Surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar Lake, the shining golden temple was constructed in the 16th century. The temple is an architectural marvel, built lower than the surrounding area to emphasize humility. Intricately decorated interiors have dazzling gold filigree and precious stone work. Don’t miss the Guru-Ka-Langar Hall that serves over 50,000 people daily. At night when the temple is illuminated, it glows ethereally. Visiting the Golden Temple to soak in its beauty, partake in the communal meal and find serenity is a must-do in Amritsar.
Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial park marking where British forces fatally fired upon unarmed protestors in 1919 during the independence struggle. The sombre site has a flame monument, martyr gallery, and stone sculptures depicting the massacre. Bullet holes left by the firing can still be seen on the walls. A memorial ceremony takes place daily with an eternal flame lit to honour those killed. Jallianwala Bagh is a poignant reminder of India’s path to independence and the sacrifices made. A visit here will leave you moved and reflective.
Wagah Border Ceremony
Each evening, the lowering of flags ceremony at Wagah Border draws huge crowds wanting to witness the patriotic spectacle. Soldiers from both India and Pakistan stage an elaborate routine, stomping their feet and glaring before ceremonially closing the gate. Cheering crowds chant slogans and sing on both sides in an electrifying environment. Witnessing the competitive yet respectful ceremony reaffirming the brotherhood between the two nations is truly memorable.
Gobindgarh Fort
Transforming from disuse into a cultural complex, the 18th century Gobindgarh Fort has museums, heritage tours and light & sound shows for visitors. The fort has remarkable history as the seat of the Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The fort museum exhibits world-class collections like 17th century arms & armour, archival photographs and Phulkari embroidered textiles. Exploring the fort’s different sections like the Toshakhana Treasury and ramparts is ideal for history lovers.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
To learn about Amritsar’s wealthy heritage under the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, visit the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum. Also called the Ram Bagh Palace, this summer palace has an Italianate structure with sloping roofs, arched windows and Doric columns. The museum collection includes the Maharaja’s personal armour & weapons, miniatures, manuscripts and other regal treasures that provide insight into the Sikh Empire. Don’t miss the turban gallery displaying the different detailed styles.
Durgiana Temple
Built in the 16th century, the Hindu Durgiana Temple is modelled similar to the Golden Temple, with a central pond and canopied walkways. Dedicated to the goddess Durga, the red sandstone and marble temple has striking leaf-shaped gilt domes. Intricately carved doorways and latticed windows exemplify Hindu temple architecture. Be mesmerized by the spiritual chanting and smell aromatic flowers being offered in the inner sanctum. Durgiana Temple provides a peaceful escape from Amritsar’s bustling streets.
Pul Kanjari
Pul Kanjari is an 18th century pillared pavilion built along the royal route between Amritsar and Lahore for the maharaja’s queens to rest while traveling. Meaning ‘bridge of the she-camel’, the Pul Kanjari pavilion overlooks a small historic mosque. Nearby is the Maharaja Ranjit Singh chatri, an onion-shaped dome that originally marked a sacred fig tree. The atmospheric ruins with Mughal and Rajput architectural styles make for great photos against the backdrop of rural Punjab.
Khalsa College
Established in 1892, Khalsa College is one of India’s oldest educational institutions, with impressive Rajput and Gothic revival architecture. Fascinating galleries showcase valuable Sikh relics like Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s sword, manuscripts, coins and even a horse-drawn carriage. The historic quadrangle courtyard has cloisters lined with frescoes depicting Sikh gurus. Don’t miss the picturesque circular well in the centre. For history and architecture lovers, visiting Khalsa College provides a window into 19th century Punjab.
Ram Bagh Gardens
Offering tranquil surroundings away from the city buzz, Ram Bagh Gardens is a picturesque place to stroll or picnic. These expansive gardens were built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1831 with waterways, fruit orchards and vibrant flowerbeds. Walk under shady trees and admire the delightful marble Baradari pavilion. Visit the museum located within the gardens housing Sikh Empire artifacts. With its lush greenery and relaxing vibe, Ram Bagh Gardens is the perfect spot for family outings.
Hall Bazaar
No trip to Amritsar is complete without browsing the bustling and colourful Hall Bazaar. Located in the walled city near the Golden Temple, it’s one of Amritsar’s oldest markets with over 400 shops selling everything from spices to fabrics, jewellery, brassware handicrafts and more. Squeeze through tight lanes lined with shops and stalls selling traditional phulkari dupattas, juttis, and Punjabi jalebis. Practice your bargaining skills and pick up some trinkets and souvenirs from Hall Bazaar’s endless offerings.
Conclusion
From the serenity of Golden Temple to the tragic history of Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar has many significant attractions to discover. Learn about the proud Sikh cultural heritage, taste delicious Punjabi food, see intricate temple architecture and experience the pulsing heartbeat of this fascinating city. With its blend of spirituality, history, and culture, Amritsar offers an unforgettable experience that every visitor to India should have. The city leaves you with immense respect for its storied past and optimism for its future. So, if you are planning to visit Amritsar, the Country Inn Amritsar offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, with cozy rooms and delicious home-cooked meals in a charming rural setting.
