Traveling back to your own country is always special, especially for Indian expats in the USA who are traveling to Amritsar in Punjab. When it comes to Punjab, people often resemble it as an essential pilgrimage to Amritsar because it is not just a place on the map but a spiritual and cultural heartland. People who are deeply rooted to this place understand why history echoes and devotion thrives here. If you’re planning to visit Amritsar anytime soon then this guide will help you to find top things to do in Amritsar that truly capture the essence of the city. Apart from the major landmarks, this place also offers you some delicious delicacies that become your soul food!
Visit the 24/7 Spiritual Retreat “The Golden Temple”
Who doesn’t know this pilgrimage site which is also popular as The Harmandir Sahib, is the starting point and centerpiece of any Amritsar visit. You can witness the beauty of this place twice in a day by visiting once in the early morning for the Palki Sahib ceremony and once late at night. You should also see the community service which is known as Langar also or take part in sewa even for a few minutes. Taking part in voluntary service by washing dishes or helping prepare rotis is one of the most fulfilling and authentic experiences you can have.
About Jallianwala Bagh and The Partition Museum
To understand Amritsar properly, you must deeply seek into its powerful history as the city stands as a testament to both spiritual devotion and immense national sacrifice.
- Jallianwala Bagh: Located just a minute’s walk from the Golden Temple, this historical garden serves as a solemn, essential memorial. The carefully preserved bullet marks and the Martyr’s Well offer a chilling reminder of the tragic massacre of 1919. It is a necessary stop for paying respects and understanding the city’s pivotal role in Indian history.
- The Partition Museum: Housed in the historic Town Hall, this museum is a relatively recent addition but an absolute must-visit. It captures the heartbreak, struggle, and resilience of the millions impacted by the 1947 partition of the subcontinent. For expat families, especially those reconnecting with their Punjabi roots, exploring the personal stories, artifacts, and multimedia exhibits is one of the most significant things to do in Amritsar India, offering profound insights into the origins and heritage of many families across the globe. Allow at least two hours for a proper visit; the oral histories and personal artifacts are incredibly moving.
Wagah-Attari Border Ceremony
Located around 30 kilometers away from the city, there’s the Wagah-Attari border, where the daily flag-lowering ceremony occurs. It is a moving spectacle of theatrical passion and national pride that is performed every evening. It draws in large audiences every day, and the arrival of the patrons is always followed by the ceremony’s Martial Synchronized Stomping and the crowd’s multiple, roaring chants, waving cheers and chants that never lose their vitality. It captivates everyone, and is especially sentimental for those assaulting the border after a long dry spell abroad and serves as a reminder of the nation’s borders. Getting a good spot in the sitting is very useful, and during peak season, it is recommended to get there at least 90 minutes before sunset.
Indulge in Amritsari Gastronomy and Culture
No discussion of things to do in Amritsar is complete without dedicating ample space to the food. Amritsar is a paradise for food lovers, and its cuisine reflects the generosity and richness of Punjab.
- Amritsari Kulcha: Forget everything you think you know about kulcha. The authentic, flaky, potato-stuffed version served with chhole (chickpea curry) and tangy chutney is an experience in itself. Seek out the local, street-side joints for the real taste, freshly made in a tandoor.
- Langar Food: The simple, wholesome Langar meal at the Golden Temple is served to tens of thousands daily, regardless of background. This is not just a meal; it is a profound lesson in equality and humility, and something every visitor should experience.
- Sadda Pind: For a modern, family-friendly cultural experience, Sadda Pind offers a vibrant glimpse into traditional Punjabi village life. It’s an immersive space where you can enjoy traditional folk dances (Gidda and Bhangra), learn about traditional crafts, and sample authentic regional food. It’s a great way to introduce the younger generation, who may have only heard stories abroad, to the vibrant culture of Punjab.
Now you know about the amazing things to do in Amritsar. Make plans to find a flight to Amritsar at cheap fares to enjoy the visit fully. Amritsar is a city that will be very meaningful to all, be it world class Punjabi food, reconnecting your culture, heritage, or faith, or teaching the kids a new world religion. A visit to Amritsar is not just a visit; it’s a chance to enjoy the unique culture and hospitality of Punjab’s golden city. So plan your trip and have memorable travel experiences.
| Disclaimer: Indian Eagle claims no credit for the images featured on its blog site. All the visual content is copyrighted to its respective owners only. We mention the source name of the image whenever possible and found. However, if we miss acknowledging the owner’s source, please contact us. In case, owners don’t want us to use their images, we will remove them promptly. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, and photographer. |
