What to see in Amritsar
Sri Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple is a central religious place of not only the Sikhs but people of all religions. This unique shrine is visited by people of all religions and all walks of life.
This is the site of the infamous Amritsar massacre in which hundreds of innocent civilians were brutally killed by the British Army. One can still see the bullet marks on the high walls of the bagh.
Visited by more than 5000 people every day, the Wagah Border is the only border road crossing between India and Pakistan. Most people visit the Wagah border to witness the "Beating Retreat" ceremony that is held every evening before sunset.
Lip smacking cuisine of Amritsar
Situated in the small gullies of Amritsar is the best dhaba of Amritsar. This pure vegetarian Dhaba serves food cooked in pure desi ghee and it makes you drool. The dal makhni and the phirni are the most delicious part of the meal.
It would be a pity if you don't visit the Chungi crossing while you are in Amritsar. You must eat the famous Amritsari kulcha and choor choor naan at the All India Famous Kulcha Wala at Chungi crossing, Magbool Road. The dough of the kulcha is kneaded with lots of pure desi ghee and it so it has various layers. The kulcha simply melts in the mouth.
It is a real delight to eat the langar served at Golden Temple. The langar is a feast that is prepared in the temple kitchen by volunteers. The Prasad is served every day and people from all walks of life come to eat the Prasad in huge numbers. Visitors are seated in neat rows and are served the food by volunteers.
Loaded with rich and creamy malai, the Ahuja lassi is something you wouldn't have tasted anywhere in the world. The tall glass of lassi is enough to fill your stomach and make you doze off.
How to get around in Amritsar
The city is very well-connected by buses and trains. One can commute using city buses, trains and by hiring a taxi. One can travel small distances in cycle-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws.
Where to shop in Amritsar
The market located just outside the Golden temple has various shops that are stocked with several items of religious importance for the Sikhs. These include daggers, swords, karas along with phulkari dupattas for women.
This is a very old market and it is famous for traditional silver and gold jewelry. With more than 2500 shops, it attracts women of all ages. One can get all types of traditional ornaments made of gold, silver and semi-precious and precious stones here. Earthen pots, silver diyas and idols of Hindu gods and goddesses can also be bought from this market.
Padas and wadian are the traditional crisps and crackers that are loved by most Punjabis. In this market, you can buy fresh home-made papads and wadian to eat at your home. Since they have a long shelf-life, you can store them for months without worrying.
This bazaar is famous for dry fruits. One can buy special Afghani dry fruits from this market.
The city of Amritsar is a window to the freedom struggle of India. The Wagah border and Jallianwala Bagh instantly bring a series of pictures of the freedom struggle and the sacrifices of Indian freedom fighters. A look at the old city takes you back to pre-independence era. This city is really worth a visit. One can easily find cheap flights to Amritsar.
