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Amritsar

Housing the celebrated Golden Temple, Amritsar is a major pilgrim site for Sikhs, who come here to pay homage in large numbers. The splendor of the temple is unmatched and one should be a part of the reading of the holy book and the temple complex is worth exploration. Enjoying langar meal here is a unique experience. Other popular tourist spots in the city include various smaller but significant Gurudwaras. There are many attractions in the vicinity of the city. Tourists are advised to excur around and visit many other religious places. The real culture and beauty of Punjab villages can be enjoyed then. The Wagah border located near to the city is a popular spot and tourists gather here to witness the change of guards ceremony and the flag hoisting and lowering. Amritsar is located in the heart of Punjab state and is easily accessible from all over the country. The best time to visit is during the winter month of October to march.

When To Go
Amritsar has the extremes of summers and winters. Summers (April to June) are hot with temperature soaring to a peak of about 49 C. Tourists generally keep off visiting Amritsar during this period. Monsoons (July to October) offer mild to heavy rains and are pleasant after the hot summers. Winters (November to March) can touch a freezing -4C, the highest temperature going up to 18C. Best time to visit Amritsar is from October to March. October to March months are with cool and pleasant climate and perfect for city visit, May keep off freezing January month. April to June is extreme hot and can be avoided for any outside visit. July to September is also good for sight seeing in a moderate climate, but beware of sudden heavy rains.

History
The history of Amritsar boasts of a perfect mix of Hindu and Sikh culture. Founded by Guru Ram Das in the year 1547, the city has been the home to various sages and saints. Although the history of Amritsar can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, it also has been referred in the various Puranas and the famous mythological epic Ramayana. According to the legend, this city was the site of the ashram of Rishi Balmiki as well as the birth place of Lord Rams son Luv and Kush. The city boasts of Greek influence under Alexander during 326 BC. However, the Mauryas defeated the Greeks thus possessing the throne of Amritsar. The rulers of the Gupta Empire ruled here from the 4th to the 6th century followed by the rule of Shahi Dynasty and further under the kingship of Sultan Mahmood of Ghazani. Sikh came on the scene of Amritsar in the 16th century when Sikh Guru Ram Das and his successor Guru Arjan Dev established a temple around a small pool. It was during this time, that the city got its name Amritsar. The city is famous for the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy in which thousands of people were killed by the British.

Travel within city


There are bus services, auto rickshaw services and cycle rickshaw services available in the city of Amritsar for tourists to take up. Cabs are also available, and you can opt for a cab in case you are travelling in a group.

Bus
Buses are the preferred mode of transport in Amritsar and buses that are run by the government normally charge around Rs 4 to 10 for a trip. However, Amritsar has a free bus service that you can avail in order to get to the Golden Temple from the local railway station. You can opt for this service in case you are looking to make a quick visit and travel back home from the city. Buses are well maintained and moderately crowded in Amritsar.

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from the city. Buses are well maintained and moderately crowded in Amritsar.

Auto Rickshaw
Auto rickshaws are also present in Amritsar and these are a faster mode of travel. By taking an auto rickshaw, you can reach your destinations easily while under a time crunch. Auto rickshaws do not run on meter and will cost you anywhere around Rs 20 to 40. A ride from the railway station to the Golden Temple will cost you Rs 40.

Cycle Rickshaw
Cycle rickshaws ply from the railway station to the Golden Temple too, and a ride in a cycle rickshaw will cost you around Rs 20.

Taxi
You can also opt for cabs in order to travel around Amritsar. Cabs will cost you more than Rs 200, and these can be taken up at the following agencies. Jawala Taxi Service- Ph: 0183 2532500 Punjab Taxi Service- Ph: 0183 2553761
Attractions

Durgiana Temple

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The holy abode of goddess Durga in Amritsar, Durgiana temple resemblance the golden temple in its structural design. It is considered as one among the holiest temples in the city and it dates back to the 16th century. Intricately carved paintings of goddess Durga in her various incarnations are the significant feature of this marvelous shrine. One among the peculiarity of this temple is that it does not follow the typical temple architecture of ancient times. Though various other deities found their place in the interior of the temple, mother goddess is the prevalent deity of the temple. Erected in the midst of a tank the temple holds awnings and a middle arena in the style of the Sikh temple. A renowned depository of Hindu scriptures, this temple displays an unusual grandeur and elegance of its own.

Golden Temple

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The holiest abode of the Sikhs all over the world, the Golden Temple at Amristar is popularly called as the Sri Harmandir Sahib. The idea behind this sacred shrine was conceived by Guru Arjan Sahib, who himself designed the structure of the temple. A Muslim saint Hazrat Mian Mir ji of Lahore laid the foundation of Golden Temple on 1st December, 1588. Placed on the lake, Amrit Sarovar, the Golden Temple, is bounded by a corridor of glittering white marble. Made up of the yellow metal, gold, this grand edifice of the Sikh religion is the pride of not only the Sikhs but also the entire nation. This stunning shrine houses numerous other small temples inside its premises. The Adigrantha, the sacred book of the Sikhs, adorns the sanctum of the shrine. From early morning to the dawn the temple premises is echoed with the chanting of hymns, prayers, and other devotional songs, which makes an ethereal ambiance. One among the conspicuous feature of this temple is the Jubi tree, which is believed to have extraordinary powers. Vast dining halls and dormitories in the shrine offer free food and accommodation to all persons irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. Timings: open almost 24 hours (from 6 AM until 2 AM)

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Jallianwala Bagh

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Jallianwala Bagh is a sprawling memory of the great tragedy, which evokes the patriotic spirit in every Indian. It was here, that the worst massacre in the entire history of Indian freedom struggle took place in the year 1919. To commemorate the murder of the innocent people a memorial was constructed at the site of the gruesome bump off. Jalianwala Bagh is a vast garden spread over to an extent of 6.5 acres and the most conspicuous structure in the garden is the memorial of the 1919 massacre victims. The memorial also preserves the portion of the wall with pellet marks along with the well. Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust constituted as per Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, manages the activities of the memorial. Situated adjacent to the golden Temple, this garden is easily accessible and it is a must visit place in Amritsar.

Wagah Border

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The international borderline between India and Pakistan, Wagah is always been in the news headlines of both countries. Convoluted buildings, barriers and roads mark both sides of the border. The fencing between the borders is electrified with very high voltage. The Swarna Jayanthi gate, which is the entry gate of the outpost, commands the magnificent scenery of verdant landscapes. Situated in between Lahore and Amritsar, evenings in this army outpost is very charming and colourful with the "Beating the Retreat" ceremony. The pageantry and pomp, and the change of guard within a short expanse make an appealing spectacle, which grabs large gathering. The most important segment of the ceremonial parade is the bringing down of the respective flags of both countries. Tourists and the locals throng near the border to witness the ceremonial parade of the Soldiers of the two countries. When the sun sets in the horizon, the soldiers take their departure amidst the beatings of the drums and beguiles. The entire ceremony nearly takes thirty minutes.

Akal Takht

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Literally Akal Takht means Eternal Throne. It is considered as the one among the five sacred Takhts and has obtained the status of the power point of all religious activities of the Sikhs. Situated in the holiest premises of the Golden Temple, Akal Takht is conferred with the authority to call upon and order contrition on persons blamed with breach of sacred regulation. The oldest of the all takhts, Akal Takht stands as an insignia of righteousness. Guru Granth Sahib, which adorns the sanctum of the golden temple, is kept at Akal Takht in the night. Conventionally all Sikh combatants seek blessings here before leaving to the battlefield. The social life of the entire community is hang around Akal Takht where they hold meetings and make decisions.

Ber Baba Buddha

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Sikh religion gave birth to so many pious and saintly people and Baba Buddha was one of such prominent figure, who adorns a remarkable position in the entire history of this sacred faith. It is believed that this sage was authorized with the construction of the Sarovar in the premises of the Golden temple. It is also believed that Baba Buddha used to sit under a tree, which is still preserved in the temple. This tree, which is called beri in the local language is famed as the Ber Baba Buddha, which literally means the Baba Buddhas tree. As per one legend that is prominent among the Sikh community, it was due to the blessings of Baba Buddha that Guru Arjan Dev had got a child. Large number of devotees frequents her with the strong belief that they would be blessed with a child after the holy darshan of Beri Babba Buddha.

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Bibeksar Sahib

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Situated on the banks of Bibeksar Sarovar, this lovely Gurudwara was constructed Maharaja Renjith singh. Bibeksar Sahib presents a picturesque scenery and it lies in between Sultanwind and Chativind. The Sarovar is dug by the 6th Sikh guru, Hargobind for those devotees who wants to be in sheer solitude. He used to sit by the sides of this Sarovar and since the medieval India shown religious nepotism of the Muslim Rulers, the Sikhs were united under Hargobind and used to congregate around this tank. The day to day affairs of the Gurudwara is now controlled by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. Guru ka Langar and a well were added in 1905-06. This gurudwara houses a lovely garden in its premises. On the last Saturday of every month, the Gurudwara would be crowded with devotees, who gather there to participate in the Rainsbai Keertan programme.

Gurudwara Baba Atal

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An octagonal tower with nine stories Gurudwara Baba Atal Sahib is a lofty structure with a height of 45 meters. This is believed to be the cremation ground of Baba Atal, who died at the tender age of nine. The nine floors of the building stand representing the short span of life of Baba Atal. A simple monument earlier, the present structure was the contribution of Maharaja Renjith Singh. The small inner room of the gurudwara holds the Grantha Sahib. The doors on the ground floor, four in number, are ornamented with imprinted designs, on silver and brass sheets. Internal walls and the ceiling are enclosed with murals portraying incidents from the lives of Guru Nanak, his nine successors, Baba Buddha and Guru Gobind Singh's four sons.

Khair-ud-Din Masjid

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Built in the year 1876, this pretty shrine has got tremendous impact in the freedom movement of India. This Masjid was built by Mohd. Khairuddin and it was from here the great call for waging war against the looting British were put forward by Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari. This grand edifice of the freedom struggle displays architectural elegance, which lures not only the tourists but also the locals. Besides its structural beauty, this lovely mosque is a most revered religious and pilgrimage place in Amritsar. This mosque is placed in the Hall Bazaar. Its strategic position on the imposing ambiance of a busiest market makes it a crowded shrine all around the year.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

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The summer palace of erstwhile king, Maharaga Ranjit Singh is now transformed in to a wonderful Museum. It is surrounded by the lovely garden Ram Bagh. Maharaja Renjith Singh is a prominent figure, who had carved a niche for himself in the history of India. The Museum displays objects connecting to Maharaja Ranjit Singh such as arms and armour, outstanding paintings and centuries old coins and manuscripts. Most of the paintings that were put on display showcase the court and camp of the king and among them, the most significant one is the painting of the city of Lahore with all its elegant structures. This legendary king of Punjab had shown a commendable spirit of secularism and it is reflected on the coins that are displayed in the Museum. The manuscripts that were shown in the museum give a clear account of the rich history and tradition of the Sikh province especially of the time of Ranjith Singh. One among the major objects on sight is a parwana of Maharaja Ranjit Singh to Raja of Kapurthala, which holds the seal of Ranjit Singh. The Sikhs are considered to be very brave people and the arms and ammunition section of the Museum shows a rich collection of weapons, which were prevalent among the great warriors of that time. A glorious face of the medieval India, Maharaja Ranjith Singh adorns a noteworthy position in the heart of the people of this region. This Museum is a genuine effort to depict the life of the great hero of yesteryears in its entirety and is a worthy to watch spectacle in Amritsar. Timings: Open 10 am to 5 pm, Mondays closed Charges: Free

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Rambagh Gardens

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An attractive garden, Ram Bagh is famed as the summer palace of the erstwhile Raja of Punjab, Ranjith Singh. This picturesque garden was formerly known as the Company garden and its name was changed as Rambagh by Ranjith Singh to commemorate his faith and devotion to the great sage, Guru Ram Das. This garden is a prototype of Shalimar Gardens at Lahore. Rambagh garden boasts a statue of the legendary king with his horse and now the garden and the palace situated in the middle, is a national museum. This garden holds a panorama of the great King, which is a joint venture of The National Council of Science and Museums and the State Government of Punjab. The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama, which is the second of its type in India, tries to depict the important events in the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh through threedimensional montages. The access to the garden is through a hefty gate from where one will get the entry tickets.

Swarna Mandir Guru Ke Mahal

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The core of the Sikh religion is the sacred book Granth Sahib and their gurus. Guru ke Mahal, as the name denotes, is the dwelling places of these great gurus of the Sikhs. Originally raised as a humble hut by Guru Ram Das in 1573, it was modified and redecorated by Guru Hargobind and Arjun Dev. Now this residential building has been shaped in the form of a shrine, with the Guru Granth Sahib placed in a hefty rectangular foyer. In addition to the every day services, Guru ka Langar and special divan are held on the first Sunday of a Bikrami month.

Gurudwara Mata Kaulan


Almost all gurudwaras in the holy city is constructed on the banks of some sacred tanks. These tanks are considered to be as pious as that of the shrines. Gurudwara Mata Kaulan also is located on the pristine banks of a tank by the same name Kaulan. Both the tank and the gurudwara shares remarkable significance in the history of Sikh Religion. History says that, Kaulan was a pious girl who desires to follow the path of religious line to which her family was not amenable. Severe punishments and harsh treatments failed to dissuade her from the chosen path and she left her home to seek out asylum with Guru Hargobind. Gurdwara Mai Kaulan is the same house where the devout girl lived. Now it is a revered place, where large number of pilgrims frequents to pay their respect and offerings.

Gurudwara Saragrahi Sahib


Gurdwara Saragrahi, in Amritsar is a glittering reminiscent of a spurious skirmish. The battle of Saragrahi narrates the implausible story of the brave Sikh soldiers who had lost their lives in the war against the mighty pathans. To immortalize their bravery a gurudwara has been constructed at the venue of the war and as a everlasting testimony of valor, the names of the valiant soldiers were inscribed on the walls of the Gurudwara. The Battle at Saragrahi has acquired a remarkable recognition world wide and it found a place in UNESCOs coverage on stories of collective bravery, where it shares its accolades with the great Battle of Thermopylae of 480 BC.

Hall Bazaar
Shopping in Amritsar proffers tremendous and multi hued of bazaars. The leading shopping complex in Amritsar, Hall Bazaar presents a wide range of products from electronics items, ornaments, best quality books, handicrafts and readymade garments. Most import place in this Bazaar is the Gandhi Gate, which serves as the entry point to the Bazaar. This gate is also called as Hall Gate. The signboard and the giant clock in the gate are having a caption "Amritsar - Sifti Da Ghar". The structural elegance of this gate take one back to the Mughal era. Reasonably priced Chinese lights in various models are available which seems to be worthy for the money one is paying.

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Hanuman Mandir
Dedicated to the Monkey god, Lord Hanuman, this pretty shrine depicts the main deity in a sitting posture. Holding great religious significance, it is believed that it was here Lord Ram performed his Ashwamedha ceremony. The local belief is that, a daily darshan in this temple fulfills every wish of the devotee. The huge idol of lord Hanuman makes a mesmerizing impact. Since this temple has a close connection with the great epic Ramayana, the temple premises is echoed with the chanting of hymns from Ramayana all the time, which provides a soothing feeling to every visitor. The couples who are bestowed with a male child with the blessings of Hanuman offer their children to Langoor Sena are regular scenery of the temple. Other fascinating attraction of this holy shrine is the languor dance of the devotees.

Kaiser Bagh
A quadrangular park with a lovely pavilion flanked by yellow coloured builds on three sides Kaiser Bagh, holds some of the most important places of interest of the locality. Built in between 1845-1850 it displays a cluster of cupolas and domes. This park is also called as Ceasers park, a name reminds of the reign of Wajid Ali Shah, a former king of Oudh. The most alluring characteristic of the park is its entrance itself. A flight of extensive stairs leads to the main floor, which gives the impression of a bridge. A small temple is set in the middle of the so-called bridge presents a charming appearance. This imposing structure boasts of a unique architectural style, which can be considered as a blend of Gothic and Mugal style.

Santokhsar Sahib
All most all Gurudwaras in Punjab houses a pool around the holy shrine to take a bath. Santhoshkar Sahib is such a pool, which adjoins the Harminder Sahib. These pools are popularly called as sarovar. These sacred pool is constructed by Guru Ramdas, as per the directives of guru Amar Das. While searching for the perfect site to dig the Sarovar, Guru Ram Das come across with a sage by name Santakha. It is believed that Santokhsar Sahib situates at the same place where the sage was found meditating. Though the construction of the tank was begun in the tenure of Guru Ram Das, it was completed by Guru Arjan. Baba Buddha was chosen to manage the work, and during 1587-89 the digging of the pool was completed.

Tarn Taran Sahib


Located around 24 km from Amritsar is the city of Tarn Taran, which is an hours drive Amritsar city. The place is well known for housing many Gurdwaras and is holy place for many Sikhs in India and abroad. The main attractions here are the Sikh houses of worship including Gurdwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib, Guru Ka Khud, Bibi Bhani Da Khud, Takkar Sahib and many more. Sri Darbar Sahib Tarn Taran of Guru Arjan is the most popular and main religious hub in this place. Guru Arjan is the founder of this city and he named the city as Tarn Taran. The Gurdwara of Tarn Taran houses the biggest Sarovar (holy tank) of all Sikh Sarovars.
Itineraries

Distances

Shimla Manali 149 km 3h Chandigarh 240 km 4h, 10m Delhi 477 km 7h, 40m

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