Golden Temple is one of the places that comes to mind when we hear the name Amritsar. However, many tourist places in Amritsar attract not only sikh pilgrims but also travellers of all faiths to one of the popular cities of Punjab. Amritsar also has tremendous national significance as a bordering city because this city has the Wagah border on the India-Pakistan border. Whether it is historical structures like the Golden Temple or shopping spots where you can buy popular items, we have curated the list of some popular tourist places in Amritsar.
Therefore, go through the list of places without further ado, add them to your itinerary and enjoy them to the best.
20 Best Places to Visit in Amritsar:
If you plan to go to Punjab, having a list of tourist places in Amritsar will help you explore the city better. This is why we have prepared a list of places you can visit to make your trip more memorable. So look closely at all the top sites that might interest you in Amritsar.
1. Golden Temple:
Golden temple is one of the popular tourist attractions in Amritsar and is the country’s holiest Gurudwara. This religious temple for the Sikh community welcomes people from all walks of life and all faiths; it is also called Harmandir Sahib. The most sacred part of the temple complex is the dome of the Hari Mandir or Darbar Sahib, surrounded by golden plates. The temple complex has a holy lake called the ‘pool of nectar’. It is embellished with graceful marble sculptures, which can be a visual delight. Devotees and visitors are fed free food called langar, making it one of the world’s largest free kitchens.
Things to do:
- The graceful marble sculptures in the temple complex can be a visual delight.
- Have delightful langar which is free for visitors of all faiths.
Timing: 3 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- The golden temple is almost 2 km away from the Amritsar railway station. You can hire a taxi or cab to reach the temple in 8 minutes.
- Amritsar is well connected to all the major cities in India via road, rail and airways.
Best time to Visit: November to March.
2. Jallianwala Bagh:
Jallianwala Bagh is one of the historical places in Amritsar that commemorates the massacre of the peaceful congregation by the British forces, which also stands as a dire reminder of extreme brutality. This historical site is an abode of a national memorial. It has been converted into a public garden that the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust manages, built on 13th April 1919.
Jallianwala Bagh is one of the tourist places in Amritsar near the Golden temple, which tourists from all over the globe visit. It is believed that many people jumped inside the well to save their lives during the shooting, making it s famous and essential structure to visit.
Things to do:
- You can experience the brutal history of the extreme brutality of the British on Indian protestors in this national memorial.
- You can also relax in the public garden.
Timing: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM, Monday to Sunday.
How to Reach:
- Jallianwala Bagh is easily accessible because it is located on Golden temple road. Moreover, you can take a cab or taxi from Amritsar railway station to the park.
- You can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to this historical park once you visit the temple. The distance between Jalianwala Bagh and the Golden temple is 1.3 km.
Best time to Visit: Winter season.
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3. Gobindgarh Fort:
Gobindnath Fort is one of the most historical and famous places to visit in Amritsar, located in the heart of Amritsar, spreading across 43 acres. However, the fort was open to public viewing as a live Heritage museum only from 2017, before which the Indian Army had control over the place. Ancient warfare museum, coin museum, whispering halls and haat bazaar are among the major attractions of the fort.
Furthermore, Sher e Punjab, a 7D show developed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is a unique attraction of the place. This show will leave you with an immersive experience taking you back in time to the 19th century. Visiting this fort can be a thrilling experience whether you are a history buff or not because it is home to some of Sikkim’s oldest documents and art.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the Sher e Punjab, a 3D show displaying the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, taking you back to the 19th century.
- You can enjoy delicious food from the stalls around the place.
- Win prizes by participating in games and enjoying live dance performances.
Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Gobindgarh fort is located inside the Lohgarh Chowk, on the Old Cantt road in Amritsar, which is easily accessible by all modes of transportation.
- Amritsar Junction railway station is at a walkable distance from the fort, which is about 1.3 km.
- The fort is 12 km away from the Amritsar International Airport.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
4. Partition Museum:
The reign of the British empire is filled with brutality, and Amritsar is a witness to the brutal history, making it a popular place to see in Amritsar for history buffs and regular citizens alike. The partition museum is the first-ever Museum that focuses on the tales of millions who went through the consequences of partition between India and Pakistan. The UK’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust (TAACHT) aided the Punjab Government in developing this Museum. The people who witnessed the partition donated newspaper clippings, photographs and various personal items displayed in this Museum. The lasting legacy of the victims and survivors is beautifully displayed in this Museum.
Things to do:
- You will get to know the brutal history of Amritsar under British rule.
- You can also look at the partition witnesses’ items, photographs, and clippings.
Timing: 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday).
Best time to Visit: October to January.
5. Punjab State War Heros’ Museum:
The Punjab state war heroes museum is a tourist place near Amritsar, showcasing the strength and courageous deeds of Punjab’s brave hearts. Brave soldiers’ deeds are immortalized in this Museum and also inspire the spirit of youth’s patriotism. The 45-metre-high stainless steel sword on the central edifice is the hallmark of this magnificent campus. A water body surrounds this iconic structure which stands atop the circular platform. The memorial is built at an elevation of 4 meters, with an inscription of names of nearly 3500 martyrs. Following are the details of the galleries in the Museum:
- Gallery 1- Orientation and Antiquity.
- Gallery 2- Guru Hargobind Ji till the rise of the Sikh Empire.
- Gallery 3- The Sikh Empire And Anglo-Sikh Wars.
- Gallery 4- British Rule up to Partition (1846-1947).
- Gallery 5- J&K Ops 1947-48.
- Gallery 6- Indo China War 1962.
- Gallery 7- Indo-Pak Wars (1965-1971) and OP Pawan/OP Cactus.
- Gallery 8- Kargil War 1999. Arcade
Things to do:
- The 45-meter-high stainless steel sword on the central edifice is the main attraction of this campus.
- You can also see the memorial built at 4m elevation on which the names of nearly 3500 martyrs are inscribed.
Timing: 10 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Monday).
How to Reach:
- The Museum is located in the suburbs of Amritsar and is 18 km from the international border with Pakistan. You can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the location from Amritsar.
- Amritsar airport is 16 KM, and the Railway station is 10 KM from the war memorial.
Best time to Visit: October to January.
6. Akal Takht:
Akal Takht is one of the best places to visit in Amritsar and is one of Sikhism’s five takhts. This place is also called the Throne of the Immortal and is considered the Sikhs’ highest political institution. This tourist place was founded in 1606 by Guru Hargobind in the Golden temple complex. Takhts are where everyone can get justice because they are the sacred seat of Sikh gurus. Therefore, the spiritual concerns of the Sikhs could be examined and addressed in the Akal Takht because it is a token of political sovereignty and justice.
Things to do:
- You can view some of the oldest scripts and holy books of Sikhism.
- You can also enjoy the serene atmosphere of the place.
Timing: 4 AM to 11 PM.
How to Reach:
- Several local transportations like buses, cabs, and Akal Takht train through which you can reach Akal Takht.
- The special Akal Takht express passes through several cities from Kolkata to Amritsar.
- You can hire a tuk-tuk, a cab or board a local bus from the railway station to Akal Takht.
Best time to Visit: October to January.
7. Amritsar Heritage Walk:
If you want to take a guided tour deep into the 400-year-old city of Amritsar’s narrow lanes and bye lanes, then Heritage walk is a perfect option. This guided tour will closely examine the Hatties, Havelis, Akharas Bungas and Katras. Moreover, this heritage walk helps you witness how town planning, traditional trade and crafts have been made in the same manner in this place for many centuries. This walk makes you feel part of the vibrant, sacred, beautiful city. Furthermore, this place offers you several activities which keep you entertained. You can understand the history of Amritsar and learn more about the city’s culture by hiring a guide. The 14 significant spots that are covered during the walk include:
- Town hall.
- Gurudwara Saragarhi.
- Qila Ahluwalia.
- Jalebiwala Chowk.
- Udasin Ashram Akhara Sangalwala.
- Chitta Akhara.
- Darshani Deori.
- Baba Bohar.
- Thakurdwara Dariana Mal.
- Chaurasti Attari.
- Taksal.
- Thakurdwara Raja Tej Singh.
- Crawling Street.
- Ancient Passage.
- Golden temple.
Things to do:
- You can cover 14 famous tourist spots during this walk.
- You can witness the place’s traditional trade, crafts and town planning.
How to Reach:
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. You can reach the city by air, road and railway.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
8. Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib:
Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib is located in the village of Chheharta Sahib, which is 8km away from Amritsar. Lakhs of people from across the country visit this historic location during Basant Panchami in the month of Magh. There are several competitions held in Kite-flying which attract attention. This occasion also has free medical services organized by the local Gurudwara management. The name of this gurudwara comes from the massive well dug by Guru Arjan Dev to mark the birth of Guru Hargobind, his son and successor. You can still see the well-preserved Persian wheels on the well, which were believed to have curative properties.
Things to do:
- Go through the expansive complex that features a domed temple. You can enjoy the tilted interiors and pond.
- The gurudwara provides langar for visitors of all faith.
Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the major cities in the country by road, rail and airways.
- Furthermore, you can hire an auto, taxi or a direct bus to reach the Gurudwara.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
9. Wagah Border:
Suppose you have failed to immerse yourself in the nationalistic feel of the Wagah Border beating retreat ceremony. In that case, your trip to Amritsar is incomplete. The Wagah border witnesses this ceremony in the evening daily because the border separates India and Pakistan. In the evening, the soldiers of both countries advance towards the gate for the ceremony. As the soldiers salute each other, both countries’ national flags are lowered with reverence. It is preferable to arrive an hour before the ceremony begins because the entry is done through a security check. Arriving early also ensures you get a good seat to view the ceremony.
Things to do:
- You can watch the change of guard ceremony of India and Pakistan, which attracts visitors from all over the country.
Timing: 10 AM to 4 PM.
- The ceremony during winter is from 4:15 to 5 PM, and the ceremony during summer is 5:15 PM to 6 PM.
How to Reach:
- Wagah border is 30 km from the city centre. Several minibuses are available, which take you to the place whose tickets are given near the golden temple.
- You can also hire a private taxi to reach the place for a comfortable ride.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
10. Sadda Pind:
One of the best places to visit in Amritsar if you wish to experience the old-world charm of Punjab is Sadda Pink. So you can enjoy Punjab’s local songs, stories, cuisine, folk dances, handicrafts, and cultural performances. Moreover, you can experience live Punjabi culture and connect with the Punjabi roots by visiting Sadda Pind. Furthermore, you can see, interact and participate in several activities with the village people if you visit as a guest. This place showcases traditional arts such as ironwork, durries, agricultural implements, clay toys, phulkari and Punjabi jutti. Moreover, the village livens up with celebrations, lights, colours and traditional dances.
Things to do:
- You can experience the local culture of the Pind in Amritsar in a Punjabi cultured living village.
- For dinner or lunch, you can also enjoy delicious local cuisines like Makki di roti, Sarson da saag and Chatti di Lassi.
- Explore the traditions and rich culture of Punjab.
Timing: 10:30 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- Sadda Pind is easily accessible anywhere in India by rail and air routes.
- The Sadda pind is located behind Guru Nanak Dev university on the Main Bypass road, which can be reached by road.
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
11. Mata Lal Devi Mandir:
Mata Lal devi mandir is quite famous among Hindu devotees and is a sacred and unique place of worship. Dedicated to Mata Lal Devi, a 20th-century famous saint, this place boasts colourful mirrored hallways, twisted pathways, ankle-deep waterways, and even a cave, unlike other temples. In addition, this temple features numerous shrines, caves and houses Hindu deities, which is another exciting feature of this temple. Many believe this temple grant wishes to women who pray for children because it is full of miraculous powers.
Things to do:
- You can learn about the temple’s history, which houses several Hindu deities.
Timing: 5 AM to 11 PM.
How to Reach:
- The temple is located at a distance of 1 km from Amritsar junction. You can hire local auto or taxi to reach the temple.
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the country’s major cities by road, rail and airways.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
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12. Shri Durgiana Temple:
Shri Durgaina temple, or the Lakshmi Narayan temple, is one of the famous tourist places in Amritsar dedicated to Goddess Durga, hence the name. You can also find the idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu and an idol of Goddess Durga. Dussehra, Diwali and Janmashtami are some festivals when many tourists visit this temple. Many people believe that Hanuman landed in this temple’s courtyard and took a rest while on his journey to the Himalayas.
Things to do:
- Like the Golden temple, you can enjoy the temple’s spiritual ambience and architecture.
Timing: 5 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can use any local transport like a bus, tuk tuk or taxi to reach the temple if you travel within the city.
- Amritsar is well connected to all the major cities by railways, airways and roadways.
Best time to Visit: During the festivals of Diwali, Rama Navami, Janmashtami and Dussehra.
13. Khalsa College:
Khalsa college is one of the top tourist spots in Amritsar, a 300-acre campus located 4 km away from Amritsar junction and on the Amritsar-Lahore highway adjoining Guru Nanak Dev University campus. In addition to being a top attraction of Amritsar, it is also one of India’s leading and ancient colleges of education. Founded in 1892, this historic educational institution has significantly contributed to our country’s freedom struggle. The brilliant architecture of this college is another critical factor that attracts tourists apart from its historical importance, which is an example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the brilliant architecture of this college.
- It also represents the state’s contribution to the country’s freedom struggle.
Timing: 8:30 AM to 5 PM (Saturday and Sunday holidays).
How to Reach:
- You can take any local transportation from any significant station in Amritsar to reach the college.
- All the major cities in the country are well-connected to Amritsar by road, rail and airways.
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year, during college times.
14. Bhagwan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal:
Bhagawan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal is a must-visit place in Amritsar where religion and mythology blend, also called Ram Tirath Ashram. It is considered the sacred birthplace of Lav and Kush, Lord Rama’s sons. As per legends, the sage Valmiki’s ashram stood in this place and started writing the epic Ramayana. You can visit the grand temple that stands there, though there might not be any ashram there anymore. The main attraction of this temple is an 800 kg gold-plated statue of sage Valmiki.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the view of the retained huts believed to be used by the sage Valmiki.
- You can enjoy the cultural extravaganza during Valmiki Jayanthi.
Timing: 5 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can hire any local transportation to Bhagwan Valmiki Ram Tirath Sthal because it is in the city’s heart.
Best time to Visit: During festivals and throughout the year.
15. Hall Bazaar:
The Amritsar tour plan is incomplete unless you visit Hall Bazaar, which is one of the best tourist places in Amritsar. It is one of the city’s iconic marketplaces or a shopper’s paradise, a hub of many things. You can buy anything from this market, from essential daily items to Chinese lamps, traditional gardens, local handicrafts, phulkari embroidery work, trendy accessories, to gadgets. However, fancy and colourful jootis are the main attractions of this marketplace. Yet another attraction of the place is the Mughal-style entry gate, Gandhi Gate.
Furthermore, the market offers a sensory overdose of sounds and vibrant sights only by walking and shopping in narrow lanes. If you want to collect memorabilia from your Amritsar trip, don’t forget to order a few souvenirs from this market. Finally, enjoy the city’s famous delicacies from the area’s age-old eateries.
Things to do:
- Shop to your heart’s content for items only in Punjab.
- You can enjoy the famous delicacies of Punjab.
Timing: 9 AM to 7 PM.
How to Reach:
- Hall Bazaar is just 1 km away from the Amritsar railway station. So you can easily reach the spot by walking.
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
16. Khairuddin Mosque:
Khairuddin mosque also called the Jama Masjid Khairuddin, was built in 1876 by Muhammad Khairuddin, hence the name. There is a significant position in India’s freedom struggle for this historical mosque. The mosque’s impressive architecture and beauty attract many visitors, religious and historical importance notwithstanding. The mosque features four minarets and three domes showcasing the Islamic architectural style. The one-of-its-kind look of this mosque is attributed to the intricate designs that adorn the mosque’s walls.
Things to do:
- You can observe the Islamic architecture of the mosque with several inscriptions.
Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM (Closed during Namaz hours).
How to Reach:
- The Masjid is 1.5 km away from the Amritsar junction. You can hire local transportation like auto or taxi to reach the destination.
Best time to Visit: May to June (The months of Ramzan).
17. Iskcon Temple:
ISKCON temple is another significant tourist spot among various tourist attractions in Amritsar. The ISKCON temple is in Amritsar’s Chowk Moni Bazar, often called the Sri Gaur Radha Krishna Temple. This beautiful temple is one of the globally established centres of ISKCON, built in 2011. In addition to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha, this temple is home to many goddesses and gods, giving visitors a profound sense of spirituality. Additionally, the temple conducts several activities besides spiritual discourse, drumming and chanting. The temple celebrates Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra for three days yearly in December.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the serene and spiritual ambience of the temple in addition to its beautiful architecture.
- You can also purchase spiritual books, god’s images and many other goods.
Timing: 4:30 AM to 9 PM.
How to Reach:
- Tourists can easily reach the ISKCON temple by any local transportation because it is located in the centre of Amritsar.
- The temple is 13 km from the Airport and 3 km from the railway junction. You can cover this distance by hiring a cab or any local transport.
Best time to Visit: In December or Winter, Rath Yatra Maha Mahotsav of Lord Jagannath.
18. Tarn Taran Sahib:
One of the famous religious places in Amritsar is Gurudwara Sri Tarn Taran Sahib. Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh guru in 1590, established this place. Thanks to this place’s majestic edifice, it attracts many tourists, not just pilgrims. The water body surrounding the imposing white structure with a golden dome is Gurudwara’s most significant water body.
Things to do:
- You can enjoy the serene atmosphere owed to the waterbody surrounding the golden dome.
Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM.
How to Reach:
- The most feasible and accessible option is to hire a local taxi or car to reach Tarn Tarn, 28 km from Amritsar.
- The nearest railway station to Gurudwara is Amritsar railway station which is 1 km away.
Best time to Visit: The Amavas in March, October to March.
19. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai:
Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai is one of Amritsar’s finest architectural wonders, a short walk from the Golden temple. This is a nine-storied octagonal tower built in memory of Guru Hargobind, the sixth guru of the Sikh’s son Baba Atal Rai around 200 years ago. The self-sacrifice of Baba Atal Rai in 1628 is kept as a moving reminder in the form of this tower. According to legends, Baba Atal Rai restored life to one of his close friends at nine years and then gave up his life. The nine years of his life are beautifully represented by the nine stories of the Gurudwara. This can act as a vantage point to get the mesmerizing view of Amritsar once you reach the Gurudwara’s top.
Things to do:
- You can see a mesmerizing view of Amritsar from the top of the Gurudwara.
- Enjoy the impressive sight of the Sikh architectural style of this Gurudwara.
Timing: 7 AM to 6 PM.
How to Reach:
- You can reach Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib ji by hiring local autos or tuk-tuks.
- Amritsar is well-connected to all the country’s major cities by road, rail and airways.
Best time to Visit: Winter.
20. Rose Garden:
If you wish to spend a fantastic time with your family and friends to escape the city, then the Rose Garden in Amritsar can be perfect. Table tennis courts, playgrounds and basketball courts, volleyball, slides, bike riding, sports areas and statues are some activities you can participate in this garden. This park also has stone benches from which you can enjoy the waterfalls, swings and kids’ grounds.
Things to do:
- You can spend a memorable time in the Rose garden by planning a picnic with your family.
- There are several activities you can participate in to entertain yourself.
Timing: 6 AM to 8 PM.
How to Reach:
- Rose Garden is 9 km away from Amritsar railway station. So you can hire any local transport like a car, cabs or autos to reach the garden.
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year.
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21. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Garden:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Garden is India’s oldest and most inspired garden, built after the fourth Sikh master Guru Ram Das on the city’s north side. This garden spreads over an 84 acres area with 14 feet high boundary wall built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first Sikh Ruler, in 1818. A double-storey palace with a basement called Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s palace is in the garden’s centre. Later, the Govt of India established a museum in 1977 that displays the 18th and 19th-century process collections of manuscripts, paintings, armour, weapons and coins.
Things to do:
- An excellent walk around the garden gives you a glimpse of organic herbs and vegetables.
- There are also several rides which can be entertaining for kids.
Timing: Open 24 hours
Best time to Visit: November to March.
Amritsar is a city compared to the most beautiful and admirable tapestry that weaves together the colourful threads of every dimension of human life. So whether you want to visit a religious place, go on a shopping spree or want to enjoy yummy food, this article has the culmination of most of the popular tourist places in Amritsar. Therefore, explore this incredible historic city through the list of sites. Don’t forget to let us know if you found the article helpful!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on research and not a replacement for professional advice. The website is not responsible for the authenticity and accuracy of the information.
FAQ:
1. How many days does it take to visit the tourist places in Amritsar?
- The days it takes to visit the tourist places in Amritsar depend on what you want to see.
- One day is enough if you wish to see only the top sights in Amritsar, including sadda pind, Akal Takht, Partition museum, etc.
- However, covering all the major tourist attractions in and around Amritsar will take about two to three days.
2. Are there any popular places one can visit in Amritsar with kids?
There are several things one can visit in Amritsar with kids. They are:
- Golden temple tour and Amritsar heritage walk.
- Central Sikh museum.
- Sun city amusement and water park.
- Saragarhi memorial gurudwara.
- Gurudwara guru ke mahal, etc.
What are the popular spots for shopping in Amritsar?
Whether charming footwear or beautiful cotton suits, Amritsar has places to shop for things during your trip.
- Hall Bazar.
- Guru Bazar.
- Alpha one mall.
- Trillium mall.
- Lahori gate market.
- Katra jaimal singh bazaar.
- Shastri market.
- The celebration mall.
