The holy city of Amritsar is often a popular pick when looking for interesting places to visit in north India. The spectacular Golden Temple not just attracts Sikhs, but people of all religion from world over. It is also its rich history, vibrant culture and lip-smacking food that makes Amritsar a perfect holiday destination in India. So if you have been meaning to visit Punjab's capital, you should already get packing. Whether it's inner peace, food indulgences, retail therapy, culture trip or a dose of greenery, you will find it all in Amritsar.
Easily accessible by road, train and flight, even a weekend is good enough to soak in the local vibe of the city. But if you do have some time in hand, we suggest you add the following pointers to your itinerary for Amritsar to make the most of your holiday. These are things you just cannot miss while in Amritsar.
1. Golden Temple
Of course, the first thing you need to do when you land in Amritsar is to head to the Golden Temple. Early morning is a great time to visit to not just beat the crowd but also start your day filled with positivity. The place is such that you can't help but feel peaceful and stress free, especially when you sit by the sarovar and listen to bhajan. Once you have paid your respects to the Almighty and licked the ghee soaked kada prasad till the last bit, make your way for the langar and savour soul nourishing maa ki dal, roti, sabji, rice and kheer.
2. Govindgarh Fort
There are many places of historical significance in Amritsar, afterall it played a big role in India's freedom movement. One place that you absolutely shouldn't miss is the Govindgarh Fort. Time your visit in such a manner that you land up there around 4pm. You can take a quick look around before getting seated for the evening cultural show, which includes Bhangra, Punjabi Martial Arts - Khalsa, Band March, and the highlight of the evening - the Light and Sound Show. It's spectacular and beautifully narrates the history of Punjab with the fort as the screen.
3. Kesar da Dhaba
If you call yourself a food lover then you have to make your way to Kesar da Dhaba, the legendary eatery in Amritsar. It maybe 100 percent vegetarian but one taste of the food and you are sure to find yourself awestruck by the flavours. It has been around for years and it's renowned for dal makhani (it is slow cooked for eight hours), Punjabi chole and phirni.
4. Phulkari Dupatta
The phulkari dupatta is a traditional piece of clothing from Punjab, which is sought after because of the exquisite embroidery detailing that's done by hand. Traditionally the dupattas were made in cotton, but now you can also find them in chanderi silk, chiffon and polyester. They are colourful with trendy motifs. Team one with simple suits, and see how marvelously it spruces up your look. The handmade heavy phulkari dupattas will cost around INR 2500.
5. Amritsari Fish and Mutton Chaap
How can we leave out the meat when we talk about Amritsar? This city is a paradise for meat lovers where you can indulge in all-time favourite butter chicken, tikkas, burra kebabs, and local delicacies like Amritsari fish and spicy mutton chaap. The area around the Golden Temple strictly includes only vegetarian eateries, but as you step out from there, you will find many non vegetarian dhaba-style eateries serving mind blowing dishes to satisfy your cravings.
6. Explore the farm life
Almost every Bollywood movie we have watched, we have been shown the lush mustard fields of Punjab. The state's countryside is indeed beautiful where you can immerse yourself in all the greenery around and enjoy the simple farm life. There are many places near Amritsar that allow you to experience the farm life, ride a tractor, cook organic vegetables and cycle around. Punjabiat, run by Itmenaan Lodges, is a great option.
7. Jootis
Are you a shoe freak? Then you can't leave Amritsar without picking a couple of peppy jootis to add to your collection. Stylishly designed and available in all colours, you will find numerous jooti shops across the city. Remember to bargain well before you pick the footwear.
8. Wagah Border
About two hours away from Amritsar is Wagah Border. It may seem far when you are busy having a ball in the city, but it is absolutely worth the trip. Once you are seated inside the pavilion and you hear people chanting Vande Mataram and Hindustan Zindabad, and witness the parade and the flag hoisting ceremony, your patriotism hits an all time high. You just can't help but feel a sense of pride for being an Indian.
To end your trip, don't forget to chug down a sinful glass of lassi. The best you will ever find!
