Vibrant city of Amritsar

Vibrant city of Amritsar

Amritsar is one of the biggest cities of Punjab.  Its foundation was laid down by the fourth Sikh Guru Ram Das in 1574 on land bought by him for 700 rupees. It is believed that before the city was founded, the area was covered with several lakes and dense forests. Earlier Amritsar was known as Ramdaspur and Guru Ram Das had invited about 50 different craftsmen and traders from neighbouring villages of Kasur, Kalanaur and Patti to settle in the new city and he also started living among these families. Amritsar, famously known as ‘Ambarsar’ derives its name from Amrit Sarovar built by Guru Ram Das in Tung village and believed that the water of the lake had healing power. The city gets much of its fame and name as it is home to the holiest religious complex of Sikhs, Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. But Amritsar has a lot more to offer in terms of experience and sightseeing.

Amritsar has vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and beautiful sightseeing locations. Amritsar literally means a Pool of Nectar, which gets its name from Amrit Sarovar, the holy tank that surrounds the magnificent Golden Temple. This place is also famous for its Jallianwala Bagh where a massacre took place on 13 April, 1919 when Brigadier General R.E.H.Dyer surrounded the area and ordered his troops to open indiscriminate firing on the gathering there.  Amritsar is also known for its proximity to Wagah Border, Jama Masjid Khair-ud-din, St. Paul Church, Gobindgarn Fort built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Festivals like Diwali and Baisakhi are celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm in Amritsar. Amritsar is well connected with the most important cities of India.

Wagah Border

Wagah border is the international border between Pakistan and India. Famous for its splendour display, the Beating Retreat and Change of Guard within handshaking distance of the Indian and Pakistani forces makes it the most attractive display. It is famous for the ceremonial closing of gates and lowering of flags of India and Pakistan. The grandiosity of this experience leaves a person full of pride and patriotism. It is just 45 minutes’ drive from the city. The border draws its name from Wahga village, near the Radcliffe Line which demarcates India and Pakistan.

Jallianwala Bagh

It often reminds the Indians of freedom struggle for India and the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters for an independent India. Massacre of Amritsar incident took place on April 13, 1919 in which British troops fired on a large unarmed Indian crowd in an open space gives Jallianwala Bagh its true identity.

Amritsar Heritage Walk

This is a guided tour which covers the Amritsar town exploring the majority of the city to give a comprehensive look at the city’s 4^th century history. The walk covers a distance of about 3 kilometres through all the Akhara Bungas, Hattis, Havelis and Katras which are the main attractions of the majestic town.

Ram Bagh Palace

Ram Bagh Palace is Mughal Pattern of Shalimar Gardens of Lahore built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and named in honour of Guru Ram Das Ji. This is a protected monument under Punjab ancient and Historical Building Site Act, 1964.

Central Sikh Museum

The museum is atop of Baba Atal which has some fine old paintings of battles fought by the Sikhs, coins, weapons and old manuscripts.

Shopping at Hall Bazaar

You can shop for a variety of things at the market such as handicrafts, home décor items, clothing and books. The market is well known for its range of quality woollen products, carpets, blankets and shawls.

Amritsar is renowned for its mesmerizing architecture, peaceful vibes and friendliness of the local people. One of the most religiously significant cities in the world, Amritsar is known for its historical linkage with Sikhism as well as its rich culture. The people of Amritsar respect their culture and believe in simple living.