In this article, we provide you with a complete travel guide to Amritsar that will help you plan a hassle-free trip.
The city of Amritsar is immediately synonymous with Sri Harmandir Sahib, famously known as the Golden Temple, for all those backpackers, and yes, the land of the Golden Temple has a lot to offer for travel enthusiasts beyond its rich religious and cultural heritage.
Thanks to its geographical proximity and accessibility to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, which has several flights to Mumbai and other international destinations, with Mumbai as a transit daily.
Located in the northwestern corner of Punjab, Amritsar is not only the nearest major city that borders Pakistan but is the only city that provides a crossing via Wagah to both these nations. Also, tucked in the foothills of Himachal Pradesh, Amritsar has been the gateway to summer destinations like Dalhousie, Mussoorie, Dharamshala and Shimla.
The little over 500-year-old city was built around a man-made pool, which later became the now famous Golden Temple.
The city gained prominence during the Indian freedom movement.
It was the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919 when people sacrificed their lives for the nation. Since then, Punjab has been a testament to spirit and unity in India. With a population of around 2.7 million, Amritsar has a perfect blend of traditional as well as modern cultures.
How to reach
Three flights depart from Mumbai to Amritsar every day with an average flying time of 2 hours and 40 minutes. Paschim Superfast Express, Golden Temple Mail and Amritsar Express depart from Mumbai every day and take around 33 hours to reach by train. Amritsar is also connected to other cities via air, bus and railway transfer.
Best Time to Visit
Typically, November to March is the ideal time to travel to Amritsar as the weather is pleasant between 4 degrees in the evenings and 20 degrees in the mid-morning and noon. Summers can reach up to mid-40s, while the monsoon season starts in July and ends in September with moderate rainfall.
How many days to spend in Amritsar
It takes two to three days to spend quality time in Amritsar and indulge yourself in the hotspot of culture. There are quite a few day trips you can plan from Amritsar, which can be planned by TourismBharat.com with various affordable packages.
Amritsar 2-day itinerary
Do you want to explore Amritsar in two days? Here’s the trending Amritsar 2-day itinerary that lets you explore the city by yourself.
Day 1: Spiritual & Cultural Exploration
Morning
- Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)
Arrive early to experience the serenity and witness the morning prayers.
Don’t miss: Langar (free community meal), the sacred pond, and the mesmerising golden structure.
- Jallianwala Bagh
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
A sombre but vital visit to understand India’s freedom struggle.
Breakfast
Various eateries around the temple and Jallianwala Bagh
Try: Aloo Paratha with butter, Lassi, and Chole Puri.
Afternoon
- Partition Museum
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
A museum showcasing stories from the Partition of 1947.
Lunch
Try: Dal Makhani, Paneer Butter Masala, and stuffed naan.
Evening
- Wagah Border Ceremony
Travel Time: Leave by 3:30 PM as it’s a 1-hour drive
Ceremony Time: 5:15 PM (reach early to get good seats).
Patriotic and high-energy flag-lowering ceremony at the India-Pakistan border.
Dinner (Back in City)
Beera Chicken House (for non-veg) or Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner
Famous for Amritsari tandoori chicken and fish fry.
Day 2: Local Flavour & Hidden Gems
Morning
- Gobindgarh Fort
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Includes museums, 7D shows, cultural performances, and more.
Midday
- Shopping at Hall Bazaar & Katra Jaimal Singh
Buy: Phulkari dupattas, juttis, Amritsari pickles, spices, and shawls.
- Ram Bagh Gardens
Optional: Quick walk or rickshaw ride around Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s summer palace (museum inside).
After lunch, probably at a dhaba on one of the highways, proceed to,
- Durgiana Temple
Similar in architecture to the Golden Temple but dedicated to Hindu deities.
Relax at a café or a sweet shop
Try: Amritsari Kulfa (a local ice-cream dessert) or sweets from Gurudas Ram Jalebi Wala.
Evening
- Sunset stroll around the Golden Temple complex
Watch the temple illuminated at night – it’s breathtaking.
Night
Return to the hotel. Consider staying at hotels near the Golden Temple for convenience and views.
Tips:
- Wear modest clothing for religious places; cover your head at the Golden Temple.
- Footwear must be removed at the temples.
- Stay hydrated and carry light cotton clothes, especially in summer.
For an extra day itinerary, add:
Morning: Historic & Spiritual Sites
- Khalsa College (Architectural Gem)
Time: 1000 AM – 1100 AM
British-era Indo-Saracenic building with beautiful gardens. Great for photos and history lovers.
- Pul Kanjari (if you’re up for a 30–40 min drive)
A lesser-known historical site associated with Maharaja Ranjit Singh, near the border.
Lunch
Try traditional thalis in a heritage setting.
Or return to town and try The Yellow Chilli (by Sanjeev Kapoor) for a modern Indian twist.
Afternoon: Heritage & Art
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum (in Ram Bagh Garden)
Showcases the legacy of the Lion of Punjab, weaponry, paintings, and coins.
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Discover hidden havelis, old bazaars, temples, and local artisans at work.
Evening: Relax & Wind Down
- Café Hopping in Ranjit Avenue
Try: Kaffee Avanti, The Chocolate Room, or Cafe Chokolade
A youthful, upscale area with great cafés, bookshops, and greenery.
Shopping stop (if needed):
- Visit Trilium Mall for branded shopping or more local handicrafts at Heritage Street (near Golden Temple).
Festivals in Amritsar
Baisakhi is one of the biggest festivals that is celebrated every year in April. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and commemorates Khalsa’s beginning which was created in 1699.
Diwali is another big celebration in Punjab that usually takes place in October-November.
Places to visit
- Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
The Golden Temple is the most iconic and sacred site in Amritsar and the spiritual centre of Sikhism. Its magnificent golden dome reflects beautifully in the Amrit Sarovar (holy tank) that surrounds it, symbolising peace and unity. Visitors from all faiths are welcome here, and everyone is invited to partake in Langar, a free community meal served daily to over 100,000 people. The peaceful atmosphere, devotional music (kirtan), and warm hospitality create a deeply spiritual experience, especially during early morning or evening prayers when the temple is illuminated. It’s not just a place of worship—it’s a symbol of humanity, equality, and humility.
- Jallianwala Bagh
Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh is a historical public garden that commemorates the 1919 massacre by British troops under General Dyer. The preserved bullet marks and the martyr’s well serve as chilling reminders of India’s struggle for independence.
- Wagah Border
About 30 km from the city, the Wagah Border is famous for its daily Beating Retreat ceremony. This military ritual, performed by Indian and Pakistani soldiers, draws large crowds every evening. The parade, synchronised marching, and nationalistic energy make it a unique patriotic experience.
- Partition Museum
Situated near Town Hall, the Partition Museum tells the heartbreaking stories of the 1947 Partition through photographs, letters, and oral histories. It’s the only museum of its kind and offers a deep, emotional insight into one of the most traumatic events in South Asian history.
- Durgiana Temple
Often referred to as the Silver Temple due to its ornate silver doors, the Durgiana Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. Its architecture closely resembles the Golden Temple, and it holds great religious importance for Hindu devotees.
- Ram Bagh Gardens & Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
Once the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the gardens are now home to a museum showcasing the life and achievements of the great Sikh ruler. The museum houses weapons, paintings, and historical artifacts, offering a glimpse into Punjab’s royal past.
- Hall Bazaar
One of the oldest marketplaces in Amritsar, Hall Bazaar, is a bustling spot for traditional shopping. From Phulkari embroidery to juttis (ethnic footwear) and Amritsari pickles and spices, this market is a treat for both shoppers and foodies.
- Sadda Pind
This heritage village, located a few kilometres outside Amritsar, recreates rural Punjabi life. Visitors can enjoy folk music, dance performances, traditional Punjabi food, and activities like pottery and weaving in a colourful and interactive setting.
Whether you’re looking for spiritual peace at the Golden Temple, exploring history at Jallianwala Bagh and the Partition Museum, or indulging in the lively local culture and cuisine, Amritsar has something for every traveller. From the patriotic atmosphere at Wagah Border to busy markets, peaceful forts, and delicious Punjabi dishes, this city makes a memorable impression. Its great connectivity, friendly locals, and year-round appeal make Amritsar a city suited for any season.
Plan your perfect getaway with customised packages at TourismBharat.com and experience the heart of Punjab like never before.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- How to travel to Amritsar from Mumbai?
You can reach Amritsar from Mumbai by flight or train:
By Flight: Three direct flights operate daily from Mumbai to Amritsar. The average flight duration is 2 hours and 40 minutes.
By Train: Trains like Paschim Superfast Express, Golden Temple Mail, and Amritsar Express run daily from Mumbai to Amritsar. Travel time is approximately 33 hours.
- What are the best places near Amritsar to travel?
Amritsar is a great starting point for exploring nearby hill stations and cultural sites. Some of the best places to travel near Amritsar include:
- Dharamshala
- Dalhousie
- Shimla
- Mussoorie
- Pul Kanjari (a historical site near the India-Pakistan border)
- What is Amritsar to Delhi travel time?
The travel time from Amritsar to Delhi varies based on the mode of transport:
By Train: Around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the train.
By Flight: Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes.
By Road: Approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering around 450 km.
- Where can I find the best Amritsar travel package?
You can find the best Amritsar travel packages on TourismBharat.com, which offers well-curated, budget-friendly, and customizable packages tailored to your needs.
- What are the best Amritsar travel packages?
Take a look at our travel packages section to get packages of popular Indian destinations at the best prices. If you like our Amritsar travel guide, don’t forget with others who love to travel and explore new cities!