Punjab
Amritsar Travel Guide
The Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and the Wagah border ceremony.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 2–3 days
Amritsar is the spiritual centre of Sikhism and home to the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), which welcomes people of every faith. The city also holds the memorial at Jallianwala Bagh, the Partition Museum and the daily border ceremony at Attari-Wagah, and it is famous for its food. Two to three days is enough for the main sights.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the most comfortable time, with cool days and pleasant evenings. Summers from April to June are very hot, and the monsoon is humid. Major Sikh festivals such as Baisakhi in April and Guru Nanak's birth anniversary in November bring large crowds and a special atmosphere.
How to reach
Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) has domestic flights from major Indian cities and some international routes. It is a short drive from the city centre.
Amritsar Junction is a major railway station with trains from Delhi, Chandigarh and many other cities, including fast intercity services. It is close to the old city and the Golden Temple.
The Grand Trunk Road links Amritsar with Delhi, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Chandigarh, and there are regular buses from neighbouring states.
Where to stay
Staying within walking distance of the Golden Temple is convenient, and the temple complex itself offers simple accommodation for pilgrims through the committee that manages it. Hotels along Mall Road and near the railway station suit mid-range travellers.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)
The gold-covered gurdwara in the middle of a sacred pool is open to all. The community kitchen (langar) serves free meals to a very large number of people every day.
- 2
Jallianwala Bagh
A memorial garden commemorating the 1919 massacre, a short walk from the Golden Temple.
- 3
Partition Museum
A museum in the old Town Hall that tells the story of the 1947 Partition through personal accounts, photographs and objects.
- 4
Attari-Wagah border ceremony
A daily evening parade and flag-lowering ceremony on the India-Pakistan border, about 30 km from the city. The format has changed in the past, so check current arrangements.
- 5
Gobindgarh Fort
A restored fort that now hosts cultural shows and exhibitions about Punjab's history.
- 6
Durgiana Temple
A Hindu temple set in a pool, built in a style that resembles the Golden Temple.
Food to try
Amritsari kulcha with chole, lassi served in tall glasses, fried fish, paneer tikka and sweet dishes such as jalebi and phirni are local favourites. Eating the langar meal at the Golden Temple is a memorable experience.
Travel tips
- Cover your head, remove your shoes and wash your feet before entering a gurdwara, and avoid carrying tobacco or alcohol into the complex.
- For Attari-Wagah, carry identity proof, leave early to find a seat, and expect security checks and restrictions on bags.
- Visit the Golden Temple early in the morning or late at night for a quieter experience.
- Photography rules differ at each site, so follow the signs and staff instructions.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Amritsar?
Two days cover the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, the Partition Museum and the border ceremony. A third day lets you slow down or add a nearby day trip.
Can non-Sikhs visit the Golden Temple?
Yes. The Golden Temple welcomes visitors of all faiths. Dress modestly, cover your head and follow the customs of the complex.
Is the Wagah border ceremony worth seeing?
Many visitors enjoy the atmosphere and the parade. Arrive early, expect crowds and check the current format and timings, which vary by season.
Day-by-day itineraries
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.