Amritsar Tourism Guide
Travel Amritsar to unearth monuments like Golden Temple, Mata Mandir temple and many other. Being the holy city of the Sikhs, Amritsar is one destination that lure tourists from all over the world.
Amritsar has always been one of the most ancient cities of Punjab. Considered to be the holiest city for the Sikh community, Amritsar derives its name from the pool of nectar that surrounds the Golden Temple. The construction of the Golden Temple was initiated by Guru Ram Das the fourth Sikh Guru and accomplished by Guru Arjan Dev. Apart from its Sikh significance, some people believe that Valmiki wrote the Ramayana near "Pool of Nectar". Goddess Sita stayed here during the period of her banvasa (banishment) and it was here that Luv and Kush the twin sons of Lord Rama, were taught the Ramayana.
There's more to Amritsar than that - amongst other sights is Jallianwala Bagh, site of the gruesome massacre of unarmed Indians by British troops. A major tourist attraction these days is the Indo-Pakistan border crossing at Wagah, just a short distance from Amritsar.
Simple and beautiful people, the mouth-watering and famed Amritsari fish and the aura of a holy land there is lots to look forward to.
What To See
Tarn Taran - Situated at a distance of 22 km south-east of Amritsar, Gurudwara Tarn Taran was built by Guru Arjun Dev in memory of Guru Ram Das. The dome of this Gurudwara is covered with copper gilt. What is most fascinating about its location is the big tank whose water is known to cure leprosy. In addition, a big fair is held every year on an amavas (moonless) night.
Baba Bakala - Situated about 45 kilometers east of Amritsar on the Batala road is the famous Baba Bakala. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadurji, revealed himself to Makhan Shah Labana, a Sikh devotee here. It has a magnificent Gurudwara where thousands of people gather on every amavas (moonless night) and an annual fair is held on Raksha Bandhan day (night of full moon in August) when about one lakh people visit the place in Amritsar, India.
Wagah Border - The Wagah border, about 28 kms. from Amritsar is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan. It's an interesting experience especially at sunset when the 'Retreat' ceremony takes place with the BSF on the Indian Side of the Border. The changing of the guards and the ceremonial lowering of the flags is carried out with great ceremony.
Things to see
Golden Temple
Jalianwala Bagh
