Area:7069 sq.km
Altitude:3500m
Language:Punjabi and English
Rainfall:2954 mm
Climate:Summer:43'C
Winter:4'C to 10'C
Best Time to Visit:October to March
STD Code:0183
An Overview of Amritsar
Amritsar is one of the important cities of Sikh religions, basically known for the Sikh pilgrimage "Golden Temple". Amritsar is also recalled for brutal act of Jallianwala bagh tragedy. But more importantly Amritsar is known for its sprit and braveness.Amritsar city derived its name from the sacred pool of Golden temple. The Sikh community considers it as a holy city. Amritsar Tourism enjoys a distinct place in the tourism industry of India. Amritsar is situated on the north-western border of India, the city is also gateway for the travelers on the overland route through Pakistan.
History
The History of this holy city start from year 1574 when Guru Ram Das Sahib founded the city and built a residence and in 1577 he built a sarovar (tank) in the city. In year 1586 Guru Arjun Singh renovated the sarovar and after that this city named Amritsar. Amritsar is also remembered for the Jallianwala bagh kand, when more than 300 innocent people killed and 1200 people injured in a brutal act of police firing headed by General Dyer, in year 1919.
Sightseeing in Amritsar
Golden Temple
Also called Sri Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple was laid by Guru Ram Das in the 14th century. It is acclaimed as one of the holiest sites of the Sikhs. It has four doorways and gorgeously decorated arches. Reflecting influences of both Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, the temple standing in the middle of a tank, exudes tremendous architectural brilliance which draws the attention of numerous tourists around the globe. Although principally a pilgrimage spot for the Sikhs, it is visited by people of all religions and proves to be one of the greatest tourist attractions in Amritsar on your tour to India.
Jallianwala BaghSited near the Golden Temple, it bears testimony to the disaster called Jallianwala Bagh Massacre at the time of the rule of the British Raj. A congregation, attended by several Punjabis on the occasion of Baisakhi (New Year) celebrations on 13 April 1919 was set on fire by General Dyer. Till date it serves as one of the greatest tourist attractions in Amritsar.
Durgiana MandirThis temple is located close to the Golden Temple.This temple is modeled in the style of Golden Temple.This temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga. This temple has built in the 16th Century A.D.The temple stands in the centre of Lake and here prayers are offered to the Goddess Lakshmi and God Narayana.
Wagah BorderThis is an international border between the India and Pakistan. Wagah border is famous for its "Beating the Retreat" ceremony. In this ceremony, every evening during a sunset, soldiers of both sides perform a perfect drill and bringing down their respective national flags.
Rambagh GardenIt is a new age Garden,which houses Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Palace. Presently it serves as Museum.
Ram Tirath TempleIt is situated on Amritsar-Chogawan roa,where Valmiki Maharaj is supposed to have composed Ramayana.It is another of the tourist attractions in Amritsar.
Tarn TaranIt is situated at 25kms away from Amritsar.Tarn Taran houses a sacred tank which is believed to have healing powers. It has a Gurudwara as well which was built by Guru Arjan Dev in AD 1768.Here in this lake fairs are celebrated on every 'Amavas'(New Moon Day).
Festivals
Baisakhi and Guru Nanak Jayanti are two of the most important festivals that are celebrated in Amritsar.
How to Reach Amritsar
By Air
The Rajasansi airport at Amritsar is well linked by flights from all over India. Recently, it was elevated to an international airport.
By RoadAmritsar is well connected by Roads from all major cities.
By RailThere are direct links from Delhi to Amritsar by train. It is an 8-10-hour journey.
Wild Life Parks