Famous vegetarian dhaba close to the Golden Temple serving stuffed parathas and chole; a hearty Punjabi breakfast and a local institution. (Opens ~6:00am, confirm hours).
Historic public garden and memorial of the 1919 massacre — powerful, short visit to view the bullet marks and the well; recommended to visit early to avoid crowds. (Typically open ~6:00am–6:00/7:00pm, confirm before visiting).
Detailed, moving museum about the 1947 Partition; provides valuable historical context for Punjab and Amritsar. (Usually open ~10:00am–5:30pm; closed days may vary — confirm).
Iconic old-style Punjabi vegetarian dhaba famous for dal, sarson da saag and makki di roti; rustic flavors and authentic experience. (Opens early to late evening; check current hours).
The Harmandir Sahib is spectacular at dusk when lights reflect off the Sarovar; participate in or observe langar (community kitchen) — the temple is open 24 hours but timings for ceremonies vary, so arrive by early evening for the best atmosphere.
Experience the free community meal (langar) at the Golden Temple for a meaningful cultural and culinary moment, or opt for a nearby restaurant if you prefer table service. (Langar runs continuously; no cost).
Attend the morning prayers and observe sewa (volunteer kitchen work) if interested—early AM visits are serene and less crowded. (Open 24 hours; best around dawn).
Try Amritsari kulcha with chole from a well-known stall near Town Hall or Hall Bazaar for an authentic, affordable start to the day. (Many stalls open 7:00am onward).
Learn about the Sikh Empire and Ranjit Singh’s legacy in this small museum housed in a historic building; good for history buffs. (Typically open ~9:30am–5:00pm; confirm hours).
Popular local spot for Amritsari specialties including stuffed kulchas and lassi—great for a filling midday meal. (Opens late morning through evening; check current schedule).
Explore Amritsar’s bustling markets for textiles, juttis (Punjabi shoes), spices and souvenirs—bargain politely and watch for authentic phulkari work. (Markets typically active 10:00am–9:00pm).
A Lakshmi/Narayan-style temple with architecture resembling the Golden Temple; peaceful visit and photo opportunity. (Generally open ~5:00am–9:00pm, but confirm timings).
Finish the day with more Punjabi comfort food—Kulcha Land or another popular local eatery is perfect for late dinner and trying regional desserts like phirni. (Most dinner spots open until ~10:30–11:00pm).
A recently redeveloped historic fort with live cultural shows, museums, food stalls and rooftop views; spend a few hours exploring crafts, museums and interactive exhibits. (Usually open ~10:00am–8:00pm; confirm times for evening shows).
Leave early to account for traffic and security checks — the Wagah border is ~30–45 minutes from central Amritsar by car; arrive at least 60–90 minutes before the lowering ceremony. (Ceremony timing varies with sunset—usually early evening; confirm the exact time the day before).
Witness the dramatic daily flag-lowering ceremony between India and Pakistan — highly choreographed, patriotic, and crowd-driven; bring ID and be prepared for security lines. (Ceremony time varies seasonally—arrive early and confirm the day’s schedule).
A quieter pilgrimage town ~35–40km from Amritsar, home to the impressive Gurdwara Tarn Taran Sahib and a more tranquil rural Punjabi experience; travel time ~1–1.25 hours each way. (Gurdwara generally open early to evening; confirm local hours).
Pick up souvenirs, phulkari, spices and juttis; head to shops you missed earlier and confirm purchases before departure. (Markets usually open through evening; plan for traffic to airport/railway).
Return for a final short visit to the Golden Temple to soak in the atmosphere one more time — afternoon/evening visits are peaceful and photogenic. (Open 24 hours).