Exploring Amritsar in 2 Days

Friday, August 11, 2023: Arrival and Golden Temple

Arrive in Amritsar and check-in to your hotel. Use this link to check hotel prices. Start your day by visiting the iconic Golden Temple, the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion. Marvel at the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of this holy site. In the morning, you can also witness the Palki Sahib ceremony, where the Sikh holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, is carried to the sanctum sanctorum. Enjoy a langar, a free communal meal, served at the temple for devotees and visitors. In the afternoon, explore the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, a historic site that commemorates the tragic massacre of 1919. Wrap up your evening by experiencing the Wagah Border ceremony, a vibrant and patriotic display of the daily border closing ceremony between India and Pakistan.

• Golden Temple: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Jallianwala Bagh: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Wagah Border: Free entry, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Kesar Da Dhaba, a renowned restaurant known for its delicious Punjabi breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• Savour a traditional Punjabi thali for lunch at Bharawan Da Dhaba, a popular eatery serving authentic flavors of Amritsari cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• Enjoy a delectable dinner at Crystal Restaurant, known for its wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.

Saturday, August 12, 2023: Amritsar Heritage

Start your second day by visiting the Partition Museum, which showcases the stories and memorabilia from the partition of India in 1947. Gain insight into this significant historical event and its impact on the lives of millions. Next, head to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire. Explore the museum's exhibits displaying artifacts, paintings, and personal belongings of the Maharaja. In the afternoon, indulge in some local street food at the famous Amritsar Food Street near Lawrence Road. Try the iconic Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Bhature, and Lassi. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the historic lanes of the old city, admiring the unique architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

• Partition Museum: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Amritsar Food Street: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
• Exploring the Old City: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Kesar Da Dhaba, a famous restaurant known for its traditional Punjabi cuisine. Enjoy their delectable Paranthas and Chai. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Bharawan Da Dhaba, a legendary eatery serving authentic Punjabi dishes. Don't miss their signature Dal Makhani and Paneer Tikka. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• Indulge in a unique dining experience at The Golden Temple Langar Hall for dinner. As the world's largest free vegetarian kitchen, it serves a simple yet soulful meal to all visitors. Average cost for a meal is free, as it is a voluntary donation-based service.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Amritsar, don't miss out on visiting the Pul Kanjari, a historical village located near the Wagah Border. This hidden gem showcases beautiful architecture, a mesmerizing mosque, and a well-preserved baoli (stepwell). Another off the beaten path attraction is the Gobindgarh Fort, which offers an immersive experience of the city's history through light and sound shows, cultural performances, and a glimpse into the fort's underground tunnels. Locals also love indulging in traditional Punjabi cuisine at local dhabas (roadside eateries) like Kesar Da Dhaba and Bharawan Da Dhaba, known for their delicious vegetarian dishes. These hidden gems and local favorites will add unique dimensions to your Amritsar experience.