The Golden Temple
Named after the Amrit Sarovar, the pool of water surrounding the famous Golden temple, Amritar is linked with the history of Sikhism. Steeped in rich history, the city is associated with various mythical and historical narratives including the Ramayana. Its ancient legends, historical monuments, places of worship and old bazaars attract visitors from far and wide.
If you`re planning a trip to this Golden City, here are a few things you cannot miss…
The Retreat Ceremony. Image by Rama Sreekant
Wagah Border
Approximately 30 km from Amritsar, the drive to this border between India and Pakistan is beautiful. Women and children are encouraged by the Border Security Force (BSF) jawans to sprint towards the gates with the national flag. At sunset, as the air resounds with patriotic songs, watch the flags of these two nations being lowered simultaneously.
Bullet marks at Jallianwala Bagh. Image by Rama Sreekant
Jallianwala Bagh
Remembering April 13, 1919, a bloody day in Indian history, a visit to Jallianwala Bagh is a must. Several innocent Indians, participating in a peaceful protest against the British rule, were killed by British troops ordered by General Dyer. Many of them jumped into a well to escape the gunfire. Bullet marks have been highlighted on the walls and a steel net now covers the well. At the furthest end is the eternal flame, which marks the Martyrs’ Memorial.
The Golden Temple. Image by Rama Sreekant
Golden Temple
You cannot plan a trip to Amritsar and not include the Golden Temple in your itinerary, the most sacred of Sikh shrines. Harmandir Sahib or Shri Darbar Sahib as it is also called, it is open 24 hours a day. Initiated by Guru Amar Das, the third Guru in 1570, it was completed by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru. In keeping with the beliefs of Sikhism, the temple is accessed from all directions and is open to anyone irrespective of religion. Before you leave the temple, make sure you eat some langar.
Thali at Bharwan da Dhaba
Food
In every galli, you`ll find yummy food. Amritsari alu kulcha, Amritsari Dal Makhani, Amristari Shahi Paneer, Amritsari Rajma and Rice, you have to try it all. And there’s no better place than Bharawan da Dhaba. If you still have room, make sure you get your hands on some papad vadia, chaat and jalebi near the Golden Temple and top it off with a glass of Bharawan da Dhaba’s Lassi. You won’t be eating for days, later.
You can also stop at Kesar da Dhaba for some kesar firni, their speciality. Established in 1916, they started off in Shekhpura, now in Lahore. Order their traditional thali, which has been in existence since 1916; everything on the thali is made from desi ghee. Also make sure you also try aampapar from Ram Lubhaya and Sons on Lawrence Road
Ram Tirath
As legend goes, Ram Tirath was Maharishi Valmiki’s, the composer of the Ramayana, ashram. It is believed that this is the place where Sita gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush and the site is marked by a hut.
Shopping
Make sure you have extra room in your bag, because there’s lots you’ll want to take back apart from photographs and memories. From phulkaris (traditional embroidery), Punjabi jutis (shoes), Patiala salwars, woolen blankets and shawls to masalas, papad vadia and locally flavoured pickles, pack them all!