Amritsar Travel Guide: Exploring the Heart of Punjab

Amritsar, in northwest India’s Punjab state, is a city where history, faith, and culture come together in unforgettable ways. Known as the home of the Golden Temple and the birthplace of many pivotal moments in Indian history, it is a destination that every backpacker and traveller should experience at least once. It is a world of contrasts (a lot like much of India, however this one will leave a mark, especially once you leave the Golden Temple in the realisation that there are some places in the world that are about the greater good of humanity. 

Why Visit Amritsar?

The Golden Temple: One of the most visited spiritual sites in the world, open to all, serving thousands of free meals daily.

Rich history: From the Partition Museum to the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, Amritsar carries deep stories of struggle, resilience, and hope. We have it all wrapped up on the Backpacker's Blueprint YouTube Channel

Vibrant food culture: Punjabi cuisine is legendary, Amritsar’s streets are alive with flavour and spices. 

Gateway to Punjab: Amritsar is the cultural heart of the region, offering insight into Sikh traditions and Punjabi hospitality, and its extensive!

Top Things to Do in Amritsar

1. The Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)

The beating heart of Amritsar. Its shimmering gold façade, reflected in the surrounding pool, is breathtaking at dawn and dusk. Visitors are welcomed regardless of religion. Don’t miss the langar, the community kitchen serving free vegetarian meals to anyone who enters. Discover More

2. Jallianwala Bagh

A solemn memorial to the 1919 massacre where hundreds of unarmed Indians were killed by British forces. The preserved bullet marks and flame memorial make this a place of reflection. Discover More

3. Partition Museum

Located in the historic Town Hall, this museum tells the stories of the 1947 Partition of India, one of the largest mass migrations in human history. Personal accounts, artefacts, and oral histories make it an emotional and educational stop. Discover More

4. Wagah Border Ceremony

Just outside Amritsar, the daily closing-of-the-border ceremony between India and Pakistan is equal parts theatre and patriotism, with soldiers performing synchronised marches and the lowering of flags. Discover More

5. Hall Bazaar

A bustling market where you can shop for traditional phulkari embroidery, handicrafts, and Punjabi juttis (embroidered shoes).

What to Eat in Amritsar

Food is central to the Amritsar experience. Some must-tries:

Amritsari kulcha: Stuffed flatbread cooked in a tandoor, served with spicy chickpeas and chutney.

Lassi: A sweet, creamy yoghurt-based drink, perfect for cooling off after a day exploring. (check the map for one of the most famous spots in Amritsar for a Lassi!)

Makki di roti and sarson da saag: A winter speciality, pairing cornmeal flatbread with mustard greens.

Street snacks: Don’t leave without trying jalebi (syrupy spirals), chole bhature, and samosas.

Practical Tips for Backpackers

Dress respectfully when visiting the Golden Temple (head covered, legs covered, shoes removed (there are locker points for this (free of course). Scarves are usually provided at the entrance.

Stay near the old city for easy access to main attractions. Guesthouses and hostels are budget-friendly and sociable. I stayed at Madpackers which was comfertable enough, a bit rough around the edges but in the heart of the old town so if culture shock is not your bag, you should check out a hotel nearby instead like Ranjit’s Svaasa. (our architecture pick) and not overly expensive!

Best time to visit: November to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable. Summers can be extremely hot (believe me, I made this mistake going in the heat of summer and its no joke, especially when the marble is reflecting the sun from everyside).

Getting there: Amritsar is well connected by train and flights. The international airport is just 11km from the city centre. But the easiest thing to do is jump on a bus. Get off at the mall and then tuck tuck or uber to where you need to be (although taxis do not go into the heart of old town as the streets are too narrow).

Why Amritsar Leaves a Mark

Amritsar isn’t just a city, it’s an experience of community, resilience, and generosity. Whether you’re walking barefoot across the marble floors of the Golden Temple, standing silently at Jallianwala Bagh, or eating your way through the street markets, 

Amritsar offers both joy and gravity. It’s a city that stays with you long after you leave, its perhap one of the most important cities I have EVER visited. Its not the most glamourous, in fact once you are outside the main centre, the streets are challenging and feel forgotten about. You literally experience the possibility of India and the reality of living in India in the space of around a 100 meter radius! It is not for the faint of heart but it will change your heart.