Amritsar, Punjab – Facts And History

The city of Amritsar is situated in the state of Punjab in the northwest region of India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Amritsar district and is home to over 1.1 million people. The city is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and the famous Golden Temple, which is a popular pilgrimage site for the Sikh community.

Amritsar was founded in the 16th century by the fourth Sikh guru, Guru Ram Das. The city was built around a pool that was believed to have healing powers, and was named after this pool – “Amritsar” means “pool of nectar” in Punjabi. Over time, the city became an important center for Sikhism, and the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) was built in the center of the pool in the 18th century.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Amritsar became a hub for the Indian independence movement, with many prominent leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru visiting the city. In 1919, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in Amritsar, where hundreds of unarmed protesters were killed by British troops, which further fueled the independence movement.

Other Names Of Amritsar:

Amritsar is known by several other names, including:

• Guru Ki Nagri: This means “city of the Guru” in Punjabi, and reflects the city’s importance as a spiritual center for Sikhism.
• Pool of Nectar: This is a literal translation of the name “Amritsar,” which was given to the city because of the sacred pool that is located in the center of the Golden Temple.
• Ambarsar: This is a colloquial name for Amritsar that is commonly used by locals.
• Ramdaspur: This was the original name of the city, which was given by Guru Ram Das when he founded it in the 16th century. Later on, the name was modified to Amritsar.
• Sifti Da Ghar: This means “home of blessings” in Punjabi, and is another name that reflects the city’s spiritual significance.

Nicknames Of Amritsar:

Amritsar is also known by several nicknames, including:

• Golden City: This nickname refers to the city’s famous Golden Temple, which is covered in gold leaf.
• Holy City: This nickname reflects the city’s importance as a spiritual center for Sikhism, as well as its many other religious sites.
• City of Heritage: This nickname refers to the city’s rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
• Manchester of India: This nickname reflects Amritsar’s importance as a center of industry and commerce in the region.
• Food Capital of Punjab: This nickname reflects the city’s delicious cuisine, which is famous throughout Punjab and India.

Historical Importance Of Amritsar:

Amritsar has a rich historical and cultural significance, especially in the context of Indian independence movement and the Sikh religion. Some of the key historical events and figures associated with Amritsar include:

Sikhism: Amritsar is the spiritual center of Sikhism, which is the fifth-largest religion in the world. The city is home to the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), which is the holiest shrine in Sikhism and attracts millions of pilgrims each year. The city is also home to several other important Sikh historical sites, including the Akal Takht and the Guru Nanak Dev University.

Indian Independence Movement: Amritsar played an important role in the Indian independence movement, with many prominent leaders of the movement visiting the city to mobilize support for the cause. One of the most infamous events in this regard was the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where hundreds of unarmed protesters were killed by British troops. The incident led to widespread condemnation and helped to galvanize support for the independence movement.

Partition of India: The city of Amritsar was also deeply affected by the partition of India in 1947, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan and the displacement of millions of people. The Partition Museum in Amritsar tells the story of this tragic event and its impact on the people of Punjab.

Sikh Gurus: Several of the Sikh gurus have strong connections to Amritsar. Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru, founded the city in the 16th century, and the fifth guru, Guru Arjan Dev, built the Golden Temple in the 17th century. The ninth guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was also executed in Amritsar by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam.

Overall, Amritsar is a city that is deeply intertwined with the history of Sikhism and the Indian independence movement. Its historical significance and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors from around the world.

How to Reach Amritsar:

Amritsar is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy to reach the city from various parts of India and abroad. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Amritsar:

• By Air: The Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport is located about 11 km from the city center and is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to Amritsar from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Dubai.
• By Rail: The Amritsar Railway Station is located in the heart of the city and is well-connected to major cities in India. Direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities operate to Amritsar. The Samjhauta Express is a train that connects Amritsar to Lahore, Pakistan.
• By Road: Amritsar is well-connected by road to major cities in the region. The National Highway 3 connects Delhi to Amritsar, making it a popular route for those traveling by road. Private and state-run buses also operate to and from Amritsar to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jaipur.
• By Metro: Amritsar has a metro train service which has been inaugurated recently, though it is not very extensive yet.

Once you reach Amritsar, you can hire a taxi, take an auto-rickshaw, or use public transportation to get around the city.

10 Interesting Facts About Amritsar:

• The Golden Temple: The most famous and iconic landmark in Amritsar is the Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib. It is a Sikh temple covered in gold leaf and is considered the holiest site in Sikhism.
• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: In 1919, British troops massacred hundreds of unarmed Indian protesters at the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar. The event is considered a turning point in India’s struggle for independence from British rule.
• Wagah Border Ceremony: The Wagah Border, located about 28 km from Amritsar, is the only road border crossing between India and Pakistan. A daily flag-lowering ceremony takes place here, which attracts many visitors.
• Amritsari Cuisine: Amritsar is known for its delicious cuisine, especially its street food. Some popular dishes include Amritsari Kulcha, Chhole Bhature, and Makki di Roti with Sarson ka Saag.
• Partition Museum: The Partition Museum in Amritsar is the first museum dedicated to the Partition of India in 1947. It tells the stories of the millions of people who were displaced during the partition.
• Sikhism: Amritsar is the spiritual center of Sikhism and is home to many important Sikh religious sites, including the Akal Takht and the Durgiana Temple.
• The City of Heritage: Amritsar is often called the “City of Heritage” due to its rich cultural and architectural heritage. The city has many historical buildings, including the Gobindgarh Fort and the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum.
• Bhangra: Bhangra, a traditional Punjabi dance form, originated in Amritsar and is a popular dance style around the world.
• Attari-Wagah Border: The Attari-Wagah Border, located about 30 km from Amritsar, is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan that is open to foreigners.
• Amritsar Airport: Amritsar’s Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport is the biggest airport in the Punjab region and is among the busiest airports in India. It has excellent connectivity to major cities in India and abroad.

15 Places To Visit In Amritsar:

• Golden Temple: Also known as Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple is the most famous and iconic landmark in Amritsar. It is the holiest site in Sikhism and attracts millions of visitors every year.
• Jallianwala Bagh: The site of the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where British troops opened fire on unarmed Indian protesters in 1919. The site now serves as a memorial to the martyrs.
• Wagah Border: Located about 28 km from Amritsar, the Wagah Border is the only road border crossing between India and Pakistan. A daily flag-lowering ceremony takes place here.
• Partition Museum: The first museum dedicated to the Partition of India in 1947, the Partition Museum tells the stories of the millions of people who were displaced during the partition.
• Akal Takht: One of the five Takhts of Sikhism, the Akal Takht is a sacred site for Sikhs and is located within the Golden Temple complex.
• Durgiana Temple: Also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the Durgiana Temple is a Hindu temple located in the old city of Amritsar.
• Gobindgarh Fort: Constructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the early 1800s, Gobindgarh Fort is a historical fort situated in the center of the city.
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: Located within the Gobindgarh Fort, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
• Ram Bagh: Also known as the Company Bagh, Ram Bagh is a beautiful garden located in the center of Amritsar. It is home to several historical monuments, including a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
• Jama Masjid Khairuddin: A mosque located in the old city of Amritsar, Jama Masjid Khairuddin is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.
• Pul Kanjari: A historic site located about 35 km from Amritsar, Pul Kanjari was a rest house built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh for his queen.
• Mata Lal Devi Temple: A popular Hindu temple located in the Model Town area of Amritsar, the Mata Lal Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga.
• Tarn Taran Sahib: A historic Sikh gurdwara located about 25 km from Amritsar, Tarn Taran Sahib is a sacred site for Sikhs.
• Saragarhi Memorial: A memorial built to honor the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Saragarhi in 1897. The memorial is located in Ferozepur, about 120 km from Amritsar.
• Khalsa College: A historic college located in Amritsar, Khalsa College was established in 1892 and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.

Art And Culture Of Amritsar:

Amritsar is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. Here are some details about the art and culture of Amritsar:

• Music: Music is an important part of the cultural fabric of Amritsar. The city is known for its classical and folk music traditions, with a rich history of famous musicians and singers.
• Dance: Bhangra and Giddha are two popular folk dances of Punjab, which are often performed at cultural events and festivals in Amritsar. The city is also home to many dance schools and academies.
• Festivals: Amritsar is known for its many festivals, including the famous Baisakhi festival, which is celebrated in April every year. Other important festivals include Diwali, Holi, and Guru Nanak Jayanti.
• Cuisine: Punjabi cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, with a focus on vegetarian and meat-based dishes. Amritsar is particularly famous for its street food, including chole bhature, kulchas, and Amritsari fish.
• Arts and Crafts: Amritsar is home to many skilled artisans and craftsmen, who produce a variety of handicrafts and artworks. These include phulkari embroidery, woodwork, pottery, and traditional textiles.
• Architecture: Amritsar is known for its beautiful architecture, with a mix of traditional Punjabi and Mughal styles. The Golden Temple is a prime example of this, with its intricate marble and gold detailing.
• Literature: Punjabi literature has a long and rich history, with many famous writers and poets hailing from Amritsar. The Punjabi language is widely spoken in the city, and many literary events and festivals are held throughout the year.
• Theater: Theater is a growing art form in Amritsar, with several theater groups and organizations promoting and showcasing local talent.

Overall, the art and culture of Amritsar are deeply intertwined with its rich history and traditions, making it a fascinating and vibrant city to explore.

Details Of Taste And Cuisines Of Amritsar:

Amritsar is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Punjabi and Mughlai influences. Here are some details about the taste and cuisines of Amritsar:

• Vegetarian dishes: Amritsar is famous for its vegetarian dishes, such as chole bhature, aloo kulcha, paneer tikka, and sarson ka saag with makki ki roti. These dishes are made using a variety of spices and herbs, giving them a unique and delicious flavor.
• Non-vegetarian dishes: Amritsar is also famous for its non-vegetarian dishes, such as tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, kebabs, and Amritsari fish. These dishes are typically marinated in a mix of spices and yogurt before being grilled or baked in a tandoor.
• Street food: Amritsar is famous for its street food, which includes a variety of snacks and sweets. Some popular street foods include samosas, kachoris, chole kulche, and jalebis.
• Desserts: Amritsar is known for its sweet desserts, such as kulfi, phirni, gulab jamun, and rabri. These desserts are made using milk, sugar, and a variety of spices, giving them a rich and indulgent flavor.
• Drinks: Lassi is a popular drink in Amritsar, made using yogurt, sugar, and spices. Other popular drinks include sugarcane juice, masala chai, and thandai.

Overall, the taste and cuisines of Amritsar are an important part of its cultural heritage, with a rich and diverse range of dishes to try and enjoy. The city’s street food is particularly famous, offering a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any food lover’s cravings.

10 Hotels To Stay In Amritsar:

Taj Swarna: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Amritsar and offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Hyatt Regency: This modern hotel is located near the Golden Temple and offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, fitness center, and a range of dining options.

Radisson Blu Hotel Amritsar: This 5-star hotel is located near the airport and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Ramada Amritsar: This hotel is located near the airport and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue: This hotel is located near the city center and offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Fairfield by Marriott Amritsar: This hotel is located near the airport and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, fitness center, and a range of dining options.

Hotel Hong Kong Inn: This budget hotel is located near the Golden Temple and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.

Hotel Ramneek: This budget hotel is located near the Golden Temple and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.

Hotel Ritz Plaza: This hotel is located near the city center and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Hotel Lawrence: This budget hotel is located near the Golden Temple and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.

Overall, Amritsar offers a range of hotel options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget-friendly options near the city’s main attractions.

10 Dine-In Restaurants In Amritsar:

• Kesar Da Dhaba: This iconic restaurant in Amritsar is known for its traditional Punjabi cuisine, particularly its signature dish of creamy dal makhani.
• Bharawan Da Dhaba: This popular restaurant offers a range of vegetarian Punjabi dishes, including chole bhature, paneer tikka, and stuffed parathas.
• Brothers’ Dhaba: This family-run restaurant serves a range of North Indian and Punjabi dishes, including tandoori chicken, kebabs, and biryani.
• Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner: This restaurant is known for its delicious Amritsari fish and tandoori chicken, served with a range of chutneys and sauces.
• Surjit Food Plaza: This restaurant offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Punjabi dishes, including tandoori chicken, kebabs, and chole kulche.
• Crystal Restaurant: This multi-cuisine restaurant offers a range of Indian and international dishes, including Chinese, Continental, and Mughlai cuisine.
• Pal Dhaba: This restaurant is known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine, including butter chicken, chicken tikka, and kebabs.
• Beera Chicken House: This restaurant is known for its delicious tandoori chicken and chicken tikka, served with a range of chutneys and sauces.
• Pappi di Hatti: This popular restaurant offers a range of vegetarian Punjabi dishes, including chole bhature, aloo kulcha, and paneer tikka.
• Kanha Sweets: This restaurant is known for its delicious Indian sweets and snacks, including jalebis, laddoos, and samosas.

Overall, Amritsar offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences, from traditional dhabas serving authentic Punjabi cuisine to modern multi-cuisine restaurants offering a variety of international dishes.

10 places of worship in Amritsar:

• Golden Temple: Also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple is the most famous place of worship in Amritsar and the most revered pilgrimage site for Sikhs. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful interiors, and the serene Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar) that surrounds it.
• Durgiana Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this Hindu temple is considered to be among the foremost pilgrimage sites for Hindus in Amritsar. Its captivating architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful paintings are renowned.
• Jama Masjid Khairuddin: This mosque is located in the heart of the city and is considered to be one of the most important places of worship for Muslims in Amritsar. It is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning interiors.
• The Ram Tirath Ashram: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is located on the outskirts of Amritsar. It is believed to be the site where Sita gave birth to her twin sons Luv and Kush, and is considered to be an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
• Santokhsar Sahib: Near the Golden Temple, there is a gurudwara that is believed to be the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji practiced meditation. This place is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and impressive architecture.
• Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai: Near the Golden Temple, there is a gurudwara dedicated to Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind Sahib. It is recognized for its impressive design and remarkable interiors.
• Gurudwara Tarn Taran Sahib: This gurudwara is located in the town of Tarn Taran, which is about 25 kilometers from Amritsar. It is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning interiors, and the large sarovar (pool) that surrounds it.
• Sunehri Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful interiors. It is located near the Golden Temple and is considered to be an important pilgrimage site for Hindus in Amritsar.
• Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib: This gurudwara is located in the town of Chheharta, which is about 6 kilometers from Amritsar and it is dedicated to Guru Hargobind Sahib and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
• Ramakrishna Mission: This spiritual center is located in the heart of the city and is dedicated to the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, and other spiritual leaders. It is known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and the regular spiritual and cultural programs it organizes.

Overall, Amritsar is a city that is steeped in spirituality and offers a range of places of worship for people of different faiths and beliefs.

10 Schools In Amritsar:

• Delhi Public School: A co-educational school that offers education from pre-nursery to grade 12, Delhi Public School is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). It is known for its excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, and focus on holistic development of students.
• Army Public School: A CBSE-affiliated school that caters primarily to the children of army personnel, Army Public School is known for its high academic standards, disciplined environment, and excellent sports facilities.
• Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School: A Catholic school that offers education from pre-nursery to grade 12, Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School is affiliated with the CBSE board. It is known for its excellent academics, strong focus on moral and character education, and co-curricular activities.
• St. Francis School: A co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, St. Francis School is affiliated with the Punjab School Education Board. It is known for its experienced faculty, focus on individual attention to students, and excellent sports facilities.
• DAV Public School: A CBSE-affiliated school that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, DAV Public School is known for its strong focus on academics, excellent infrastructure, and emphasis on co-curricular activities.
• Guru Nanak Dev Public School: A school affiliated with the CBSE board that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, Guru Nanak Dev Public School is known for its experienced faculty, focus on discipline and moral values, and excellent sports facilities.
• Amrit Indo Canadian Academy: A co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, Amrit Indo Canadian Academy is affiliated with the CBSE board. It is known for its emphasis on character development, co-curricular activities, and use of modern teaching techniques.
• Spring Dale Senior School: A co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, Spring Dale Senior School is affiliated with the CBSE board. It is known for its strong focus on academics, excellent sports facilities, and emphasis on holistic development of students.
• Cambridge International School: A school that offers education from kindergarten to grade 12, Cambridge International School is affiliated with the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) board. It is known for its excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, and focus on international exposure for students.
• Mount Litera Zee School: A co-educational school that offers education from pre-nursery to grade 12, Mount Litera Zee School is affiliated with the CBSE board. It is known for its focus on experiential learning, use of modern teaching techniques, and emphasis on co-curricular activities.

10 Colleges In Amritsar:

• Guru Nanak Dev University: Established in 1969, Guru Nanak Dev University is a state university located in Amritsar. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including arts, science, commerce, management, engineering, and law.
• Khalsa College: Established in 1892, Khalsa College is one of the oldest colleges in Amritsar. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, science, commerce, and computer applications.
• DAV College: Established in 1955, DAV College is a premier institution for higher education in Amritsar. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, science, commerce, and computer applications.
• Guru Nanak Dev Polytechnic College: A technical institute established in 1953, Guru Nanak Dev Polytechnic College offers diploma programs in various fields, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics engineering, and civil engineering.
• Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College: Established in 1951, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, science, and commerce.
• BBK DAV College for Women: A women’s college established in 1967, BBK DAV College offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, science, commerce, and computer applications.
• Government Medical College: Established in 1943, Government Medical College is a premier institution for medical education in Amritsar and it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and surgery.
• Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research: Established in 1997, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research is a private medical college affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences and it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and surgery.
• Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Dental Sciences and Research: Established in 1992, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Dental Sciences and Research is a private dental college affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences and it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in dentistry.
• Amritsar College of Engineering and Technology: The Amritsar College of Engineering and Technology is a privately-owned engineering institution affiliated with Punjab Technical University. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs in diverse fields of engineering, such as computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and civil engineering.

Trade And Commerce In Amritsar:

Amritsar is an important commercial center in the northwestern region of India. The city has a diversified economy with a mix of traditional and modern industries. Here are some details about trade and commerce in Amritsar:

• Textile Industry: The textile industry is one of the oldest and most significant industries in Amritsar. The city is known for its production of high-quality woolen textiles, shawls, and carpets. The textile industry provides employment to a large number of people in the city.
• Tourism: Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of Amritsar. The city is home to several historical and religious sites that attract a large number of tourists from around the world. The Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Amritsar.
• Agriculture: Agriculture is an important source of livelihood for the people of Amritsar. The city is known for its production of wheat, rice, sugarcane, and fruits. The agriculture sector provides employment to a large number of people in the rural areas surrounding the city.
• Handicrafts: Handicrafts are an important part of the economy of Amritsar. The city is known for its production of traditional handicrafts such as Phulkari embroidery, wooden toys, and lacquered woodwork. The handicrafts industry provides employment to a large number of people in the city.
• Pharmaceuticals: The pharmaceutical industry is a growing sector in Amritsar. The city has several pharmaceutical companies that manufacture drugs and medicines for domestic and international markets. The pharmaceutical industry provides employment to a large number of people in the city.
• Food Processing: Food processing is an important industry in Amritsar. The city is known for its production of pickles, jams, sauces, and other food products. The food processing industry provides employment to a large number of people in the city.
• Trading: Amritsar is a major trading center in the region. The city has several wholesale markets where traders buy and sell a variety of goods such as textiles, handicrafts, agricultural products, and industrial goods.

Overall, Amritsar has a diverse economy with a mix of traditional and modern industries. The city’s strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it an attractive destination for businesses and investors.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Amritsar is a city that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Punjab. From the Golden Temple, which is the spiritual and cultural hub of the city, to the Jallianwala Bagh, which is a symbol of the city’s struggle for independence, Amritsar has a lot to offer to its visitors. The city’s cuisine, music, and festivals are an essential part of its identity, and they reflect the warmth and generosity of its people. With its impressive architecture, historical significance, and cultural vibrancy, Amritsar is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and diversity of India.