Amritsar, India-2-day-itinerary

Day 1:

Morning

  • 6:00 AM: Wake up early and visit the Golden Temple (Gurudwara Darbar Sahib) during sunrise. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Amritsar, a gurudwara (Sikh temple) made of gold.
    • Tip: Try to avoid weekends and peak tourist season for a more peaceful experience.

8:00 AM

10:00 AM

  • Visit the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial: A historical site that commemorates the Amritsar Massacre of 1919.
    • Tip: Be respectful and quiet during your visit.

1:00 PM

3:00 PM

  • Explore the Amritsar Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Punjab at this museum.

Evening

  • Dinner: Visit Haveli Restaurant for a unique dining experience.
    • Tip: Try their special Punjabi dishes like sarson ka saag and makki ki roti.

Night

  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Puri or Park Plaza Amritsar, both of which offer comfortable stays with good amenities.
    • Tip: Book your hotel in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Things to Know

  • Language: Punjabi and Hindi are widely spoken, but many locals also speak English.
  • Currency: Indian Rupees (INR) are the local currency.
  • Weather: Amritsar has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for the sun and heat during your visit.

Transportation

  • Airport: The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, about 11 km from the city center.
  • Railway Station: The Amritsar Junction Railway Station is a major station that connects to most cities in India.
  • Local Transport: Use auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws for short trips. For longer distances, use buses or taxis.

Day 2:

Morning

  • Visit the Wagah Border: A border crossing between India and Pakistan where you can witness a flag-lowering ceremony (subject to availability).
    • Tip: Be prepared for crowds and security checks during peak tourist season.

10:00 AM

  • Explore the Amritsar Heritage Walk: A self-guided tour that takes you through some of the city’s historic landmarks, including the old city walls and gates.
    • Tip: Ask locals or hotel staff for guidance on the best route to take.

1:00 PM

  • Lunch: Try some street food at Amritsar Street Food.
    • Tip: Be adventurous and try local specialties like kebabs and chaat.

3:00 PM

  • Visit the Gobindgarh Fort: A historic fort that now serves as a museum.
    • Tip: Explore the fort’s surroundings, which offer great views of the city.

Evening

  • Dinner: Visit The Great Kabab Factory for a unique dining experience with a focus on kebabs and other grilled meats.
    • Tip: Try their special dishes like the kabab platter and seekh kebab.

Night

  • Shopping: Visit the local markets, such as the Mall Road or the Katra Jaimal Singh Market, to pick up some souvenirs or traditional clothing.
    • Tip: Be prepared for crowds and haggling during shopping in these markets.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting gurudwaras or other places of worship. Remove your shoes before entering any temple or mosque.
  • Bargain Wisely: When shopping at local markets, be prepared to haggle and bargain for prices.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water during the hot summer months.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Amritsar!