Amritsar holidays

How to reach Amritsar

• Flight time: Direct flights to Amritsar from the UK take about 8 to 9 hours, mostly from London or Birmingham, although the latter are rare. Other flights stop over in Delhi, adding a few more hours to the journey. Total travel time ranges from 11 to 15 hours, depending on the layover duration.

• Transfer time: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport is located about 12km northwest of the city centre. The journey to the heart of Amritsar by taxi or auto-rickshaw typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs around ₹600–₹800 (£6–£8), while an auto-rickshaw is slightly cheaper at around ₹400–₹500 (£4–£5).

Weather and best time to visit Amritsar

Timing your holidays to Amritsar can make a significant difference to your experience, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures and different weather conditions throughout the year.

• October to April is the best time to visit Amritsar, especially the start and end of the season, with the most pleasant weather for sightseeing. Average temperatures generally range from 10°C to 20°C, rainfall is minimal, and you can expect plenty of sunshine. The heart of winter can sometimes drop to around 5°C, but the crisp air adds a different charm to the city, especially in the early morning when the Golden Temple is shrouded in mist.

• May to June sees the arrival of the scorching summer. Temperatures are regularly around 35°C to 40°C, even soaring as high as 45°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. However, this is also when you’ll find fewer tourists, which might appeal if you prefer a quieter visit.

• July to September marks the monsoon season. While the rain cools things down a bit, it can also make the streets muddy and the humidity uncomfortable. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C, and you can expect frequent heavy downpours.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Punjabi is the primary language spoken in Amritsar, but Hindi is widely understood. English is also spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Amritsar is deeply rooted in Sikh traditions, so it’s essential to show respect when visiting religious sites, especially the Golden Temple. Always dress modestly, remove your shoes, cover your head, and wash your hands and feet before entering the temple complex. Photography is generally allowed, but avoid taking pictures inside the shrines.

• Health and safety: Amritsar is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay vigilant and be wary of scams. Avoid travelling alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded places. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so always opt for bottled. Be cautious with street food or cheaper restaurants, unless you’re sure of its hygiene standards. Make sure you have comprehensive insurance before your trip.

• Currency: India's currency is the rupee (₹). ATMs are widely available in the city, and most places accept credit or debit cards. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or markets.

• Getting around: Amritsar’s old city is best explored on foot or by cycle rickshaw, due to its narrow streets. On longer trips, auto-rickshaws are convenient and inexpensive, with fares starting at around ₹20 (£0.20) for short rides. For more comfort, app-based taxi services like the local Ola are reasonably priced and widely available.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage in India is 220V, and plugs are types C, D or M. UK travellers will need plug adaptors. Power cuts and voltage variations are common, so voltage stabilisers should be used for sensitive equipment.

• Time zone: India operates on India Standard Time (IST), which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers are recommended to get a visa for India in advance of travelling. An e-Tourist Visa (eTV) can be applied for online, and allows stays of up to 30 days or 1 year on a multi-entry visa.

Best things to do in Amritsar

The holy city of Amritsar is one of the most popular destinations in the far north of India for Sikh pilgrims and tourists. The main draw is the Golden Temple – one of the country's most captivating sights – but visitors also get drawn in to explore and enjoy the lively old part of the city. Here is what to look forward to during your Amritsar holidays:

Historic monuments

• The Golden Temple: This temple is the crown jewel of Amritsar and one of the most revered spiritual sites for Sikhs. The stunning, gold-covered structure sits in the middle of a large, sacred pool, and is at its best in the morning light. It is also enchanting in the evening, when it’s illuminated and hymns are sung throughout the day and night.

• Partition Museum: Housed in Amritsar’s historic Town Hall, this museum is dedicated to documenting the human impact of the Partition of India in 1947. Through personal stories, photographs and artefacts, it's a moving and educational experience that sheds light on this significant chapter in Indian history.

Day trips in the area

• Wagah Border Ceremony: A trip to Amritsar wouldn’t be complete without witnessing this daily military ritual performed at the border crossing between India and Pakistan. With a highly choreographed display of marching and flag-lowering, it is a unique spectacle of patriotism and friendly rivalry between the two nations, and is held every evening.

• Harike Wetland: For nature lovers, a day trip here is a refreshing break from the city. Located about 60km from Amritsar, this vast wetland is home to a wide variety of migratory birds, including pelicans, storks and flamingos. The serene environment is perfect for birdwatching, photography or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the natural surroundings.

Activities for families in Amritsar

Amritsar is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re travelling with young children or teenagers, there’s lots for everyone to enjoy.

• Ram Bagh Gardens: A visit to the beautifully maintained grounds of the Ram Bagh Palace is perfect for families looking for some outdoor fun. There's ample space for children to run around, play and explore, while parents can relax under the shady trees or take a leisurely stroll. The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is also a hit with older children, offering an overview of Punjab’s history.

• Sadda Pind: Located just outside Amritsar, Sadda Pind is a cultural village that provides an immersive and entertaining experience of Punjabi rural life. Families can learn about local culture, enjoy traditional games, watch folk dances, and participate in activities like pottery making and bullock cart rides.

• Gobindgarh Fort: Restored in 2017, this historic fort is an interactive experience that both kids and adults will love. Alongside learning about its place in Punjab's history, live performances showcase the region’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Free things to do in Amritsar

Amritsar offers free activities and events that allow you to experience the city’s rich history and culture without spending a penny.

• Eat for free at the Golden Temple: Visiting the Golden Temple is free of charge, and you can also enjoy a free meal such as Dal and Chapattis, which is served to many thousands of visitors daily. (Donations are welcomed.)

• Jallianwala Bagh: Entry is free to this peaceful public garden to reflect on its poignant reminder of India’s struggle for independence. The site of a massacre in 1919, when hundreds of unarmed civilians were shot by British troops, today it serves as a memorial, with a flame of remembrance and a museum that tells the story of the tragic event.

Punjabi cuisine is known for its robust flavours and hearty dishes, often with various breads making an appearance instead of just rice. Whether you’re dining in a local dhaba (café) or a high-end restaurant, here are some of the must-try dishes on holidays to Amritsar:

Some typical dishes

• Butter Chicken: A creamy, tomato-based curry with tender pieces of chicken, this is one of northern India's most beloved dishes.

• Amritsari Fish: Fillets of freshwater fish marinated in a blend of spices and fried in a spicy batter, this is a popular dish in restaurants and street-food diners.

• Paneer Tikka: Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a spiced yoghurt mixture and grilled or roasted in a tandoor. It’s a vegetarian favourite and is often served as a starter or snack.

• Amritsari Kulcha: This is a type of bread baked in a tandoor, typically stuffed with spiced potatoes or paneer. It’s served hot with Chole (chickpea curry) and a side of tangy pickles.

• Chole Bhature: A classic North Indian dish, Chole Bhature consists of spicy chickpeas paired with deep-fried bread (bhature). It’s a must-try for a hearty breakfast or lunch.

• Sarson Ka Saag: A quintessential Punjabi dish that's popular in the winter months. Mustard greens (sarson) and other leaves such as spinach are cooked in butter and spices, and traditionally served with Makki Di Roti (fried cornmeal flatbread).

Sweets and desserts

• Gulab Jamun are deep-fried dough balls made from khoya (reduced milk) and soaked in syrup.

• Jalebi is a deep-fried, spiral-shaped sweet, soaked in sugar syrup.

• Phirni, a creamy rice pudding flavoured with cardamom and topped with nuts, is often served in small clay pots and makes for a delightful end to any meal.

Local drinks

• Lassi: No visit to Amritsar is complete without trying a glass of lassi, a traditional Punjabi yoghurt-based drink. It’s available in both sweet and salty varieties, with the sweet version sometimes topped with a layer of cream and nuts.

• Chai: Enjoy a steaming cup of chai (Indian tea), flavoured with spices like cardamom, ginger and cloves, as the perfect accompaniment to any meal or snack.