Amritsar – The Golden city of Punjab

Diya Bhojwani, 274

Founded in the fifteenth century by Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs. The heritage city of Amritsar is one of the most spiritually significant and historically rich cities of India. The name of the city has its etymological roots in the Punjabi language and Amritsar comes from Amrit Sarovar, which when literally translated from Punjab means of pool of nectar. One of the largest cities in Punjab. Amritsar is home to India's most serene and humbling sight, the Harimandar Sahib, famously knows as The Golden Temple, the Place of reverence for pilgrims. Amritsar boasts of various temples and shrines dedicated to Sikh Culture. Besides offering spiritual salvation, the city is also famous for hospitality, tourism, carpets, handloom fabrics and handicrafts. Amritsar does not merely give nourishment to the soul, but also serves mouth- watering delicious authentic Punjabi food steeped in rich tradition.This grand city, with its resplendent places of worship, quirky bazaars, vibrant theatrical practices, fascinating folklore and colourful festivals of Baisakhi and Diwali; all of which make Amritsar a premier destination for tourists.

Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple )

 The Golden temple is famous for its full golden dome, it is one of the most sacred pilgrim spots for Sikhs. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had the upper half of the building built with approximately 400 kg of gold leaf. The Golden Temple is surrounded by a number of other famous temples like the Durgiana Temple. It is here that Sage Valmiki wrote the epic, Ramayana. Rama and Sita are believed to have spent their fourteen- year exile in Amritsar. The ‘Guru Ka Langar’ offers free food to around 20,000 people everyday. The number shoots up to 100,000 on special occasions. A visitor must cover his / her head before entering the temple premises. The Granth Sahib is kept in the Temple during the day and is kept in the Akal Takht or Eternal Throne in the night. The Akal Takht also houses the ancient weapons used by the Sikh warriors. The rugged old Jubi Tree in the north west corner of the compound is believed to possess special powers, it was planted 450 years ago. Guru-ka-Langar or the communal canteen is towards the eastern entrance of the temple complex, and it provides free food to all visitors, regardless of colour, creed, caste or gender. The temple is less crowded in the early mornings on weekends.

Wagah Border

The international border between India and Pakistan. The pomp and pageantry of the Beating Retreat and the Change of Guard within handshaking distance of the Indian and Pakistani forces makes for a most charming spectacle. Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border – between Amritsar and Lahore, is an elaborate complex of buildings, roads and barriers on both sides. The daily highlight is the evening “Beating the Retreat” ceremony. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause.