Amritsar Tours

Amritsar, the ‘spiritual Capital of Punjab’ is one of the most important Sikh pilgrim centres in the country. It was founded in 1577, by Guru Ram Das and was later named as Amritsar, after the sacred pond – Amrit Sarovar or the ‘Pool of Nectar’.

Amritsar Tours

Golden Temple Complex : The magnificent temple complex set in the ‘heart’ of Amritsar is the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. Its foundation was laid in 1588, by the fifth Sikh Guru Arjan Dev ji on a small island in the waters of Amrit Sarovar and was consecrated on August 16, 1604. The temple was virtually destroyed in 1761, by Ahmad Shah Abdali, an Afghan invader. It was restored between 1803 and 1830 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, a great Sikh ruler. The gurudwara complex is a fine blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture and is regarded as one of the most tastefully decorated shrines of the world. Darshani Deori, the northern gateway with two splendidly carved silver doors is the main entrance. It also houses the Central Sikh Museum. The main shrine called as Harmandar of Darbar Sahib is set in the middle of sacred Amrit Sarovar pond. The original copy of Guru Granth Sahib, the holly book of Sikhs is kept covered under a jewelled canopy at the Darbar Sahib during the day and is returned ceremoniously to the Akal Takht at night. Maharaja Ranjit Singh covered the dome of the shrine in gold and embellished the interiors with lavish decorations.

Guru-ka-Langar, the massive community kitchen overlooking the eastern entrance of the temple complex is a must visit site.

Jallianwala Bagh : The beautiful walled garden near the Golden Temple complex is a major landmark in the history of India’s struggle for independence. The Martyr’s Memorial built in the shape of an external flame of liberty has become a pilgrim site for every Indian. On April 13, 1919, Gen.R. Dyer ordered firing on a peaceful gathering here. A section of wall with bullet marks is still preserved. The exact number of deaths is still unclear, but the official figure show only 379 people killed and 1,200 injured. The small Martyr’s Gallery exhibits the picture and newspaper reports as well as other first hand accounts of this ghastly event.

Durgiana Mandir or Lakshmi Narain Temple : This important shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga resembles the famous Golden Temple.

Ram Bagh Garde :The small palace surrounded by a beautiful garden was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Amritsar Tours

It houses a museum displaying weapons dating back to Mughals and portraits of various dynasties of Punjab.

AROUND AMRITSAR

Ram Tirth (11 kms.)

It is believed to be the site of the Ashram of Maharishi Balmiki, the lenendary sage who composed the great epic Ramayana. Sita, the consort of Lord Rama is said to have stayed here and gave birth to the twin sons, Luv and Kush. The pilgrim centre has an ancient tank and many temples.

Tarn Taran (22 kms.)

The famous domed Gurudwara at Tarn Taran was built by Sri Arjan Dev ji, the fifth Sikh Guru. The water of the holy pool is said to possess miraculous powers, especially for those suffering from leprosy.

Wagah Borde (28 kms.)

The spectacular ceremony of “Beating” the Retreat” held every evening at Wagah border near Attari has become an important tourist attraction on both sides of the Indo –Park border. A number of buses ply between Amritsar and Attari.

For more details click  Amritsar Travels