subject: Amritsar With Exotic Time Club [print this page] For Sikhs, its the epicenter of SikhismFor Sikhs, its the epicenter of Sikhism. For non-Sikhs it is has the Golden temple which is an abode of God which has a mystical power that can cure all your qualms. If you are not from Punjab, besides this is your first visit to the city bustling with people an traffic, then you might feel intimidated watching the non manageable traffic. But the city has some beautiful places. Amritsar is the proud owner of the Golden Temple that serves as a spiritual center for the Worlds entire Sikh population. It is the epicenter of Sikhism, an Indian religion of a recent vintage. The fabric of the city seems to be woven around the temple. In fact, Amritsar even derives its name from Amrit Sarovar (meaning holy pool of nectar) the pool around the Golden Temple. Last tragic event occurred in 1984, when the Indian army stormed the Gurudwara to weed out the Sikh terrorists who had hid inside it to force the Indian Government to comply with their demand of a separate state of Khalistan.
The city was founded by the fourth Guru Ram Das. Outside the old city that can be entered through 12 huge gates a whole new organized town has emerged. Being one of the most advanced yet traditional cities in Punjab, it is also one of the best places to taste the scrumptious Punjabi food and shop in. Along with big brands, there are shops that sell items made in different corners of Punjab and brought to Amritsar. The flag retreat or the lowering of the flags ceremony held every evening, just 30 km from Amritsar on India Pakistan border is a real magnet for eye balls.
Here is a quick guide for your visit to the holy city.
1) GOLDEN TEMPLE
What is common between the movies Rang de Basanti, Gandhi, Bride and Prejudice, Namaste London? All these movies have scenes from Golden temple the Gurudwara (sikh religious sanctuary) that sees over 100000 visitors every day, very much comparable to the worlds most popular wonder the Taj Mahal.
Constructed by Guru Ram Das, the Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is considered as one of the most hallowed sites of Sikh religion. It is acclaimed as one of the holiest sites of the Sikhs. It has four doorways and gorgeously decorated arches. Exuding both Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, it flaunts a huge dome made of pure gold. Its architectural genius attracts the interest of one and all around the globe. Although primarily a sacred pilgrimage spot for the Sikhs, it is also visited by travelers from various parts of the world. This temple arranges for langar (free food) through out the year for the visitors. Although principally a pilgrimage spot for the Sikhs, it is visited by people of all religions and proves to be one of the greatest tourist attractions in Amritsar on your tour to India.
2)Jallianwala Bagh
Located near the Golden Temple, it is a witness of the tragedy called Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. General Dyer opened fire at the venue where thousands of Punjabis gathered from nearby places to celebrate the festival of Baisakhi Day, on 13 April 1919. Till date it serves as one of the greatest tourist attractions in Amritsar. Jallianwala Bagh is almost certainly one of the most moving places.
3)Wagah Border
Literally defining the Indo-Pakistan border, about 28 kms from Amritsar, the Wagah Border is between the cities of Amritsar and Lahore. The change of guards ceremony at sunset draws a good many spectators.
Durgiana Mandir:
Located close to the Golden Temple, this temple, modeled in the style of the Golden Temple, is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. However, it also offers prayers to deities of Lakshmi and Narayana. Believed to have been built in the 16th century AD, the temple stands in the center of a lake.
3)Rambagh Garden
A new age garden, which houses Maharaja Ranjit Singhs palace. Presently it serves as a museum.
4)Ram Bagh
Ram Bagh a beautiful garden ,an accustomed listener to the Neighs of thousand horses, announcing the arrival of the statesman of the century Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839) the Lion of Punjab, has in its heart the summer Palace of this great ruler. Maintenance free inbuilt cooling system designed in the Palace exhibits the architectural excellence and invokes a keen interest.The king of his time brought local chieftains under his control and virtually finished any eventuality of possible attacks on the kingdom raised by him. To commemorate the memory of his velour Ram Bagh on its one end has a lively statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh saddled on a horse in a winsome posture.
5)Ram Tirath
Located 11 Km West of Amritsar on Chogawan road, dates back to the period of Ramayana, Rishi Valmiki's hermitage. The place has an ancient tank and many temples. A hut marks the site where Mata Sita gave birth to Luv & Kush and also, still extant are Rishi Valmiki's hut and the well with stairs where Mata Sita used to take her bath. The Bedis of Punjab (Guru Nanak Dev , the founder Prophet of Sikhism was a Bedi) trace their descent from Kush and Sodhis (the 10th Prophet of Sikhism, Guru Gibind Singh was a Sodhi) from Luv. A four day fair, since times immemorial is held here starting on the full moon night in November. 16 Kilometres west on Choganwan road is Ram Tirath, commemorating Maharishi Balmik Jis heritage.
6)Tarn Taran
At about 25 kms to the south of Amritsar is situated the Tarn Taran a lake which bears holy as well as medical associations attached to it. Built by Ranjit Singh, it has fairs being celebrated on every Amavas night. The water of the tank is said to have healing effect for skin diseases.
Amritsar is currently witnessing rapid urban growth. Leading property developers from north India have lined up a series of townships containing villas, luxury apartments, service apartments, and penthouses. About a dozen malls are also in various phases of completion. The city is known for its food and culture. Amritsar is also home to Central Khalsa Orphanage, which was once a home for Shaheed Udham Singh, a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. So, a visit to the holy city will be a fruitful one.
