Amritsar is a city that tugs at your heartstrings with its rich history, spiritual sanctity, bustling bazaars, and food that’s straight from the heavens. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or just a traveler on a quest for epic experiences (and let’s be real, butter-dripping kulchas), this 3-day itinerary will ensure you get the best of Amritsar. And, because we love making life easier for parents traveling with kids, this guide is packed with little tips for a smooth journey!
Day 1: Spiritual Serenity & Heritage Walks
The Golden Temple & Around (Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Start your Amritsar journey with the soul-stirring beauty of Harmandir Sahib, aka the Golden Temple. Arriving early means catching the sunrise reflecting off the gold-plated sanctum – a sight to behold! Stroll through the pristine marble corridors, soak in the divine kirtans, and visit the Akal Takht.
The Akal Takht, meaning “Throne of the Timeless One,” is the highest seat of Sikh authority, located within the Golden Temple complex. Established by Guru Hargobind in 1606, it symbolizes both spiritual and political sovereignty. Unlike the Golden Temple’s serenity, the Akal Takht stands for justice and Sikh martial tradition.
Additionally, take a walk around the temple complex and explore the sacred Dukh Bhanjani Ber, which is associated with Baba Buddha Ji, one of the most revered figures in Sikhism.
This ancient jujube tree has stood for over 400 years and holds deep spiritual significance. It is believed that a Sikh devotee was cured of leprosy after bathing in the Amrit Sarovar near the tree, giving it the name Dukh Bhanjani, meaning “remover of suffering.” Baba Buddha Ji, who served as the first head priest of the Golden Temple, is said to have meditated here, blessing devotees and guiding them in their faith. Today, pilgrims sit in its shade, offering prayers and seeking solace in its history of healing and devotion.
A visit to the Golden Temple is incomplete without a serving of the Karah Parshad. It symbolizes sewa (selfless service), equality, and divine blessings, making it an essential part of the Golden Temple experience. The CORRECT process to receive the Karah Parshad is listed below:
- Buy a Token – Visit the Parshad counter near the main entrance and purchase a token for Karah Parshad. You can choose from different quantities, but any amount is considered a blessing.
- Collect the Parshad – Hand over the token at the Parshad distribution window, where volunteers will serve you the warm, ghee-laden sweet made of wheat flour, sugar, and ghee.
- Receive a Blessing – Before eating, seek blessings by standing near the sanctum and offering a silent prayer of gratitude.
- Share and Enjoy – Sikh tradition encourages sharing, so distribute it among family, friends, or fellow devotees before savoring this divine delicacy yourself.
Kid Tip: Dress modestly, carry a scarf (or use the free ones available), and prep your little ones about walking barefoot.
Budget Bonus: Enjoy the Langar, the free community meal served at Sikh gurudwaras, including the Golden Temple, promoting equality and selfless service. Volunteers prepare and serve simple, nourishing food to all, reinforcing unity and inclusivity. It’s a sensory experience – you see, hear, touch, taste, and feel the devotion through tangible deliciousness and spiritual connection to the divinity.
Partition Museum & Heritage Walk (10:30 AM – 12:30 PM)
After spiritual bliss, shift gears to history at the Partition Museum. This is a must-visit to understand the poignant history of India’s partition through letters, photographs, and survivor stories.
Kid Tip: The museum is interactive and engaging, but for very young kids, a snack break might be needed!
From here, join the Heritage Walk in Amritsar, which is a guided tour through the city’s historic lanes, unveiling its rich past and architectural gems.
- A key stop is Town Hall, a grand colonial-era building from the British period, once the administrative center of Amritsar, now home to a museum showcasing the city’s history.
- Another highlight is Qila Ahluwalia, a once-mighty fort belonging to the Ahluwalia Misl, later transformed into a bustling marketplace.
- The walk also takes you through Darshan Deori, the grand gateway that once marked the original entrance to the Golden Temple, offering a glimpse into Amritsar’s old-world charm.
- One of the fascinating aspects of the walk is the centuries-old akharas, traditional wrestling arenas where warriors once trained in physical combat and self-discipline. These akharas played a vital role in Sikh martial history, preserving the art of Gatka (Sikh martial arts) and fostering a spirit of strength and resilience.
As you explore hidden alleys, vibrant street art, and these historic training grounds, you’ll uncover Amritsar’s rich blend of Sikh, Mughal, and colonial influences. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of Amritsar’s founding by Guru Ram Das in 1577 and its transformation into a spiritual and cultural hub, making this experience a must for history lovers.
Lunch Stop: Kesar Da Dhaba or Bharawan Da Dhaba (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
Tandoori rotis, maa ki daal, and those famous Amritsari Kulchas – lunch here is an experience on its own. Check out our blog on exploring the food culture of Amritsar to get a whole picture!
After lunch, feel free to resume your walking tour to explore the markets, or head back to your accomodation for a quick siesta! For those interested in picking up souvenirs, this next section is for you! For others, skip to the following section.
Shopping at Hall Bazaar & Katra Jaimal Singh (2:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
No trip is complete without a shopping spree! Pick up colorful Phulkari dupattas, juttis, and Amritsari papad & wadi. Here is a quick guide to getting the best of Amritsari souvenirs:
Where to Shop
- Hall Bazaar – One of the oldest markets, perfect for Punjabi juttis, handicrafts, and Phulkari dupattas.
- Katra Jaimal Singh Market – Best for high-quality suits, sarees, and traditional wear.
- Guru Bazaar – Ideal for religious souvenirs, such as miniature kirpans, Sikh Kada (bangles), and Karah Parshad bowls.
- Lawrence Road – Famous for food souvenirs like Amritsari Papad, Wadiyan, and desi ghee sweets.
- Shastri Market – Great for budget-friendly clothes, accessories, and knick-knacks.
What to Buy & Estimated Prices
- Phulkari Dupattas & Sarees – ₹500–₹5000, depending on hand vs. machine embroidery.
- Punjabi Juttis – ₹300–₹2000, available in Hall Bazaar.
- Amritsari Papad & Wadiyan – ₹200–₹500 per kg, best from Laxmi Papad Bhandar (Lawrence Road).
- Sikh Religious Souvenirs (Kada, Kirpan, Mini Palkis) – ₹100–₹2000, available in Hall or Guru Bazaar.
- Brassware & Traditional Utensils – ₹500–₹3000, found in Hall Bazaar.
- Dry Fruits & Spices – ₹300–₹2000, available at stores on Lawrence Road.
Tips for Shopping in Amritsar
✅ Bargain – Prices are often inflated for tourists, so negotiate politely.
✅ Cash is King – Many small shops prefer cash over digital payments.
✅ Quality Check – Examine embroidery work, fabric, and packaging for authenticity.
✅ Ask Locals – Seek recommendations from shopkeepers or locals for the best deals.
✅ Pack Smart – If buying food items, get them vacuum-sealed for easy travel.
Amritsar’s markets are a paradise for shoppers, so take your time and soak in the experience!
Kid Tip: Street shopping can be chaotic, so keep kids in a stroller or hand-holding distance! You can also check out this retractable leash that we use, which gives them the freedom to explore without mini heart attacks to us about – “Where did she go?!”
As you walk through Hall Bazaar, you will come at the foot of a very interesting sculpture, which opens up at the most poignant spots of history of Amritsar. This is a must-visit for every visitor in Amritsar.
Jalianwalah Bagh (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Step into a place that changed the course of India’s freedom struggle—Jallianwala Bagh. This solemn memorial marks the site of the tragic massacre of April 13, 1919, when General Dyer ordered British troops to fire upon thousands of unarmed Indians, killing hundreds in cold blood. The bullet marks on the walls and the Martyrs’ Well, where people jumped to escape the gunfire, are haunting reminders of that fateful day.
Despite its painful past, the beautifully maintained gardens and the eternal flame of the Amar Jyoti make it a place of reflection, resilience, and remembrance. A heart-wrenching light-and-sound show explains the whole history, painting the tale with emotions that tug at the heart.
Take a quiet moment here to honor the martyrs before heading back towards the Golden Temple area to see the whole temple complex light up and truly become GOLDEN.
Feel free to have your dinner at the Langar, or head out to cherish some unforgettable Amritsari delicacies.
Street Food Crawl at Ranjit Avenue (7:30 PM)
From Amritsari fish fry, tandoori chai, roasted sweet potatoes, to ghee-loaded parathas, this is the ultimate send-off for your taste buds.
Day 2: Temples, Forts & Culinary Bliss
Durgiana Temple & Gobindgarh Fort (Morning: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
Start with the Durgiana Temple, often compared to the Golden Temple for its striking architecture. It’s a serene spot dedicated to Goddess Durga. Also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this stunning Hindu temple is often called the “Mini Golden Temple” due to its similar architectural style. Built in 1921 by Harsai Mal Kapoor, it stands on the site of an older temple that dates back centuries. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, along with shrines for Lakshmi-Narayan and Hanuman, the temple is an important pilgrimage spot for Hindus. Surrounded by a sacred lake, much like the Golden Temple, it beautifully blends spirituality with grandeur and is a must-visit for history and culture lovers.
Next, head to Gobindgarh Fort, a well-preserved military fort turned interactive museum. It has a light & sound show, war museum, and even a VR experience of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s reign! This fort is a symbol of Punjab’s rich history, originally built in the 18th century by Gujjar Singh Bhangi, one of the great Sikh warrior rulers.
Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh transformed it into a strong military fortification, adding thick walls, cannons, and a treasure vault to protect Punjab’s wealth, including the legendary Kohinoor diamond(which was once stored here!). Under British rule, it became a military base and remained off-limits to the public until 2017, when it was restored and opened as a heritage site. Today, it’s a lively cultural hub, featuring a taste of Amritsar’s vibrant history!
Kid Tip: The VR and sound show keep children entertained while adults soak in history.
Brunch at Gian Di Lassi or Ahuja Milk Bhandar (12:00 PM)
Because you must have a creamy lassi in Amritsar. Pair it with piping hot paneer bhurji or stuffed kulchas. More on them in our food blog!
The satiated mind deserves a siesta after a food coma, or head out to explore a bit more of the history of Amritsar…
Mata Lal Devi Temple & Ram Bagh Gardens (1:00 PM – 3:30 PM)
Mata Lal Devi Temple is an architectural wonder known for its cave-like passages and mirrored walls. It’s a fun visit, especially for kids who enjoy exploration.
Ram Bagh Gardens, once a summer retreat of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is a lush green space for a picnic or relaxed stroll.
The final evening should be dedicated to the biggest, loudest, and most energetic experience of your Amritsar Exploration!
Wagah Border – A Patriotic Extravaganza (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience at Wagah Border, where India’s Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan’s Rangers hold the grand Beating Retreat ceremony. The synchronized high kicks, flag-lowering, and electrifying energy make for an unforgettable experience!
To reach Wagah Border from Amritsar (about 30 km away), you can take a shared cab, auto-rickshaw, or hire a private taxi, with travel time around 45 minutes to an hour. Many tour operators and hotels also offer pre-arranged transport for the ceremony, so booking in advance is a good idea to avoid last-minute rush!
The Wagah Border Beating Retreat Ceremony is not just a military drill—it’s a high-energy, foot-stomping, chest-thumping spectacle that feels like a stadium showdown! Every evening, just before sunset, the BSF of India and the Pakistan Rangers put on a synchronized performance of aggressive high kicks, thunderous salutes, and dramatic flag-lowering. This tradition, which started in 1959, is part military drill, part nationalistic cheerleading, and 100% adrenaline-packed entertainment.
The crowd? Absolutely electric! Think of it as a patriotic rock concert where thousands chant “Bharat Mata Ki Jai!” on one side and “Pakistan Zindabad!” on the other. The grand finale? Both flags come down in perfect coordination, followed by a brief but intense soldier-to-soldier handshake—part respect, part “we’ll see you tomorrow!” The Wagah ceremony is an unmissable mix of military discipline, national pride, and sheer theatrical energy that will leave you pumped long after the gates close!
Kid Tip: Arrive early for a good seat and carry these noise cancelling headphones for kids sensitive to loud sounds.
After this unforgettable experience, some would need to wind down, so head back to your accomodation. However, for the ones bustling with energy, get down to business by exploring the markets and shopping extravaganza shared above! Whatever you choose, the last stop in our itinerary of Day 1 has to be Dinner to taste some quintessential Amritsari delicacies. Read on to get your grub on!
Farewell Feast: Beera Chicken or Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner (8:00 PM)
Punjabi flavors at their best! Whether you’re a fan of tandoori chicken or fish tikka, these iconic eateries will leave you craving more. Head over to our food blog to get details!
Day 3: Kartarpur Corridor
Now, your typical Amritsar visit can end here, or you can extend one more day to visit the Kartarpur Corridor on Day 3. Check out our detailed blog on how to go about this experience. The best season to visit Kartarpur is October to March, when the rural landscape will be brimming with yellow mustard flowers, the weather will be pleasant and clear, and the memories will be unforgettable.
Why Visit?
The Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, in Pakistan, is one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines, marking the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru. Thanks to the Kartarpur Corridor, Indians can now visit without a visa, making this a must-do spiritual and cultural journey.
Travel to Dera Baba Nanak (Indian Side) (6:30 AM – 8:00 AM)
Start your drive from Amritsar and travel for about 50 km in a 1.5-hour drive. Pay your tribute to the Dera Baba Nanak temple, which is historically significant of being Guru Nanak Ji’s abode for many years.
Cross the Kartarpur Corridor (8:30 AM – 9:30 AM)
Arrive at Dera Baba Nanak Checkpoint and complete immigration formalities. Carry your passport and Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Board the shuttle bus to the Pakistan side (4.5 km journey). Undergo Pakistani immigration checks (no visa required, but they stamp an entry permit). Exchange some INR for Pakistani Rupees (PKR) if you plan to buy food or souvenirs.
Visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib (10:00 AM – 1:30 PM)
Enter the magnificent Gurdwara, a stunning white-marble structure built on the site where Guru Nanak Ji spent his final years. Offer prayers inside the sanctum, where Guru Nanak’s samadhi (final resting place) lies. Explore the museum, which showcases the Guru’s life and teachings. Finally, participate in the Langar, a community meal prepared by volunteers (just like at the Golden Temple).
Walk around the serene gardens and Sarovar (holy pond) and also the Kheti Sahib, where Guru Nanak Ji spent time in agriculture. Take a photo stop at the Kirpan Sahib, a sculpture erected by former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This is a homage to the great valor of the Sikhs, also part of their 5 Ks of Sikhism – Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (A wooden comb worn in the hair knot), Kara (a steel wristband), Kachhera (Shorts, worn as an undergarment), and Kirpan (a short sword or knife).
Shopping for Souvenirs (1:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
Pick up Sikh religious souvenirs, Pakistani sweets like Soan Halwa, or handmade Pakistani embroidered fabrics, dupattas, and salwar suit pieces.
Return to India (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
Go through exit formalities on the Pakistani side. Take the shuttle bus back to India via the Kartarpur Corridor, and complete Indian immigration checks at Dera Baba Nanak to return to Amritsar.
Budget Breakdown
We had selected the Comfort range for our Amritsari Adventure, and stayed at Hotel GR Residency, which was at a stone’s throw away from the Golden Temple (literally 200 m away). Ask for Navdeep Singh for great deals!
Final Thoughts
Amritsar is a city that blends spirituality, history, and indulgent cuisine into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting with tiny tots, teenagers, or just your inner explorer, this itinerary ensures you see the best of Amritsar with a fun, family-friendly approach. Happy Travels! 🙂
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