10 Most Famous Historical Places in India to Visit with Timings
Amritsar is a city that proudly holds the legacy of the Sikh community and has a deep relation with history. History has left an incredible mark in the city, from the Golden Temple to Jallianwala Bagh. The city also has heritage monuments that continue to shine through centuries and attract people with its beauty. So, are you ready to travel to Amritsar? If so make sure not to miss these remarkable historical sites listed below:
Historical Places in Amritsar
- Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
- Gobindgarh Fort
- Wagah Border
- Jallianwala Bagh
- Sri Ram Tirath Ashram
- Durgiana Mandir
- Tarn Taran Sahib
- Jama Masjid Khairuddin
- Khalsa College
- Company Bagh
- Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
When it comes to “what is famous in Amritsar” Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is listed at the top of the list among other famous things in Amritsar. It is one of the holiest shrines in the world and stands as a beacon of Sikh faith and unity. It was built in the 15th century by the fourth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Ramdas Ji. The Gurdwara was continuously rebuilt by Sikhs as it was targeted by many invaders like the Mughals, Afghans and Britishers.
The gurdwara is known as the Golden Temple as it is covered with gold given by Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a gesture of gratitude for the Gobindgarh fort. The gurdwara has four gates indicating that any religion, caste, creed, or colour can visit this place without any restrictions. Golden Temple is the reason that A
Address: Golden Temple Road, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar
Summer: 4 am to 11 pm
Winter: 5 am to 10 pm
- Gobindgarh Fort
Gobindgarh Fort or Qila Gobindgarh is another place where history plays an incredible role. The fort was built in 1760 by Gujjar Singh Bhangi and was known as ‘Bhangian da Qila’. The main purpose of building this fort was to protect Amritsar and Sri Harmandir Sahib. In the 18th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the king of the Sikh Emperor, claimed this qila during his reign and renamed it after the tenth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Gobindgarh Fort, now open for tourists, offers a delightful blend of culture and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy vibrant cultural performances and explore fascinating museums within the fort’s historic walls. Beyond the rich heritage experience, the fort boasts additional attractions like a mesmerising projection mapping lights and sound lazer show and the Sher-e-Punjab 7D show, offering an immersive journey through history.
The fort is not just a treat for history enthusiasts but also a haven for food lovers, with a variety of delightful culinary offerings. From cultural immersion to exciting attractions, Gobindgarh Fort caters to people of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families and friends looking to enjoy a memorable and fun-filled day out.
Address: Old Cantt Road, inside Lohgarh Chowk, Vijay Chowk, Amritsar
Timing: 10 am to 10 pm
- Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar reminds us of a sad time in India’s fight for freedom and the suffering people endured under foreign rule. In 1919, General Dyer, a British leader, ordered his soldiers to shoot at people who were there for a meeting. This terrible event resulted in the loss of many lives and left a lasting mark on Amritsar’s history.
Even today, you can still see the marks from bullets on a wall inside the garden, and the well where many people jumped in to escape the gunfire. Inside Jallianwala Bagh, there’s a special place to remember and honour those who lost their lives, with a memorial and a museum.
Address: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar
Timing: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm
- Wagah Border
It is one of the most visited places in Amritsar after Golden Temple. It is a border crossing line that separates India and Pakistan. During the partition of India and Pakistan, many Indian migrants crossed this border to come back to India.
Every evening, you can see special ceremonies at the Wagah Border. One is called the Change of Guard, and the other is the Beating Retreat. They are really interesting to watch!
Address: Grand Trunk Road, Attari – Wagah
Timings
Summer: 5:15 pm to 6:00 pm
Winter: 4:15 pm to 5:00 pm
- Sri Ram Tirath Ashram
Sri Ram Tirath Ashram is one of the most famous places in Amritsar connected to Maharishi Valmiki. Long ago, it is said that Maharishi Valmiki wrote the Ramayana at this spot. That’s why it’s also known as Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal. People believe that this is where Sita, after leaving Lord Ram, found safety and gave birth to her twins, Luv and Kush.
One of the main attractions here is a big statue of Valmiki covered in gold, standing 8 feet tall. There are also temples, Valmiki’s hut, and an old tank, believed to be made by Lord Hanuman, all inside the ashram’s grounds.
Address: Ram Tirath Temple, Amritsar
Timing: 5 am to 9 pm
- Durgiana Mandir
Shri Durgiana Mandir is a Hindu temple in Amritsar, Punjab, India. Even though it’s a Hindu temple, it looks a lot like the Sikh Golden Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, and people also pray to murtis (statues) of Lakshmi and Vishnu in this temple.
Address: Near Hathi Gate Chowk, Opp. Golbagh, Hathi Gate, Amritsar
Timing: 6 am to 10 pm
- Tarn Taran Sahib
Tarn Taran Sahib is a special place for Sikhs, not far from the city. It was started by Guru Arjan Dev, who was the fifth Sikh leader, in 1590. This makes it really important for Sikhs in terms of religion and history. And if you visit, you’ll see a big white building surrounded by water, which looks really impressive.
Address: Old City, Amritsar
Timing: 5 am to 10 pm
- Jama Masjid Khairuddin
A historic mosque with a deep connection to the country’s freedom struggle, Jama Masjid Khairuddin is another must-visit attraction in Amritsar. Mohd built it. Khairuddin in the year 1876 and is thus also called Khairuddin Mosque.
It is the sacred place from where Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari, had given the great call to stand up against colonial rulers. The mosque is also famous for its impressive Islamic style of architecture, featuring intricate designs, four minarets, and three domes.
Address: Hall Bazar, Amritsar
Timing: 7 am to 7 pm
- Khalsa College
Established in 1892. Khalsa College is one of the important historical sites in Amritsar. It’s known for its huge 300-acre campus and looks like a big castle with impressive architecture. The way the college building is designed is called the Indo-Saracenic style.
Besides its impressive appearance, this old college is also famous for its important part in India’s fight for freedom.
Address: Grand Trunk Road, Amritsar
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
- Company Bagh
Company Bagh, one of the oldest parks in Amritsar, was established in 1819 during the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It was renamed as Company Bagh by the Britishers during their rule in India. This park is spread over 70 acres with lush greenery and has amazing and exciting things such as a kids’ zone, fun zone, food points, fountain light show, and many more.
Address: SSSS Chowk, Mall Road, Amritsar
Timing: 5 am to 9 pm
Wrapping Up
If you have a keen interest in history, a trip to the historical places of Amritsar should be on your list! This city is packed with fascinating stories from the past that will truly captivate you. Don’t hesitate, go ahead and plan your trip! Get your ticket, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the intriguing historical facts waiting for you in Amritsar. You are in for an unforgettable journey through time!