Hotels in Amritsar

Amritsar: Sacred City of the Golden Temple

Amritsar, founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, anchors the Punjab region of northwest India, roughly 30 km from the Pakistan border at Wagah. The city draws millions of pilgrims and tourists annually to the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), the holiest shrine in Sikhism, which serves free meals to over 100,000 visitors daily through its legendary langar kitchen. The walled old city surrounds the temple complex, its lanes packed with textile traders, spice stalls, and centuries-old havelis.

Where to Stay in Amritsar

Hotels cluster in three main areas: the Golden Temple area for pilgrims wanting a 5-minute walk to the shrine; Lawrence Road and Mall Road, which offer mid-range and 4-star options with better traffic access; and the area near Raja Sansi International Airport, 11 km northwest of the centre, suited to short-stay transit visitors. The Wagah Border ceremony — a daily military sunset parade attracting thousands — is 28 km east of the city.

Practical Tips

• Head coverings: Required at the Golden Temple; scarves are available free at the entrance.
• Best season: October to March, when temperatures stay between 10–25 °C.
• Getting around: Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws dominate the old city; the airport is served by taxis with fixed government rates.
• Train access: Amritsar Junction connects to Delhi in roughly 6 hours by Shatabdi Express.