Located in north-west India, in the State of Punjab is the holy city of Amritsar. The city is the capital of the Sikh religion and is home to numerous attractions linked to the religion. A variety of activities here are also centered around the famous...more
Located in north-west India, in the State of Punjab is the holy city of Amritsar. The city is the capital of the Sikh religion and is home to numerous attractions linked to the religion. A variety of activities here are also centered around the famous Golden Temple. There are however several other attractions and places of interest in Amritsar, for Muslim visitors. The city is situated near Pakistan and is about 28 kilometers from the Wagah Border. This is the only road border crossing between Pakistan and India and is renowned for the elaborate ceremony that takes place at the gate every day. Muslim visitors must be aware that they will be able to locate Muslim-friendly facilities in Amritsar. There are a couple of prominent mosques in Amritsar at which Muslim tourists could offer their prayers at. There are also several Halal restaurants in Amritsar, but Muslims will also be able to find plenty of delicious vegetarian options.
When in Amritsar, a visit to the public garden of Jallianwala Bagh is a must. The garden is home to a memorial of national importance, which was built in remembrance of the victims of the 1919 Amritsar massacre. This is where the British Indian Army soldiers killed and hurt thousands of unarmed people. Tourists will be able to see marks and holes left by the bullets fired on that day.
Also a must-visit is the Jama Masjid Khairuddin or the Khair-ud-Din Masjid. Built in 1976 by Mohammed Khairuddin, this mosque is popular for its stunning architecture. The mosque attracts tourists from all around India, as well as those from all around the world.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Wagah Border is a great experience, and one that must not be missed. Tourists to Amritsar must pay a visit to the Wagah Border and witness the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony. This elaborate ceremony takes place every day, just before sunset. It gives visitors a peek into the days of colonial rule.
Ladies visiting Amritsar will not be disappointed where shopping is concerned. They will be able to find a variety of traditional items like colorful bangles and beautiful shalwar suits at the bazaars and markets in the city. Two bazaars worth mentioning are: Hall Bazaar and Guru Bazaar.
The closest airport to Amritsar is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, which is located about 11 kilometres away from the center of the city. This airport has both international and domestic flights. There is a bus, taxi service, as well as a car rental service available here, for visitors to get to their destination.
Muslim tourists will be able to find Halal restaurants in Amritsar. They will also be able to find stalls and small restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine at the bazaars and markets in Amritsar. Muslim tourists will also find plenty of Halal restaurants and food carts near the mosques in the city.
Muslim tourists will not find it hard to locate prayer facilities in the city as there is said to be about 18 mosques in Amritsar. One of the most famous masjids in Amritsar is the Khair-ud-Din Masjid, which was built in 1876 by Muhammad Khairuddin. The mosque is well-known for its architectural beauty and is a popular attraction amongst tourists. Muslim tourists can also make inquiries about the other mosques and prayer facilities in Amritsar, while here.