The Sikh community’s spiritual moorings are rooted in the Golden Temple in the sacred city of Amritsar. But the city also offers a window into its past as a nucleus for trade and commerce, a foodie paradise and a crafting hub.
Visiting the Golden Temple is centric to most visitors’ wish list. Steep yourself in the air of deep devotion and ceremonial splendour, late at night, when the Guru Granth Sahib is put to bed at the Akal Takht. If you are an early riser (4 am), get to lend your shoulder to the richly decorated palanquin, which carries the holy book, back to the Harmandir, where it resides through the day. Spend some time at the new Partition Museum in the vicinity.
Volunteer your services at the temple’s 24/7 langar (community kitchen), where locals from all works of life help prepare and serve simple but delicious meals to the public. Sit down with others at Pangat to share this amazing community spirit over a meal in the langar complex.
As a trade and commercial hub from ancient days, Amritsar offers a fabulous range of shopping indulgences in its many markets like Lawrence Road, Kapda Bazaar, Katra Jaimal Singh, Guru Bazaar, Lahori Gate Market etc. Trawl the old quarter for stunning gem-encrusted jadau jewellery - vibrant Phulkari embroidered chaadars, cosy woolies and blankets, pashminas, embroidered juttis and colourful turbans. Snack on local street food to revive yourself!
Watch the local Kushti Pehelwans (wrestlers) as they go through their paces on a dirt floor. Feeling brave? Join in and get dirty in the mud with them! You might even get to witness a Dangal (wrestling match) up-close and a personal.
Discover the dexterity and volatile moves of the gatka artists in the Golden Temple complex. During the Holla Mohalla festival, the Gol complex comes alive with the colourful and gorgeously attired Nihang Sikhs showcasing legendary Sikh military prowess and heroism, with gatka and sword fighting. Try wearing the traditional double dumla (turban) as you learn to work the wooden sticks and Chakri from an expert.