Amritsar, popularly known as “Guru ki Nagari,” has much to explore and see. For a regular tourist, a trip to Amritsar ends with a visit to Golden Temple and Wagah Border. Still, if you delve deeper, there are so many hidden places in Amritsar that are simply a delight for travel enthusiasts. Whether it is exploring the heritage places in Amritsar or visiting the old bazaars, there is so much that you can pack into your Amritsar trip.
Mentioned below are 10 hidden gems of Amritsar that are worth a visit:
Qilla Ahluwalia
Qilla Ahluwalia, also known as Ahluwalia Fort, is a historic fort that is located in the heart of Amritsar. This fort was made by Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia. He was a well-known Sikh leader in the 18th century. He worked as a general in the army of Maharaja Ranjit Avenue. He lived there for a while but later gave this fort to the 52 Marwaris families, which he invited to develop the economy of Punjab and played a significant role in the history of Sikhism during the Sikh Confederacy period. It is one of the heritage places in Amritsar, and you must try to visit this fort if you want a glimpse of the bygone era.
Udasin Akhara Sangal Wala
Udasin Akhara Sangal Wala is an Akhara. Akhara actually means a place for practicing wrestling and traditional Indian martial arts. This Akhara is linked with the Udasin sect of sadhus (ascetics). It is a center for physical and spiritual training where practitioners engage in rigorous physical exercises and meditation practices. It is located opposite the Golden Temple, and if old history and culture attract you, you must visit this hidden gem in Old Amritsar.
Baba Bohar
It is located at the periphery of Bartan Wala bazaar. It is the oldest tree in Amritsar, and it belongs to an era before Guru Ram Das ji. The tree passes through four different houses. Due to religious significance, people have decided to relocate their homes rather than cut this tree.
40 Khoo Amritsar
“Khoo” means “wells” in Punjabi, so when we say 40 Khoo, it refers to an area in Amritsar that has numerous wells. These wells are historically important in Punjab as they were vital for irrigation and water supply in ancient times. When you visit 40 Khoo, you might get an insight into the region’s water management practices as well as old Amritsar.
Veer Bhan Shivala
You can connect with divinity at Veer Bhan Shivala. This Shiva temple is dedicated to Veer Bhan, who was a chief Vaidh (ayurvedic doctor) during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s son. This hidden gem of Amritsar holds a lot of cultural and religious significance for devotees. The shivala is adorned with flowers on Shivratri. It is, without a doubt, a sight to behold.
Pul Kanjari
Pul Kanjari is a historical site located near the Wagah border, about 35 kilometers from Amritsar. Maharaja Ranjit Singh built it, and it holds historical significance as he and Emperor Akbar visited it. The site includes a well, a temple, a mosque, and a palace, reflecting the architectural diversity of the region.
Guru Ke Mahal
Guru Ke Mahal is a historical site associated with Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, who founded the city of Amritsar. It is believed to have been the residence of Guru Ram Das and his family. It has artifacts related to Sikh history and culture and serves as a gurdwara for devotees from far and wide.
Crawling Street
The name Crawling Street has a story behind it. In the past, anybody passing through the street had to crawl down as penance for misbehaving with British girls. Currently, this street gives you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and era of old Punjab. These old bazaars are teeming with life, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
Gurudwara Chaurasti Attari, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib
This Gurudwara holds historical significance as it commemorates the visit of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru. It was a place where Sri Guru Hargobind ji would solve disputes of people. It’s a serene and spiritually uplifting place to visit, and you must make it a part of your Amritsar itinerary.
Doonga Hanuman Mandir
Doonga Hanuman Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a Hindu deity revered for his strength, devotion, and loyalty. The name ‘Doonga’ is given to the statue of Hanuman Ji, which is located underground.
The temple is situated in Bazaar Kesariya, Katra Ahluwalia. Devotees from far and wide visit this temple to seek protection, courage, and blessings for overcoming obstacles in life. It has a huge religious and spiritual significance. The temple has a serene environment that is conducive to meditation, reflection, and spiritual contemplation. Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Hanuman with sincerity and devotion can help in fulfilling their wishes and desires.
Exploring these hidden gems in Amritsar offers a unique perspective on the rich history and culture of the city. It also provides a chance to connect with its lesser-known treasures away from the tourist crowds.
Each of these places adds depth and richness to the cultural fabric of Amritsar. They offer visitors a glimpse into its history, spirituality, and local life. Visiting these amazing sites is sure to be a rewarding experience.
So, whether you have an interest in history or spirituality, or you just want to soak in the local atmosphere, visit these hidden places in Amritsar and have a peek-a-boo at the past and culture of the city. These places have something special to offer for each traveler. Go ahead and book the Amritsar Heritage Walk, and you will have an amazing time with this out-of-box trip.
