Amritsar
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Arrival in Amritsar
Upon your arrival in Amritsar, you will be greeted by a Basil Leaf representative and transferred to your pre-booked hotel.
Amritsar, founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, is the spiritual heart of Sikhism. The city, once a major hub for trade, is now the second-largest in Punjab. The highlight of Amritsar is the world-famous Golden Temple, the most sacred shrine in Sikhism, after which the city is named, thanks to the holy tank surrounding it.
Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, or explore the vibrant streets of Amritsar on your own.
Overnight stay in Amritsar.
Day 2: Amritsar Sightseeing
After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of Amritsar. Begin with a visit to the revered Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), a magnificent structure of white marble and copper gilt, crowned by a gold-leafed dome. Inside, the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs, is housed. You’ll also see the langar (community kitchen), where volunteers selflessly serve meals to 30,000 people daily.
Next, visit Jallianwala Bagh, a solemn memorial commemorating the tragic 1919 massacre, a pivotal moment in India’s freedom struggle. Then, explore the historic Gobindgarh Fort, now a cultural hub showcasing Punjab’s rich heritage, followed by the Partition Museum, which offers poignant insights into the post-partition era.
In the afternoon, head to the Attari-Wagah border to witness the famous “Beating the Retreat” ceremony, a captivating display of military precision and patriotism as Indian and Pakistani soldiers lower their respective flags with grandeur.
Overnight stay in Amritsar.
Day 3: Amritsar at Leisure
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed day at your pace. You can indulge in shopping for local handicrafts or savor the city’s famous Punjabi cuisine. In the evening, revisit the Golden Temple to see it radiate under the stunning display of lights, offering a tranquil and mesmerizing experience.
Overnight stay in Amritsar.
Day 4: Departure from Amritsar
After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. You may choose to extend your trip with a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi in Katra or a scenic tour of Kashmir.
End of the tour.