Amritsar

Amritsar, founded by Guru Ram Das in 1574 on land bought by him for 700 rupees.

Amritsar is dominated by the history of Hindus and Sikhs and many of their sacred shrines are found in and around the city.

The city has highest temporal seat of Sikhs "The Harimandir Sahib" popularly known as Golden Temple. Amritsar's central walled city has narrow zig zag streets mostly developed in the 17th and 18th century.

The city is a peculiar example of an introverted planning system wit unique areas called Katras. The Katras are self styled residential units that provided unique defence system during attacks on the city.

Amritsar is particularly nearer and dearer to Hindus as it is believed that the Lov-Kush along

with their mother Mata Sita spent their early childhood in the ashram of Bhagwan Maharishi Balmiki ji in the land of Amritsar.

Partition of British India into India and Pakistan had the most profound effect on the demographics, economics, social structure and culture of Amritsar.

The state of Punjab was divided between India and Pakistan and Amritsar became a border city, often on the front lines of India-Pakistan wars. Prior to partition, the Muslim league wanted to incorporate Amritsar into Pakistan because of the Amritsar's proximity to Lahore (a distance of 30 miles) and a nearly 50% Muslim population, but the city became part of India.

Amritsar and Lahore experienced some of the worst communal riots during the partition of

India.

Amritsar is well known for its food. Dhabas such as Bhrawan da Dhaba and Kesar da Dhaba are extremely popular with locals and tourists.

Places to see

Golden Temple

Jalianwala Bagh

Wagah Border