3 Days in Amritsar for a Food Trip

Amritsar is a food lover's paradise, where every bite tells a story of Punjab's rich culinary heritage. From the iconic langar at the Golden Temple to sizzling street food, this city will leave you craving more. I've spent years exploring its hidden gems and legendary eateries, and this itinerary covers the best of the best.

Punjab, punjab
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sharing a meal at the Golden Temple's community kitchen
Biting into crispy Amritsari kulcha at a local dhaba
Watching jalebis being fried in giant kadais at sunset
Sipping creamy lassi from a century-old shop

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovemberFebruaryMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Amritsar

Kick off your Amritsar adventure with its most iconic sights and flavors, from the spiritual Golden Temple to the bustling streets of the old city.

Activities

Golden Temple & Langar Experience
Golden Temple & Langar Experience

Start your day at the serene Golden Temple, the heart of Sikhism. Marvel at the golden structure reflecting in the sacred pool, and don't miss the chance to partake in the community kitchen (langar) where volunteers serve free meals to thousands daily. The peaceful morning atmosphere makes it the perfect time to visit.

Golden Temple Complex, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia6:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best to arrive early)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Cover your head with a scarf (provided at entry)
  • Remove shoes and wash feet at the entrance
  • Try the karah prasad (sweet offering) from the temple
Jallianwala Bagh & Old City Walk
Jallianwala Bagh & Old City Walk

Just a short walk from the Golden Temple, visit Jallianwala Bagh, the poignant memorial of the 1919 massacre. Then wander through the vibrant lanes of the old city, where you'll find everything from colorful bazaars to hole-in-the-wall eateries. The narrow streets around Guru Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh are particularly lively.

Jallianwala Bagh, near Golden Temple10:00 AM - 12:00 PMFree
Tips:
  • Look for the bullet marks in the walls at Jallianwala Bagh
  • Bargain politely in the local markets
  • Try fresh sugarcane juice from street vendors
Kesar Da Dhaba Lunch

No visit to Amritsar is complete without a meal at this legendary 100-year-old eatery. Their dal makhani and paneer dishes simmered overnight in clay pots are legendary, but the star is their thick, creamy phirni (rice pudding) served in earthen bowls. The no-frills ambiance adds to the authentic experience.

Kesar Da Dhaba, Chowk Passian, near Town Hall12:30 PM - 1:30 PM₹300-500 per person
Tips:
  • Be prepared to wait during peak hours
  • Try their lassi - it's served in traditional brass glasses
  • Cash only - no cards accepted

Must Try Foods

Amritsari Kulcha with chole
Lassi (sweet or salty)
Tandoori chicken at Beera Chicken House
Jalebi with rabri
Makki di roti with sarson da saag

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Amritsar Junction (3 km from Golden Temple, 15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Golden Temple Bus Stand (right opposite temple complex, frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and taxis easily available; use Uber/Ola for better rates

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Amritsar

A mix of history, culture, and food, diving deeper into Amritsar's vibrant life beyond the Golden Temple.

Activities

Wagah Border Ceremony
Wagah Border Ceremony

Start your day with the electrifying Wagah Border ceremony, where Indian and Pakistani soldiers perform a synchronized drill. The energy is contagious, with patriotic songs and cheering crowds. Arrive early to grab a good spot and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Wagah Border, about 30 km from Amritsar city centerArrive by 3:30 PM for the 4:15 PM ceremony in winter (timings vary seasonally)Free entry, around ₹500-800 for a round-trip cab
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for standing
  • Carry water and a hat—it can get sunny
Partition Museum Visit
Partition Museum Visit

Head back to the city and visit the Partition Museum, a poignant tribute to the stories of millions affected by the 1947 Partition. The exhibits, filled with personal belongings and oral histories, offer a deeply moving perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

Town Hall, Near Golden Temple10 AM - 6 PM (closed on Mondays)₹250 per person
Tips:
  • Allocate time to absorb the exhibits—it’s heavy but worth it
  • Photography isn’t allowed inside
Kulcha Breakfast at Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale

No trip to Amritsar is complete without trying Amritsari kulcha. This tiny, no-frills spot serves the fluffiest, buttery kulchas stuffed with spiced potatoes, paired with chole and tangy chutneys. It’s messy, delicious, and utterly authentic.

Near Golden Temple, Katra Ahluwalia7 AM - 12 PM (go early—they sell out fast!)₹100-200 per person
Tips:
  • Try the paneer kulcha if you’re feeling adventurous
  • Cash only—bring small bills

Must Try Foods

Amritsari kulcha
Lassi at Ahuja Lassi Wala
Tandoori chicken at Beera Chicken House

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Amritsar Junction (2 km from city center, 10-15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Amritsar Bus Stand (ISBT), frequent buses to Wagah Border (every 30 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber/Ola work well, but negotiate prices for Wagah Border trips upfront

Day 3

Day 3 in Amritsar

A relaxed day exploring Amritsar's hidden gems, from a historic fort to a bustling market and some of the city's best-kept food secrets.

Activities

Explore Gobindgarh Fort
Explore Gobindgarh Fort

Often overlooked by tourists, this 18th-century fort is a fascinating slice of Amritsar's history. Walk through its massive gates, check out the museum showcasing Punjab's martial heritage, and catch the lively cultural shows that bring the past to life. The light and sound show in the evening is particularly impressive.

Gobindgarh Fort, Old Cantt Road10 AM - 10 PM (best visited late afternoon to catch the evening show)₹200-500 per person (depending on shows)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes - there's lots of walking
  • The fort gets lively in the evenings with food stalls and performances
Shopping at Hall Bazaar
Shopping at Hall Bazaar

Amritsar's most vibrant market, where you'll find everything from colorful Phulkari dupattas to traditional Punjabi juttis. The narrow lanes are packed with shops selling spices, dry fruits, and handicrafts. Bargain hard - it's expected here!

Hall Bazaar, near Town Hall11 AM - 8 PM (shops open late and close late)Varies (budget ₹500-2000 for souvenirs)
Tips:
  • Try the fresh sugarcane juice from street vendors
  • Look for authentic Amritsari papad wale for take-home snacks
Dinner at Beera Chicken House

End your Amritsar trip with what locals swear is the best butter chicken in town. This no-frills eatery serves outrageously good tandoori dishes - their chicken tikka and dal makhani are must-orders. Come hungry and be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours.

Beera Chicken House, Majitha Road6 PM - 11 PM (gets crowded around 8 PM)₹300-600 per person
Tips:
  • Try their special lassi - it's the perfect accompaniment
  • They don't serve alcohol, so don't ask

Must Try Foods

Amritsari fish fry
Sarson ka saag with makki di roti
Gur ka halwa

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Amritsar Junction (3 km from city center, 15-20 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Hall Gate Bus Stand (frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and cabs easily available throughout the city; Uber/Ola work well

Travel Tips

Start early - many famous places sell out by afternoon
Carry cash as most street vendors don't accept cards
Leave room for seconds - portions are generous
Try the local sweet shops for unique Punjabi desserts

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