Amritsar

Amritsar is a city in the Indian northwestern state of Punjab, imbued with historical, cultural, and spiritual meanings. By convention, the place was known for its religious heritage, with Amritsar being home to the Harmandir Sahib , more famously known as the Golden Temple, which is the most sacred shrine of Sikhism. Detailed below is a close look at Amritsar.

1. Historic Importance
Establishment: The year 1577 saw the founding of Amritsar by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das. The city grew up around the sacred tank-which is called Amrit Sarovar, a name meaning “Pool of Nectar.”
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: One of the most sordid happenings took place in Amritsar when British forces, under the command of General Dyer, opened fire on a congregation of unarmed Indian protesters, thus killing hundreds. The memorial garden, along with a museum, at the site of the massacre remembers the victims.
Partition of India: Amritsar went through a lot during the Partition of India in 1947, with huge migrations and violence. Nowadays, however, it continues to be a crucial cultural link between the two neighbors, India and Pakistan.
2. Cultural and Religious Significance
Golden Temple: Harmandir Sahib, or more generally known as the Golden Temple, is the most visited and respected spot by the adherents of Sikhism. The building was constructed in 1604 by the fifth Sikh Guru; the name was Guru Arjan. The temple has been built in the middle and is surrounded by the Amrit Sarovar. It houses a wonderous golden plated façade at display.
Akal Takht: Set up within the premises of the Golden Temple by Guru Hargobind as the seat of both spiritual and temporal authority, the Akal Takht is the highest temporal seat of authority among Sikhs.  
Langar or Community Kitchen: Langar at the Golden Temple serves meals to all people irrespective of their religion, caste, or background. This facility stands to represent service in the community and equality, a significant principle of Sikhism.
Amritsari Kulcha: This is a popular variety of bread, usually stuffed with spiced potatoes and served with chole, some form of chickpea curry. Lassi: the name given to a thick yogurt-based drink that constitutes one of the most favored beverages of the region. It comes sweet or salted mostly. Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag: corn meal flat bread taken with a mustard green-based curry- probably one of the most iconic Punjabi dishes. 4. Tourist Attractions
Wagah Border Ceremony: This border falls just outside Amritsar and is the border crossway between India and Pakistan. Well-renowned for its daily flag-lowering ceremony, it draws a great number of visitors to its spirited display of patriotism by both sides. Partition Museum: A poignantly captured glimpse of the Partitioning of India, one is able to see personal artifacts, photos, and documents depicting everyday life for those that lived through it.
Gobindgarh Fort: This historical fort was first built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, but now it has been restored into a museum and cultural center showcasing various aspects of Punjab’s history, culture, and heritage.
5. Festivals
Baisakhi: Falling in the month of April, this is a harvest festival and also commemorates the formation of the Khalsa way back in 1699, marking the Sikh New Year. Festivities in town include fairs and processions that add color to the city.
Guru Nanak Jayanti: The birthday of Guru Nanak, who founded Sikhism, falls on this day and is a day of great exuberance. Religious processions are taken out, while hymns are sung during special prayers at the Golden Temple.