Page 59 iGap Travel Guide 2022
P. 59
iGap Travel Guide | Asia
59
The Golden Temple
Amritsar, Punjab
A major city for Sikhs around the globe, Amritsar is
probably not on the list of many eager backpackers’
must-see destinations, as the city itself does not offer
a huge amount besides chaos. Nevertheless, delve
into crazy Punjabi lifestyle as in the midst of the hectic
city is Punjab’s best asset: The Golden Temple (Sri
Harmandir Sahib). Constructed in 1577, the temple
is wrapped in 1,500kg of gold and has witnessed
some sore sights and battles, yet the beauty remains
alongside unprecedented serenity. The temple offers
free guided tours, as well as free, vegetarian food to
around 100,000 people daily, and has an informative
museum based around Sikh history.
It is best to visit during Punjab’s winter season
(between November and March), however wait
until April and you can witness the biggest Sikh
festive of the year: Vaisakhi. It may be a little hot,
but the construction is surrounded by a sacred
pool believed to boast healing power, so whether
a believer or non-believer, dip in to have a deep
cleanse and wash away any sins.
Enjoy India’s rich history, serene nature, and culture
simultaneously in Sawai Madhopur and prepare to
be mesmerised. Sleep right in nature’s lap at The
Jungle Heart for only 1099 Indian Rupees a night,
which will add to the jungle experience with its
Hindu-inspired rooms each with a balcony view,
relaxing gardens and frequently visiting baboon
neighbours. Be sure to plan your trip during October
till June, as that is the season the park is open.
Most visitors tend to visit Sri Harmandir Sahib twice:
once in the day and once at night. This will leave your
day time free to explore the nearby Jallianwala Bagh
garden. Tourists are welcome to stop at the temple
(for free), however, you cannot book in advance, and
it may not offer the best night’s sleep. Alternatively,
Hotel Darbar View is within walking distance and offers
rooms for a cheap price.
MOST VISITORS TEND TO
VISIT SRI HARMANDIR
SAHIB TWICE: ONCE IN
THE DAY AND ONCE AT
NIGHT.
59
The Golden Temple
Amritsar, Punjab
A major city for Sikhs around the globe, Amritsar is
probably not on the list of many eager backpackers’
must-see destinations, as the city itself does not offer
a huge amount besides chaos. Nevertheless, delve
into crazy Punjabi lifestyle as in the midst of the hectic
city is Punjab’s best asset: The Golden Temple (Sri
Harmandir Sahib). Constructed in 1577, the temple
is wrapped in 1,500kg of gold and has witnessed
some sore sights and battles, yet the beauty remains
alongside unprecedented serenity. The temple offers
free guided tours, as well as free, vegetarian food to
around 100,000 people daily, and has an informative
museum based around Sikh history.
It is best to visit during Punjab’s winter season
(between November and March), however wait
until April and you can witness the biggest Sikh
festive of the year: Vaisakhi. It may be a little hot,
but the construction is surrounded by a sacred
pool believed to boast healing power, so whether
a believer or non-believer, dip in to have a deep
cleanse and wash away any sins.
Enjoy India’s rich history, serene nature, and culture
simultaneously in Sawai Madhopur and prepare to
be mesmerised. Sleep right in nature’s lap at The
Jungle Heart for only 1099 Indian Rupees a night,
which will add to the jungle experience with its
Hindu-inspired rooms each with a balcony view,
relaxing gardens and frequently visiting baboon
neighbours. Be sure to plan your trip during October
till June, as that is the season the park is open.
Most visitors tend to visit Sri Harmandir Sahib twice:
once in the day and once at night. This will leave your
day time free to explore the nearby Jallianwala Bagh
garden. Tourists are welcome to stop at the temple
(for free), however, you cannot book in advance, and
it may not offer the best night’s sleep. Alternatively,
Hotel Darbar View is within walking distance and offers
rooms for a cheap price.
MOST VISITORS TEND TO
VISIT SRI HARMANDIR
SAHIB TWICE: ONCE IN
THE DAY AND ONCE AT
NIGHT.
