About Amritsar

 

 

 

 

Location

Amritsar city situated in northern Punjab state of northwestern India lies about 15 miles (25 km) east of the border with Pakistan. Amritsar is an important city in Punjab and is a major commercial, cultural, and transportation centre. It is also the centre of Sikhism and the site of the Sikh’s principal place of worship.

 

How to reach Amritsar 

By Air

The Rajasansi airport, about 11 km. from town, is connected by domestic flights to Delhi, Srinagar and Chandigarh. You can get to town by a pre-booked rented car, taxis or auto-rickshaws.

 

By Train

Amritsar is connected by direct trains to major Indian cities like Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Nagpur, Calcutta and Puri .For more details visit http://www.indianrail.gov.in

 

By Road

You can drive into Amritsar from neighboring states. Bus services also connect Amritsar with most north Indian towns, including Chandigarh (235 Kms), Delhi (450 Kms), Shimla, Kulu, Manali, Dharamshala and Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh, Dehradun and Rishikesh in Uttar Pradesh and Jammu. There is also a bus service to Lahore, 35 km away, which is the only overland connection between India and Pakistan.

 

Languages

Punjabi,Hindi,English & Urdu

 

Administrative Divisions

District Amritsar is divided into Four Tehsils ,Five Sub-Tehsils ,Eight Blocks ,Eleven Assembly Constituencies & One Lok Sabha constituency.

 

Tehsils

1 Amritsar-1

2 Amritsar-II

3 Ajnala

4 Baba Bakala

 

Sub-Tehsils

1 Attari

2 Lopoke

3 Majitha

4 Ramdas

5 Tarsika

 

Blocks

1 Ajnala

2 Chogawan

3 Harsha China

4 Jandiala

5 Majitha

6 Rayya

7 Tarsika

8 Verka

 

Assembly Constituencies

1 Ajnala 11

2 Rajasansi 12

3 Majitha 13

4 Jandiala(SC) 14

5 Amritsar North 15

6 Amritsar West (SC) 16

7 Amritsar Central 17

8 Amritsar East 18

9 Amritsar South 19

10 Attari(SC) 20

11 Baba Bakala 25

 

Lok Sabha Constituencies

1 Amritsar 2

 

Climate

The climate of the district is characterized by general dryness except in the brief south –west monsoon season, a hot summer and bracing winter . The year may be divided in four seasons. The cold season is from November to march. The period from April to June is the hot season. The south-west monsoon season is from about the beginning of July to the first week of September. The succeeding period lasting till the beginning of November is the post-monsoon or transition period .

 

Rainfall

The average annual rainfall in the district is 541.9mm.The rainfall in the district increases generally from the south-west towards the north-east and varies from 435.5 mm at Khara to 591.7 mm at Rayya. About 74 per cent of the annual normal rainfall in the district is received during the period June to September and as much as about 13 per cent of the annual rainfall occurs during the period December to February .The variation in rainfall from year to year is large .In the 50 year period 1901 to 1950,the highest annual rainfall amounting to 184 per cent of the normal occurred in 1917, while the very next year was one with the lowest annual rainfall which was 54 per cent of the normal. In this 50 year period, the annual rainfall in the district was less than 80 per cent of the normal in 13 years, with two consecutive years of such low rainfall at the individual stations, two consecutive years of such low rainfall occurred 6 times at Khara and 4 times at Amritsar. Three such consecutive years also occurred once each at 4 out of the 7 stations. Even 4 consecutive years of such low rainfall occurred once at Tarn Taran . It will be seen from Table 2 that the annual rainfall in the district was between 401 and 700 mm in 33 years out of 50.

 

On an average, there are 30 rainy days (i.e. days with rainfall of 2.5mm or more)in a year in the district. This number varies from 24 at Khara to 34 at Rayya.

 

The heaviest rainfall in 24 hours recorded at any station in the district was 457.2 mm at Khara on 5 October 1955 .The monthly average rainfall in the Amritsar District, during 1968, 1973 to 1986, is given in Table 3.

 

Temperature

There is a meteorological observatory in the district at Amritsar and the records of this observatory may be taken as representative of the meteorological conditions prevailing in the district in general. From about the end of March, temperatures increase steadily till June which is the hottest month with mean daily minimum at 25.2c.The heat during the summer is intense and the hot dust laden winds which blow during the afternoons add to the discomfort .with the onset of the monsoon in the district by about the end of June or the beginning of July, there is appreciable drop in the day temperature. The nights are, however as warm during the monsoon as in summer and due to the increased moisture in the monsoon air, the weather is often oppressive. After the withdrawal of the monsoon early in September while the day temperatures remain as in the monsoon season, nights become progressively cooler. From October, there is a rapid drop in the temperatures. January is generally the coldest month with the mean daily maximum at 4.5c. During the cold season, the district is affected by cold waves in the rear of passing western disturbances and the minimum temperature occasionally drops down to a degree or two below the freezing point of water. Frosts are common during the cold season.

 

The highest maximum temperature recorded at Amritsar was 47.7 C on 21 May 1978..The lowest minimum was 3.3 C on 25 December 1984.

 

Humidity

Relative humidity is generally high in the mornings, exceeding 70 per cent except during the summer season when it is less than 50 per cent. The humidity is comparatively less in the afternoons. The driest part of the year is the summer season when the relative humidity in the afternoons is about 25 per cent or less.

 

Cloudiness

The skies are generally partly to heavily clouded and occasionally overcast during the monsoon and for brief spells of a day or two in association with passing western disturbances during the cold season .During the rest of the year, the skies are mostly clear or lightly clouded.

 

Winds

winds are generally light with some strengthening in the summer and early part of the monsoon season. In the post-monsoon and cold season, winds are light and variable in direction in the morning and mostly from the west or north-west in the afternoons. In April and May, winds are mainly from direction between north-west and north-east in the mornings and between west and north-east in the afternoons. By June, easterlies and south –easterlies also blow and in the south-west monsoon season. winds are more commonly from directions between north-east and south-east.

 

Special weather phenomena

Western disturbances affect the weather over the district during the cold season, causing widespread rain and gusty winds. Dust-storms and thunderstorms occur in the summer season. Occasional fog occurs in the cold season.

 

 

 

District Administration

 

Deputy Commissioner's Role

The responsibility of General Administration of the District lies with the Deputy Commissioner. He is the Executive Head and has three fold roles as (i) Deputy Commissioner,(ii) District Collector and (iii) District Magistrate.

 

He is assisted by the following officers for carrying out day to day work in various fields:--

 

Additional Deputy Commissioner

Assistant Commissioner (General)

Assistant Commissioner (Grievances)

Executive Magistrate

District Revenue Officer

District Transport Officer

District Development and Panchayat Officer

Civil Defense Officer

Urban Ceiling Officer

The Deputy Commissioner is the Chief Revenue Officer as District Collector and is responsible for collection of Revenue and other Govt. dues recoverable as arrears of Land Revenue. He deals with the Natural Calamities like draught, unseasonal rains, hailstorms, floods and fire etc.

 

Under the Registration Act the District Collector exercises the Powers of Registrar of the District and he controls and supervises the work of Registration of deeds. He also function as Marriage Officer under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. Further under the Cinematograph Act, the District Magistrate is the Licencing Authority in his jurisdiction. The administration of the Police in a district is vested in the District Superintendent, but under the General direction of the District Magistrate as per provisions of section 4 of the Indian Police Act, 1861.

 

Rule 1.15 of the Punjab Police Rules, 1934, also provides the powers of District Magistrate as under:--

 

The District Magistrate is the head of the Criminal Administration of the District and the Police force is the instrument provided by Government to enable him to enforce his authority and fulfill his responsibility for the maintenance of Law & Order. The police force in a District is, therefore, placed by Law under the General control and direction of the District Magistrate, who is responsible and carries out his duties in such a manner that effective protection is afforded to the public and against lawlessness and disorder."

 

District Magistrate is thus responsible for the maintenance of Law & Order within the limit of his jurisdiction. He is conferred with very wide powers by the law, which if used prudently can be very effective in maintaining peace and tranquility. The police force is mainly an instrument provided by Law for the District Magistrate. He can impose restriction on the movement of unlawful Assembly under Section 144 Cr.P.C. and can also impose curfew keeping in view the situation.

 

He is authorised to inspect the Offices/Courts of Sub Divisional Officers (Civil), Tehsildars, Naib Tehsildars, Treasuries, Sub Treasuries, Jails, Hospitals, Dispenseries, Schools, Blocks, Police Stations, Second Class Local Bodies, Improvement Trusts and all other offices of Punjab Government, the A.C.Rs of whose Heads of offices he is required to write. In this way, he has effective control over the Administration.

 

The Deputy Commissioner holds courts and hears appeals under the following Acts against the order of Sub Divisional Officer (Civil), passed as Assistant Collector Ist Grade and Sales Commissioner and Settlement Commissioner:--

 

Under the Land Revenue Act,1887.

Under the Punjab Tenancy Act,1887.

Displaced Persons (Compensation & Rehabilitation) Act,1954.

Punjab Package Deal Properties (Disposal) Act,1976.

Urban Land (Ceiling & Regulations) Act, 1976.

Besides it, he decides the lambardari cases.

 

List of Deputy Commissioners Sr. No Name From  To

1 L.Saunders  20th April 1849 31st Dec. 1852

2 J.Dennison 1st January 1853 31st July 1853

3 T.H.Copper 1st August 1853 24th April 1860

4 A.J.Farrington 25th April 1860 31st May 1866

5 G.Lewin 1st June 1866 13rd June 1867

6 T.W.Smyth 14th June 1867 24th July 1867

7 G.Lewin 25th July 1867 14th Aug.1867

8 D.G.Barkley 15th Aug 1867 3rd Oct.1867

9 G.Lewin 24th Oct. 1867 8th Dec. 1867

10 Major H.B.Urmston 9th Dec.1867 31st July 1868

11 L.Griffin 1st Aug. 1868 13th January 1869

12 D.Fitzpatrick 14th January 1869  14th March 1869

13 W.Coldstream 15th March 1869 15th March 1869

14 F.M.Birch 16th March 1869 31st July 1869

15 J.W.Gardiner 1st Aug. 1869 1st Sep.1870

16 F.M.Birch 2nd Sep.1870 31st July 1871

17 C.H.Hall 1st Aug. 1871 16th January 1872

18 C.H.Marshall 17th January 1872 12th April 1872

19 C.H.Hall 13th April 1872 27th May1872

20 J.A.Montgomery 28 may 1872 29th May 1872

21 J.W. Smyth 30 May 1872 10th Sep 1872

22 C.H. Hall 11 Sep 1872 2nd March 1873

23 W.Coldstream 3rd March 1873 21st Oct. 1873

24 C.H. Hall 22nd Oct. 1873 16th April 1874

25 T.W. Smyth 17th April 1874 30th Aug. 1874

26 C.Mcheile 31st Aug. 1874 30th Sep. 1874

27 T.W.Smyth 1st Oct. 1874 1st Nov. 1874

28 C.H. Hall 2nd Nov. 1874 7th June 1876

29 C.R.Hawkins 8th June 1876 20th Oct. 18776

30 C.H.Hall 21st Oct.1876 13rd March 1877

31 J.D.Tremlett 14th March 1877 17th July 1877

32 W.P. Woodward 18th July 1877 19th July 1877

33 J.W.Gardner  20th July 1877 2nd Jan. 1878

34 W. Young 3rd Jan. 1878 3212st Jan. 1878

35 J.W. Gardiner 1st Feb.1878 11st Sep. 1878 

36 C.R. Hawkins 12nd Sep. 1878 14th Nov. 1878

37 J.D.Tremlett 15 Nov 1878 2 nd Feb. 1879

38 C.R. Hawkings 3rd Feb. 1879 1st Aug. 1881

39 R.Clarke 2nd Aug. 1881 3rd Jan. 1882

40 J.W. Gardiner 4 Jan.1882 1st March 1882

41 G.R. Hawkins 2nd March 1882 21st March 1883

42 G. Knox 22nd March 1883 9th June 1884

43 C.F. Massy 10th June 1884 1st Oct. 1884

44 C.R.Hawkins 2nd Oct. 1884 11 Nov. 1884

45 R.Udny 12th Nov. 1884 13rd Jan. 1885

46 R.M. Lang 14 Jan. 1885 4th Sep. 1886

47 J. Ronnie 5th Sep. 1886 4th Oct. 1886

48 R.M. Lang 5th Oct. 1886 2 Sep. 1888

49 J.A. Grant 3rd Sep. 1888 17th Oct. 1888

50 R.M. Lang 18th Oct 1888 15th Sep 1889

51 J.A.Grant  16th Sep. 1889 18 th Oct. 1890

52 R.M. Lang 19th Oct. 1889 2nd Sep. 1890

53 F.P. Joung 1st April 1891 14th Oct. 1892

54 C.F. Massy 15th Oct. 1892 6th March 1893

55 J.A.Grant 7th March 1893 7th March 1893

56 A.Harrison 8th March 1893 2nd April 1893

57 R.M. Lang 3rd April 1893 25th March 1895

58 E.R. Abbott,Esqurie 27th March 1895 5th April 1895

59 A. Kensington,Esouire 5th April 1895 4th March 1896

60 Captain C.M. Dallas 4th March 1896 9th Dec. 1896

61 Captain Burlton 9th Dec. 1896 26th Dec.1896

62 Captain C.M. Dallas 26th Dec. 1896 16th July1897

63 Captain H.Fox Strangways 16th July 1897 17th July 1897

64 A.E.Martineau, Esquire  17th July 1897  20th Nov.1897

65 Captain C.M. Dallas 20th Nov. 1897 31st March 1898

66 W.Chevis, Esquire  31st March 1898 25th Aug. 1898

67 M.L.Waring, Esquire  25th Aug. 1898 25th bOct.1898

68 W.Chevis, Esquire 25th Oct. 1898 30th July 1899

69 A.Calvert, Esquire 30th July 1899 3rd Aug.1899

70 L.French, Esquire 3rd Aug. 1899 23rd Sep.1899

71 W.Chevis, Esquire 23rd Sep. 1899 5th Nov. 1899

72 A.M.Stow, Esquire 5th Nov. 1899 14th April 1900

73 A.Langley , Esquire 14th April 1900  

74 A.M.Stow, Esquire   13th June 1900

75 W.Le. Malan, Esquire 13th June 1900 14th Nov.1900

76 J.F.Connqlly, Esquire 14th Nov. 1900 20th April 1902

77 E.D.Maclagan, Esquire 20th April 1902 6th Aug.1902

78 B.H.Bird, Esquire 6th Aug. 1902 18th Oct.1902

79 E.D.Maclagan, Esquire 18th Oct.1902 29th June 1903

80 H.A.Sama, Esquire 30th June 1903 15th Oct.1903

81 E.D.Maclagan, Esquire 16th Oct.1903 20th April 1904

82 H.A.Sama, Esquire 21st April 1904 18th Dec. 1904

83 O.M. King, Esquire 20th Dec. 1904 21st July 1905

84 H.S.Williamson, Esquire 2nd July 1905 1st Sep. 1905

85 O.M. King, Esquire 2nd Sep. 1905 28th March 1906

86 H.A.Casson, Esquire 29th March 1906 27th March 1907

87 B.H.Bird, Esquire 28th March 1907 18th April 1907

88 Miles Irvingh, Esquire 19th April 1907 2nd March 1908

89 H.A.Casson, Esquire 3rd March 1908 13th April 1909

90 O.F.Lumsden, Esquire 14th April 1909 27th July 1911

91 R.B.Whitehead, Esquire 28th July 1911 22nd Oct. 1911

92 O.F.Lumsden, Esquire 23rd Oct. 1911 12th Dec.1911

93 Lt.Col.C.D.Egerton, I.A. 13th Dec. 1911 18th Feb.1912

94 P.L.Barker, Esquire 19th Feb. 1912 26th April 1912

95 H.D.Cralk, Esquire 27th April 1912 18th May 1912

96 J.Addison, Esquire 19th May 1912 3rd Oct. 1912

97 Lt. Col. C.R. Egerton 4th Oct.1912  

98 C.M. King 1913 1916

99 Miles Irving 24-2-1919 5-8-1919

100 Henry Duffield Craik 2-2-1921 26-5-1921

101 J..M. Dunnett 27-5-1921 14-11-1923

102 F.H. Puckle 15-11-1923 20-4-1928

103 R.H.Crump 17-4-1928 1929

104 W.G. Bradford 1929 14-6-1930

105 R.H. Crump 14-6-1930 1-12-1930

106 A.V. Askinth 1-12-1930 1-9-1931

107 G.M.Jenkins 1-9-1931 4-11-1931

108 J.D. Penny 4-11-1931 2-1-1932

109 A. Macfar Quhar 28-2-1933 18-7-1934

110 Rai Sahib Izzet Rai 18-7-1934 31-8-1934

111 A. Macfar Quhar 31-1-1934 1-7-1936

112 I.E. Jones 1-7-1936 2-9-1936

113 A.A. Macdonald 2-9-1936 28-11-1938

114 I.E. Jones 28-11-1938 2-10-1939

115 A.A.Macdonald 2-10-1939 22-8-1941

116 Sundar Das 22-8-1941 25-9-1941

117 E.D. Moon 25-9-1941 9-7-1943

118 Rosham Lal 9-7-1943 16-7-1943

119 L.D. Addisin 16-7-1943 22-4-1946

120 J.D. Frazer 22-4-1946 22-5-1947

121 Mr. G.M. Brander.I.G.S. 24-5-1947 22-8-1947

122 Nukul Sen.I.C.S. 23-8-1947 6-10-1947

123 Devinder Singh P.C.S. 7-10-1947 10-10-1947

124 B.S. Narinder Singh I.A.S. 11-10-1947 11-7-1952

125 N.N. Kashyap I.C.S. 12-7-1952 14-10-1953

126 R.N. Chopra I.C.S. 15-10-191953 22-9-1954

127 S.K. Shhibber I.A.S. 23-9-1954 27-5-1956

128 H.B. Lal I.A.S. 28-5-1956 2-*12-1957

129 A.N. Kashyap I.A.S. 3-12-1957 8-6-1958

130 Balwant Singh I.A.S. 9-6-1958 31-5-1960

131 H.S. Ach Reja I.A.S. 1-6-1960 8-5-1961

132 Sunder Singh P.C.S. 9-5-1961 18-11-1962

133 P.N. Bhalla I.A.S. 19-11-1962 16-5-1964

134 Lall Singh Aujla P.S.S. 17-5-1964 30-6-1964

135 Iqbal Singh I.A.S. 1-7-1964 8-7-1965

136 S.S. Bedi I.A.S. 9-7-1965 15-12-1966

137 Kulwant Singh I.A.S. 16-12-1966 9-5-1969

138 K.S.Bains I.A.S. 10-5-1969 26-8-1971

139 Sukhbir Singh I.A.S. 27-8-1971 15-10-1975

140 J.D.Khanna I.A.S. 16-10-1975 21-4-1977

141 K.S. Janjua I.A.S. 22-4-1977 16-4-1978

142 Jai Singh Gill I.A.S. 16-4-1978 24-4-1980

143 Bikramjit Singh I.A.S. 25-4-1980 27-8-1980

144 S.M.S. Chahal I.A.S. 28-8-1980 27-8-1981

145 Sardar Singh I.A.S. 27-8-1981 15-7-1983

146 Gurdev Singh I.A.S. 16-7-1983 3-6-1984

147 Ramesh Inder Singh Mandher I.A.S. 4-6-1984 6-7-1987

148 Sarabjit Singh I.A.S. 7-7-1987 10-5-1992

149 Karanbir Singh Sidhu I.A.S. 11-5-1992 11-8-1996

150 A.S. Chhatwal I.A.S. 12-8-1996 29-8-1996

151 Amarjit Singh I.A.S. 30-8-1996 13-7-1998

152 Narinderjit Singh I.A.S. 13-7-1998 10-1-2002

153 Swinder Singh Puri I.A.S. 10-1-2002 7-11-2002

154 Iqbal Singh Sidhu I.A.S. 7-11-2002 20-5-2003

155 Raminder Singh I.A.S. 20-5-2003 23-12-2004

156 Kirandeep Singh Bhullar I.A.S 23-12-2004 19-3-2007

157 Kahan Singh Pannu I.A.S 19-3-2007  

 

Additional Deputy Commissioner

The post of Additional Deputy Commissioner has been created to assist the Deputy Commissioner in his day-to-day working. The Additional Deputy Commissioner enjoys the same powers as that of Deputy Commissioner under the rules.

 

Functions of Additional Deputy Commissioner

With a view to lighten the enormously increasing workload of the Deputy Commissioner, the post of Additional Deputy Commissioner was created in the year 1979. He has been vested with the following powers under the various Acts-within the limits of the district:-

 

As Collector under the following Acts

 

The Punjab Land Revenue Act,1887.

The Punjab Occupancy Of Tenants(Vesting of Proprietary Rights)Act,1952.

The Punjab Tenancy Act,1887.

The Land Acquisition Act,1894.

The Punjab Restitution of Mortgage Land Act,1938.

The Punjab Village Common Land(Regulation) Act,1961.

The Indian Stamp Act,1899.

As Registrar under the Registration Act,1908.

 

As Deputy Commissioner Under the Punjab Aided School (Security of Services) Act,1969.

 

As Executive Magistrate , Addl. Deputy Commissioner , D.M under the Criminal Procedure Code,1973.

 

As Additional District Magistrate under the Arms Act of India and Petroleum Act,1934,

 

He has been appointed as Chairman of District Consultative Committee under Personal Accident Social Security Scheme vide Punjab Government Notification No 13/434/88-SW /9794 dated 27.9.1988.

 

Sub Divisional Officers (Civil)

The duties of the Sub Divisional Officer (Civil) within his Sub Division are almost similar to those of the Deputy Commissioner within his district. In all matters of administration , he has to be the Deputy Commissioner's principal agent.

 

He is also incharge of various development activities going on in the Sub Division and is also responsible for co-ordinating the work of various departments. For that he has to tour the area to keep a watch on the development activities, the revenue administration as also the law & Order situation in his Sub Division. Besides this he has to look after the grievances of the public and to attend to the problems arising out of the natural calamities. He supervises the work of Revenue agency in the Sub Division.

 

There is no denying the fact that the job of a Sub Divisonal Officer (civil) is independent in character to some extent. He is primarily responsible for everything that happens within his jurisdiction and must accordingly take his decisions to a large extent, independently.

 

Sub Divisional Officer (civil) is conferred with various powers under the land revenue and tenancy acts.

 

He also acts as Assistant Collector under the Punjab Land Revenue Act and Punjab Tenancy Act. He is also the appellate authority in cases decided by his subordinate revenue officers.

 

The Executive Magistrate placed by the State Government as incharge of the Sub Division is termed as the Sub Divisional Magistrate Under section 20(4) Cr.p.c.and under section 23 Cr.P.C. the Sub divisional Officer like other Executive Magistrates of the District is subordinate to the District Magistrate and is responsible for the maintenance of law and order within the limits of his local jurisdiction. He enjoys very wide powers under section 107/151,109,110,133,144,and 145 Cr.P.C. etc. He also hears court cases under these sections.

 

Tehsildar/ Naib Tehsildar.

Tehsildars are appointed by the Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Naib Tehsildar by the Commissioner of the Division. Their duties within Tehsil /Sub Tehsil are almost similar and manifold (except that partition cases are decided by Tehsildar). They enjoy the powers of Executive Magistrate, Assistant Collector and Sub Registrar/Joint Sub Registrar. Although there has been a recent move to appoint full fledged Sub-registrar for some of the larger Tehsils. The Revenue duties of Tehsildar are important. He is the Incharge of tehsil Revenue Agency and is responsible for proper preparation and maintenance of tehsil Revenue Record and Revenue Accounts. He is also responsible for recovery of government dues under the various Acts. He is supposed to have proper control over the working of Patwaris and Kanungos and for this purpose the Tehsildar and Naib Tehsildars make inspection of patwaris and kanungos working under them.

 

Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildar in fact are called Revenue officers holding separate circles and it is provided in para 242 of land Administration Manual that such allotted circle should be changed every year on October first, so that the responsibility of the Tehsildar for the whole of his charge may not be impaired. In Tehsil and Sub Tehsil, as and when Treasury Officers are not posted, then the Tehsildar and Naib Tehsildar work as Treasury Officer in addition to their own duties. Tehsildar also registers the marriages solemnized.

 

Besides enjoying powers under a few other land laws, they also attest uncontested mutations. Tehsildar is further empowered to hear partition cases and to make allotment/transfer and auction of evacuee properties, land under the Displaced Person (Compensation & Rehabilitation) Act,1954 and Punjab Package Deal properties (Disposal Act 1976) as Managing Officer and Tehsildar Sales respectively .

 

Kanungos

The Kanungo establishment consists of field Kanungo, office Kanungo and the District Kanungos. Its strength in each district can only be altered with the sanction of the government.

 

The field Kanungo should be constantly moving about his circle supervising the work of Patwari on the spot, except in the month of September when he stays at the Tehsil to check the Jamabandis received from the Patwaris. He also disposes of the demarcation applications marked to him by the Circle Revenue Officer. A field Kanungo is also responsible for the conduct and the work of the Patwari under his charge and it is his duty to report the work or neglect of duty or misconduct on the part of any Patwari.

 

The office Kanungo is the Tehsildar Revenue clerk and he is the custodian of all the record received from the patwari.

 

The District Kanungo is responsible for the efficiency of both the office and the field Kanungo and should be in camp inspecting their work for at least 15 days in each month from first October to 30th April. He is the keeper of all record received from Kanungo patwari, at sadar office.

 

Patwaris

Patwari is an important and effective official of the lowest ebb in the Revenue Agency. No efficient Revenue Administration of a district is possible unless the patwari staff is strong, properly trained and strictly supervised.

 

A Patwari has three chief duties:-

 

The maintenance of record of the crop grown at every harvest.

The keeping of the record of rights uptodate by the punctual record of mutations.

The account of preparation of statistical returns embodying the information derived from the harvest inspections, register of mutation and record of rights.

The limits of "Patwar circle" is a matter for the Commissioner to decide under para 238 of Land Administration Manual.

 

It is the responsibility of Patwari to report at once all serious calamities affecting the land or the crops and all severe outbreaks of diseases amongst men and beasts. He must aid the headman in revenue collection. He keeps up a diary and a work book. The entries should be made on the day on which the events come to the notice of the patwari.

 

The Patwari is responsible for the safe custody of all the records, maps and equipments of his circle that are in his charge. In the work book the Patwari will enter the work done by him on each day. His work is supervised by the field Kanungo, Sadar Kanungo & Circle Revenue Officer.

*************

 

Tourist Places

 

Golden temple(Harmander Sahib)

The Golden temple is located in the holy city of the Sikhs, Amritsar. The Golden temple is famous for its full golden dome, it is one of the most sacred pilgrim spots for Sikhs. The Mandir is built on a 67-ft square of marble and is a two storied structure. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had the upper half of the building built with approximately 400 kg of gold leaf. The Golden Temple is surrounded by a number of other famous temples like the Durgiana Temple. The fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ram Das, who had initially constructed a pool here, founded Amritsar, which houses the Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib. It is here that Sage Valmiki wrote the epic, Ramayana. Rama and Sita are believed to have spent their fourteen-year exile in Amritsar, the epicenter of Sikhism. To the south of the temple is a garden, and the tower of Baba Atal. The Central Sikh Museum is atop the Clock Tower. The 'Guru Ka Langar' offers free food to around 20,000 people everyday. The number shoots up to 100,000 on special occasions. A visitor must cover his / her head before entering the temple premises. The Granth Sahib is kept in the Temple during the day and is kept in the Akal Takht or Eternal Throne in the night. The Akal Takht also houses the ancient weapons used by the Sikh warriors. Guru Hargobind established it. The rugged old Jubi Tree in the north west corner of the compound is believed to possess special powers. It was planted 450 years ago, by the Golden Temple's first high priest, Baba Buddha. Guru-ka-Langar or the communal canteen is towards the eastern entrance of the temple complex, and it provides free food to all visitors, regardless of colour, creed, caste or gender. Visitors to the Golden Temple must remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the temple. The temple is less crowded in the early mornings on weekends.

 

Around the Golden Temple

Within the sacred precincts of the Golden Temple, a devotee can seek blessing at:

 

The Akal Takht

Har Ki Pauri

Dukh Bhanjani Ber (Jujube Tree)

Thara Sahib

Ber Baba Budha Ji

Gurudwara Ilachi Ber

Ath Sath Tirath

Bunga Baba Deep Singh

 

Durgiana Temple (Lakshmi Narain Temple)

Built in the third decade of the 20th Century it echoes, not the traditional Hindu temple architecture, but that of the Golden Temple and, in a similar manner rises from the midst of a tank and has canopies and the central dome in the style of the Sikh temple. One of the greatest reformers and political leaders of resurgent India, Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, laid its foundation stone. It is a well-known repository of Hindu scriptures

 

Wagah Border

The international border between India and Pakistan. The pomp and pageantry of the Beating Retreat and the Change of Guard within handshaking distance of the Indian and Pakistani forces makes for a most charming spectacle.

 

Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border - between Amritsar and Lahore, is an elaborate complex of buildings, roads and barriers on both sides. The daily highlight is the evening "Beating the Retreat" ceremony. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause.

 

Jallian Wala Bagh

The memorial at this site commemorates the 2000 Indians who were killed or wounded, shot indiscriminately by the British under the command of Gen Michael O"Dyer on April13, 1919 while participating in a peaceful public meeting. This was one of the major incidents of India's freedom struggle.The story of this appaling massacre is told in the Martyr's Gallery at the site. A section of wall with bullet marks still visible is preserved along with the memorial well, in which some people jumped to escape. "The impossible men of India shall rise and liberate their mother land", declared Mahatma Gandhi, after the Jallian Wala massacre. "This disproportionate severity of punishment inflicted upon the unfortunate people and method of carrying it out is without parallel in the history of civilized govt." wrote Rabindra Nath Tagore the noble laureate while returning knighthood.

 

Ram Bagh

Ram Bagh a beautiful garden ,an accustomed listener to the Neighs of thousand horses, announcing the arrival of the statesman of the century Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839) the Lion of Punjab, has in its heart the summer Palace of this great ruler. Maintenance free inbuilt cooling system designed in the Palace exhibits the architectural excellence and invokes a keen interest.The king of his time brought local chieftains under his control and virtually finished any eventuality of possible attacks on the kingdom raised by him. To commemorate the memory of his velour Ram Bagh on its one end has a lively statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh saddled on a horse in a winsome posture.

 

 

The garden was named by the ruler himself as a tribute to Guru Ram Das, the founder of the city. Now the summer palace of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been converted into a museum which speaks volumes on his times.On display are weapons dating back to Mughal times, portraits of ruling houses of Punjab and a replica of diamond "Kohinoor". In those days the garden was approached by a huge fortified gate which still exists in its original form and is just on the periphery of the garden.

 

Ram Tirath

Located 11 Km West of Amritsar on Chogawan road, dates back to the period of Ramayana, Rishi Valmiki's hermitage. The place has an ancient tank and many temples. A hut marks the site where Mata Sita gave birth to Luv & Kush and also, still extant are Rishi Valmiki's hut and the well with stairs where Mata Sita used to take her bath. The Bedis of Punjab (Guru Nanak Dev , the founder Prophet of Sikhism was a Bedi) trace their descent from Kush and Sodhis (the 10th Prophet of Sikhism, Guru Gibind Singh was a Sodhi) from Luv. A four day fair, since times immemorial is held here starting on the full moon night in November. 16 Kilometres west on Choganwan road is Ram Tirath, commemorating Maharishi Balmik Ji´s heritage.

 

Pul Kanjari:

It is another heritage sight built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh around which are sewn many tales and legends. Situated near the villages of Daoka and Dhanoa Kalan right on the Wagha border, Pul Kanjari is about 35 kms. Both from Amritsar & Lahore. The Maharaja would often rest and leisure here in the baradari while passing by along with his royal troop and retinues. Despite a ruined fort and a baoli-a bathing pool - this heritage sight has a temple, a Gurudwara and a mosque which bespeak of the secular concerns of the Maharaja. The inside of the dome on the corner of the baoli enshrines a number of scenes and sights from the Hindu scriptures and the Raj Darbar.These frescoes are laced with floral frames.

 

Samadhi of Guru Angad Dev Ji:

About 30 km south east from Amritsar, and within easy reach from Goindwal Sahib is a Samadhi of the second Guru. It was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1815 A.D.

 

Jama Masjid Khairuddin:

Built by Mohd. Khairuddin in 1876, this masjid is a place of architectural beauty situated in the Hall Bazar. This is the holy place from where a call against the British rule was given by Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari.

 

Samadh of Shravan:

About 6 Kilometres from Ajnala near Jastarwal (earlier known as Dashrathwal) is located one of the oldest heritage spots in Amritsar. It belongs to the Ramayana period a legend has it that Shravan lies buried here after the fell from the arrow of King Dashrath, the Lord of Ayodhya. The Samadh is situated on the banks of an old rivulet (Purani Dhab ).Shravan had taken his blind parents on a wide-ranging pilgrimage by cradling them on his shoulder in a wooden device.

 

Khoo Kalyanwala :

The city has played a stellar role in the liberation of India from the British clutches. Freedom fighters like Madan Lal Dhingra, Ras Bihari Bose, S.Kartar Singh Sarabha, Dr. Satya Pal and Dr. Saif-ud-din Kitchlu are house-hold names in Amritsar.

 

When Mangal Pande blew the bugle of rebellion against the British in 1857, its echoes and shock-waves were felt in Amritsar also. A platoon of 400 soldier stationed at Lahore rebelled against the British Government by fleeing their barracks. The deserted soldiers bravely swam across the flooded Ravi and reached Ajnala.The information was received by Mr.Fredric Cooper, the then Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar.On his order, all of them were put in a coop-like room where almost 200 soldiers died of asphyxia. The rest of them were brutally shot dead the next morning and their dead bodies thrown in the well which is known as the Kalianwala Khoo in Tehsil Ajnala.

 

The Historical Banyan Tree( Shaheedi Bohr):

This historical tree with massive girth and lushgreen canopy stands majestically in the Namdhari Shaheedi Samark against the majestic back drop of the northern boundary of Ram Bagh.Four Kookas were hanged from this tree by the British Government in 1871.The Kookas were hanged from this tree by the British Government in 1871 The Kookas were hanged because they had reacted violently against the hawking of beef around the Golden Temple.

 

Main Hotels

 

S. No. Name of Hotel Telephone Number Distance from Airport

1 Hotel Amritsar International 91-183-555991

91-183-556234  13 Kms.

2 Hotel Azaad 91-183-548171

91-183-559045  13 Kms.

3 Hotel Blue Moon 91-183-220416

91-183-220759  12 Kms.

4 Hotel Mohan International 91-183-566589 11 Kms.

5 Hotel Oberoi Castle 91-183-224462

91-183-224463  11 Kms.

6 Hotel Ritz Plaza 91-183-562836

91-183-562837  12 Kms.

7 Hotel Rosh 91-183-565420 11 Kms.

8 Hotel Sanjay International 91-183-213817

91-183-212555  11 Kms

9 Hotel Shraj Continental 91-183-565167

91-183-563237  11 Kms.

10 Hotel M K International 91-183-504610

91-183-504611 10 Kms.

11 Hotel CJ Intenational www.cjhotel.net 10 Kms

**********

 

Fairs & Festivals

 

The prominent fairs celebrated in the district are described below

 

Ram Tirath Fair

Ram Tirath is located about 11 km to the west of Amritsar city on Amritsar Lopoke road. It is an ancient pilgrimage centre associated with the period of Ramayana. It is said that Sita spent her period of exile at this place in the cottage of Rishi Balmik.It was here that twins were born to Sita who were named as Lav and Kush. The great epic Ramayana is also said to have been composed here by Rishi Balmik. It is also believed that the fight between Lord Ram Chandra’s forces and Lav and Kush had also taken place at Ram Tirath.

 

A big fair is held here about a fortnight after Diwali, for a duration of five days.Great Importance is given to the tank which is believed to have been dug by Hanuman. The circumference of the tank is about 3km and there are temples on its sides. A majority of the pilgrims consider it auspicious to have a dip in the sacred tank in the early hours of the Puranmashi ( full moon) night .A thirty feet wide path of circumambulation (Parikarma) runs round the tank .After the holy dip, the pilgrims take a round of the tank while chanting mantars and exchanging salutations,’Ram Ram.

 

Floating of tullas is a special feature of the fair.On the puranmashi night, women light lamps made out of kneaded flour and fed with pure ghee or mustard oil, place them on leaf plates or boat shaped carriers made of sarkanda reeds, and release them to float in the tank, reciting devotional songs and hymns, This ceremony called tulla toarna (floating of tullas )is believed to wash off the sins and to please Rama.

 

The General belief among the pilgrims is that their visit to the sacred place would be incomplete if they fail to give something in charity to beggars, lepers and crippled persons.They give alms to such persons in the form of cash, clothes and eatables.

 

The entertainments include merry go rounds, feats by acrobats, magic shows, exhibition of wild animals, singing minstrels. During the fair, conferences are also organised by various religious and social bodies .

 

About one lakh pilgrims visit this place during the fair. A large number of jatadhari (long –haired ) sadhus also attend the fair and sit in meditation. A considerable number of Sikhs, mostly from rural areas,also participate and pay homage at the various shrines. Balmikis, from all over the state come to participate in the fair with great enthusiasm and take special interest in the celebrations arranged at the Balmiki temple. They also take out a procession on the concluding day of the fair. Women outnumber men because of the popular belief that issueless women beget children if they take a dip in the baoli known as ‘Mata sita di baoli’ on the full moon night .

 

The Punjab Roadways ply special buses between Amritsar and Ram Tirath during the days of the fair. A large number of stalls are established by confectioners, dealers in general merchandise, petty shopkeepers and hawkers.

 

Diwali at Golden Temple, Amritsar.:Diwali is celebrated at Golden Temple with great enthusiasm for three days.The celebrations start a day earlier than the general Diwali and come to a close 3 day after Diwali. This fair generally falls during the second half of october or in early November.

 

The legend goes that Guru Nanak visited the site of the temple in 1532 AD.Later, Guru Ram das, the fourth Guru acquired the place by a grant from Akbar.the Mughal emperor, and founded a village known as Guru-ka-chak.Gradually the village expanded and came to be known as Guru-ki-nagri (the town of the Guru).The pool from where Guru Nanak used to take water during his stay was converted into a tank by Guru Ram Das between 1581-1606.He named the tank, ‘the tank of Nectar’from which the city was taken its name.

 

Guru Arjan dev also built a temple (Hari Mandir) in the centre of the tank. Its foundation stone was laid by a renowned Muslim divine mian Mir, on I Magh Sambat 1645 (january 1589).The construction of the temple was completed in 1601 and Granth Sahib was installed therein on 1 Bhadon Sambat 1661 (August 1604).Baba Budha was appointed the first granthi (reader) of the holy scripture. This temple later came to be known as Golden Temple.

 

Guru Hargobind reached Amritsar on the eve of Diwali, after his release from Gwalior fort, during the reign of Jahangir.The People illuminated the Golden Temple and the city splendidly to celebrate the return of their Guru to the city. Thereafter, Diwali is being celebrated at Amritsar with great pump and show, and also with a lot of religious fervour.

 

During the fair, religious congregations are held at Manji Sahib, Akal Takhat and Baba Atal which continue for three days. A large number of poets and singers also participate. Recitation of Granth Sahib is done at Darbar Sahib, Akal Takhat and various gurudwaras in the vicinity of Golden Tample.

 

Early in the morning, pilgrims take a holy dip in the scared tank, while reciting Japji Sahib and thereafter, they go to the Golden Temple for paying their obeisance. They make offerings of various kinds both in cash and kind, such as flowers, candy-drops and parched-rice grains, but mostly the offerings are of karah parshad. which is prepared and sold to the pilgrims by the management. Circumambulation of the tank is considered sacred by the pilgrims.

 

Illuminations and pyrotechnic display are the unique features of the Diwali celebrations. A mammoth gathering in the parikarma and on the adjoining buildings witness to their great delight the multicolored lights thrown up in the sky and their reflections in the water of the tank. Chain of the electric lights hang along the causeway and on the Darshani Deorhi. Small earthen lamps lighted and fed with sarson oil are arranged in lines all around the tank. All buildings in the compound are bedecked with coloured lights. Candles and small earthen lamps fed with pure ghee are floated in the tank.

 

This fair is attended by people in the large numbers who come from far and near. A large number of visitors take shelter in the verandahs of the various buildings in the premises. All local inns, rest houses and other common places are packed to capacity. The free mess, called Guru Ram Dass Langar, remains open for all. The whole function is organised by Shiromani Gurudwara Parbhandhak Committee. During the fair, qualified doctors render free medical service to the pilgrims.

 

Amritsar has a brisk sale during Diwali days in woolen cloth and cattle, in sweetmeats and brass utensils, and in candles and crackers. A big cattle fair is also held outside the city which lasts for 12 days . The Municipal Corporation, Amritsar earns a big amount every year fro the sale fee on animals.

 

Basant Panchami at Chheharta Sahib

Basant Panchami is celebrated with great enthusiasm at Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib on fifth day of the bright half of the month of Magh (end of January or beginning of February). People start pouring in a day earlier than the Basant Panchami and participate in the celebrations, which starts the same evening, continue throughout the night, and last till late in the afternoon the next day when the congregation breaks up. Flying of kites is a peculiar feature of the Basant. It is very interesting to watch when two players entangle their kites in the fair with a view to cutting the twines. With a cleaver loosening and jerky pull on the twine, one of the kites gets cut off and there is an uproar of delight and taunts from the winning party. The player whose kite gets cut off, tries to recover as much of the twine as he can without any loss of time. Among the sight-seers, there are some persons who carry poles to catch the falling kites and the twine. It is very exciting and amusing to watch the kites fighting high up in the air.

 

This fair has also commercial aspect. A large number of big and small shops are set up at the site of the fair. The is visited by a very large number of people , both Hindus and Sikhs. During the festivals days, special buses ply from Amritsar and other important stations to Chheharta from the convince of the visiting pubic.

 

The fair is organised by the local Gurudwara management with the corporation of the various social service organisations. Free community kitchen(Langar) is arranged by the management on this occasion. Arrangements are also need for medical and first aid services.

 

Fairs and festivals celebrated here are a wonderful prism of social, moral, religious and patriotic values .Since the days of freedom struggle, there has been a tradition among Hindus and Muslim in Amritsar to drink water from the same vessel on the eve of Ram Navami. Amritsaris jointly celebrate all the Gurpurbs. Diwali, Baisakhi, Holi, Karva Chauth, Teej, Ram Tirath Mela, Basant Panchmi at Chheharta, Langoor Mela at Durgiana and Maghi are celebrated with great gusto and fervour.

 

Shopping

Shopping in Amritsar is a memorable experience. The market places the lanes, the bazaars, the squares, the plazas-hum with activity. The main shopping areas are the Hall Bazar, Katra Jaimal Singh and Lawrence Road. The city offers traditional souvenirs along with modern brandwear at all locations. The main attraction however is the woolens, carpets and blankets, besides juttis and embroidered stuff. The bazaars of Amritsar offer a colourful range of traditional and modern wares from carpets, durries, kites, fireworks, bangles, shawls to cut-glass and woolen textiles. At Guru bazaar, near the Golden Temple, each lane sells a different commodity.

************

 

 

Population

According to 2001 Census total population of District Amritsar is 2152182 .Rural population is 1050102 out of which schedule caste population is 358580 .Urban population is 1102080 out of which 229418 is schedule caste population.

 

Blockwise Rural Population Sr.No Name of Block Population SC Population

1 Ajnala 130890 27166

2 Chogawan 131278 35699

3 Gandiwind(38 Villages) 51733 19733

4 Harsha Chhina 85854 28802

5 Jandiala 124867 53627

6 Majitha 137204 54484

7 Rayya 159877 56380

8 Tarsika 115887 38915

9 Verka 112512 43774

Municipalitywise Urban Population Sr.No Name of Municipality Population SC Population

1 Ajnala 18589 2869

2 Amritsar 1016079 202875

3 Jandiala 23834 7768

4 Majitha 12992 5637

5 Rajasansi 12176 4558

6 Ramdas 5779 2592

7 Rayya 12631 3119

*******************

History & Culture

 

Brief History

Amritsar, literally a Pool of Nectar, derives its name from Amrit Sarovar, the holy tank that surrounds the fabulous Golden Temple. First time visitors to Amritsar could be forgiven for the impression that Amritsar is like any other small town in northern India. But Amritsar stands head and shoulders above any other city, its status elevated and sanctified by the presence of the venerable Golden Temple.

 

Located in the heart of Amritsar, the temple complex is surrounded by a maze of narrow lanes, or katras, that house one of the busiest markets in India. But the Golden Temple is a serene presence, radiating a calm that makes people bow their heads in reverence. The gurudwara, as Sikh temples are called, is the holiest of Sikh shrines. It is not just Sikhs who travel to the Golden Temple to pay homage, the sacred shrine is equally revered by Hindus and people of other faiths who, too, make the pilgrimage to offer prayers at Harmandir Sahib.

 

There more to Amritsar than that - Amongst other sights is Jallianwala Bagh, site of the gruesome massacre of unarmed Indians by British troops. A major tourist attraction these days is the Indo-Pakistan border crossing at Wagah, just a short distance from Amritsar, with its elaborate change-of-guards drill with a lot of strutting and intimidatory showing off by both sides.

 

If you are 'doing' north India, Amritsar is a city you should not miss. It's easy to travel there from Delhi by road and by rail. It is easy to navigate through the city; few guides bother you as tourism is not the most important commercial activity here. Ask them in Amritsar, and they will tell you that if for nothing else you must travel here for the roadside chhola-bhaturas.

 

Origin

The Origin of the city of Amritsar lies hidden in the mists of time due to the scanty evidence available in its early history .On the development of the city, the generally accepted view is based on the Amritsar District Gazetteers, the authoritative works of reference on local history.

 

The various Opinions that the land was granted by emperor Akbar to Guru Amar Das (later on transferred to Guru Ram Das), or was acquired by Guru Ram Das before the grant was actually obtained, or the land was purchased by the Guru on a payment of Rs.700 from the zamindaar of the village at tung at the instance of Emperor Akbar, or presented by the people of village Sultanwind out of regard and reverence for the Guru are all versions based on popular tradition .There are no documentary evidences to support or contradict these views. But the version regarding the purchase of the land by Guru Ram Das is in keeping with the tradition of Sikh Gurus who never took any land grants from the rulers.

 

It seems that originally the site of Amritsar was a community land lying between the village of Sultanwind, Tung, Gumtala and Gilwali, and later it was acquired by the Sikh Gurus either on payment or was received by them free of cost. Opinions may vary on the question of acquisition of the site, but it is certain that the selection of the site was planned and not accidental. It was the choice of the Gurus themselves, and the site of Amritsar was revenue free land.Even the early name of the city chak Guru,bears testimony to the nature of the settlement as detached or revenue free. Probably, Chak Guru was granted exemption from land revenue by the Mughal government during the reign of Emperor Akbar,Whose policy of religious toleration and religious grants even to non-Muslims centres is a well known fact.

 

The original plan of the new project was chalked out by Guru Amardas and Conveyed to Ram Das for execution .Guru Ram Das was given guidelines for the location of the site and was instructed to found a village,to build a House for himself, to dig a tank and to develop the centre gradually into a city . Arrangements were made for money and assistance .some intelligent, experienced and elderly Sikhs were instructed to assist Ram Das to implement the project .The project was thus executed by Guru Ram Das.

 

First of all a boundary line of the settlement was drawn. The foundation was laid by Guru Ram Das and the village was named Ram Das Pura .Opinions vary on the date of the founding of the city. Probably the foundation was laid in 1573 AD but the popular view is that it was done in 1577.

 

The construction of the new centre was started with great enthusiasm.Some huts and houses were built and then excavation of the tank was startad . when a portion of the project was completed, Bhai Jetha went to Goindwal to report the progress of the work.This time Guru Amar Das directed Ram Das to dig another tank at the low level area near the site of the tank under construction.On his return, Guru Ram Das selected the site for the second tank surrounded by a large number of Jujube trees.

 

The construction of the second tank commenced on Nov.6,1573 and Guru Ram Das personally supervised it.Many Sikh devotees came to participate in the Sewa. Simultaneously with the construction of the tank all care was taken to develop the village Chak.52 types of caste groups from Patti,Kasur and Kalanaur were called for ensuring regular supply of essential commodities to the settlers. A market called Guru ka bazar which exists now also was established. Some wells were dug for water supply .A number of rich bankers and traders also settled down in the town.

 

The construction of the tank and the town was going on smoothly .But Guru Ram Das had to rush back to Goindwal at the call of the dying Guru Amar Das, while the work was in progress.The work was resumed on his return in 1577 and the construction of the tank and town was completed in the same year.

 

On the completion of the project, the Guru called the local business community and told them to take charge of the holy place but they humbly pleaded their inability to perform religious duties and requested the Guru to engage some Brahmins and mendicants for the job.

 

The Guru and his disciples were thrilled at the completion of the new pilgrimage centre.Guru Ram Das composed beautiful verses in glorification of the sarowar,making an injunction upon his followers to take bath in the holy tank and meditate the name of God.The tank acquired a reputation fo sanctity and became the head-quarters of the Sikhs.The Amrit Sarowar remained un-bricked till Guru Arjan Dev ascended the Gur Gaddi in 1581.The tank was made pacca and its side stairs were bricked. The tank was named .Amar sarowar or Amritsar .Gradually the fame of the sacred tank led to its identity with the latter appellation and the city got its final name of Amritsar.Guru Arjan Dev also settled in the new city artisans and craftsmen of diverse calling and inculcated in his followers keen interest in horse trade.

 

Early Period

It has been established now that the whole of Amritsar district was a part of the vast area covered under Indus valley Civilization during the early period of history. This civilization developed prior to the Aryans civilization in this region. These evidences for the prevalence of this ancient civilization in this district of Punjab have been furnished by the discovery of certain sites by the archaeologist. The important sites pertaining to Indus valley civilization in Amritsar district are as under:-

 

Vadalol

Chhina

Gharinda

Har

In addition to above, several sites also lie in a row in the Ravi, Beas , Doab.

 

Even in ancient times, trade was a primary factor in the urban development of societies. The Indus valley civilization also flourished with the growth of trade by overland and sea routes. It has been proved by the discovery of various seals of the ancient sites.

 

Ever since the discovery of the Indus Civilization, attempts have made to decipher the Indus script. In this respect, many theories have been propounded about the use of the seals, and the language used therein has been taught to be Sanskrit or Dravadian or an ancestors form thereof, depending largely on the initial approach of the scholars concerned. However, it has been now been established that the direction of writing of Indus script is from right to left. Many effects about Indus civilization will come to light as soon as Indus script is deciphered. During the vedic period, the area now belonging to Amritsar district is believed to be the abode of many Saints and Sages. According to a legend, it was at Ramtirth that Sita took shelter in the Ashram(Cottage) of Rishi(Saint) Balmiki during her exile. Both love and Kush received there education at Ramtirth by the learned Sage Balmiki.

 

The area of the Amritsar district also came under the Greek influence when in about 326 B.C., the area of Punjab up to the bank of river Beas was conquered by Alexander. Later on, it became part of Maurya and Gupta empire.

 

After the overthrow of Greeks, the area of Amritsar district became a part of the Mighty mauryan empire which extended up to Afghanistan. The most enlightened ruler of the mauryan was Ashoka, the great, who during the reign of his father Chandergupta Mauyara was the Viceroy of the principality of Taxila which included the area of present Amritsar district. Subsequently from the beginning of the 4th century to the end of the 6th century, it had the privilege of being under Gupta administration, which because of its efficiency is known as the golden age of Hindu period. Chandergupta was the most famous emperor of Gupta dynasty. Later on, it came under Kushan rulers and Kanishka was the most important ruler of this dynasty. With the rise of Rajputs, it began to be ruled by Rajputs till it became a part of the Shahi Kingdom of Punjab. It is believed that brave people of Majha formed a significant part of the armies of mauryan, Gupta, Kushan and Shahi rulers.

 

Medieval Period

During the last quarter of 10th century, Raja Jaipal of Shahi Dynasty ruled over Punjab including the present area of Amritsar district. His son and successor, Anangpal was finally defeated by Sultan Mahmmod of Ghazni in A.D. 1008. From that time, until the final overthrow of the Muhammdan Supremacy, The Amritsar district was attached to the Suba or Province of Lahor. The Important Muhammdan dynasties were the slave dynasty, the Lodhi dynasty and the Mughal dynasty. During the medieval period, the people of Amritsar district were influenced much by the teachings of the Sikh Gurus who were contemporaries of the Mughal rulers. Before the people of Amritsar district came under the benign influence of the Sikh Gurus, there were not big cities or towns in this district. However, Fatehabad( in Tarn Taran Tahsil) was an important town which lay on the old Delhi and Lahore road. It had an imperial serai for the halting of armies and carvanas. As most of the Mughal rulers were fanatics, the Sikh Gurus and their disciples were bound to come in conflict with them. The impact of the Sikh Gurus on the people of Amritsar district and their conflicts with the Mughals are briefly given as under:

 

Amritsar and the sikh gurus

The People of Amritsar District came under the influence of teachings of Guru Nanak in the beginning of 16th century, Bhai Lehna (later known as Guru Angad Dev), a residence of Khadur Sahib became a devoted follower of Guru Nanak.He preached people on the lines of Guru Nanak.He preached people on the lines of his Guru.He converted Takhat Mal, the headman of the village, and many others to his faith. A community kitchen (langer) was also initiated and men from far and near started pouring in to receive spiritual instruction from him. Even Guru Nanak visited him at khadur Sahib twice and on his second visit, seeing his never-failing devotion to god and man took him back to Kartarpur and appointed him as his successor on 14 July 1539 and called him Angad.

 

Guru Angad Dev settled at Khadur Sahib, his native village and made it his headquarters. He began to preach and spread gospels of Guru Nanak with great devotion.

 

He allowed one of his disciples-Gobind to build a township on the bank of the river Beas, but refused to call the new settlement after his own name and called it Gobindwal (now Goindwal) to commemorate the memory of the disciple.It was on 29 March 1552 Amar Das Ji, the most devoted follower of Guru Angad Dev, was appointed by Baba Buddha as the third Guru of the Sikhs in the benign presence of the Guru. It may be stated here that Humayun also visited Khadur Sahib and received the blessings of Guru Angad Dev.

 

Guru Amar Das guided the Sikhs from Goindwal from 1552-1574.In the year 1567, when Akbar visited Lahore, he made a call on the Guru at Goindwal.On being told that the Guru would see no one, high or low, till one had partaken of the food from the langar (community Kitchen), Akbar, a man of broad sympathies and high culture, welcomed the Idea and partook of the food distributed there, sitting in a row with his subjects of humble origin.

 

Guru Amar Das established 22manjis (dioceses) in many parts of the country to popularise Guru Nanak’s message.Many people came to the Guru to listen to his precepts.The Guru also got constructed a baoli at Goindwal and fixed the first of Baisakh as the day of the annual gathering of the Sikhs.He introduced several new ceremonies on occasions of birth and death,replacing the chanting of Sanskrit Shiolokas by the recitation of Gurbani.He preached against the purdah system, the seclusion of women, encouraged inter-caste alliances and remarriage of widows.The Guru condemned the practice of sati (burning of widow on the pyre of her husband’s dead body).

 

In 1573, Guru Amar Das deputed Ram Das ji to start excavation of the tank later known as Santokhsar and to found a new town later known as Amritsar.Arrangements and control of funds for the purpose were entrusted to Baba Buddha.A number of intelligent, experienced, devoted and elderly Sikhs were instructed to join Ram Das in accomplishing the task. The inauguration of the work was made in the traditional Indian style.Paid labourers were engaged. The visiting Sikh devotees were exhorted to lend a helping hand. Before regular excavation work of the tank (later on named ‘Santokhsar’),started, the boundary line of the new settlement was marked and it was named chak Guru or simply the chak. Later on it began to be called, variously, as Guru ka Chak, Chak Guru Ram Das, or Ram Das Pura. Kilns were laid and a number of hutments were built. The Guru also took abode in a hut near the site (later named Guru ke Mehal)

 

After the portion of the project was completed, Ram Das went to Goindwal to pay his homage to Guru Amar Das and report the progress to him. This time, Guru Amar Das instructed Ram Das to dig another tank at a lower level near the site of the tank that was already under construction. On his return to the Chak, Ram Das made a search for the beri, the covered site for the second tank as instructed by Guru Amar Das .The site having been selected, the construction of the second tank (later on named Amrit sarowar ) commenced under the personal supervision of Ram Das assisted by Baba Buddha. According to Gian Singh Giani (Tawarikh Guru Khalsa, p.344), the digging of the tank commenced on 7 Kartika 1630 BK (6 November 1573).A large number of labourers were engaged . Many Sikh devotees came to the chak to participate in the work of the digging of the tank.The digging continued for many months.Simultaneously with the construction of the tank, every care was taken to develop the chak also .A large number of traders and businessmen from the neighbouring areas were induced to settle in the new township. In due course a market, called Guru ka Bazar, also sprang up there. Some wells were dug for supplying drinking water. A number of rich sarafs (bankers) and banjaras (traders) found their way to the town. A considerable number of the disciples of the Guru shifted to the town.

 

In 1574, when Guru Amar Das saw his end approaching, he summoned Ram Das to Goindwal and made him his successor on 1 september 1574.Guru Ram Das ascended the spiritual throne of Guru Nanak at the age of about forty years in 1574.During his brief period of seven years, he achieved considerable progress in expanding the activities of the Sikh religion. He sent out many of his disciples called Masands even to neighbouring countries like Afganistan to spread the gospel and also to collect offerings of the devotees which he needed more than ever not only to run the community kitchen, but also to complete the excavation of the sacred tank later called Amritsar and to expand the activities of the city of Ramdaspur he had founded in the life time of Guru Amar Das .

 

Amritsar - The Cultural Hub of Punjab

 

The city of Amritsar a dazzling showcase of composite culture and secular heritage .It has a proud past .a glorious present and a promising future .This most important city of Majha has rightly been called the mukut-mani (Jewel of the crown)of the Punjab. A rich repository of spiritual and national heritage, It has been hailed as the home of all virtues’(sifti da ghar) .while praying, every devout Sikh longs to be blessed with a pilgrimage to Amritsar and a holy bath at the Golden Temple (Amritsar ke darsan isnan).A visit to Amritsar is believed to wash off all the sins.

 

A focal point of Sikh faith, a pivot of Punjab politics, a gateway to the Middle-East, a nursery of defence pool, an alert sentinel at the Indo-Pak border, Amritsar is the place where the first Sikh Army was raised by the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind. The city saw the fierce onslaughts of the invading armies of Ahmad Shah Abdali and a reckless carnage at the Jallianwala Bagh. An epicenter of Kooka and Akali movements and a symbol of resistance against the British tyranny, Amritsar had been a favourite place of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It was in Amritsar that the clarion-call for the liberation of India sounded louder and clearer. In the recent times, the has at regular intervals borne the brunt of Indo-Pak conflicts.

 

Amritsar is like a diamond with many facets. The essential spirit of the city is found not only in its gurudwaras & temples, mosques & churches, takias & khankahs but also in its theatres & galleries, parks & gardens, archives & libraries, art & architecture, museums & memorials, havelis & forts, fairs & festivals, vibrant folk dances & scintillating taans, narrow lanes & winding alleys, parlours & boutiques, clubs & pubs, traditional bustling markets & lip-smacking cuisine.

 

The most dominating asset, however, is its people who are friendly, God-fearing, hospitable, hard working informal, robust and with a tremendous zest for living. They are fond of good food, good dress and all the external symbols of life.

 

Amritsar is the heart-beat of the Majha region which has provided Punjabi literature with its standard language. A launching pad of several renowned artists, authors and poets, the city has been a home of handloom and carpet industry for more than a century. The city is proud to have the second largest Milk plant in the country.

 

Amritsar is not just bhangra or giddha, sarson ka saag and makki ki roti, it is an attitude and a way of life, despite the modern winds blowing, the city still enshrines and exudes its essential cultural identity. Being the only land-route opening to Pakistan the city has become a favourite rendezvous of Track-II diplomacy.

 

Amritsar Other Attractions

 

Jagdev Kalan is related with the name of Muslim poet Hasham Shah, the famous author of Sassi-Punnu. In an era of Indo-Pak bonhomie, this village is a hotspot for mutual meeting-ground of interests, secular thinking and composite

 

heritage.

Kotli Sultan Singh about 32 kilometers from Amritsar, is the native place of Mohammad Rafi, the legendary singer of the celluloid world.

 

Serai Amanat Khan is a very charming and elegant structure situated in a small village south west of Amritsar. The Serai has a beautiful gate constructed in a Mughal style of architecture. The tomb of Amanat Khan is surrounded by four minarets. The mosque near the tomb is decorated with Persian verses.

*************

 

Amritsar Flavours & Aromas

 

Cuisine

Amritsar-a traditional vibrant city –is known for warmth & hospitality. Amritsaris are born hosts, and are famous for having a palate for eating. Contact Addresses

 

 

This is perhaps because the Amritsari mind- set was shaped by frequent ravages of war where the dawn of the next day was not sure.

 

The city is famous for its culinary delicacies like multi-layered prathas, bhatura channa, tandoori kulchas, puris, jam, marmalades, sharbat, rabri & lassi. Other delicacies include satpuras, samosas, fried fish,seekh kabab, mutton tikka, barbecued chicken and spicy pickles.

 

The celebrated papad and vadian from Amritsar have become the subject of many a rhymes and jingles, Amritsaris have a sweet tooth for pinnis, balushahis and gur ka halwa.The city has many places for traditional cuisines and modern foods.Most of the eating joints of the traditional cuisines and modern foods.Most of the eating joints of the traditional cuisine are within the walled city.

*********

 

Telephone List of Main office/officers of Amritsar

 

  Officer Name /Designation Office Residence

A A.D.C.(G)Amritsar. 2226363 2226464

  A.D.C.(D)Amritsar 2226868 2229622

  AETC-1 2210038 2225224

  AETC-11 2212388 2213994

  Air Port 2592166,2804526,

2565081 2590025

  AC(Grivences) 2225722  

  AC(G) 2226767 2226768

  A.D.A.Legal Mr.Dhanawali 2228798  

  A,T.M.Railway Station Asr 2213171 2566887

  Attari border. 2382610, 2231741  

  Army 2226678-83  

B B.D.P.O.Verka 30998043  

  B.D.P.O.Jandiala 2432156 2520953

  B.D.P.O.Majitha 2773326  

  B.D.P.O.Tarsika 01853-267726  

  B.D.P.O.Rayya 01853-222080  

  B.D.P.O.Ajnala 01858-221062  

  B.D.P.O.Harsha chhina 01858-264107  

  B.D.P.O.Chogawan 01858-244401  

  B.D.P.O.Gandiwind 01852-260117  

  B.S.F.Wahga Border 2476230,2476369  

  Bachet Bhawan 2501358  

Banks Syndicate Bank 2565118 2565521

  O.B.C.Queens Rd. 2564682 2565163

  O.B.C.Majitha Rd. 2555157 2555748

  Canera Bank 2223972  

  Majitha Rd.    

  Pb&Sind Bank Rly Rd. 2565179  

  O.B.C.Vallah 2261124  

  Union Bank Lawranse Rd. 2220087  

  S.B.I.City 2547780,2548188  

  S.B.I.Cantt. 2565319  

C Commissioner MC ASR 2545155 2222111

  CJM 2225110 2225251

  Control Room ASR 2228185  

    100  

  Civil Surgeon 2211864 2583630

  Custom Officer 2507436 2504636

Colleges Shazada Nand College 2210828

2222273  

  D.A.V. College for boys 2553377

2551872  

  Khalsa College 2258418,2258852  

  Shazada Nand Collage for women 2544645, 2210828  

  Govt College for women 2225818  

  D.A.V.College for women 2221757, 2221009  

Clubs Amritsar Club 2223669 2540222

  A.G.A 2223306  

  Serivce Club 2227068  

Cinemas Annam Cinemas 2210949  

  Adrash 2565249  

  Suraj Chanda 2557393  

  Sangam 2545500  

  Gagan 2271020  

  New Rialto 2566101  

Health Civil Surgeon 2211864 2274564

District Offices D.H.O 2566271  

  Cantonment Board 2563967 2562351

  Circuit House 2566319 2210053

  Chif Agi Office 2502527  

  C.J.M 2225110  

  Custom 2210377, 2565469  

  Custom Attari Rd. 2292630  

  Coca Cola Factory 2258397  

  Depo 2225749  

  C.D.P.O.Jandiala 2320071  

  Computer Section 2220899, 2400364  

  Commissioner Provident Funds 2500471, 2501064  

D Distt & Session Judge 2225124 2225122

  Deputy Commisseioner Asr 2226161 2226162,6262

  DIG Border Range 2223238 2210966

  DIG BSF Border Range 2258705, 2258275 2258520

  Distt Mandi Officer 2527459 2257444

  D.M.Punsup 2506119 2221878

  D.R.O. 2229125 2401103

  Distt Social Security Officer 2571934  

  Dy.Dir. Sanik Welfare 2563102  

  Distt Attorny 2400193 2565518

  Distt Sports Officer 2557693 2562222

  D.E.O.(S) 2225896 2500923

  D.E.O.(P) 2228979 2227080

  D.D.P.O. 2226980 2401804

  D.T.O. 2565244 2507560

  D.W.O. 2534944 2566012

  D.D.L.G. 2557689 2229882

  D.F.S.C. 2564966 2225699

  Dy.Director Horticulture 2502476 2223340

  Dy.Ecnomical & Statistical Advisor 2565999  

  Distt Small Savings Officer 2503184  

  Distt.Treasury Officer 2222587  

  Dy. E.S.A. 2565999  

  D.M. Agro 2505531 2500137

  D.M.Ware House 2401060  

  D.M.Markfed 2500372 2506669

  D.O.R.G. 2225722 2226440

  Durgina Mandir 2550700  

    2550800  

  Divisional Forest Officer 2231480  

  D.M.S.C.C. 2556667 2275071

  D.T.P. 2220406 2229899

  Deputy Dir.Public Relation. 2210235 2223093

  D.P.R.O. 2210235 2223870

  D.M.F.C.I. 2226257 2500012

Doctors Dr.Daljit Singh Eyes 2551600  

  Dr.Adarsh.Heart.G.Nanak Hospital 2500709  

  Dr.Davinder Sharma.Heart 2505122 2545945

  Dr.A.S.Randhawa Brain   2503624

  Dr.Mrs.Khanna. 2220805  

  Dr.Jadish Gargi.Post Mortem 2226900  

  Dr.Sujan Singh Eyes 2256636 2258873

  Dr.Sandhu 2504333 2710475

E Election Tehsildar. 2227118 2484635

  Employment officer 2552379  

  E.O.I.T.O. 2557618,2557617 2228292

  Essma Mill 2226252,2564921,2566882  

  E.O.M.C.O. Asr 2545538  

  E.O.M.C.Jandiala 2432122,2432405 2484991

  E.O.M.C.Majitha 2773347 2484991

  EOMC Ajnala 951858-221438  

  EOMC Rayya 951853-222286 5095421

  EOMC Raja Sansi 951858-233712  

  EO Improvement trust 2500555,2501666  

G G.M.Rd.ways-1 2551735 2212641

    2551741  

  G.M.Rd.ways-11 2551776,2551744  

  G.A.to D.C 2226767 2226768

  G.M.D.I.C. 2584804 2586696

  G.M.Telephones 2563566 2563500

  Gurdwara judicial Commission 2502398  

  Guru Nanak Bhavan 2545480  

Gas Agnecy Amritsar Gas Agency 2556456  

  Amrohi 2566496,2564040  

  Arora 2548110  

  Dee.Ess. 2542508  

  Bajwa 2282602  

  Chopra 2555770  

  Jagdav Chheharta 2258200  

  Shivam Gas 2521380  

  Ganpati 2541588  

Hotels Ritz Hotel 2562836 2566314

  Mohan International 2227801to08  

  Sun&Shine 2563876  

  Kumar International 2500171  

  Royal Castel 2556264  

  M.K. 2504610,504611  

  Amritsar International 2555991-92  

Hospitals Guru Ramdas Dental College&Hospital 2585656  

  Dental College Mall Mandi 2553668  

  Sani Hospital 2221121  

  Kakkar 2506053  

  Dental Hospital Majitha rd. 2566674  

  Mundh. 2503336 2503346

I Income Tax Officer. 2225675, 2225876   

  Improvement trust 2500555, 2501666 2503399

  I.T.I.Centre 2553431  

  Indian Oil 2503419  

J Jail 2228110  

  Jalliana Wala Bagh 2542245  

K Kabul Trading Company 2564789, 2222215  

L Labour Officer 2564602  

  LIC Asr 2557830, 2557392, 2555517  

  LBO 2566089  

M Market Committee Asr 2543264 1852-22426

    2542956  

  M.C.Gehri 2432027  

  M.C. Rayya 01853-222319 2273356

  M.C. Chhabal 01852-277255 52-222015

  M.C.Ajnala 01858-221051 2504778

  M.C.Chogawan 01858-244761 2227505

  M.C.Attari 2382605 01852-222426

  M.C.Mehta 01853-256725 2273356

  M.C.Jandiala. 2322027 2236264

  M.C.Majitha. 2773353 2581064

  Municipal Corporation Commissioner. 2545155 2222111

       

  Medical Supdtt.Guru Nanak Hospital. 2220460,2222173 2220805

Mills Sawadesi mill 2564841, 2222777 2220764

  Sugar Mill Ajnala 246652  

N N.T.Colonization 2556461  

  Nowelty Sweets 2223197  

  Nizzar Agro 2321704  

  Nehru Juva Kender 2210870  

O Odeon 2565074  

  OCM 2258712,2258713  

S S.E.Irrigation 566252 2226761

    566246  

  S.E.N/H 274203 474513

  S.E.Sewrage Board 553916 401999

  S.E.PSEB City Circle 553607, 545882 504087

  S.E.Public Health 543391 223446

  S.E.Mandi Board 500731, 556461  

  S.E.PWD 274285  

  S.E.Drains 229954 226975

  S.E.Chief Engineer PSEB 263915, 263948  

  S.E.Pheruman PSEB 2504669 2502521

Schools Sant Singh Sukha Singh 2223878,2565799, 2565699  

SSP Amritsar 2227779  

SSP Majitha 2584369  

  B.R.Modern Sch. 2224603  

  G.S.S.S.Mall Rd. 2220682  

  D.A.V.Public Sch. 2224603  

  P.B.N.Hall Gate 2551995  

  Kotla Sultan Singh 2236550 2231040

  Holly Heart Green Avenue 2563935  

  Holly Heart Rani Ka Bagh 2564441  

  Holly Heart G.T.Rd. 246903  

  D.A.V.Sch. hathi Gate 2548465  

  St.Frances. 2226285  

  Harkrishan Public Sch. 2562649  

  Khalsa College Public Sch. 2258337 2258267

S.D.M’s S.D.M.Asr-I 2226928 2226307

  S.D.M.Asr-II 2228303 2227098

  S.D.M.Baba Bakala 01853-245510 245511

  S.D.M.Ajnala 01858-221037 221054

  Supdtt.Medical.S.G.T.B.Hospital 2222173  

T Tehsildar Asr-I 2562663 2229646

  Tehsildar Asr-II 2544695  

  Tehsildar Ajnala 01858-221102 2213030

  Tehsildar Baba Bakala 01853-225511 2421656

U Guru Nanak Dev University. 2258802 to 09  

  G.N.D.U.V.C 2258811  

  Pro V.C 2258880  

  G.N.D.U 2258855  

  G.N.D.U History Deptt 2258802  

V Verka Milk Plant 2263072, 2263026  

W Working Women Hostal Asr 2234411  

X Xen Mandi Board 2526451 2500731

  Xen P.S.E.B.Hall Gate 2548156 266343

  Xen Drainage 2566097  

  Xen Drainage Mechinical 2566278  

  Xen P.W.D.Electercity 2274384 2222672

  Xen P.S.E.B. 2274362  

  Xen Rural Rd.Division-1 2564793 2277609

  Xen Rural Rd. Division -2 2274285 2275181

  Xen Building Prov.Div.2 2274881 2228860

  Xen Public Health Div.1 2554281 2212456

  Xen Public Health Div.2 2562911  

  Xen P.W.D.Electrcity 2274284 2222672

  Xen Rural Works P.W.D. 2274285  

  Xen National Highways 2566551 2275601

  Xen Panchyat Raj 2234637 2225398

  Xen P.S.E.B.(SHARMA) 2544458 2548156

  Xen Palution Board 226079  

  Xen Galiara 2293081 425856

  Xen Panchayat Raj 225398  

  Xen UBDC 2566423  

  Xen Irregation 2566246

**************

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hotels

Hotel MK   

Ritz Plaza

Ranjit's Svaasa

Amritsar Travel   

Hotel Lawrence   

Mohan International Hotel   

Hotel Veenus   

Hotel Heritage Inn   

Hotel City Heart   

Radisson Hotel   

Hotel Grand Legacy   

Hotel Swarn   

Hotel Royal Inn   

49, Brahm Butta Market

Near Sarai Guru Ram Das    

Amritsar Punjab 143001  Email 

Hotel P R Residency   

Hotel Le Golden   

Hotel Swarn   

Golden Tower   

    

 

************

 

Nightview of the Golden Temple

   Amritsar 

Coordinates: 31°38'N 74°52'E? / ?31.64, 74.86

Time zone IST (UTC+5:30)

Area 50 km² (19 sq mi)

Elevation 218 m (715 ft)

Population  Density 10,050/km² (2007)

Pincode 143-0xx

Telephone +91 183

Vehicle PB02

 

Amritsar (Punjabi: ?????????, Hindi: ??????), (meaning: The Pool of the Nectar of Immortality)[1], is the administrative headquarter of the Amritsar District in Punjab, India. The 2001 Indian census reported the population of the city to be over 1,500,000 and that of the entire district to number just over 3,695,077.

 

Amritsar is located in the northwest part of India in the State of Punjab, 32 miles east of Lahore, Pakistan. Amritsar derives its name from Amrit-sarovar literally meaning "The Pool of the Nectar of Immortality".

 

It is home to the Harimandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, and is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh Religion. It is also known for the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919) and Operation Bluestar (1984).

 

The main commercial activities include tourism, carpets and fabrics, farm produce, handicrafts, service trades and light engineering. Amritsar is also a seat of major educational institutions like Guru Nanak Dev University (established 1969), BBK DAV College for Women, Amritsar(established 1967), Khalsa College, Amritsar (established 1892), DAV College Amritsar (established 1955), and Government Medical College, Amritsar (established 1926). Amritsar is also home to Pingalwara, the home for destitutes founded by Bhagat Puran Singh and a home to Central Khalsa Orphanage (house for orphans) which was once a home to Shahid Udham Singh.

 

 

 

History of Amritsar

 

Distant view of Babatul, AmritsarAmritsar city is one of the major cities of the Sikh nation. Under instructions from Guru Amar Das Sahib, this city was founded by Guru Ram Das Sahib in 1574, on the land bought by him for an amount of rupees 700 from the owners of the village Tung. (Earlier Guru Ram Das Sahib had begun building Santokhsar Sarovar, near erstwhile village of Sultanwind in 1564 {according to one source in 1570}. It could not be completed before 1588). In 1574, Guru Ram Das Sahib built his residence and moved to this place. At that time, it was known as Guru-Da-Chakk. (Later, it came to be known as Chakk Ram Das). Guru Ram Das Sahib began excavation of the Amritsar Sarovar (tank) in 1577. It was ready by 1581. This tank was renovated by Guru Arjun Sahib in 1586. Since then this city is known as Amritsar (after the name of the Sarovar). The foundation of the Darbar Sahib had been laid by Guru Arjan Sahib on January 3, 1588. (Later, it was propagated that the foundation stone of Darbar Sahib was laid by Sain Mian Mir, a Muslim holy man. Sain Mian Mir was very friendly with Guru Sahib but the foundation of Darbar Sahib was laid by Guru Sahib himself). In 1590, Guru Arjan Sahib moved to village Wadali where Guru Hargobind Sahib was born on June 19, 1590. By 1601, the Darbar Sahib was fully ready. In 1603-04, the first volume of Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh scriptures, was prepared in this city and was installed at Darbar Sahib on August 16, 1604.

 

It is here that Akal Takht Sahib (Throne of the Almighty) was revealed by Guru Hargobind Sahib in 1609. Two flags representing temporal and spiritual authority (Sikh sovereignty) have been set up in front of Akal Takht Sahib. Here Guru Hargobind Sahib wore two swords of Miri and Piri (temporal and transcendental authority). The building of Akal Takht Sahib was twice demolished by Afghan armies and was very badly damaged by the Indian regime (in June 1984). The Indian government repaired it in September 1984. The Sikhs began demolishing it on January 26, 1986. The present structure has been constructed by five service-groups headed by Baba Thakar Singh of Bhindran-Mehta Jatha.

 

On April 13, 1634, the Mogul army attacked Guru Hargobind Sahib here. From 1635 to 1698, Amritsar remained in the control of the Mina family (descendants of Pirthi Chand). During this period, on November 23, 1664, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib visited the town. In April 1698, Bhai Mani Singh was appointed as the caretaker of the shrines of Amritsar.

 

The Mogul chief of Patti tried to occupy Amritsar several times. One such attempt was made in April 1709. The Sikhs, under the command of Bhai Mani Singh and Bhai Tara Singh of Dall-Wan, repelled this attack. When Baba Banda Singh Bahadur occupied several areas in the Punjab, Bhai Mani Singh chose to leave Amritsar in order to avoid the Mogul attacks. On December 30, 1711, the Mogul emperor, Bahadur Shah, granted Ajit Singh Palit the charge of Amritsar in order to use him against Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. After the death of Bahadur Shah, Ajit Singh Palit returned to Delhi. In 1721, Bhai Mani Singh returned to Amritsar and re-started regular worship. His first act was to solve a dispute between so-called Tat Khalsa and so-called Bandai Khalsa for the right to the management of the shrines at Amritsar.

 

On March 29, 1733, a major gathering of the Sikhs was held here in front of Akal Takht Sahib. During the same time a Sarbat Khalsa gathering was also held. It discussed the Mogul offer of Nawab-hood. In April 1734, Bhai Mani Singh was arrested and was martyred at Lahore on June 24, 1734.

 

In 1740, Massa Ranghar, a debauched official, desecrated Darbar Sahib. He was punished by Bhai Sukkha Singh and Bhai Mahtab Singh, on August 11, 1740. In 1757 Afghan army demolished Darbar Sahib and Akal Takht Sahib. Baba Dip Singh led several thousand Sikhs against the Afghan. A major battle was fought on November 11, 1757. Baba Dip Singh and several thousand Sikhs embraced martyrdom. Again, in 1762, the Darbar Sahib complex was demolished by Afghan army. On December 1, 1764, the Afghan army made another attack. 30 Sikhs, led by Jathedar Gurbakhsh Singh, fought against mammoth Afghan army and embraced martyrdom. In 1765, the Sikhs began re-construction of the shrines. The central part was ready by 1776.

 

During the eighteenth century, Amritsar, like the Sikh community as a whole, witnessed many vicissitudes of history. It suffered repeatedly desecration and destruction until it was finally liberated upon the establishment of sovereign authority of the Sikh misls, principalities, over the Punjab in 1765. The town was thereafter under the control of several misl chiefs although its surrounding district was held by Sardar Hari Si?gh of the Bha?gi misl. Different sardars or chiefs constructed their own bu?gas or residential houses around the principal sarovarand also their respective ka??as or wards encouraging traders and craftsmen to reside in them and over which each exercised exclusive control. The sacred shrines were however administered by a joint council comprising representatives of the chiefs who had made endowments in land for their maintenance. Even prior to the time of Sikh ascendancy, joint councils, known as sarbatt Khalsa(lit. the entire Sikh Panth), to take crucial decisions on political matters had been held at Amritsar. Now again with all misl chiefs having their bu?gas there, it became the common capital of the Khalsa. Devotees from far and near, free to visit the holy city after six decades of the severest persecution, flocked to Guru ki Nagari (the Guru's town). So did businessmen and tradesmen to take advantage of the increasing pilgrim and resident population. Trade, commerce and crafts flourished in different ka??as each having its own markets and manufactories. By the end of the eighteenth century, Amritsar had already become Punjab's major trading centre. Yet the town with its multiple command setup remained a confederated rather than a composite habitation until Maharaja Ra?jit Si?gh (1780-1839) rose to power and consolidated the whole of the Punjab into one sovereign State.

 

Ranjit Singh, chief of the Sukkarchakkia misl, who first occupied, in 1799, Lahore, the traditional capital of the Punjab, and declared himself Maharaja in 1801, extended his hegemony to Amritsar in 1805 when he took over from his traditional rivals, the bhangi chiefs, their fort with its mint striking the Nanakshahi rupee, and the famous Zamzama gun. The fort of the Ramgarhia misl was occupied in 1815 and with the possessions of Rani Sada Kaur of Kanhaiya Misl and Fateh Si?gh Ahluvalia in Amritsar during the early 1820's, Ranjit Singh's occupation of Amritsar was complete. He then constructed a double wall and a moat around the city with twelve gates and their corresponding bridges over the moat. Already in 1809 he had constructed the Gobindga?h Fort outside Lahauri Gate complete with a formidable moat, three lines of defence and several bastions and emplacements for heavy guns. Amritsar thus had already become his second capital. The royal toshakhana or treasury was kept in Gobindga?h Fort which was also used as the royal residence during the Maharaja's frequent visits to the city before his palace in the city, Ram Bagh, was completed in 1831. Several members of the nobility also raised palatial houses and beautiful gardens in and around the city. Ranjit Singh devoutly provided liberal funds to have the dome and exterior of the holy Harimandar gold plated and to have the interior ornamented with fine filigree and enamel work and with decorative murals and panels in marble inlaid with coloured stone. Sardar Desa Singh Majithia (d. 1832), who had been appointed manager of the holy shrines in the city since its occupation by Ranjit Singh, donated gold for gilding the top of Baba Attal.

 

 

Around 1830, Ranjit Singh gold-plated some part of the inner section of the Darbar Sahib. (It harmed this Sikh institution as some ignorant people began unjustly calling it Golden Temple).

 

In 1846, the British established themselves in the Lahore Darbar, with a Resident in the Court; and, Amritsar became a place of frequent visits by the British. In order to keep sanctity of the city, H. M. Lawrence, the British Resident, issued an order, dated March 24, 1847, asking the English people to follow the Sikh protocol while visiting the Sikh centres. In 1858, a Municipal Committee was set up here. In 1862, train services between Lahore and Amritsar were started. Khalsa College, the first Sikh college was established here in 1892. [In 1969 Guru Nanak Dev University was established here]. In 1913, the city was electrified. In September 1915, the British declared Amritsar a "Holy City". (This order was undeclaredly annulled after August 15, 1947 by the Indian regime). On April 13, 1919, General Reginald Dyer opened fire on the gathering, at Jallianwala Bagh, near Darbar Sahib, killed 379 people and wounded another 1200. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (S.G.P.C.) and the Shiromani Akali Dal were established here in 1920.

 

The famous Sikh shrines at Amritsar include: Five Sarovars (sacred tanks): Amritsar (1586), Santokhsar (1587-88), Ramsar (1602-03), Kaulsar (1627), Bibeksar (1628); and, Gurdwaras: Baba Atal (1770), Shaheed Ganj Baba Dip Singh (1803, partly in 1823), Shaheed Ganj Baba Gurbakhsh Singh, Guru De Mahal (It was the residence of Guru Ram Das Sahib, Guru Arjan Sahib, Guru Hargobind Sahib and Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was born here), Darshani Deodi (near Guru Bazaar, associated with the memory of Guru Arjan Sahib), Gurdwara Thara Sahib (on the bank of Amritsar Sarovar; associated with the memory of Guru Ram Das Sahib and Guru Arjan Sahib), Gurdwara Thara Sahib (in memory of the visit of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib), Damdama Sahib (in memory of the visit of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, in 1664), Pippali Sahib (It is associated with memory of Guru Arjan Sahib and Guru Hargobind Sahib), Gurdwara Tahli Sahib (Guru Ram Das Sahib used to rest under a Tahli, i.e. shisham tree. The Tahli tree, believed to be the same still exists), Churasti Atari (associated with memory of Guru Hargobind Sahib), Gurdwara Lohgarh Qila (Earlier it was a fort built by Guru Hargobind Sahib in 1609) etc. Besides, 68 Bungas were constructed in the town from time to time. (See: Bunga). The Central Sikh Museum and the Sikh Reference Library are also established here. The Indian army burnt the Sikh archives, libraries and the records of the offices of the Akali Dal and the S.G.P.C. on June 6-7, 1984 during Operation Bluestar, the assault on the Golden Temple complex, which caused many Sikhs to take part in the Khalistan movement in order to fight for an independent Sikh homeland in Punjab.

 

The city is dominated by the history of the Sikhs and many of their sacred shrines are found in and around the city. It was established by Guru Ramdas. The city has highest temporal seat of Sikhs "The Harimandir Sahib" popularly known as Golden Temple. The city has central old city called walled city. It has narrow zig zag streets mostly developed in the 17th and 18th century. The city has a peculiar example of introvert planning system and has uniques areas called Katras. The Katras are self styled residential units that provided unique defence system during attacks on the city.

 

 

Harimandir SahibThe city lies on the main Grand Trunk Road (GT Road) from Delhi to Amritsar connecting to Lahore in Pakistan. The G. T. Road, built by Sher Shah Suri, runs through the whole of the northern half of the Indian Subcontinent, connecting Peshawar, Pakistan to Sonargaon, Bangladesh. The city is also connected to most other major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta by an extensive network of rail system. The city also provides air connectivity to major Indian cities, as well as international cities such as Birmingham, Toronto, Dubai, Singapore, Tashkent, Ashgabat, London etc from the Raja Sansi International Airport. The airport is being developed for increasing demand in future; a new International inbound & outbound terminal is operational and cargo terminal is also under construction.

 

The city is the administrative centre for the Amritsar District. Amritsar developed from a small village pool to a business centre. However, it did not become the industrial centre of Punjab due to its proximity to the volatile Indo-Pak border.

 

 

Modern Amritsar

Modern Amritsar is currently seeing rapid urban growth. To facilitate the development process, the Government of India and Government of Punjab have released a Rs.3,150 Crore (roughly 769 million USD) plan to guide Amritsar to world class status[citation needed]. The planned budget would fund construction of roads, sewage management, water, and a mass Rapid Transport transit system. The city is witnessing an economic expansion similar to that seen in other cities in India. To protect Amritsar's historical and religious heritage, part of the new budget is dedicated to the preservation of religious shrines in the city[citation needed]. A new city Convention Centre has also been planned[citation needed].

 

 

Geography and Climate

Amritsar is located at 31.63° N 74.87° E[2]. It has an average elevation of 219 metres (718 feet).

 

The weather in this region of India is seasonal with four distinct seasons. The winter season (November to March) when temperatures ranges from 18 °C to about -3 °C, the hot season (April to June) when temperatures can reach 49 °C, monsoon season (July to September) and post-monsoon (September to November).

 

Climate Table  Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Mean daily maximum temperature (°C) 16 20 24 33 37 36 33 32 32 29 24 18

Mean daily temperature (°C) 10 14 18 26 30 31 30 28 27 23 17 11

Mean daily minimum temperature (°C) 4 8 12 19 23 26 26 25 22 17 10 5

Precipitation (in) 0.94 1.30 1.89 1.14 0.98 2.44 9.09 7.36 3.11 0.71 0.24 0.71

 

The best time to visit Amritsar is between October and March.

 

 

Demographics

As of 2007, Amritsar had a population of 1547695. Males constitute 55% of the population and females 45%. Amritsar has an average literacy rate of 75%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. 15% of the population is under 6 years of age. The main spoken language in Amritsar and in the surrounding villages is the Punjabi dialect of Maajhi, considered to be Standard Punjabi. Other languages spoken in the city are English, Hindi, and Urdu.

 

 

District Administration

The Deputy Commissioner, an officer belonging to the Indian Administrative Service, is the official in charge of general administration in the district. He is assisted by a number of officers belonging to the Punjab Civil Service and other Punjab state services.

The Senior Superintendent of Police, an officer belonging to the Indian Police Service, is responsible for maintaining law and order in the district. He is assisted by the officers of the Punjab Police Service and other Punjab Police officials.

The Divisional Forest Officer, an officer belonging to the Indian Forest Service, is responsible for the management of the forests, environment and wildlife in the district. He is assisted by the officers of the Punjab Forest Service and other Punjab Forest officials and Punjab Wild-Life officials.

Sectoral development is looked after by the district head/officer of each development department such as PWD, Health, Education, Agriculture, Animal husbandry, etc. These officers are from various Punjab state services.

The Amritsar city has a local government (municipal corporation) responsible for the management of local and public health systems of the city. The municipal corporation is a democratic body of councilors. At present there are more than 70 councilors. They elect their mayor.

The District Town Planner - The state government's department of Town and Country Planning has a district level office of District Town Planning. Since the formation of this office, however, the city has not received a comprehensive development plan[citation needed]. The government of India has selected Amritsar to invest 1000 crores rupees for development.

 

Transport

Amritsar is connected by bus with Ambala, Chandigarh, Delhi, Ferozepur, Jammu etc. Some of the road distances are as follows:- Jammu 216 km, Ferozepur 160 km, Chandigarh 235 km, Delhi 435 km and Wagah 29 km. Rickshaws, autorickshaws and buses are an easy way of getting around Amritsar.

 

Amritsar is connected by rail with Delhi, Calcutta, Bombay, Varanasi, Wagah (Attari Border) and other major Indian cities. The main railway station in Amritsar is the, Amritsar Railway Station. It is currently under going renovation[citation needed].

 

The city's international airport, Raja Sansi International Airport, is growing in size rapidly. By July 2008, it will be doubled in size, 4 jetways, with a new parking area and much more[citation needed].

 

About Rs. 2,100 Crore is being left aside for the Mass Rapid Transport system for the city[citation needed]. It is hoped that this will help relieve city traffic, save money and help the environment.

 

 

Education

Amritsar is a major educational centre. Educational institutions like Guru Nanak Dev University (established 1969), BBK DAV College for Women, Amritsar(established 1967), Khalsa College, Amritsar (established 1892), DAV College Amritsar (established 1955), and Government Medical College, Amritsar (established 1926) are in Amritsar, and are among India's best universities and collages. A proposed civil aviation college is also in planning stages, if built it would the first in India[citation needed].

 

 

Religious Shrines

 

Sikh

 

The Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)The following is a list of the prominent Sikh gurudwaras and sacred places in the city and its vicinity:

 

Harimandir Sahib (Golden Temple)

Gurdwara Manji Sahib Devan Asthan

Akal Takht

Gurdwara Ramsar Sahib

Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh, built at the site of the martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh

Gurdwara Bebaksar Sahib

Birth Place of Guru Hargobind Sahib

Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Tarn Taran (twenty five km south of Amritsar)

Gurdwara Baba Budha

Guru da Bagh, Kokawali

Gurdwara Bohli Sahib, Goindwal

Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha, Thattah-Chabhal

Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Khadur

ChhehartaSahib, Guru Hargobind Ji

Baba Bakala, where Bhai Makhan Shah proclaimed that he had found the ninth Sikh Guru in Guru Teg Bahadur

Birth Place of Baba Budha Ji, Kathunangal

Saragarhi Gurudwara

 

Hindu

Durgiana Mandir

Sage Valmiki's Ashram Named as Ram Tirath

Mata Lal Devi Mandir

Maha Kali Mandir,Near Escorts hospital.

Gopal mandir.

Ram Tirath

Shivala Bhaian Temple

 

 

 

Hotels

Hotel M.K 

Hotel Ranjit Svaasa

Hotel Ritz Plaza

Hotel Raj Continental

Hotel P R Residency

Hotel CJ International

 

Hotel Kishore Castle

Hotel  Volga

Hotel Majha Continental

 

 

DISTANCE OF IMPORTANT CITIES

New Delhi  480 KM

Chandigarh  225 KM

Jammu 200 KM

Katra 256 KM

Patnitop 325 KM

Srinagar 490 KM

Dalhousie 220 KM

Dharamshala 225 KM

Kullu Manali 470 KM

Shimla 340 KM

Jaipur 750 KM

Lahore (Pakistan) 75 KM

 

One can also cross over into Amritsar from Pakistan Side. On the Pakistan side the Border is called Wagah Border and on Indian Side it is Atari Border. Lahore (Pakistan) to Border it is about 35 Kms and from Border to Amritsar (India) is 32 Kms. Crossing over to Amritsar by foot through this Border is a better option than taking a train. The formalities of immigration and customs take about 30-45 minutes on each side.

 

There is also a bus service between Amritsar and Lahore.

*********

 

Month       Min- temp         Max- temp   Rainfall    Seasons

 

January     4                 21                45     Winter

 

February    7                 22                40     Spring

 

March      12                 25                35     Spring

 

April      18                 35                30     Summer

 

May        22                 42                20     Summer

 

June       27                 44                50      Summer

 

July       28                 37                130     Rainy

 

August     25                 35                140     Rainy

 

September  24                 33                 75     Autumn

 

October    15                 30                 10     Autumn

 

November   12                 28                  7     Winter

 

December    5                 20                  10     Winter

 

Restaurants at Amritsar

 

Crystal Restaurant Queens Road

My Kind of Place Mall Road

Yellow Chilly Distt.Shopping Complex, Ranjit Avenue

The Bees Lawrence Road 

 

Dhabas at Amritsar

Kesar da Dhaba Chowk Passian

Bharawan da Dhaba Near Town Hall

Kundan Dhaba Albert Road

Friends Dhaba Queens Road 

 

 

 

Fast Food Joints

Pizza Hut (Original International Chain) Lawrence Road

Domino's Pizza (Original International Chain) Distt. Shopping Complex Ranjit Avenue

Burger King Lawrence Road 

 

Bakeries

La-Patisseries Ranjit Avenue A Block Market

Bakewell Lawrence Road & Cooper Road 

Popular Queens Road

 

 

 Name          Description 

Guru Bazar        Jewellery

Katra Jaimal      Garments & Shoes

Partap Bazar      Wholesale Readymade Garments

Shastri Market   Wholesale Woollens & Sales

Katra Ahluwalia   Wholesale Cloth

Bazar Mai Sewan   Wholesale Stationary

Hall Bazar        Electronics & Books

Lawrence Road     Garments & Restaurants

Majith Mandi      Wholesale Dry Fruits & Spices

Dal Mandi         Pulses, Spices

Dhab Wasti Ram   Soaps

Mochi Bazar       Punjabi Jutti

Queens Road       Car Dealers

Malviya Road      Readymade Garments

Katra Sher Singh  Wholesale Medicines

 

Festivals

 

January-February :

Basant Panchami (spring festival).

 

March :

Hola Mohalla.

 

April :  

Baisakhi.  

 

October-November :

Dussehra and Diwali. Guru Purab, the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev and Guru Gobind Singh.

 

December :

Jor Mela at Fatehgarh Sahib

 

Area :   About five Thousand sq. km 

Population :   About 2.5 million (District)

About 1 million (City) 

Languages :   Punjabi, Hindi, English 

Climate :   Summer 30 to 46 °C

Winter 0 to 17 °C 

Monsoons :   July to September 

Airport :   Raja Sansi, International Airport 

 

 

Famous for it's rich cuisine and milk products. Punjab offers the food lover lavish options. Its traditional Makki-ki-Roti and Sarson-ka-Saag with chunks of homemade butter and accompanied by a glass of buttermilk (Lassi) is best known. Also popular are exotic pulaos, biryanis and kebabs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amritsar Hotels

Hotel Ritz Plaza , Amritsar

Ranjit’s SVAASÁ, Amritsar

Raj Continental , Amritsar

Hotel P. R. Residency , Amritsar

M K. Hotel, Amritsar

Grand Legacy , Amritsar

Hotel Heritage Inn, Amritsar

Hotel Swarn, Amritsar

The Hotel Shiraz, Amritsar

Hotel Ishan Villa, Amritsar

Hotel City Heart , Amritsar

Hotel Lawrence, Amritsar

Hotel Majha Continental, Amritsar

 

 

Upcoming Hotels

 

Dusit Thani Hotel , Amritsar

Radisson Hotel , Amritsar

Ista Hotel & Spa , Amritsar

 

 

 

 

 

AMRITSAR

The Pool of Nector

 

 

 

 

The word Amritsar means the holy pool of nectar. 1573 Work began on digging the holy pool. 1601 Harmandir Sahib completed. 1604 Guru Granth Sahib installed. Alongside people representing 52 professions settled. In Maharaja Ranjit Singh's time Amritsar had superceded Lahore as the pre-eminent city of the Orient.

 

Amritsar is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India. It is an important seat of Sikh history and culture. Being the gateway for travellers coming to India on the overland route from central Asia it soon became the centre of various commercial activities.

 

Amritsar has various historical and religious sites. The most famous of them all in the Golden Temple which was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas and completed by his successor Guru Arjan Dev. Another revered shrine is the Durgiana Temple which is dedicated to goddess Durga.

 

The museum at Ram Bagh houses weapons dating back to Moghul times and some portraits of the ruling houses of the Punjab. The Jallianwala Bagh at Amritsar reminds the visitor of one of the most heart-rending events in the history of India. Bullet marks and the well into which some people jumped to escape the onslaught can still be seen. Some other attractions are—the Fort Gobind Garh which was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Tarn Taran tank which is 25 kilometres south of Amritsar.

 

The most interesting place to stay is the Golden Temple. Accommodation at the gurudwaras—Sri Guru Ram Das Niwas and Sri Guru Nanak Niwas—is easily accessible. Other good accommodation facilities and dining options are also available. Katra Jaimal Singh, near the telephone exchange in the old city, is a good shopping area.

 

Amritsar being an important trade centre is very well connected. There is a daily Indian Airlines flight to Delhi and Srinagar. Direct rail links to Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Calcutta are also there. There are frequent buses plying to Dehra Dun, Shimla, Kulu, Dalhousie and Dharamsala.

 

Golden Temple : During Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reign the lower half of the temple was decorated with marble while the entire upper half was inlaid with copper covered over by gold plate : hence its new name, the Golden Temple. Free kitchen and recitation of the divine word never cease here. Its four gates invite everyone from all directions.

 

Akal Takhat : Sixth Guru Sri Har Gobind had got it constructed as a seal of temperal authority symbolising the unity of spiritual and temporal life in 1609.

 

Tower of Baba Atal Rai : Built in the memory of Baba Atal Rai, son of Sri Har Gobind Ji, this octagonal nine-storeyed structure about 50 meters high has several beautiful frescos on its walls, relating to the life of Guru nanak Dev Ji.

 

Jallianwal Bagh : Martyrs' Memorial built in the shape of eternal flame of liberty is situated on the outskirts of Golden Temple. Here, about 1500 to 2000 persons who were attending a peaceful meeting during the freedom movement fell under the bullets of the British General Dyer, on April 13, 1919. The British Queen Elizabeth II and her husband laid a wreath at the Memorial on 14 Oct.' 1997.

 

Durgiana Temple : Situated outside the Lohgarh Gate it is built after the design of the Golden Temple and attracts sages and scholars in Hindu scriptures from all over India.

 

Mosque at Fatehabad : Situated at a distance of 40 kms. from Amritsar the walls of this mosque are decorated with beautiful floral motifs.

 

Summer place of Maharaja Ranjit Singh : Is situated in the middle of a beautiful garden called Ram bagh in Amritsar City. This garden is laid out on the pattern of Shalimar Bagh at Lahore.

 

Only its architecturally unique 'darshani deorhi' has remained intact. A museum after the name of the Maharaja is set up here displaying oil paintings, miniatures, coins, weapons and Mss relating to the Sikh period.

 

Khalsa College & Guru Nanak Dev University : Khalsa College, Amritsar was founded in 1892 and built on grand scale in typical Sikh architecture, its distinguished alumni; sportsmen, servicemen, administrators, professionals, fill up India's compilations of Who's Who. On a part of its land a new University called Guru Nanak Dev University was established at Amritsar. Soon it has become distinguished for starting modern curricula and has etched its name on the sports map of India.

 

There are a number of cotton, woollen and art silk textile factories besides other industries dealing with electric goods, sewing machines, auto parts, carpets in Amritsar. The milk processing plant at Verka about 6 kms. from Amritsar is the second biggest project of its kind in the country. Amritsar is India's leading exporter of goods to the Middle-East, leading distribution centre of dry fruits, tea and condiments. Amritsar is a shopper's paradise and a gourmet's delight. It is world's leading centre of Punjabi publications.

 

Tarn Taran : 24 kilometres south of Amritsar is Tarn-Taran-a town founded by Sri Guru Arjan Dev in 1590. The Gurudwara got constructed by the Guru stands on the side of a large tank. Fairs are held here on every 'Amavas' dark night of the month, birth anniversaries of the Gurus, Baisakhi and Diwali.

 

Goindwal : A few kilometers away from Tarn Taran is the town of Goindwal, where Guru Amar Das established a new centre for preaching Sikhism. A 'Baoli', well paved with 84 steps was constructed here. The devout believe that by reciting Japji Sahib, the divine 'Word' revealed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji at each step after taking a bath in the Baoli provides 'Moksh', liberation from 84,000 cycles of life of this world.

 

Khadur Sahib : Khadur Sahib is 32 kms. south-east of Amritsar city and close to Goindwal. During the life of the second Sikh Prophet, Guru Angad Dev, it was the centre of Sikhism.

 

Ram Tirath : 16 Kilometres west of Amritsar on Choganwan road is Ram Tirath, commemorating Maharishi Balmik Ji's heritage.

 

A big fair now recognised nationally and lasting for four days is held here since times immemorial on every Kartika Puran-mashi (full moon night in November).

 

Harike Wetland : The lake formed at the point of confluence of rivers Beas and Sutlej at Harika ford, situated mid way between Amritsar and Ferozepur was declared a national wildlife sanctuary in 1982. It is a welcome winter home to about 350 odd species of birds from far flung lands of China, Siberia, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

 

Baba Bakala : Situated about 45 kilometers east of Amritsar on the Batala road. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadurji, revealed himself to Makhan Shah Labana, a Sikh devotee here. It has a magnificent Gurudwara where people gather in thousands on every amavas (moonless night) and an annual fair is held on Raksha Bandhan day (night of full moon in August) when about one lakh people visit the place.

 

Dera Baba Jaimal Singh : About 54 kilometres east of Amritsar is Dera Baba Jaimal Singh, the Radhaswami, self-sufficient colony near Beas. It is presided over by a living Master.

 

***********

 

 

*******

Amritsar is the soul of Punjab. Situated very near to the international border of Pakistan, the city was founded by the 4th master of the Sikhs, Guru Ram Dass. The word Amritsar means ' The Holy Pool of Nectar'.

Before Sikhism came into origin and the present city came to be known by it's present name, this was the place where Luv & Kush, the twin sons of Lord Rama were born & educated by the great Sage Valmiki who authored the epic Ramayana.

********

The abode of Bliss and Blessings, Golden temple is holiest of the shrines of Sikh religion. Guru Arjun Dev requested the great contemporary Muslim saint Mian Meer to lay the foundation stone of this shrine in January 1589, thus the building was completed in 1601 and the Holy Scripture of Sikhs Adi Granth was installed in Temple in 1604.

The Golden Temple, a two storied marble structure, is build on a 67th. sq. platform in the centre of the scared tank. Amrit Sorawar, the central dome of the temple and the upper half of the walls were covered with Gold-leafed copper sheets by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Hence the name Golden Temple Also came into being.

On a platform under a gorgeous canopy studded with jewels on the ground floor of the Golden Temple lies the Adi Grantha(The Sikh Bible). Hymns from Holy Book are sung without a break throughout the day in the temple.

**********

 

 

In 1919, The Jallianwala Bagh was no "garden but a desolate piece of land" - a rectangle of irregular shape,about 229 meters long and 13 meters wide. The 'Flame of Liberty' was constructed in 1954 and inaugurated by the President, Dr Rajindra Parsad in 1961. On the four sides of the memorial, the words, "In memory of martyrs

-13 April,1919" has been inscribed in Hindi, Punjabi,Urdu and English.

 

****************

 

People visit this place in large numbers to witness the lowering down of the flags of both countries. The only post, where a special parade is organised to lower the flags simultaneously from the flag poles in the evening, beams with activity. The flag lowering ceremony, better known as the 'Retreat' is performed everyday, Shortly before sunset, by Border Security Force (BSF) jawans on the Indian side and Pakistan Rangers on the other side.

 

***************

 

Situated outside the Hathi Gate Durgiana Mandir is largest Hindu Temple in the city. This temple is devoted to goddess Durga and dates back to 16th century. A famous Hindu Shrine it was founded by Lala Nathu Mal Rangwala and Guru Sahai Mal in 1921. There are other temples Durga Mata Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Bairon Mandir inside the Complex. Shri Ram Nassen of Lahore in 1905 constructed a Sarover.

 

 

**********************

 

The fort occupied a unique place in the Indian military history. Built in 1760, it was called Bhangian Da Kila (Bhangis was one of the twelve Sikh misles). According to historians, during 1808, the fort was known as the fort of Gujjar Singh Bhangi. Later it was re-built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh with the help of Jodh Singh. The legendary Maharaja strengthened the fortification of the fort in order to keep his treasures and treaties in safety

 

 

***************

 

THE UNIVERSITY

 

Guru Nanak Dev University was established at Amritsar on November 24, 1969 to mark the 500th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is both a residential and an affiliating university. In conceiving the future course of the University, the objectives enshrined in the Guru Nanak Dev University Act 1969, emphasised that the new University would make provision for imparting education and promoting research in the humanities, learned professions, sciences, especially of applied nature and technology. Studies and research on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, in addition to working towards the promotion of Punjabi language and spreading education among educationally backward classes and communities were the other commitments.

 

*************

 

Amritsar Swadeshi Textile Corporation Pvt. Ltd. is India's Largest Manufacturer Exporter of Wool and Wool Blended Fabrics & Blankets. It is a conglomerate of units situated in various parts of the country engaged in the entire spectrum of Woollen Blanket, Fabric and Garment manufacture right from the basic raw material. Exporting to 27 countries and Recipient of Highest Export Award in Blanket for Eight Times in the last 10 years..

 

**********

 

 

Amritsar

 

Asia : South Asia : India : Plains : Punjab : Amritsar

 

The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) and the main entranceAmritsar is a holy city in the state of Punjab, India.

 

Understand

The name of the city derives from the name of the pool around the Golden Temple (aka Harmandir Sahib) and means "holy pool of nectar" (Amrit: nectar; Sar: (short for sarovar) lake). It is the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion, and they are rightfully very proud of the city and their very beautiful and unique Gurdwara (place of worship). The Golden Temple was initiated by Guru Ramdaas Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, and completed in 1601 by his successor Guru Arjan Dev Ji. It is now a major pilgrimage and tourism center.

 

Get in

By plane

Raja Sansi International Airport (IATA: ATQ) [1] is about 11 km and a 15-20 minutes drive from the city center. It's one of the modern airports in India and quite adequate if not exactly exciting. Most flights are to Delhi, an hour away, but there are an increasing number of international connections: Jet flies to London, Air India flies to Toronto via Birmingham, and Singapore Airlines flies directly to [[Singapore]. There are also surprising numbers of flights to Central Asia (eg. Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan).

 

By train

The Shatabdi Express is the fastest and most comfortable way to arrive from Delhi. The journey takes around 5 hours from New Delhi. Amritsar is well-connected to major cities in India through daily trains.

 

Onward/return trains can be booked online, at the train station or, most conveniently, at the small booking office in the Golden Temple Complex. It's advised to book your onward train ticket as soon as you arrive in Amritsar, or before if you know the exact date, as trains are often heavily booked.

 

Some other good trains are Paschim Express and Golden Temple Mail, but be sure of your reservations on time.

 

By car

Long-distance taxis are available from most places. It takes around 6-7 hours from New Delhi via NH-1.

 

By bus

Amritsar is well-connected by bus to most major cities and the northern areas within a days drive. Pathankot is about 2.5 hours away, and there are daily direct buses to New Delhi, Jammu, Katra, Chandigarh, Dharamsala (once daily, ~6 hours), etc.You can find Volvo buses from Chandigarh , Delhi and Katra to Amritsar.

 

From Pakistan

From the Pakistan border take a cycle-rickshaw (Rs 15, 3km) to the Attari station, where you can catch a local bus to Amritsar (Rs 15, 25 km).

 

Taxis also ply this route and charge around Rs 200 for the entire vehicle.

 

Get around

An auto-rickshaw from the train station to the temple should cost around Rs 40, while a cycle-rickshaw will run about Rs 20.

 

 

Golden Temple

 

The Golden Temple at night

Akal Takht and the entrance towards the Harmandir Sahib

Pilgrims bathing in the Amrit SarovarThe Golden Temple [2] is the main attraction in the city, and the most important religious place to the Sikhs. It's a stunning complex, and always full of thousands of pilgrims from all over India, excited to be at a place that they usually only see on television. The excitement to be here is infectious, and many people will be more than happy to tell you all about their religion and customs, and show you around the temple itself. Cover your head, remove your shoes and wander around one of the most amazing places in India. The complex is open almost 24 hours (from 6 AM until 2 AM) and is worth visiting twice: once during the day, once at night, when it's beautifully lit up.

 

As you arrive near the complex, you will more likely than not be accosted by hawkers trying to sell you bandannas to cover your head. It's not a bad souvenir for Rs.10, but there's also a big barrel of free ones to choose from at the entrance itself. Deposit your shoes at the subterranean building to the left of the entrance, wash your feet at the entrance and head in.

 

Darshani Deori. This is the main entrance, sporting a distinctly Victorian clock-tower.

Amrit Sarovar. The giant pool of water that surrounds and reflects the Golden Temple. Sections (marked off by ropes) are set aside for (male) pilgrims wishing to bathe.

Harmandir Sahib. This is the Golden Temple itself, floating above the Amrit Sarovar, housing the sacred Adi Granth scripture which is recited out loud during the day. This is the most crowded point, accessible by a bridge from the edge of the pool, and entry here is regulated by guards.

Akal Takht, directly opposite the Harmandir Sahib. Meaning "the Timeless, this is where the highest council of Sikhs sits and deliberates. At night, the Adi Granth is transferred to the Akal Takht.

Central Sikh Museum, 2nd floor (entrance on the right side of the main side of the main entrance). Devoted to large gallery of paintings, mostly showing the gruesome ways countless Sikhs have been martyred, and various knick-knacks from the gurus. Free.

All Sikhs are expected at some point in their lives to volunteer for a week at the temple, and everyone you see working here is fulfilling that duty. It's likely possible that you can join in if you feel so inclined - you could start by chatting up the people outside peeling vegetables, or those washing dishes.

 

Amritsar massacre memorial

Jallianwala Bagh (Garden) is a short 5-minute walk from the Golden Temple, and is the site of the 1919 Amritsar massacre. On April 13 of that year, British Indian Army soldiers opened fire on an unarmed gathering of men, women and children. The firing lasted about 10 minutes and 1600 rounds were fired, killing more than a thousand.

 

A memorial was built on the site and inaugurated by the then-President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on 13 April 1961. to this day the bullet holes can be seen on the walls and adjoining buildings. The well into which many people jumped and drowned attempting to save themselves from the hail of bullets is also a protected monument inside the park.

 

Do

Visit the Pakistan border at Attari to see the border closing ceremony. Indian and Pakistani soldiers do a march-off every evening, a popular and fun event. Taxis leave from the backside of the Golden Temple. It's a 45 minute ride, and you should leave Amritsar by around 3:30pm.

Learn

Almost every Sikh at the temple will be willing to talk to you about the temple and their religion and culture. Go there with an open mind and you'll leave with a smiling heart. Some of the kindest people on Earth.

Buy

Guru Nanak knick-knacks. His face graces all kinds of goodies.

CDs of temple recordings, chants, and Punjabi music in the shops along the front of the temple.

 

Eat

The Golden Temple has a dining hall (langar) serving free basic meals to all... A definite must for visitors. Plates and spoons are handed out near the entrance, then follow the crowds inside and take the next vacant spot in one of the rows on the floor. Servers come by with large buckets of dal, chapatis and rice. Make sure to finish everything on your plate (wasting food isn't an option here!) then take it outside to volunteers at the washing area. It's inside the complex which means no shoes and cover your head.

Crystal Restaurant, around the corner of Bhandari Bridge serves up great Indian, Italian, Continental and Chinese food.

My Kind of Place offers fast food such as pizza, burgers, and chips. It offers Chinese & Continental food also.

The Brothers or Bharavan the Dhaba, is place situated near to Golden Temple where you can eat traditional food or chinese, continental where you can enjoy taste of your choice at affordable prices.

New Punjabi Rasoi, around the corner from the temple it's one of the most popular restaurants in town and serves up great Indian food including tasty masala dosas. Meals ~Rs 40-60.

Neelam's, a few doors down from New Punjabi Rasoi, offers pizza and other basics. Meals from Rs 30.

 

Budget

The Golden Temple offers free accommodation to pilgrims and tourists in very basic dorms or 3-bed rooms in Guru Ram Das Niwas, behind the temple. While free, donations are expected (Rs 50-100 minimum per person per night is appropriate). You should also remain quiet and respectful of the surroundings, keeping in mind that this is a holy place of pilgrimage more than a tourist attraction. Alcohol and smoking are strictly forbidden, not only within the temple complex but anywhere within eye-sight of the temple complex. If you can handle that, then this is arguably the best place to stay - watching people go about their routine, talking to the pilgrims, and absorbing the gorgeous atmosphere. Put your donations in the donation box near the entrance to Ram Das Niwas, as opposed to the guards who will ask you for it when checking out.

 

Mid-range

Hotel CJ International, 2544 3478, [3]. A newer hotel just behind and with views of the Golden Temple. Rs 1200.

Hotel Heritage Inn, 0919876631047, [4]. Next to Golden Temple. Rooms are well furnished and decorated. Rs.1350.

Royal Castle A nice hotel located in the city about 15 min from the Golden Temple. Though they claim to be a 3 star hotel 2 is more like it. They have decent rooms for around Rs 2,100 a night.

Hotel City Heart [5] Hotel near golden temple and jallian wala bagh. Offers views of Golden Temple and the city. Rs 800-1550.

[edit] Splurge

Grand Legacy, 8 G.T. Road (near railway station), tel. +91-183-5069991, [6]. Claims to be Amritsar's best hotel and the public areas look nice enough, but the rooms (and especially the bathrooms) don't quite pull it off. Single/double from Rs. 2000/3150.

Ritz Plaza, 45 The Mall, 256 2836, [7]. A more classy hotel also located in the city with good rooms and service and a swimming pool. Price starts at approx Rs 2,500 a night.

MK Hotel, Ranjit Ave, 250 7911, [8]. Slightly out of town, but a nicer more upmarket option with great service. Doubles from Rs 3000, suites available.

 

Internet

There are quite a few good intenet surfing facilities in Amritsar. Reliance WebWorld and Sify Internet kiosks are located at strategic locations.

 

Cyber Swing, (above New Punjabi Rasoi restaurant), has several machines and a decent connection. Rs 40/hour.

 

Stay safe

 

Behave!The sectarian strife of the 1980s is just a bad memory and Amritsar is currently a safe and welcoming city, if a little polluted.

 

Respect

You should remain aware and respectful of the Sikh religion anywhere near the Golden Temple complex.

Inside the complex both men and women are required to cover their heads (scarfs are widely available throughout the town for Rs 10, or a box of them are free to use at the entrances to the temple).

Smoking and alcohol are forbidden not only within the complex but anywhere within eye-sight of the temple. Lighting up a cigarette on the busy street out front may not seem strange but will definitely attract negative attention, as will spitting near the temple.

Photography is allowed on the outside ring of the holy lake, but not inside the actual temple itself.

 

 

 

 

HARMANDIR SAHIB

 

 

 

Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as Sri Darbar Sahib or Golden Temple, (on account of its scenic beauty and golden coating for English speaking world), is named after Hari(God) the temple of God. The Sikhs all over the world, daily wish to pay visit to Sri Amritsar and to pay obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib in their Ardas.

 

 

Guru Arjan Sahib, the Fifth Nanak, conceived the idea of creating a central place of worship for the Sikhs and he himself designed the architecture of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Earlier the planning to excavate the holy tank (Amritsar or Amrit Sarovar ) was chalked out by Guru Amardas Sahib, the Third Nanak, but it was executed by Guru Ramdas Sahib under the supervision of Baba Budha ji. The land for the site was acquired by the earlier Guru Sahibs on payment or free of cost from the Zamindars (landlords) of native villages. The plan to establish a town settlement was also made. Therefore, the construction work on the Sarovar(the tank) and the town started simultaneously in 1570. The work on both projects completed in 1577 A.D.

 

Guru Arjan Sahib got its foundation laid by a muslim saint Hazrat Mian Mir ji of Lahore on 1st of Magh, 1645 Bikrmi Samvat(December,1588). The construction work was directly supervised by Guru Arjan Sahib himself and he was assisted by the prominent Sikh personalities like Baba Budha ji, Bhai Gurdas ji, Bhai Sahlo ji and many other devoted Sikhs.

 

Unlike erecting the structure on the higher level(a tradition in Hindu Temple architecture), Guru Arjan Sahib got it built on the lower level and unlike Hindu Temples having only one gate for the entrance and exit, Guru Sahib got it open from four sides. Thus he created a symbol of new faith, Sikhism. Guru Sahib made it accessible to every person without any distinction of Caste, creed, sex and religion.

 

The building work completed in 1601 A.D. on Bhadoon Sudi 1st, 1661 Bikrmi Samvat (August/September,1604). Guru Arjan Sahib installed newly created Guru Granth Sahib, in Sri Harmandir Sahib and appointed Baba Budha ji as its first Granthi i.e. the reader of Guru Granth Sahib. After this event it attained the status of ‘Ath Sath Tirath’. Now the Sikh Nation had their own Tirath, a pilgrimage center

 

Sri Harmandir Sahib, is built on a 67ft. square platform in the centre of the Sarovar(tank). The temple itself is 40.5ft. square. It has a door each on the East, West, North and South. The Darshani Deori (an arch) stands at the shore end of the causeway. The door frame of the arch is about 10ft in height and 8ft 6inches in breath. The door panes are decorated with artistic style. It opens on to the causeway or bridge that leads to the main building of Sri Harmandir Sahib. It is 202 feet in length and 21 feet in width.

 

The bridge is connected with the 13 feet wide ‘Pardakshna’ (circumambulatory path). It runs round the main shrine and it leads to the ‘Har ki Paure’ (steps of God). On the first floor of ‘Har ki Paure’, there is continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib.

 

The main structure of Sri Harmandir Sahib, functionally as well as technically is a three-storied one. The front, which faces the bridge, is decorated with repeated cusped arches and the roof of the first floor is at the height of the 26 feet and 9 inches.

 

At the top of the first floor 4 feet high parapet rises on all the sides which has also four ‘Mamtees’ on the four corners and exactly on the top of the central hall of the main sanctuary rises the third story. It is a small square room and have three gates. A regular recitation of Guru Granth Sahib is also held there.

 

On the top of this room stands the low fluted ‘Gumbaz’(dome) having lotus petal motif in relief at the base inverted lotus at the top which supports the ‘Kalash’ having a beautiful ‘Chhatri’ at the end.

 

Its architecture represents a unique harmony between the Muslims and the Hindus way of construction work and this is considered the best architectural specimens of the world. It is often quoted that this architecture has created an independent Sikh school of architecture in the history of art in India.

 

*********

 

 

 

Lodging Facilities

There are Six Niwas which provide lodging facilities for pilgrims, maintained by the Sri Darbar Sahib authorities. The reception counters work around the clock to attend the visitors.

 

Sri Guru Ramdas Niwas:  Also called Sri Guru Ram Das Sarai, was built in 1931. This project was initiated by the Local Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee Amritsar and its foundation stone was laid by Sant Sadhu Singh ji of Patiala on 17th January 1931. This building has 228 rooms and 18 halls spread over 2 stories, with modern sanitation and other amenities of civil life.

 

Sri Guru Nanak Niwas: This building houses sectarian offices of the different departments of SGPC apart from the lodging facilities for pilgrims.

 

Guru Arjan Dev Niwas: This building is situated at the entrance point to the main sarai area. It houses branch of Punjab & Sind Bank and scooter parking. The main booking counter for the rooms is also situated here.

 

Guru Hargobind Nawas: This building is situated near Gurdawara Baba Atal Sahib. Sri Guru Ramdas Library is situated in its basement.

 

Mata Ganga Ji Niwas: This stands exactly opposite to Guru Hargobind Niwas. It also houses INTERNET DEPARTMENT of SGPC. 

 

New Akal Rest House: This building is situated near (Back-side) Guru Arjan Dev Niwas. It houses 49 rooms, out of which 5 rooms with 25 beds reserve for Foreign tourists.

 

 

Tel: 91-183-2553957,58,59 PBX : 219, 310, 417, 424, 425

 

 

 

(1) SHRI GURU RAM DAS NIWAS

Total No. of Room 228

Rooms Available for pilgrims 160

Charges payable None but Refundable Security of Rs. 50/-

Facilities Available Common Bathroom, Dispensary  with in the

 

Precincts

 

Contact Counter Incharge Sarai 219 

 

 

 

(2) SHRI GURU NANAK NIWAS

Total No. of Room 80 

Rooms Available for pilgrims 21

Charges payable Free no Security Deposit

Facilities Availible Common Bathroom

Contact Counter Incharge 310

 

 

 

 

 

(3) SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV NIWAS

Total No. of Room 65 

Rooms Available for pilgrims 65

Charges payable Rs. 50/- Day and Rs.200 Refundable Security

Facilities Availible Attached Bathroom, Post Office, Punjab & Sind Bank with in the Precincts

Contact Counter Incharge 424

 

 

 

 

 

(4) SHRI GURU HARGOBIND NIWAS 

Total No. of Room 88 + 2 Halls 

Rooms Available for pilgrims 88 + 2 Halls

Charges payable Rs. 50/- Day and Rs.200 Refundable Security

Facilities Availible Attached Bathroom, Shri Guru Ram Das Library

Contact Counter Office Incharge 425

 

 

 

 

(5) MATA GANGA JI NIWAS

Total No. of Room 103

Rooms Available for pilgrims 94

Charges payable Rs. 50/- Day and Rs.200 Refundable Security

Facilities Availible Attached Bathroom

Contact Counter Incharge 417

 

 

 

(6) NEW AKAL REST HOUSE

Total No. of Room 49

Rooms Available for pilgrims 44 + (5 rooms for foreigners )

Charges payable Rs. 50/- Day and Rs.200 Refundable Security

Facilities Availible Attached Bathroom

Contact Counter Incharge 424

 

SARAI BOOKING IS OFFERED ON FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVE BASIS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF ACCOMMODATION THE DESIRED DATE/S.

**************

Hotels

 

Hotel Namasker Budget

CJ International (Opp. Golden Temple) Budget

Raj Continental  3 star

Grand Legacy  3 star

Welcome Heritage Ranjit’s Svaasa  Heritage Property

Ritz Plaza  4 star

 

ITINERARY:  

Day 01  Amritsar

Arrive Amritsar Railway Station. On arrival meet and greet by our representative who will take you to the hotel. Check in hotel. Evening visit Indo-Pak Wagah Border to watch Flag Retreat Ceremony- Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border 30 Kms from Amritsar where the daily highlight is the evening "Beating the Retreat" ceremony. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause. Return to hotel. Overnight stay. 

Day 02  Amritsar

 

Have breakfast. Start your full day city tour with the blessings of Golden Temple-the most important sikh shrine which is also called Mecca for the Sikhs is a living symbol of the spiritual and historical traditions of the Sikhs. 

Then visit Jallianwala Bagh- where, on April 13, 1919, British and Gurkha soldiers opened fire on an unarmed forbidden gathering, killing hundreds of civilians. After lunch visit Maharaja Ranjit Singh Summer Palace Museum- The summer place of Maharaja Ranjit Singh which is situated in the heart of Ram Bagh, Amritsar, Houses the Museum. The objects relating to Return to hotel.. Overnight stay. 

Day 03

 

 

 

ITINERARY:

Day 01  Amritsar

Arrive Amritsar Railway Station. On arrival meet and greet by our representative who will take you to the hotel. Check in hotel. Relax for a while. Overnight stay.

Day 02  Amritsar

Have breakfast. Start your full day city tour with the blessings of Golden Temple-the most important sikh shrine which is also called Mecca for the Sikhs is a living symbol of the spiritual and historical traditions of the Sikhs., then visit Jallianwala Bagh- where, on April 13, 1919, British and Gurkha soldiers opened fire on an unarmed forbidden gathering, killing hundreds of civilians. Evening visit Indo-Pak Wagah Border to watch Flag Retreat Ceremony- Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border 30 Kms from Amritsar where the daily highlight is the evening "Beating the Retreat" ceremony. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill, going through the steps of bringing down their respective national flags. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervour rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause. Return to hotel.. Overnight stay. 

Day 03 Tarn Taran Sahib / Khadoor Sahib / Goindwal Sahib (50 Kms. )

After breakfast proceed for full day Gurdwara Yatra around Amritsar starting from Gurdwara Shri Tarn Taran Sahib (25 Kms from Amrisar) - is a Gurdwara established by the fifth guru, Guru Arjan Dev. It is situated in the city of Tarn Taran Sahib, It has the distinction of having the largest sarovar (Water pond) of all the gurudwaras. Also it is famous for the month gathering of pilgrims on day of Amavas (No moon night). 

 

Then Visit Khadoor Sahib (15 Kms from Tarn Taran)- Sri Khadur Sahib was the family home of second Guru Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji. The Guru settled here with his wife Mata Khivi and raised their three children here. Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji established his religious center here and spent the rest of his life at Khadur Sahib. Here Shri Guru Angad Dev appointed Guru Amar Das as his successor and the third Guru. A grand Gurudwara Khaddi Sahib, has been constructed here, in memory of Guru Amar Das.  

Then proceed to Goindwal Sahib (10 Kms from Khadur Sahib), visit Gurdwara Shri Baoli Sahib- This was the first centre of Sikhism and was established by Sri Guru Amar Das Ji. The Hindus went on pilgrimage to Hardwar and Benaras but the Sikhs needed a place of their own. Understanding this, Sri Guru Amar Das Ji purchased the land and personally helped in the construction of the Gurdwara and Baoli (well) with 84 steps leading down to it. Return to hotel. Overnight stay.  

Day 04 Departure

Transfer to Railway station to board train for onward journey

 

 

 

 

 

*************

Miri Piri Academy is an international boarding school for students in grades one through twelve.  Our students come to Amritsar, India from all over the world to find a place where they can combine a full academic curriculum with daily spiritual and yogic practice.  Based upon the teachings of our founder, the Siri Singh Sahib, Yogi Bhajan, the school’s program and curriculum are designed to prepare our students for the physical, mental, and spiritual challenges of life. 

 

Our comprehensive academic program is in the process of accreditation with the International Baccalaureate Organization.  This solid academic foundation is combined with a unique opportunity for practice and mastery of Kundalini Yoga and meditation.  Balancing ‘Miri’ and ‘Piri', the temporal and the spiritual realms, our graduates enter the world with the knowledge and the experiences that they will need to excel.

 

*************

 

Welcome to DAV College   

  

     

  A premier educational institution of North India, DAV College Amritsar has high academic standing and a reputation for excellence in research and teaching which is reflected in the demand for courses for high achieving students, the relevance of graduates to the community in which they work , the quality of staff and their strong performance and commitment to research.

 

A gateway to academic and porfessional excellence, this multi-faculty, postgraduate (co-ed) College is famous for providing cutting edges to academic and co-academics skills through its commitment to innovative and student-friendly intiiatives. The college has created an inimitable academic space for itself with in nearly five decades of its monumental existence.

 

***********

The articulation of the common Vision of the Diocese Of Amritsar, (CNI) was made at one of the Diocesan Conferences held at Shimla with view to give the Diocese a direction for its mission and ministry in future beyond the year 2000.

 

The catch slogan emerged during the discussions was: that the diocese needs a diverse ministry of the whole people moving from 'pastor-centered' to 'people-centered', local and global, with all diversities integrated and all aspects included. The evangelical and spiritual renewal as central to the diocese, new ministerial formation, must aim at rejuvenating and mobilizing its all ministerial wings and the congregations, progressing from 'self- indulgence' to 'sharing', and from 'dependence' to 'supporting.'

   We visualize and discover; people being renewed in faith and service, in Jesus Christ, constantly growing and relating to the world towards realization of the Kingdom Of God.

 

 

 

Common Vision of

The Diocese of Amritsar

The Common Vision, as articulated, requires deep re-thinking for a common commitment to the discipleship of Jesus Christ who is the lord and the master of the Church. It needs developing of new models of integration based on enduring tolerance that would encourage participatory involvement of the people of other faiths too, and sharing of the diverse cultural heritage in the Indian context. Thus the people in common must focus on community building and promoting of general wellbeing of the whole creation through sensitizing and enabling people at the grass-root.

 

Our main focus is on the consolidating family as the basic unit of the society in which mother and child, especially the girl child, are important members. Thus we particularly focus on special care of children and capacity building of women for being the central figure in family care.

 

There is a growing consciousness among the Christians that the Christian community must come out of its feeling of ‘Minoritism' and gain more self-confidence and become pro-active in its approach to enter the mainstream of the nation in order to become effective agents of change.

 

We endevour to re-discover the relevance of our faith and evaluate the significance of our Christian values and principles in the light of the present needs of the society around us, while reflecting on our lifestyle and work of our different ministerial wings and congregations. We commit ourselves to promotion of value-based education as integral part of our ministry that would provide opportunity for growth of effective leadership and overall integrated development of the larger society.

 

We commit ourselves to translating the message of liberation of Jesus Christ enumerated in the Nazareth manifesto, through words and deeds, into such idioms and terminology that becomes the imagery of the people of the soil, while we seek to rub off egotism both as 'self' and as 'Church' and trim down our limitations for effective communication of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the masses.

 

***********

 

BBK DAV College for Women, Amritsar accredited A+ by National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Bangalore & College with Potential for Excellence (status conferred by University Grants Commission, New Delhi), is a vibrant centre of higher learning with a short but distinguished history and a future bright with the promise of continuing accomplishments. Founded in 1967 as DAV College for Women, under the aegis of DAV College Managing Committee, New Delhi, to fulfil the cherished dream of Swami Dayanand as epitomized in ‘Lead Me From Darkness Unto Light’, the college is committed to the empowerment of women through learning beyond education. It is independent in approach, innovative in character, intimate in environment, distinctive in performance and as a summation of all these, it continues to evolve in all-round excellence through futuristic vision, administrative planning and dedicated team work. The year 1979 saw the rechristening of the college as BBK DAV College for Women after it received a generous donation and a few acres of land from Brij Lal Badri Nath Kapur Charitable Trust.

 

The thrust of the college is the highly innovative and efficient management of all its resources - human and infrastructural. The youthful history of forty years, shows in words and deeds, a temper of the will, quality of imagination, vigour of dedication and an endless desire to be in pace with vocation-oriented education and the challenges of technology. The college combines a commitment to teaching excellence with extensive sports and cultural opportunities. The academic thrust is on imparting in-depth knowledge of the subjects concerned and to develop critical abilities to enable the students to relate and use knowledge in real life situations. The co-academic and cultural activities are focused around inculcating a strong sense of commitment to nationalist, social & aesthetic values.

 

**************