The religiously rich land of Amritsar is somewhat synonyms with The Golden Temple and the history of Sikhism. The culturally extensive destination is a prominent city that is located in the hearteningly beautiful north-western Indian State of Punjab hardly twenty-eight Km away from India Pakistan Wagah Border. The city is nicknamed ‘The Golden City’ or that of ‘The holy city, the protuberant Sikh pilgrimage destination was founded as late as the sixteenth Century and originates its name from Amrit Sarovar, the consecrated water tank at the center of which the beautiful and sacred Harmandir Sahib or the well-known Golden Temple is located. Amritsar holds both historical and mythological importance for Indians.
It was one of the most significant cities during the Indian freedom struggle and has seen the brutal massacre of Jallianwala Bagh. Hindus also feel a robust association with Amritsar as Sita is believed to have spent a good amount of time at Valmiki ashram situated at Ram Tirth nearby. Amritsar, being home to the Golden Temple, fascinates a large number of visitors all year round. However, it is not just about the temples and historical places within Amritsar that are worth visiting. Amritsar is enclosed by several wonderful getaways that are worth a visit. From spiritual pilgrim centers to that attractive mountains with scenic views, these getaways have something for every kind of visitor. Have a look at some of the places to visit near Amritsar that must not be missed.
Dharmsalas
It is in the Kangra valley and is set amidst the spectacular Dhauladhar range. It caters to some of the most attractive views in northeast India. Dharamsala is forked into two parts – Upper Dharamshala and Lower Dharamsala. Lower Dharamsala is where you can find most of the government offices, hospitals, and schools. It is also home to the gorgeous HPCA cricket stadium. Upper Dharamsala known more popularly as McleodGanj is the base of Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama. It is also one of north India’s largest tourist attractions. With some spectacular cafes and restaurants overlooking astonishing mountain views and a huge variety of tourists from all across the globe, McleodGanj is a melting pot of lifestyles, cultures and a wonderful place to meet new people and make new friends. You would definitely be pampered by its panoramic landscapes and sceneries. The beguiling hill town is a convenient holiday spot for families and friend groups, couples, and even corporate retreats. The gorgeous location has plenty of surprising trekking destinations like Indrahar pass, Triund, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Dal Lake. The aura of this perfect holiday destination is gratifying. The place is only 204 kilometers from Amritsar.
Dalhousie
The gorgeous hill town of Himachal Pradesh is just as pretty as you can think of a hill station to be. Layered with lush greenery during summers and dense snow during winters, the picturesque town looks like a piece of paradise on earth. Situated at a high altitude of 1,970 meters, it has five hills located close to the Dhauladhar mountain range. The striking hill station that was once a well-known summer retreat destination of the British Raj is the ideal blend of Indian murky mountain experiences and colonial architecture. The respected high-altitude trek destination has protuberant trek paths in places like Dainkund Peak, Sach Pass, GanjiPahari, and Alltop Wildlife Reserve which are adventure lovers’ bliss.
Other than these challenging treks, one can also engage in water sports, boating, and other types of activities at Camera and Panchpula Lakes. In case you seek to participate in snow-based activities and want to relish the unspoiled beauty in the freezing weather of Dalhousie, you must visit the place during winters. This tranquil and spectacular destination will get you a lot of rejuvenation and comfort. While you visit this place make sure that you carry your camera along because the backdrops at this spot are heart winning. Amritsar is only 198 kilometers from Dalhousie.
Jammu
Snuggled in the northernmost state of India, Jammu is one of the most enjoyable getaways from Amritsar. It is the hugest city and the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It serves as the entry to the holy Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, India’s second most visited shrine that is situated just sixty-four km away from Jammu. Other protuberant temples such as the Raghunath temple and Ranbireshwar temple are also situated nearby. It is supposed that Jammu was established in the fourteenth century BC. Legend has it that a king marked a lion and a deer drinking water at the same place and gave an order to build a palace at that spot. The city was then constructed around this spot. Excavation in the Akhnoor area near Jammu has exposed that Jammu was part of the Indus valley civilization. Jammu has witnessed a lot of rulers throughout history – right from the Mughals to that of the Sikhs to the British before becoming a part of India after partition. The place is beautifully surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of PirPanjal and scattered with thick mountain ranges, scrub-cover hills, unspoiled river valleys, Jammu is a charming getaway for everyone looking to spend time amidst pristine nature and indulge in difficult adventurous sports activities. Jammu is just 212 kilometers from Amritsar.
Khajjiar
Khajjiar is one of the most gorgeous yet rather unexplored hill stations of north India. Khajjiar bears a marvelous tropical resemblance to Switzerland. Situated at a height of 6500 feet, Khajjiar is packed with vast green meadows and thick pine and deodar forests enclosed by snow-clad peaks. Khajjiar’s scenic beauty and hypnotic weather are what make it such a wanted holiday destination. If you like trekking, then this destination is your paradise as it serves as the beginning point for some stunning treks in Himachal Pradesh. Trekking is the finest way to explore Khajjiar and its wonderful peripheries. Khajjiar is even home to some temples that date back to the twelfth century. The destination is 212 kilometers from Amritsar.
Conclusion
Thus, since you know about the spectacular, pampering, and exciting holiday getaways from Amritsar; you must head to these places for your next vacation!
