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How to Get to Amritsar

How to Get to Amritsar

Amritsar Punjab, India Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) serves as Amritsar's main airport, located approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) northwest of the central area. It handles both domestic and international flights, providing a convenient entry point.

Connections

  • Domestic: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air connect to major Indian cities.
  • International: Air India, Qatar Airways, Scoot, Malaysia Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, Batik Air from London, Doha, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tashkent.
  • Most international travelers find connecting flights via Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport offers ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, food outlets, and lounges. Car rental agencies are available, though chauffeur-driven cars are common for tourists.

Transfer Options

  • Prepaid Taxis: Available at dedicated counter, fixed fares.
  • App-based Cabs: Ola and Uber services operate, readily available at airport.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer pick-up services.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices are highest during high tourist season (Oct-Mar) and major Indian festivals. Book several months in advance for best rates. Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Booking Timing

Booking flights several months in advance is recommended to secure the best rates, especially for high season travel times. Use Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airport Transfers

Book your airport transfer in advance if arriving late at night or early morning for a smooth and safe journey. Auto-rickshaws are available outside.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Amritsar Junction (ASR) connects to various parts of The republic of india.
  • Trains without changes to Delhi (Shatabdi Express), Mumbai, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Jammu.
  • Book train booking tickets early via Indian Railways website (IRCTC) or applications.
  • Train travel in India offers an unique cultural experience.

Bus Options & Self-Driving

  • Amritsar Bus Depot offers frequent services to nearby cities and states.
  • Services by state transport corporations (Punjab Roadways) and private operators.
  • Self-driving is not generally recommended for international tourists due to chaotic traffic.
  • If driving, International Driving Permit (IDP) required with home license. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Road Conditions & Border

Road Conditions

Major national highways are generally well-maintained. Within cities, roads are congested, and traffic rules are loosely followed.

Night Driving

Avoid night driving, especially in rural areas, due to poor visibility, lack of street lighting, and presence of slow-moving vehicles.

Wagah-Attari Border

The only road crossing between India and Pakistan in Punjab. Mainly for pedestrian traffic (flag ceremony) and limited cargo. Tourists typically do not use for cross-border travel.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

No particular exit fees or taxes are levied at Amritsar airport beyond those typically included in your airline ticket price.

Recommended Timing

  • International Flights: Arrive at ATQ at least 3 hours prior to departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at least A couple of hours before to departure.
  • Allow extra time during peak travel seasons or if special requirements apply.

Airport & Station Facilities

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport provides various facilities for departing travelers, including lounges, food courts, and duty-free shopping (for international departures).

Services Available

  • Baggage wrapping services are available.
  • Currency exchange counters to convert remaining Indian Rupees.
  • Amritsar Junction railway station has waiting rooms, food stalls, and general amenities.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

Amritsar is a landlocked city, situated far from any coastline or major navigable rivers that would support sea or river transportation for passenger arrivals.

No Water Routes

  • No sea or river arrivals are available for reaching Amritsar.
  • Main options for arrival are air.
  • Or land (train/bus/car).

Specialized Transportation Not Applicable

Amritsar does not feature many unique transportation methods common in other parts of India or the world.

Local Specifics

  • No formal hop-on-hop-off bus services like larger cities.
  • No boat taxis or water transportation.
  • No cable cars or funiculars.

Departure Checklist

  • Check flight/train status online before heading to airport/station.
  • Allow ample time for check-in and security.
  • Have passport, visa, and boarding pass ready.
  • Convert remaining local currency if needed.
  • Collect any checked luggage.
  • Confirm hotel check-out procedures.

Final Travel Tips

Efficient Transportation

Amritsar's public transportation system helps connect various parts of the city. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are convenient for shorter distances.

Navigating the City

  • Use Google Maps for real-time bus routes and timings.
  • Download offline maps of Amritsar for navigation without internet.
  • Politely bargain fares with auto-rickshaw drivers before starting.

Local Transport niceties

While car rentals are available, other unique local options might suit your travel style better. Self-driving is generally not recommended for international tourists.

Modes of Transport

  • Ola and Uber are widely used for fixed-price, transparent transportation.
  • Public bicycle systems are not widespread, yet some guesthouses offer rentals.
  • Traffic can be chaotic; chauffeur-driven cars are a safer option.

Walking Routes

The area around the Golden Temple, including the Heritage Walk, is largely pedestrian-friendly. Markets like Hall Bazaar are best explored on foot.

Safety on Roads

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic. Avoid major arterial roads during peak hours.

Pedestrian Awareness

Exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings in crowded markets, where personal space can be limited. Always look both ways for traffic.

Airport Departure Tips

Departure Timing

For international flights, plan to arrive at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours prior.

Pre-Departure Steps

  • Allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, immigration, and security.
  • Confirm flight status online before heading to the airport.
  • Consider potential delays during peak travel seasons or fog in winter.

Airport Facilities

ATQ provides various facilities for departing travelers, including lounges, food courts for meals and refreshments, and duty-free shopping for international departures.

Conveniences at the Airport

  • Baggage wrapping services are accessible to secure your luggage.
  • Currency exchange counters allow you to convert any remaining Indian Rupees.
  • Last-minute souvenir shopping at duty-free shops.

Train Station Departure

Amritsar Junction ASR

A major railway station with outstanding connectivity across India.

Station Amenities

Waiting rooms, food stalls, and general amenities for passenger comfort.

Ticket Booking

Book train tickets far in advance, especially for popular routes.

Final Departure Note

Check your flight or train status online before heading to the airport or bus station.