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Amritsar, Is The Next Tourist Destination

Amritsar
Amritsar, the place known for the rich Punjabi culture, religious environment, and sumptuous food, has, of late, been drawing a lot of visitors from across the country, and abroad for a long time. Thus, marking its position as one of the most popular destinations in the country.

Now, taking this into consideration the concerned authorities are planning to take some strong initiatives to promote the place. "People of all religions from across the world visit Sri Harmandir Sahib, Durgiana Temple and Jallianwala Bagh. And, City's municipal corporation is dedicated to facilitating their visit," said Ajaybir Pal Singh Randhwa, Sr. Deputy Mayor of Amritsar.

Amritsar is known for a lot of things, and when one talks about places like the Golden Temple, Amrit Sarovar and others, little is needed to be explained. Founded in Circa 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the 4th guru of the Sikhs, Amritsar literally means a pool of nectar. It derives its name from the sacred pool, Amrit Sarovar, that surrounds the holy Sri Harmandir Sahib popularly known as Golden Temple.



And now, the biggest challenge for the authorities, is transportation. And the authorities have promised to do the best when it comes to transportation and accommodation. "Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (S.G.P.C.) has started a bus service from Amritsar Railway Station to Sri Harmandir Sahib and other pilgrimage sites such as Khadur Sahib and Goindwal Sahib," says Randhwa. He adds: " Air-conditioned buses also ply for foreign tourists. S.G.P.C. is committed to attracting religious tourists to Sri Harmandir Sahib and Amritsar city."

The Centre has agreed in principle to grant five million dollars for developing Amritsar as a major tourist destination. Of that one million dollars have already been sanctioned under the Normal Destination Development Scheme for the city.

But people planning for a vacation in Amritsar seem to be pretty disappointed with few other things too. "Every facility is available for tourists. But the government should concentrate more on improving air links and railway service," said a Tourist. He adds: "Special attention should also be given to cleanliness because it is only then that tourists from America and Europe will talk nice about the place." There were others who spoke about something else. "The facilities at the Golden Temple are excellent. We have come from Gujarat state and people in Punjab are very hospitable and respectful," said a tourist from Gujarat.

The Beating Retreat ceremony at Wagah-Attari border check-post is another major tourist attraction. To draw more tourists, the government has already sanctioned 970,000 dollars for the project Integrated Development of Wagah/Attari Border.

It includes development of tourist facilities and upgradation of surroundings of the international border.

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