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Ammoudia

Ammoudia is a small beautiful village on the northwest coast of Greece in the region of Epirus.

Understand
The village belongs to the Prefecture of Preveza is placed on the waves of Ionian Sea at the estuaries of Acheron River. It is an appreciable touristic choice as it combines a quiet familiar atmosphere with a variety of activities and sights of a huge mythological, historical and environmental worth. Based on mythology Ammoudia was the passage to the netherworld as the souls should cross Acheron during their travel to Hades kingdom, the one of the three kingdoms of ancient Greek world. Historically during Ottoman domination took place Splantza’s war where the hero from Mani Kyriakoulis Mavromichalis fought bravely and sacrificed. On the other hand during bondage, Germans set fire and ruined the village. The inhabitants abandoned it for about 5 years. Environmentally the village has a huge worth because of the rare kinds of biota that exist at the edges of Acheron river and greater. The area is a "Natura 2000"-protected area.

Get in
The approach to Ammoudia is too easy as it is getting on different ways such as car, ship airplane or bus.

By plane
If you choose to arrive in Ammoudia by airplane it’s better for you to select between Actio’s or Corfu’s airport that cover both of them flights so from Greek airports as from airports of abroad. Actio is located in Preveza and is about 50 km away from Ammoudia. If you choose Corfu’s airport you will have to take the ferry boat to Igoumenitsa, approx. 1,5 hours, and from there it is about 55 km to Ammoudia.

By boat
Traveling by ship you can arrive to the port of Igoumenitsa that is about 55 km away from Ammoudia departing so from Greek as from Italy ports.

By bus
Traveling by bus you can reach to Kanalaki’s bus station that is about 15 km away from Ammoudia.

Get around
If you don’t have your own car, to explore area’s beauty there’s daily transport by bus. There’s also the possibility of hiring a car or a motocycle. Moreover you can move on boats that are traveling every day to Acheron River with a conducted tour. Alternative you can choose between daily tours to Paxos and Andipaxos islands that are departing from Parga or you can arrange private cruises to Ionian Islands leaving from Acheron River for one or more days. Still one of the dearest means of transport is the bicycle as the rural roads round the village are suitable and safe. Ammoudia’s physical beauty is a good reason to walk inside the village enjoying the exotic sense of walking along the Acheron River or on the big sandy beach that lies at Ammoudia’s anchorage.

See
In Ammoudia and greater you can see a variety of sights that cover the mythological, historical or environmental section.

 * Acheron - Acheron River has a big mythological and environmental worth and is known from Homer’s mentions for the soul’s transport in netherworld. It hides the secrets of Hades’ kingdom and human’s sore for death. Acheron is soppy with soul’s tears for losing their lives and their relatives’ for missing their beloved persons. Also Acheron is a big source of education and knowledge because of the rare kinds of biota that are living at its edges and are protected by international conventions.
 * Nekromanteio - The unique nekromanteio of ancient Greek world is about 4 km away from Ammoudia and was the oracle that were visiting people in aim to communicate with their dearest persons’ souls so as to learn about their future and take advices. The archeological ruins that found are dated during Mycenaean season (14th-13th BCE century)
 * Parga's Castle - Parga’s castle is located at a distance of about 20 km away from Ammoudia and was area’s fort during Turkish domination. It was constructed so as to be unbitten trying this way to avoid Ali pasha’s investment.
 * Ali Pasha’s Castle - 25 km away from Ammoudia, on a rise between Anthousa and Agia is located Anthousa’s castle and is a towering fort made from Ali pasha’s conquering mania in aim to invest Parga.
 * Nicopoli - Just out of Preveza, 40 km away from Ammoudia is located Nicopoli a city that established from Octavianus Augustus at 31 BCE. It nominated Ancient’s Epirus capital and later begun Episcopal seat. Nowadays at the area there are remains of Odeum, Augustus monument, Roman theatre and Nimfeon (central point of watering).
 * Zalongo - On the mountain Zalongo that is located 45 km away from Ammoudia 63 women from Souli dancing fell to escarpment keeping their kids avoiding to give themselves up Ali pasha. On the mountain made a monument that represents the most heroic dance of Greek world.
 * Dodoni - About 70 km away from Ammoudia is ancient Theatre of Dodoni, one of the biggest and most well-retain theatre of ancient Greece of which archeological findings are dated close to 2600-2000 BCE. On the 4th century operated Dodoni’s oracle, the oldest Greek oracle and one of the most important.
 * Dodoni - About 70 km away from Ammoudia is ancient Theatre of Dodoni, one of the biggest and most well-retain theatre of ancient Greece of which archeological findings are dated close to 2600-2000 BCE. On the 4th century operated Dodoni’s oracle, the oldest Greek oracle and one of the most important.

Do
In Ammoudia you have the opportunity to choose between sports or activities that are taking place at the land, the river or at the sea.

 * Land - Except from bicycle in Ammoudia there’s the ability to be activated with riding or with football in the 5x5 field that is operating in the village and organize often football round robin.
 * Sea - The Ammoudia’s big sandy beach will allow you to swim safety as its shallows are suitable especially for families with young children. You will also enjoy surfing, Jet Ski or sea bicycle. Most important is the ability for diving with the lead of experienced persons.
 * River - Acheron is suitable for sports like canoe, kayak or rafting having the capability to cross the river till its estuaries, in Ammoudia. Having the suitable equipment you can also cross Acheron’s flume.

Eat
In Ammoudia a part of the population handle occupationally with fishing. Thus the restaurands that are along the river and on other points of the village are obtaining every day fresh fishes and seafood.

Drink
During the day you can enjoy your coffee choosing between cafes viewing the sea or the river. By night you can choose having your drink at quiet bars, the beach bar or at Ammoudia’s discos.

Sleep
As Ammoudia is a touristic area disposes a plenty of hotels and rooms and so you have the ability of choosing the suitable for your holidays.

Stay safe
Ammoudia is an absolutely safe village, so you can enjoy your residence without fearing for yourselves or your children.

Go next
From Ammoudia you can choose among lots of destinations, like Parga that is 18km away or Igoumenitsa that is about 55km away from Ammoudia. Departing from Parga or Igoumenitsa you can arrive to Ionian Islands by ship. You can also drive about 50km to go to Preveza or about 85km to reach to Ioannina.

title: Ammoudia


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Amnat Charoen

Amnat Charoen (Thai: อำนาจเจริญ) is in a town, the capital of a Amnat Charoen Province, in the Isaan region of Thailand.

Understand
Although it is a small and tranquil town, Amnat Charoen has various attractions. Visitors to Charoen can view sacred Buddha images, picturesque rice paddies and fruit orchards, rocky rapids of Mekong River in the dry season, and excellent handicrafts, particularly silk.

The people of Amnat Charoen attach their lifestyle to local traditions and festivals that are held throughout the year such as the festival to mark the end of Buddhist Lent, the Rocket Festival, Loy Krathong and Songkran. Moreover, they practice 14 moral precepts such as cleaning their feet before entering a home, donating food to monks, avoiding stepping on a monk's shadow, paying respect to parents, paying homage to Buddha images with flowers, candles, and joss sticks and learning Dhamma every day.

Most people in Amphoe Chanuman are descendants of the Phu Thai ethnic group who migrated from Laos. They specialise in weaving "khit" cloth, preserving its unique patterns. Their traditional musical performance "mor lam" always supports the democratic constitutional monarchy. Amnat Charoen people try to retain the "long khuang" tradition which consisted of teenagers meeting up for communal activities such as weaving or silk spinning accompanied by lively traditional music.

By car
From Bangkok, head north via Hwy 1, then Hwy 2 to Korat. After that, take Hwy 226, Nakhon Ratchasima-Surin, then Hwy 214, Surin-Suwannaphum. Turn right onto Hwy 202 via Yasothon and Pa Tio to Amnat Charoen. This route is 585 km. Or motorists can take Hwy 1, 2, then Hwy 226, Korat-Ubon Ratchathani, and Hwy 212 to Amnat Charoen. This route is 704 km.

By bus
Scheduled buses and air conditioned coaches leave the Northeastern Bus Terminal, Mo Chit 2, Kamphaeng Phet Rd, for Amnat Charoen daily.

Tourists who travel by plane or train can head for Ubon Ratchathani first, then take bus to Amnat Charoen, 75 km away.

Get around
There is no public transport in Amnat Charoen. Your only choice to get around is a motorcycle taxi.

See

 * Buddha Utthayan and Phra Mongkhon Ming Mueang (พุทธอุทยาน และพระมงคลมิ่งเมือง): This base rock area is shaded and contains different kinds of vegetables decorated under the theme of "Buddha Park". Inside the park, a huge northern Indian-style Buddha image, Phra Mongkhon Ming Mueang or Phra Yai, is placed in front of the temple. This Buddha image is now the logo of Amnat Charoen Province.

 * Chidsakol Farm (สวนเกษตรชิตสกนต์): Close to Chidsakol Resort, this well-known farm features flowers and plants. Its huge plantation of African marigold always turn the whole field into a bright yellow hue when in full bloom.
 * Wat Tham Saeng Phet (วัดถ้ำแสงเพชร): On a spacious sandstone plain, the cave temple features a viharn, a pagoda and a huge reclining Buddha. This cave is named Saeng Phet or "diamond's glitters" due to its glittering rock. Wat Tham Saeng Phet is a meditation centre for those who honour Achan Cha Suphatto, a monk from Wat Nong Pa Phong. Many foreign monks visit it to meditate.
 * Mor Lam Village (หมู่บ้านหมอลำ): The cultural attraction of Amnat Charoen, mor lam is a famous traditional musical performance of northeast Thailand. Performances feature dance and traditional music. It is the biggest mor lam village of Thailand with 20 mor lam bands living in the village. The mor lam performance of Ban Pla Khao village was awarded Amnat Charoen’s OTOP (One Tambon One Product).
 * Boat Race Festival (ประเพณีการแข่งเรือยาว): is held in October and November each year. The race is a big tournament for boats from Amphoe Khemarat, (Ubon Ratchathani Province), Amphoe Chanuman (Amnat Charoen Province), and Laos. The race takes place on the Mekong River in front of the Amphoe Chanuman office.

Go next

 * Mukdahan or Ubon Ratchathani if continuing to Laos, or inland to Yasothon.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Amnat Charoen


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Amorgos

Amorgos is a strange, obscure and charming island of the Cyclades group.

Understand
Amorgos has two ports, Aegiali and Katapola. At the centre of the island is the village of Hora also spelled Chora (5 km from Katapola, 15 km from Aegiali). The south part of the island is called Kato Meria or Arkesini and is less tourist-oriented.

History
Amorgos has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Old tombs were discovered, dating to as early as 3300 BC. From the Early Cycladic Period, there were three major settlements, all on the long north coast of the island, and with each one being settled by different inhabitants. Modern day Arkessini, furthest southwest, was known as Kastri and was settled by the Naxians. Minoa, the ruins of which lie just above the port of Katapola, was settled by the Samians. The third settlement is near the present-day port of Egiali (also with the same name) and was settled by the Milians. Throughout the centuries, the island came under the rule of many masters, most notably the Venetians who built the fortress in the capital. They held onto the island for three centuries from 1207, until it fell to the Turks. It was finally liberated in 1832 and then united with Greece.

For centuries, the exquisite embroideries made by the women of Amorgos fetched quite high prices and greatly added to the economy of the island. In fact, many pieces are on display in European museums, with some of the finest exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Sadly, what is produced today and sold in the shops, though very lovely, is not of the same standard as was produced by the earlier generations.

Simonides, the famous ancient Greek lyric poet, was born in Amorgos. It is Simonides who is the writer of the "Epitaph At Thermopylae", written on the tomb of the soldiers from Sparta who fell defending Greece against the Persian invasion.

Talk
Most people on the island speak English. Some elderly residents may have learned Italian during the fascist occupation in the second World War.

By boat
There are two ports in Amorgos: one in Aigiali and one in Katapola.

Ferry boats and Highspeed catamaran services run daily from Athens (Piraeus port).

 * Hellenic Seaways.
 * BlueStar.
 * Gaferries.

Express Skopelitis runs daily to and from Naxos.

Blue Star boats travel all year (the journey from Piraeus is about 9 hours). All ferry and high speed ferry companies: schedules, connections, availability and prices, between Amorgos, other Greek islands and Piraeus port (Athens) can be found at Ferries.gr or ferryhopper.com.

There are also boats that travel between various islands of the Cyclades, including Santorini, Naxos, and Paros, offering daily connections in various directions in the summer months.

 * Seajets

By plane
The closest airports to Amorgos are on the islands of Naxos and Santorini. Ferry boats connect these islands to Amorgos (either port at Katapola or Aegiali) daily in the summer months.

By bus
Various bus services operate between the villages.

 * Amorgos Bus Company operates all over the island. Prices vary between €1.80-3.00 depending on the distances (as of 2019). Schedules change throughout the year, and can be found in front of shops as well as on their website.

On foot
Within the resorts walking is the best method of transport. There are also many recommended hiking paths that can be found on maps.

By car/motorbike
For total freedom hire a car or a motorbike. Car hire is available in Katapola, Aegiale and Hora and is relatively cheap.

Taxi from Aegiali to Katapola or opposite costs €25.

See
The island is crisscrossed with a good selection of hiking trails, many of them rough marble glazed paths still used by donkey riders. Sunrise and sunset are very good times to hike near Aeigali, taking the bus up to Langhara and walking down to the beach is fabulous.

Urban centres

 * Aighiali - A secondary port at the northeastern end of the island. Ferries departing from Piraeus often make a second stopover at Aigiali after touching Katapola. This is because the road connecting the two centers is not in the best condition and it is cheaper and faster to embark to move from one centre to another.
 * Chora - The capital of the island placed 400 m high, in a panoramic position on both sides of the sea. It is just a few km from Katapola and has a number of nightclubs (bars in Greek). The beach of Chora is Aghia Anna, the most famous and the most frequented of the island, just below the monastery of Chazobiotissa.
 * Katapola - The port where ferries from Piraeus call.
 * Tholaria - A small town near Aighiali, where you can find accommodation. It is not on the sea but hidden in the mountains. There are a few uncrowded beaches in the vicinity, which are often only accessible on foot, which is naturally not very pleasant, especially when the wind blows or the sun hits hard.

Beaches
The best beaches are found by asking the locals and are completely free.

Beaches around Katapola

 * Agios Panteleimonas
 * Agii Saranta
 * Finikes
 * Maltezi

Beaches southwest of Amorgos

 * Amoudi - Within walking distance of Arkesini.
 * Gramboussa - An islet reachable by boat from Kalotaritissa.
 * Kalotaritissa - A beach in a natural bay protected from the winds where private yachts stop off. There is a rusty wreck of a merchant ship.
 * Kato Kampos - In a narrow cove near the village of Kolofana.
 * Mouro - Very popular near the villages of Arkesini and Kamari, with caves and interesting sea beds.
 * Paradise - (10 km) Under the chapel of Agia Paraskevì where every 26th of July a religious festival takes place.
 * Perivolas

Beaches around Aighiali and Tholaria

 * Agios Pavlos - A quiet coastline with only one tavern.
 * Levrossos - A very beautiful beach where you practice nudism reachable from Tholaria.
 * Megali and Mikrì Glyfada - Remote northern beaches reachable from the village Tholaria through paths not easy to locate.
 * Nikourià - An islet off Agios Pavlos.
 * Psilì Ammos - Near Aigiali, reachable by boat.

Beaches on the south coast

 * Chalara - Reachable on foot from Potamòs. A coastline of smooth stones and pebbles.

Hiking
Good hiking paths that can be found on maps or by asking the locals.

Events
The official website of Amorgos has an online event calendar.

Drink

 * The traditional rakomelo. It's raki boiled with honey and cinammon.
 * Psimeni is a traditional Amorgian raki, home made locally with a diverse range of flavours, like honey, cinnamon and cloves. It is offered in many homes and establishments as an aperitif or a digestif or to welcome guests, including upon visits to the cliffhanging Hozoviotissa monastery.
 * Have a drink at the bar Zygos at Xora.

Sleep
Ferry boats at Katapola and Aegiale are met by owners of domatia (rooms), and are the best bets for reasonable priced accommodation. Most have kitchens and washrooms and are sometimes shared.

Air conditioning is available in most of the rooms. It's better to rent a room at Chora (The village at the top of the mountain Profitis Ilias, fifteen minutes from the port of Katapola).

title: Amorgos


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Ampana

Ampana is a town in Central Sulawesi in Indonesia, on the coast of the Gulf of Tomini.

Understand
Ampana is known especially for its port, from which daily ferries depart for the Togian Islands.

Go next

 * Togian Islands — archipelago in the Gulf of Tomini

title: Ampana


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Amparo

Amparo is a city in Campinas Region of São Paulo state. It is the largest city of the Circuito das Águas Paulista (Paulista Water Circuit), a cluster of mineral spring towns over the Mantiqueira mountain range. Amparo contains a large and well-preserved historical heritage from the São Paulo state coffee farming era (late 19th century).

Understand
The settlement of Nossa Senhora do Amparo was founded in 1829. After 1850, it prospered with the coffee farming, and got a boost with the inauguration of the train station from the Mogiana company. The Great Depression of 1929 also brought the decline of coffee farming in the state of São Paulo, and Amparo suffered from economic stagnation. After 1940, the city started recovering with industrialization and later, tourism. Química Amparo (Ypê), a manufacturer of cleaning products founded in 1950, is still the main employer of the city.

Amparo remains as one of the cities of the state with most preserved heritage from the coffee farming era. Other attractions of the city are its mineral springs, rural tourism, eno- and ecotourism.

By bus
The intercity bus terminal is in the historic center, near the Municipal Market, making intercity buses an attractive option to get in the city. Buses from Campinas are operated by Expresso Metropolis and from São Paulo by Rápido Fênix. Buses are not that frequent so reserving in advance is a good idea.

By car

 * From Campinas: Take Rod. D. Pedro (SP-065) towards Jacareí and then take Rod. Campinas-Mogi Mirim (SP-340) towards Jaguariúna. In Jaguariúna, take Rod. João Beira (SP-095) towards Pedreira and Amparo.
 * From São Paulo: Take Rod. Fernão Dias (BR-381), and in Atibaia, take Rod. D. Pedro (SP-065) towards Campinas. Then take SP-360 towards Morungaba and Amparo.

Get around
It is possible explore the city center on foot, although the area is relatively large and contains ladders. You can cycle alongside the Camanducaia river, but for exploring the city, be prepared for the ladders and brick roads. A car is recommended if you plan to explore the countryside of municipality.

Historical heritage
Amparo's city center contains a large collection of houses and constructions from the coffee-farming era (late 19th and early 20th centuries). The most remarkable constructions are:

Buy
Amparo's main shopping street is R. Treze de Maio, with shops mainly oriented to locals, not tourists. Locally made handcrafts are sold at Centro de Artesanato in the old train station.

Stay safe
Amparo is a safe city, with violent crime being far less common than petty crime. The roads around the city are quite dark during the night, so drive carefully in this situation.

Go next

 * Monte Alegre do Sul - Small town founded by Italian immigrants, with a charming historic center and renowned cachaça brewers

title: Amparo


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Amphawa

Amphawa (Thai: อัมพวา) is a district (amphoe) of Samut Songkhram province, at the northwestern tip of the Bay of Bangkok, West of Bangkok. The canal-side way of life in Amphawa takes place along the waterfront walkways of Amphawa Canal, a small tributary of the Mae Khlong River. Every weekend Thais flock to the Amphawa Floating Market, as big queues emerge along the canal's bridges and walkways. While commercially developed, the old wooden houses and shopfronts retain some of their original charm.

Understand

In the Ayutthaya Period, Amphawa was called Khwaeng Bang Chang, a small community that flourished in agriculture and trade. Sources have confirmed the existence of a market here since the reign of King Prasat Thong in the mid-17th century. In 1766, King Rama II was born in Amphawa, his mother's hometown, as his father was ruling the town of Ratchaburi. At his probable birthplace is now the King Rama II Memorial Park.

Get in
Most visitors come to Amphawa on a day-trip from Bangkok. You can take the fast mini van from Victory Monument to Damnoen Saduak and get off at Amphawa. A bus from the Southern Bus Terminal might be a safer option but you have to take the bus to Samut Songkhram first and switch onto a songthaew or bus heading for Amphawa. Ask the locals, as buses are only signed in Thai and songthaews don't have any signs at all. The ride will take about 15 minutes and it is obvious where to get off.

Get around
It's only a small village and so everything is within walking distance. The floating market is immensely popular and consequently there are enormous queues, especially at the pedestrian bridges over the canal. You can also hire a boat to get up and down the canal, and so participate in the floating market.

See

 * , opened on weekends (F-Su) only. It gives an impression of the canalside way of live, where farmers in traditional clothing sell their produce. Unlike Damnoen Saduak, this is an afternoon market, so you can easily combine the two into a single trip. It starts to get going around noon, but is at its best around 15:00.

Do
A popular activity is to take a boat ride through the canals. You can even hire a river taxi and get all the way to Damnoen Saduak. You can also rent a bike and ride through the orchards.

Buy
Many shops have congregated around the floating market's walkways. Most of them are souvenir stores that cater to middle class Bangkokians daytripping here. You can buy t-shirts, notebooks, dresses, handicrafts, traditional hats, bags, flip-flops, cups, pens and many other small objects. Retro products seem to be particularly popular — expect miniature cars from the 1960s and albums of bands such as The Beatles.

Eat
Eating is a major activity on the floating market — there are many merchants in boats preparing delicious food right in front of you. Seafood is popular, especially shrimp, squid and clams are sold in large quantities. Thais buy many different kinds of food at different merchants and share these together. Fresh farm products cost around 120 baht for each meal. Some boat merchants prepare different varieties of pad thai and other noodles, which cost 20 baht each.

Drink
There are some cafes along the walkway. Most of them are in a kind of wooden retro style.

Sleep
Amphawa is immensely popular among Thai visitors from Bangkok, so expect all the hotels to be sold out on weekends. If you want a room during this time, it is necessary to book at least a week in advance. If you haven't done this and still want to stay over, you might want to try a homestay in and around the floating market.

Go next
You'll probably get out the same way as you got in: from Bangkok and Samut Songkhram. It is possible, however, to combine Amphawa with a visit to the floating market at Damnoen Saduak which takes place in the morning. There are some other floating markets around as well, including the Tha Kha Floating Market.

title: Amphawa


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Amravati

Amravati (also known as Amrawati or Amraoti) is a city in the state of Maharashtra in India. It is believed to be the city of Lord Indra, the king of all gods. The city boasts of historical temples of Goddess Amba, Lord Shri Krishna and Shri Venkateshwara.

History
Amravati District with the rest of the Berar was assigned to the East India Company by the Nizam following the treaty of 1853. After this province was assigned to the Company, it was divided into two districts, South Berar with its headquarters at Hingoli with neighbouring region restored to the Nizam and North Berar was reconstituted into East Berar with headquarters at Akola. In 1864, the district of Yeotmal was separated from Amravati. In 1903, the Treaties of Assignment were superseded by an agreement under which the Nizam leased Berar to the Government of India in perpetuity. Berar was joined to the central provinces in 1903 to form the enlarged province of central provinces and Berar. With the recognition of States in1956, Amravati district, along with other districts of Vidarbha region was included in the then Bilingual Bombay State. Since the bifurcation of Bombay state into Maharashtra and Gujrat in 1960, Amravati, along with other districts of Vidharbha formed one of the districts of Maharashtra.

Climate
Amravati has a tropical wet and dry climate with hot, dry summers from March to June, the monsoon season from July to October and warm winters from November to March. The highest and lowest temperatures ever recorded was 49.7oC on 25 May 1954 and 5.0oC on 9 February 1887 respectively.

Get in
Traveling to the city is quite easy; since it has good air, rail as well as road links.

By air
The nearest railway station from Amravati is that of Amravati and Badnera. Biggest city near Amravati is Nagpur which has regular as well as direct flights to all the metros. Since Nagpur is serviced by both public as well as private carriers, reaching here by air is no problem.

By train
The railway station of Amravati is well connected with that of Nagpur. Nagpur falls on the Mumbai-Kolkata main line and forms the terminus of the branch line of Central Railway. The city is connected with almost all the parts of the country by regular trains.

By road
The nearest road link from Amravati city of Maharashtra is that of Nagpur. Apart from that, the city has a good network of roads connecting it with the important towns and cities within the state as well as those in the neighboring states.

Get around
Government Engineering College campus

Changapur (Lord Hanuman Temple, under 15 km from Amravati)

Chikhaldhara (Quiet Hill Station, 100 km from Amravati)

title: Amravati


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Amritsar

Amritsar (Punjabi: ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤਸਰ Hindi: अमृतसर) is a city in the state of Punjab, India. It is the holiest city in the Sikh religion. Amritsar is one of the largest cities in the Indian state of Punjab and is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion. Sikhs are rightfully very proud of the city and their very beautiful and unique Gurdwara (place of worship), the Golden Temple. Amritsar is today a major pilgrimage centre for Sikhs and a tourism centre for anyone.

Understand
The name Amritsar name derives from the pool around the Golden Temple (aka Harmandir Sahib) and means "holy pool of nectar" (Amrit elixir; Sar, short for sarovar which means "lake").

No visit to Amritsar is complete without a visit of the Golden Temple, including a community meal, a bath in the pool, potentially a night in the temple and if you are keen a volunteering session in the community kitchen, as well as the participation in the Flag lowering ceremony at the Wagah (Attari) border.

History
Amritsar is known mainly for its Golden Temple which was initiated by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru and the founder of the city, and completed in 1601 by his successor Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre or Amritsar massacre occurred in 1919. The area where this occurred was a large, open square but walled in on all sides. British troops opened fire on a crowd of demonstrators, and a large number were killed — the British said 370 dead and 1,200 wounded but Indian sources say the total was well over 1,000 dead. Some of the victims were, in fact, demonstrating, protesting against the arrest of two political activists, while others were gathered to celebrate the traditional festival of Baisakhi. Not all died directly due to British fire; many were trampled in the stampede to escape and others died diving down a well to avoid the bullets. Today the well is a rather grisly tourist attraction and bullet holes are still visible on walls around the area.

The massacre news spread quickly all over the country caused widespread outrage and additional demonstrations as it stunned the entire sub-continent. Eventually, the public lost faith in the British colonial government and subsequently, this massacre initiated the "Non-cooperation movement" led by the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is considered a significant phase of the Indian independence movement from British rule.

It also had a tremendous effect in the UK, with many of the more liberal British appalled by it while others thought it necessary. A commission investigated and concluded that "General Dyer thought he had crushed the rebellion and Sir Michael O'Dwyer was of the same view, ... (but) there was no rebellion which required to be crushed." Dyer was in command on the spot and O'Dwyer the provincial governor.

During the partition of the Indian Subcontinent in 1947, the Punjab region was divided between India and Pakistan near Amritsar. Pakistan wanted to annex Amritsar due to its close proximity with Lahore and 50% Muslim population; however, the city remained inside Indian territory. Similarly, India wanted to annex Lahore. Both of the cities experienced some of the worst communal riots during the partition. Mass evacuations were made both in Amritsar and in Lahore. Hence, the demographics of both the cities were changed following the partition, significantly altering the culture and affecting the political, economic and social environment of the cities.In June 1984, an Indian military operation ordered by then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, was launched in the city to remove a few hundred Sikh militants who had taken control of the Golden Temple compound. After a few hundred people were killed during the 5-day siege, thousands of civilians were killed throughout the country in the aftermath.

Get in
The best time to visit Amritsar is during winter, October–March.

By plane

Most flights are to Delhi (1 hr away) but there are an increasing number of international connections:
 * Air India flies from/to Birmingham
 * Qatar Airways now flies from/to Doha
 * FlyScoot flies from/to Singapore with possible budget connections all around Southeast Asia and beyond
 * Air-India Express, SpiceJet and IndiGo fly from/to Dubai and Sharjah with cheap connections into Europe from there
 * There are also a surprising number of flights to Central Asia (Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan).

Getting there and away:
 * By bus – The cheapest way to and from the airport is by local bus. Take the bus to Ajnala (stand 19 in the city bus stand) and tell the conductor that you go to the airport. The bus costs ₹15 (December 2018). The bus will drop you in the main road, about 1 km away from the airport. You could walk this in about 15 minutes or take a rickshaw or auto from there. The way back should be the same, just walk to the main road and hail down any bus going into the city.
 * By free shuttle – The Golden Temple is running a free shuttle bus generally twice a day. It is leaving from the airport around 09:00 and 15:00 (as of F July 2023), generally shortly after a couple of flights arrived. So check ahead for the flights—he might go a little earlier or a little later. From the roundabout northeast of the Golden Temple in the center, the roundabout where also rickshaws go to the border, the bus should leave towards the airport about 1 hr before these times, but best to inquire with the Golden Temple staff beforehand.
 * By rickshaw – If you just head to the highway, or even just outside of the airport, there should be rickshaws waiting for potential customers—say ₹100-200. On the way back they will go as far as they are allowed. If you don't have much large luggage, that can also be a convenient option.
 * By taxi – Taxi drivers wait outside the arrivals gate for visitors. For a trip into town, even the prepaid taxi can be bargained down with the drivers to ₹300 from initially ridiculous prices of ₹550 a person (as of March 2014; became ₹850 as of May 2023) before you pay, but there is a significant dearth of official taxis or even auto-rickshaws, so prepare for a hard time. Uber and OLA are available. Both Uber and OLA charges around ₹550 (May 2023) with OLA slapping an additional ₹100 charge for parking which is not apparent while booking. This charge is applied both during airport pickup and drop off.

By train

Here are some useful trains to get to Amritsar: Also see Rail travel in India

By bus

At the bus terminal you can also catch a bus to the Wagah border for ₹50.

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

From Pakistan
If coming from Wagah at the Pakistani border, take a rickshaw (₹20, 3 km) to the Attari station, where you can catch a local bus to Amritsar (₹40, 25 km).

Nowadays, the bus from Amritsar is actually calling at the border. However, this might only be in the afternoon when a lot a people head to the border for the parade.

Taxis and rickshaws also use this route and charge ₹200-500 for the entire journey.

By bus
A public bus system has been introduced.

By auto-rickshaw

 * An auto-rickshaw from the train station to the temple should cost around ₹20, while a cycle-rickshaw will cost about ₹30.
 * Electric rickshaw between the Golden Temple area and the bus stand are ₹10.

By car
If you have your own car to get around Amritsar then simply confirm the directions with a local guide. In case you don't have your own car then there are several travel agencies that can offer you the car of your choice.

Renting a car is less time-consuming and affordable. Experienced car drivers know all the shortcuts within the city and will take you to the best hotel or restaurant. Never pay the entire fare to the car agent in advance and don't leave expensive luggage in your car whenever you are visiting a site.

See

Golden Temple

Do

 * – The ceremony at the Wagah (Attari) border involving a lot of nationalistic cheering, Monty-Pythonesque silly walks by soldiers, the lowering of the flags of both the countries (India and Pakistan), and the closing of international gates
 * – The ceremony at the Wagah (Attari) border involving a lot of nationalistic cheering, Monty-Pythonesque silly walks by soldiers, the lowering of the flags of both the countries (India and Pakistan), and the closing of international gates
 * – The ceremony at the Wagah (Attari) border involving a lot of nationalistic cheering, Monty-Pythonesque silly walks by soldiers, the lowering of the flags of both the countries (India and Pakistan), and the closing of international gates

Learn

 * The Golden Temple has a massive library where tourists/visitors can get books on Sikhism for free or at very little cost.
 * 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.

Buy
There are bustling bazaars with a huge variety from embroidered phulkari dupattas to famous papad wariyan. The markets offer a wide range of products like carpets, bangles, shawls and woolen textiles and Punjabi juttis (traditional footwear).

 * Sikh symbols and religious paraphernalia like khandas, Karas (Sikh religious bangle), swords, daggers etc. from the shops close to the Golden Temple.
 * CDs of temple recordings, chants, and Punjabi music in the shops along the front of the temple.
 * Punjabi Juttis (shoes) from the tiny shops near the Hall Bazaar flyover.
 * Warian (spicy pulses ground with spices) from Hall Bazaar
 * Phulkaari is a form of embroidery from the state of Punjab in India and certain parts of Pakistan which literally means “flower making”. Brightly coloured shawls to sarees to head scarves to salwar-kameez of Phulkaari can be found in Hall Bazar and Kapra market. Hand-embroidered ones would be more expensive and are still very much in demand for festivals and other joyous occasions. Bargain your heart out, especially in Kapra market as it’s a whole-sale market for clothes.

Eat
Amritsar is famous for Amritsari Kulcha, a flatbread cooked in tandoor which is usually eaten with pindi chhole (chickpeas) for breakfast.

 * Country Inn & Suites, around the corner of Bhandari Bridge serves up great Indian, Italian, Continental and Chinese food.
 * Country Inn & Suites, around the corner of Bhandari Bridge serves up great Indian, Italian, Continental and Chinese food.
 * Country Inn & Suites, around the corner of Bhandari Bridge serves up great Indian, Italian, Continental and Chinese food.
 * Country Inn & Suites, around the corner of Bhandari Bridge serves up great Indian, Italian, Continental and Chinese food.

There are very few decent non-veg restaurants and cafes near the temple complex.

Drink
Lassi is a popular and traditional yogurt-based drink which originates in the Punjab region. It is made by blending yogurt with water and Indian spices. Traditional lassi (also known as salted lassi, or, simply lassi) is a savoury drink sometimes flavoured with ground roasted cumin while sweet lassi, on the other hand, is blended with sugar or fruits instead of spices.

Mid-range

Stay safe

 * The sectarian strife of the 1980s is just a bad memory and Amritsar is a safe and welcoming city, if a little polluted.
 * Don't leave cash or any valuables in the hotel room. Cross check all hotel, restaurant and lounges bills for errors.
 * Never pay anyone for anything upfront, including taxi drivers.
 * Do not exchange money in the black market. Ask for a receipt when exchanging money at any authorised currency exchange centre.

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 (scarves are widely available throughout the town for ₹10, or a box of them are free to use at the entrances to the temple).
 * Every visitor is required to remove shoes and socks and wash his/her feet before entering the temple. You can store your shoes at the subterranean building to the left of the entrance.
 * Smoking and alcohol are forbidden within the complex and anywhere within sight of the temple. Lighting up a cigarette on the busy street out front 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 temple.

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

 * Cyber Pub, Opposite District Courts on Airport Road. Scanner and printer available.
 * Cyber Swing, (above New Punjabi Rasoi restaurant), has several machines and a decent connection. ₹40/hour.

Go next

 * Dharamsala – A hill station in Himachal Pradesh, famed for its large Tibetan community centred on the activities of the Dalai Lama.
 * Jammu – The winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir
 * Lahore – Armed with a visa, take the plunge into this bustling gateway city, one of the cultural hubs of Pakistan.

title: Amritsar


text:
Amstelland

Amstelland is a region within North Holland in the Netherlands. It is basically synonymous with Greater Amsterdam.

Understand
Although containing large stretches of the archetypal Dutch polder landscape, the area is one of the country's primary economic powerhouses, focusing mostly on financial services and logistics. Partly because a large part of the area, the Haarlemmermeer polder, was a lake until 1852, there is relatively little old architecture.

Get in
Many visitors to the Netherlands will actually arrive in Amstelland itself, as Schiphol Airport lies within it.

Get around
From Schiphol, you can take the train to the north, to Amsterdam, or to the south, to Hoofddorp, Nieuw-Vennep and further to Leiden. Also, there are many bus services, including ones to Haarlem, Amstelveen and Uithoorn.

title: Amstelland