One of the most visited cities in Punjab, Amritsar offers much to explore for history buffs, pilgrims and leisure travellers. The charming city is a mix of old traditions, evolving cultures and warm hospitality. Known world over for the sacred Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple, Amritsar is also home to quite a few recreational spots if you are looking for a laidback and fun experience. Let’s take a look at the 10 best picnic spots in and around Amritsar.
Picnic Spots in Amritsar (List):
Gobindgarh Fort | Kaiser Bagh |
Sun City Waterpark | Sadda Pind |
Thunderzone Amusement and Water Park | Rainbow Water Park Resorts |
Hazira Park | Harike Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary |
Rangla Punjab Haveli |
1. Gobindgarh Fort, Amritsar
Combining rich history and architecture together in an awe-inspiring experience, the Gobindgarh Fort in Amritsar is a must-visit. Built by Gujjar Singh Bhangi during the Misl rule, the fort was earlier referred to as ‘Bhangian da Qila’. After a conflict, the fort was taken over by Maharaja Ranjit Singh who named it after Guru Shri Gobind Singh Ji. The fort takes you through the stories of the past through its exhibits including brass products, copper goods and wood inlays as well as enthralling audio-video shows including one in 7D. There are three main museums – Toshakhana, Warfare Museum and Pagdi Museum to explore within the complex.
- Location: Old Cantt Road, Vijay Chowk, Amritsar
- Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 180 onward (per person)
- Trivia: Don’t miss the 30-minute long 7D show which is based on the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and is directed by the famous filmmaker Mr. Ketan Mehta.
Love historical places? Read our blog on Top Historical Places in Amritsar
2. Kaiser Bagh, Amritsar
The first thing that strikes one about Kaiser Bagh is the flight of stairs which actually serves as the entrance of the garden. Greeting you on the way up is a temple which resembles a bridge and is quite an interesting feature about Kaiser Bagh. Also known as Ceaser’s Park, it is inspired by Gothic and Mughal style architectures and is shaped as a quadrangle. A favourite among tourists and locals for its beauty and calm – it’s a great place to enjoy a picnic amidst nature.
- Location: Amritsar Centre, Amritsar
3. Sun City Waterpark, Amritsar
Sun City Waterpark is an ideal summer hangout complete with amusement rides and water slides. Situated on Batala Road, it is the perfect way to beat the heat; hence, visited by a number of tourists and locals. The water park has multiple slides, aqua dance floor and swimming pools for a memorable experience. There is a multi-cuisine restaurant within the premises so you don’t have to step outside.
- Location: Opp. Power House, Batala Road, Amritsar
- Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 600 onwards
4. Sadda Pind, Amritsar
A depiction and celebration of rural Punjab life, Sadda Pind is a unique way to peek into the traditional life of the locals. If you are looking for a picnic spot in Amritsar, this definitely tops the list for the number of facilities it offers as well as being an apt example of the city’s warm hospitality. Sadda Pind is designed to resemble a village centre in Punjab complete with old-style houses and cultural activities like paranda making, folk dances and puppet shows. It also provides a great platform for local artisans to show their creativity in the form of exquisite juttis, phulkari and durries – which you can buy! Of course, the food here is the winner with an assortment of Punjabi delicacies including the world-famous sarson da saag and makki ki roti.
- Location: Main Bypass Road, Behind Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar
- Timings: 10
INR 750 (adult)
INR 600 (children)
Read Also: Places to Visit in Amritsar
5. Thunderzone Amusement and Water Park, Amritsar
The biggest amusement and water park in Amritsar, Thunderzone is a great option for a Sunday outing. The park takes you back to your childhood with old favourites such as roller coaster, columbus and swinging chairs. For the younger kids, there is boating and a separate play area to stay busy! Water slides & wave pools at the water park further add to the fun quotient.
- Timings:
10:00 am to 7:00 pm (April – October)
10:00 am to 5:30 pm (November to March) - Entry Fee: INR 800 onwards
Read Also: Amusement and Water Park in Amritsar
6. Rainbow Water Park Resorts, Amritsar
Offering adventure, water activities and fun rides in one place, Rainbow Resorts is one of the most popular places in Amritsar for an outing with children. From karting, paintballing to adventure sports like obstacle courses and zip-line – the resort offers numerous combos according to your interests. Their water park which is based on a jungle theme is a definite visit and is a favourite among the little ones.
- Location: Attari Border Road, V.P.O. Chidden
- Distance from Amritsar: 21 km
- Timings: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 500 onwards
Picnic Spots near Amritsar
7. Hazira Park, Amritsar
The beautiful Hazira Park in Batala is an excellent place to enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends. The landscaped gardens, historical structures (including the tomb of Mughal Emperor Shamsher Khan) and calmness make it quite an interesting attraction to visit near Amritsar. While in Batala, one can also explore Jal Mahal.
- Distance from Amritsar: 45 km
Read Also: Forts near Amritsar
8. Harike Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary, Amritsar
A haven for bird lovers, photographers and peace seekers, Harike Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary is possibly the best way to spend your day! Spread across three districts, the sanctuary is situated on the confluence of the River Beas and Sutlej offering breath-taking views. An abode for a huge migratory bird population, it also has an impressive number of resident birds. If you happen to visit during the right season, you might catch a glimpse of white-browed fantail grassbird, yellow-crowned woodpecker, purple moorhen, bar-headed goose, white-eyed pochard and the tufted duck.
The sanctuary is also home to a number of other species including turtles, fish and snakes. If stories are anything to go by, a lucky few have also spotted the rare Indus River Dolphin here!
- Location: Jakopur Khurd
- Distance from Amritsar: 94 km
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
9. Rangla Punjab Haveli, Amritsar
Rangla Punjab Haveli gives visitors a unique opportunity to witness the true essence of Punjabi hospitality and culture. A famous picnic destination near Amritsar, Rangla is a complete experience which includes great entertainment, shopping and delicious food.
Guests have the chance to understand and learn about Punjab’s vibrant culture through the haveli’s many exhibits and fun activities. The most popular ones include the much-loved dance form – gidda, the art of clay making with ghumeyar and weaving. Promising an action-packed day with dance performances, magic shows and puppet sessions – this is one place you must not miss if contemplating a picnic outing with loved ones.
- Location: Jalandhar – Phagwara Highway, Khajurla, GT Road, Next to Haveli
- Distance from Amritsar: 90 km
- Timings:
12:00 pm to 4:30 pm
6:30 pm to 11:00 pm - Entry Fee: INR 350 onwards
If your idea of a family outing is indulging into shopping and food, we have a comprehensive list of best malls and restaurants in Amritsar.