A Study of Evolution of Heritage Sites in Amritsar

Amritsar is known for its shrine landscape. With its rich heritage and cultural resources, Amritsar has enormous potential as a major tourism destination. The city of Amritsar sprang up around the Golden Temple, the Sikhs’ most precious religious site. The Amritsar Walled City evolved organically in all directions, with expansion and development centred around the Golden Temple/Harimandir Sahib. Amritsar saw rapid growth during the Sikh misls period in the late 18th century, when the city was nearly rebuilt. The holy tank and parikarma were restored at Harimandir Sahib. Bungas, katras, bazaars, forts, gardens, tanks, and havellies appeared in vast numbers as part of the developing metropolis. The purpose of this study is to shed light on the evolution phases of the major heritage sites of Amritsar. The primary method of collecting data was adopted to gather the required information. The findings have suggested that although there are major developmental changes, these sites have managed to showcase an overall image of the traditional Amritsar. Urban redevelopments over a period of time have emphasized the city’s deeper relationship with Sikhism. Heritage Street, which was recently opened, offers focus points in space that aesthetically highlight this link. Heritage Street promotes a broad interpretation of Sikhism that ignores historical and political communal divisions while ignoring acts of offense.