Daily costs per person in INR and USD. Langar (free temple meals) makes Amritsar uniquely affordable — the main expenses are accommodation and the Wagah trip.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: INR (₹) (1 USD ≈ ₹83. Cards work in hotels; carry cash for the Golden Temple area)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹0–700 ($0–8) | ₹1,200–2,500 ($14–30) | — | |
| Food | ₹200–400 ($2–5) | ₹600–1,200 ($7–14) | — | |
| Transport (local) | ₹100–200 ($1–2) | ₹300–500 ($4–6) | — | |
| Entry & Museum Fees | ₹10–50 ($0–1) | ₹200–400 ($2–5) | — | |
| Drinks & Snacks | ₹100–200 ($1–2) | ₹300–500 ($4–6) | — | |
| Daily Total | ₹410–1,550 ($5–19) | ₹2,600–5,100 ($31–61) | — |
Money-saving tips
Langar makes Amritsar extremely affordable
The Golden Temple serves free meals (langar) 24 hours a day to everyone. A full meal of dal, sabzi, roti, and kheer costs nothing. If you eat langar twice a day and supplement with street food snacks, your food budget can be under ₹200/day ($2.40). This is not poverty travel — it is participating in one of the world's great communal institutions.
Stay near the Golden Temple
The temple complex offers free accommodation (SGPC Guest House) for pilgrims and visitors of all faiths — register at Gate 9. Private guesthouses near the temple start at ₹400–700/dorm or ₹1,200–2,000 for a double. Staying within walking distance of the temple means you can visit at any hour, including 4am for the amrit vela.
Amritsari kulcha is the dish to eat
Amritsari kulcha — a flaky tandoor-baked flatbread stuffed with spiced potatoes or paneer — is the city's signature food. The best costs ₹80–120 for a complete plate with chole (chickpeas), accompaniments, and lassi. Kulwant Singh, Bharawan Da Dhaba, and Crystal Restaurant are the main names. Do not leave without eating at least three.
Shared autos to Wagah are very cheap
Shared auto-rickshaws to Wagah border leave from near the Golden Temple and cost ₹50–70 per person (30km, 45 mins). A private taxi is ₹500–700 return. The shared auto is the best way to find travel companions for the ceremony and the journey through Amritsar's outskirts is interesting. Pre-book VIP Wagah seating online (₹100) to avoid the general crowd crush.
