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October to March is the best time to visit the area. In November join in Guru Nanak Gurpurab celebration, a deeply religious occasion for prayers, music and food. Deepavali is the festival of lights held at the end October or the beginning of November. In the spring months there are two spectacular festivals, Holi honours love and colours and Festival of Vaisakhi, is a traditional harvest celebration held at the beginning of the new year in April. When visiting the Golden Temple both men and women should respectfully cover their heads and refrain from taking photographs. Additionally, no motorized vehicles are allowed in this sacred area.
Eating out in Amritsar is somewhat dearer than in Kolkata and Delhi, however, basic groceries are less costly. Inexpensive dhaba and restaurant meals of stuffed kulchas or kebabs will be around Rs 200. More eclectic dining will begin at Rs 5000. Regarding lodgings, if you are in a position to share a room you will pay ca. Rs 200. Luxury 4 or 5 star hotels, near the Golden temple and the Jallianwala public gardens, start at Rs 2000.
Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport is only 11 kilometres from the center of Amritsar. A municipal bus will take travellers to the main bus terminal for connections to the city. The trip usually takes around 24 minutes. Taxis are also available, use your bargaining skills and expect to pay at least Rs 300. Once you are in the city, public transportation is on the bus lines or taxis can also be hired. Cycle and auto rickshaws are plentiful for sightseeing adventures.