Amritsar, a city steeped in history and spirituality, beckons travellers with its iconic Golden Temple, the vibrant local markets, and the poignant Jallianwala Bagh. The city's rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine add to its appeal, making it a captivating destination for those seeking an enriching travel experience. The fastest way to reach Amritsar from Melbourne is by air, with flight durations varying depending on the airline and route. Direct flights are usually available, with an average flight time of around 15 hours. However, this can be influenced by weather conditions and the aircraft model. Several major airlines, including Air India and Singapore Airlines, offer frequent direct flights, some multiple times a day, other a few times per week. If direct flights are unavailable or too expensive, alternative flight paths with layovers in major hubs like Dubai, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, are typically available, increasing overall travel time but sometimes providing more cost-effective options. The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are generally from April to May and September to October, avoiding peak travel times. The best time to book your flights, whether it's in the peak season or the off season, is usually 2-3 months in advance for the best deals. The peak travel season in Amritsar is during the winter months of October to March, due to the pleasant weather and numerous festivals. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the off-season months of April to September. This period is still good to enjoy the city's vibrant culture and historical landmarks.

Amritsar experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers (April-June) are scorching hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C and low humidity. Winters (October-March) are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The monsoon season (July-September) brings warm, humid weather with moderate to heavy rainfall. Spring (March-April) offers a transitional period with rising temperatures and blooming flowers. While Amritsar experiences minimal extreme weather events, the intense heat of summer and the occasional heavy rainfall during the monsoon season should be considered when choosing a travel date.

Melbourne has two major airports serving commercial flights: Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Avalon Airport (AVV).

Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Melbourne Airport, opened in 1970, is the largest and busiest airport in the state, and one of Australia's busiest, serving a large number of domestic and international destinations with multiple terminals. It's a modern airport with various amenities and features.

Avalon Airport (AVV)

Avalon Airport is a smaller, newer airport which opened in 1999. It primarily serves budget airlines operating in Australia and some international airlines offering a smaller number of routes.

Main airlines for this route

• Air India
• Singapore Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Amritsar has one main airport that serves commercial flights: Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport (ATQ).

Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport (ATQ)

Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport, opened in 1980, is an international airport that serves Amritsar and the surrounding areas. It is a modern airport with facilities for international and domestic flights. To reach the city centre from the airport, you can use public transportation like taxis or hire a car. Public buses are also available but may take longer to reach the city center.

Amritsar offers a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and religious sites for visitors to explore. It is a city that will provide you with a memorable experience.

• Golden Temple: Visit the magnificent Harmandir Sahib, a significant Sikh shrine known for its golden dome and serene atmosphere.
• Jallianwala Bagh: Reflect on history at this garden where a tragic massacre took place in 1919.
• Wagah Border Ceremony: Witness the impressive flag-lowering ceremony at the border between India and Pakistan (requires travel outside of the city).