Introduction

A little distance from the Golden Temple complex stands the Jallianwalla Bagh memorial park. It was the scene of a cold blooded massacre. A peaceful mass demonstration had been called by Mahatma Gandhi against the Rowlatt Act on April 13, 1919. It also happened to be Baisakhi, an important day in the Sikh calendar. A crowd of about 20,000 had gathered at this place. Lieutenant Governor of Punjab had declared martial law in response to Gandhi’s call. A platoon of infantry soon arrived under Brigadier-General R.E.H. Dyer’s command. Dyer, without so much as a warning, ordered his 150 troops of Gorkhas to open fire. The troops were positioned at the only exist point of Jallianwalla Bagh. Encircled by high walls, the hapless crowd was a sitting duck. Many tried clambering over the walls, while others jumped into the well to escape the raining bullets. British official estimates put the death toll at 379, with 1200 injured. But the actual figure was much higher. Well above the 1000 mark by most estimates. The incident went on to play an important role in the march towards Independence thereafter.

Today, Jallianwalla Bagh is a well-maintained garden with a memorial set amidst landscaped hedges, fountains and trees. An eternal flame and a museum with pictures and newspaper reports are gentle reminders of its horrific past. But the most telling reminder is the original boundary wall with bullet marks.

Special Attributes

Marks a defining moment in India's march towards Independence

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly.

Connectivity

Well connected by rickshaws and auto rickshaws

Enjoyed by

History buffs

Exposure

You will be under the open sky of Amritsar. If you are visiting at noon, the sun could be harsh, so carry along your sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

May, June

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Don't miss the small museum/gallery

Type of site

Memorial