Weather: 5 - 25°C
Category: Historical Site, Education
Tags: Sikh Heritage, Architecture, Educational Institution
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Time Required: 1 hour
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Overview of Khalsa College, Amritsar
Khalsa College, a 124-year-old institution in Amritsar, holds a significant place in India's educational and cultural history. Spanning over a vast 300-acre campus, this historic college is not just a hub of learning but also a monument to the rich Sikh heritage. Founded to conserve and promote the cultural heritage and language of Punjab, Khalsa College stands as one of the most prestigious educational institutions in India. It was initially conceived to foster social transformation through access to quality education.
The college is built on a historic site, the very location where Guru Hargobind won his first battle. This adds a spiritual and historical significance to the place, attracting both academic and cultural enthusiasts. The architectural style of Khalsa College is an Indo-Saracenic blend, combining traditional Indian and Mughal influences, making it an architectural marvel. Its twin counterpart, Khalsa College in Lahore, shares the same design, reflecting the cultural bond between the two cities.
The institution was designed by the renowned architect Bhai Ram Singh, who was the principal of Mayo School of Arts in Lahore. Over the years, Khalsa College has become a sought-after destination for filmmakers, with Bollywood movies like Veer Zaara, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, and Sarbjit featuring its iconic campus. Many filmmakers replicate the stunning architecture of Khalsa College for their movie sets. Visitors wishing to tour the college must seek prior permission from the authorities.
Features of Khalsa College
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Sprawling Campus:
The college boasts an extensive 220-acre student farm that supports its educational and agricultural initiatives. It also features a dispensary, a healthcare center, a gymnasium, and a gurudwara for spiritual well-being. -
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure:
Khalsa College is equipped with 86 classrooms and 10 tutorial rooms to support the academic needs of its students. The college also has a double-storey library, a conference hall, and a seminar hall with modern audio-visual facilities to enhance learning experiences. -
Cultural Heritage and Architecture:
The stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture of the college blends historical grandeur with modern educational facilities, making it a unique place for both learning and exploration.
History of Khalsa College
Khalsa College was established by the Khalsa College Establishment Committee (KCEC), with the first college built in Amritsar, followed by a similar one in Lahore. The first Sikh principal, Prof. Kishen Singh, took over from Dr. John Cambell Oman and played a significant role in shaping the institution. Under his leadership, Khalsa College witnessed growth and development, and it attracted the attention of prominent figures, including Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy and Governor-General of India, who visited the college during Prof. Kishen Singh’s tenure.
How to Reach Khalsa College, Amritsar
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By Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Khalsa College is by hiring a local taxi from anywhere in Amritsar. The college is well-connected by road, and the journey takes around 15 minutes from Amritsar Junction.
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By Auto-Rickshaw: You can also opt for an auto-rickshaw to reach the college. It’s a quick and affordable way to travel from nearby locations such as the Golden Temple.
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By Walking: If you are staying nearby, Khalsa College is around 3 km from the Golden Temple and can be reached by walking or a short auto-rickshaw ride.
