The Great Amritsari Kulcha Trail: 6 Best Spots For Kulcha In Amritsar

There are few sounds that are more satisfying at breakfast than the crackle of a flaky Amritsari kulcha. If there's one thing that keeps bringing me back to Amritsar aside from the magical energy of the Golden Temple, it's Amritsar's best-known dish - the world-famous Amritsar Kulcha. I've been to Amritsar multiple times, and almost each time, I discover a new favourite kulcha haunt. In August this year, it was Harbans Lal Kulcha. It wasn't a discovery I made accidentally. It started even before I landed in Amritsar. I was sandwiched between two locals who had a strong opinion about the spots I should add on my kulcha trail. That's the thing with Amritsar, everyone has an opinion about kulcha.

Also Read: 9 Unique Things To Do In Amritsar That Go Beyond The Golden Temple

We may not think of the Amritsari kulcha as a sophisticated or an evolved dish, but most local chefs will tell you a different story. About the fascinating food tale of how Punjabi cooks learnt the art of layering flaky pastry from the French chefs employed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. This was in the first quarter of the 19th century, when Amritsar and Lahore were both cosmopolitan centres of cultural exchange. I've asked many local chefs about the key to the perfect kulcha, and I almost always get the same response - 'layering'.

Photo Credit: Ashwin Rajagopalan

While other cities might do spongier versions of the kulcha, there's no better version of the kulcha than the quintessential Amritsar version with its flaky textures. The other differentiator is the stuffing, which can range from paneer to potato or grated cauliflower that is combined with a distinctive masala. This kulcha is almost always served with a spicy chole and a tangy pyaaz ka khatta (tangy spicy chutney). And then there's the most important ingredient, a reassuring dollop of butter.

Also Read: 7 Indian Cities Where Food Is The Real Reason To Travel

There's only one way to truly discover an authentic Amritsari kulcha: you have to get here. One of the local chefs in Amritsar calls it 'Aab o hawa' - local influences that shape a cuisine and therefore the culture., Almost every ingredient, including that sinful dollop of butter, adds to the kulcha experience. Here are six spots that do it best in Amritsar:

Where To Eat Kulcha In Amritsar: 6 Best Local Spots For Amritsari Kulcha

1. Harbans Lal Kulcha

It's not easy to locate this nondescript kulcha spot. It's a Google Maps blind spot, tucked away in one of Amritsar's residential pockets, but it's totally worth all those navigation challenges. Don't even go there on a Sunday morning when locals wait in a long line. They only do takeaway orders. Best to get there for breakfast on a weekday and start your day with the sound of their flaky kulchas,
Where: Puda Colony, Green Avenue

2. Pehalwan Kulcha Shop

One of the first movers in Amritsar, this tiny kulcha spot has been pandering to Amritsar's kulcha love since the 1950s. Located in the busy Cantonment area, Pehalwan has been part of local breakfast routines for a long while now.
Where: Near Chatiwind Gate, Amritsar Cantt.

3. Kulcha Land

A safe bet for quite a few years now, this local chain is a great option if you need to make a longer pit-stop that also includes a frothy lassi. We'd suggest their Ranjit Road location for the best experience.
Where: B-Block, Ranjit Road.

4. Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale

The perfect stop after a visit to the Golden Temple (since this busy kulcha spot is not far from the temple). You can choose from multiple fillings at this popular local haunt.
Where: Bazaar Bikaneria, near Golden Temple

5. Monu Kulcha Hut

You're likely to run into more locals than tourists at this popular local kulcha spot. Most regulars will recommend you try their aloo kulcha and wash it down with one of their creamy lassis.
Where: Loharka Road, Gumtala

6. Ashok Kumar Kulche Wala

One of Amritsar's less hyped spots, and yet centrally located in the Ranjit Avenue area. This popular kulcha spot offers outdoor seating and delish kulchas that are truly authentic.
Where: A-Block, Ranjit Avenue

Save this list for your next visit to Amritsar!