Hotel Crown

Hotel Crown stands at Goal Hatti Chowk on Hall Bazar, in the middle of the old city's main shopping street, and it offers simple, affordable accommodation for travellers who prefer to be in the thick of things. The Golden Temple is about a thirteen-minute walk, roughly 0.7 miles, so it is close enough to reach on foot but far enough from the temple lanes to be a little quieter at night. Amritsar Haveli, Kulwant Singh Kulchan waale, Giani Tea Stall, Prem Nath Kulche Wale and A-One Kulfa are all within a short walk, which tells you how well placed the hotel is for the city's famous food. The hotel is classed as three and the room types are simple but cover a range of needs. A Standard Room of around 144 square feet suits solo travellers, a Deluxe Room with two king beds and a Superior Room with a city view and a king and twin bed work for small groups, and a 340-square-foot Family Room sleeps four.

The walk to the Golden Temple takes you through the bazaar, past sweet shops and cloth merchants, and is part of the pleasure of staying here. Evening walks can be busy and noisy, so ask for a room away from the street if you are sensitive to sound.

Who it suits and what to know: Hotel Crown is a good fit for budget travellers, couples and families who want a straightforward room and are happy to rely on the neighbourhood for meals and entertainment. Its price and facilities are modest, so do not expect hotel extras, but the location and parking make it a practical option.

Confirm the room type and bed configuration when you book, particularly if you are travelling with children, and ask about breakfast and Wi-Fi coverage in rooms. Use the front desk to book a day tour or a driver for the border ceremony, and plan to spend your time out in the city rather than in the hotel.