The rich and vibrant land of Punjab has always been the most sought after destination among the tourists from both India and abroad. The historical cities of the blessed land of Punjab have charmed the visitors since time immemorial. Amritsar, Patiala, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Mohali and other cities are quite popular on account of the historical, religious and heritage sites. Punjabi cuisines, markets, and the old world charm.
Here’s a ‘Punjab Travel Guide’ that takes you through various cities of Punjab.
Amritsar
The city of Amritsar witnesses the largest number of tourist turnout due to the religious shrines, markets and heritage sites. One cannot ignore the fervor and energy that is so contagious. The rich food culture is another factor that would make your trip unforgettable.
Best places to visit:
Sri Harmandar Sahib
The one of the most revered holy place for Sikhs, the Gurdwara is the center of attraction for both domestic and international tourists. One can eat the communion served at the langar hall that runs 24/7. Sikh devotees take a holy dip at the Sarovar.
Durgiana Mandir
The architecture of the temple is similar to the Golden Temple. It preserves many Holy Scriptures of Hinduism. Built in the sixteenth century, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The complex also has a Sarovar alike Sri Harmandar Sahib.
Gurudwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib
At a distance of 20 km from Amritsar Junction, Gurdwara Bir Baba Buddha Sahib is located near Chabhal Kalan village in Amritsar district. Built in the name of Baba Budha Ji, the oldest granthi and disciple of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who went on to anoint five Sikh Gurus. Here, the parsad of Missi roti and onions is served to all.
Jalianwala Bagh
Jalianwala Bagh tells the story of those martyred at the hands of the British on April 13, 1919. One can see the bullet marks on the walls, the Martyrs Well that turned red on the ill-fated day. The Martyr’s Gallery and Museum that preserves letters from Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, among others. The ashes of Shaheed Udham Singh Ji are also preserved here.
Wagah Border
The most popular place in the region is the Army outpost at Wagah (Indo-Pak border) 28 km from Amritsar City. Thousands of visitors throng the place to witness the beating retreat ceremony near Lahore city.
The Partition Museum, Ram Tirath Temple, Gobindgarh Fort are other attractions not to be missed.
For Shopaholics who love ethnic items:
The Guru Bazaar, Hall Bazaar, Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar, Chooda Bazaar, Lahori Gate Bazaar, and Shastri Market are the ideal places to shop handicrafts, juttis, shawls, suits, ethnic jewelry, textiles and many more. One can enjoy Punjabi cuisines and delicacies like Amritsari chhole, naan, lassi and a variety of sweets like, laddus etc. at these places while shopping.
How to reach:
The city of Amritsar is well connected through airport and railway station. The inter-state bus services and cabs have made it very convenient to reach from Delhi, Chandigarh and other neighboring states.
Patiala
The historical city of Patiala is known for the forts, palaces, heritage sites and the Sikh architecture.
Best places to visit:
Qila Mubarak
Qila Mubarak was constructed by Ala Singh, the founder of royal dynasty of Patiala State in 1763.
Moti Bagh Palace
The residence of the Maharaja of Patiala, a fine example of vintage architectural monument.
Gurudwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib
Named after a place where Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji stayed for some time and blessed the people to get rid of the mysterious disease.
Kali Temple
Built by the Maharaja of Patiala, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Baradari Garden
With rare trees and shrubs, the garden surrounds the Baradari Palace in Patiala.
Rajindera Kothi
Once the residence of the royals of Patiala, the mansion is known for its colonial design blended with Indian style.
Qila Bahadurgarh
Constructed by Nawab Saif ud-Din Mahmud and later renovated by Maharaja Karam Singh, the historical fort draws visitors all the year round.
Deer Park
An ideal place to visit for children, the Deer Park with a variety of animals, amuses both children and adults.
For Shopaholics who love ethnic items
When in Patiala, you can shop to your heart’s content at the Adalat Bazar, Chhoti Baradari Market, Old Qila Mubarak Market, Sirhindi Gate, Aachar Bazaar, Dharampura Market, Book Market, Anardana Bazaar, Darshani Gate Market and Leela Bhawan Market.
The embroidered textiles, phulkari work, clothes, jewelry and accessories are the most sought after in Patiala markets. Not to miss the ‘Shahi Turban’, ‘Parranda’ and Patiala ‘salwars’. Not to miss the Jalebiwalla at the Goushalla Road and Sherawalla gate for authentic Punjabi cuisines.
How to reach
Patiala is well connected to the neighboring states and the rest of the country through trains, buses and cabs.
Ludhiana
Famous for its woolen textile market, Ludhiana is the leading industrial city in the state. Products like cycle and motor parts, textiles and woolens are exported from here to the rest of the world. The city is also famous for the Agricultural University (GADVASU) and its historical monuments.
Best places to visit
Lodhi Fort
Also known as Purana Qila, Lodhi Fort was built by Sikander Lodhi. The fort has the famous cave that leads to Phillaur.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
The museum showcases ancient history, War Hero’s Gallery, Air Force and Navy Gallery etc. The museum also tells the tale of the brave soldiers from Punjab, who fought the war of Independence.
Gurudwara Nanaksar
An ideal place for meditation, Guru Nanak Dev Ji blessed the place when he came here during a journey.
Baba Nand Singh Ji’s dedicated service and spiritual practices attracted followers from various parts of the world.
Namdhari Shaheedi Smarak
A martyrs’ memorial, where two Namdhari bravehearts Suba Gyani Ratan Singh and Sant Ratan Singh were executed by the British.
Shoppers’ Delight
Ludhiana city has many avenues to grab traditional articles like juttis, dupattas, Punjabi suits, as well as woolen and hosiery products at reasonable rates-
Ghoomar Mandi, Chaura Bazar, Punjab Trade Centre, Ludhiana Bazar and Woollen Bazar are the main attractions for shoppers.
Jamal Market, Ayali Khurd, Gurdev Nagar, are a few places famous in Ludhiana for exotic Punjabi cuisines.
How to reach
The city of Ludhiana can be reached through buses, trains and cabs.
Bathinda
Also known as ‘City of Lakes’, Bathinda is the oldest city in Punjab. It flaunts historical and religious sites dating back to 7000 BC. Bathinda Cantonment has been the main venue for the recruitment of Indian soldiers for World War1.
Best places to visit:
Takht Sri Damdama Sahib
One of the five Takhts of Sikhism, the Darbar Sahib is located at Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda district. Guru Gobind Singh Ji completed the full version of Shri Guru Granth Sahib here in 1705.
Gurudwara Lakhi Jungle
The shrine was blessed by Guru Nanak Devji. Devotees chant Japji Sahib and take a dip in the holy Sarovar to get rid of their sorrows.
Maisar Khana Temple
The Maisar Khana Mandir is 29 km from Bathinda on Bathinda-Mansa Road. A legend says that the Mata Jawala gave darshan to a poor devotee who could not reach the temple at Jawala Ji. Lakhs of devotees visit the temple every year.
Qila Mubarak
The oldest surviving fort dating back to 1100 AD was built by Emperor Kanishk. The fort has witnessed dethroning of Razia Sultan, invasion by Mahmud of Ghazni and battles between the Mughals and Maharaja Ala Singh.
Rose Garden and the Bathinda Lake View are other attractions in the city.
For Shopoholics
Dhobi Bazaar is a must visit for the tourists for handicrafts, accessories, clothes, jewelry and phulkari dupattas.
How to reach
Bathinda has an airport and a railway station. One can also reach here by cab or bus from the neighboring states.
Anandpur Sahib
A city in Rupnagar district, Anandpur Sahib, is the most significant pilgrimage for the Sikhs around the world. Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of Khalsa here at the Sarovar, baptizing the ‘Panch Pyare’ (five disciples). One of the five Takhts, the Kesgarh Sahib is located here.
Best places to visit
Gurdwara Sri Kesgarh Sahib
The shrine is one of the five Takhts of Sikhism. Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth here in 1699.
Virasat-e-Khalsa
A museum depicting the 500 years old history of Khalsa Panth.
Kiratpur Sahib
The holy city was founded by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Sikhs submerge the ashes of deceased loved ones in the Sutlej River, here. The remains of three Sikh Gurus were immersed here at the holy site.
Naina Devi Shrine
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, situated in Bilaspur, 22 km away from Anandpur Sahib.
Pathankot
Gifted by scenic beauty and historical monuments, Pathankot is named after the Pathania Rajputs. The city is surrounded by the Shivalik range, and river Chakki.
Best places to visit:
Shahpur Kandi Dam
Built on Ravi River, the dam is a multipurpose project that caters to Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir.
Ranjit Sagar Dam
The highest gravity dam in Asia and a place that attracts tourists all the year round.
Keshopur Chhamb
A community reserve that lies on the floodplains of rivers Beas and Ravi, is a home to various migratory birds.
Nurpur Fort
The historical fort was built by the Pathania Rajputs, 900 years ago.
Brij Raj Swami Temple
A temple devoted to Lord Krishna and Mira Bai.
Jugial Township, Shri Laxmi Narayan Mandir and Singh Sabha Gurudwara are the other tourist attractions.
Mini Goa
Situated on Maharaja Ranjit Sagar Dam, Mini Goa is a popular destination in Chamrod near Pathankot. Tourists enjoy motorboat rides, paragliding, horse riding, boating and sports activities. Pathankot is famous for its local Punjabi cuisines like channa bathura, lassi, dal makhani, paneer tikka, rajma and many more.
Jalandhar
Known as the ‘Town of Sports’, Jalandhar is an industrialized city, having many places as tourist attractions. Thousands of sportsmen visit here to buy sports equipment, especially cricket bats.
The city also manufactures leather goods, rubber goods, auto parts, steel, surgical instruments, hand tools, electric goods, automobile parts, sewing machine factories, handloom products and traditional Indian sweets. Want to experience exotic Punjabi food? Must visit Urban Estate and New Dashmesh Nagar to savor popular Punjabi cuisines like sarson ka saag, makki di roti, kulche and many more.
Best places to visit:
Devi Talab Mandir
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi
A place of worship, built in the name of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.
St. Mary’s Cathedral
A popular church that has a modern structure with Punjabi architecture.
Pushpa Gujral Science City in Kapurthala is a must visit if you’re in Jalandhar.
Mohali
Mohali, also known as Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, is a lively modern city that also reflects culture and tradition. Besides being popular on account of the cricket stadium, Mohali has grown steadily as an IT and industrial hub.
Best places to visit in and around Mohali:
Gurudwara Sant Mandal Angita Sahib
This gurdwara is revered as a meditation place of two great religious personalities—Bhai Kuram ji and Sant Baba Ishar Singh ji. The premises includes, Darshani Deodi, Darbar Sahib, Tapasthan, and the Sarovar besides many venues for charity activities.
Jayanti Devi Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Jayanti, a form of Goddess Durga, the temple is situated in Jayanti Majri village in Mohali.
Fateh Burj
Baba Banda Singh War Memorial Situated at Chapar Chiri village in Mohali, the site commemorates the victory of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur against the Mughal Army.
Inderjit Singh Bindra Stadium
One of the top tourist attractions, this cricket stadium has been hosting Int’l cricket matches for decades.
Gurudwara Dasvi Paatshahi Sri Nada Sahib
A dewine place of worship in Panchkula near Mohali, known to have been a retreat for Guru Gobind Singh Ji during his journey.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park also known as Chhatbir Zoo
The largest zoo in Punjab, located at Chhatbir village in Mohali, has a variety of birds, small and large animals.
Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Lake and the Bird Park
Home to deers, stags and migratory birds, the lake, jungle trail and the Bird Park are the most popular destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, few kilometers away from Mohali.
The endeavors of Punjab Tourism Board
Punjab has a lot to offer. Punjab Tourism Board has taken various initiatives to promote tourism in the state. They are making sincere efforts to attract tourists in Punjab. Eco Tourism, Wellness Retreats, Tourism Retreat, Travelmart and Tourism Summit are a few significant efforts taken by the Punjab Government to not only boost the travel industry but also increase investment in the state, showing their true potential as a major destination in the country.
The Forest Department has come up with eco-tourism projects in Pathankot and Hoshiarpur. Tourists can enjoy activities like camping, Jeep safari, water sports and bird watching. Punjab Government is promoting yoga and meditation retreats with a calming environment at various locations.
Events like Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart are being organized to showcase initiatives like Invest Punjab, fiscal incentives on tourism, promotions and roadshows to attract tourists. Efforts are being made to expand tourism beyond prime properties.
The Punjab Forest Department is developing three ecotourism projects in Pathankot and Hoshiarpur giving access to unexplored sites to tourists. Water sports activities, and picnic staycations are being upgraded by the department.
Punjab Tourism Packages
Punjab Tourism Board has various packages for the tourists depending on personal inclination and choice.
The Sikh Pilgrimage Tour- to the prominent religious sites
Heritage Tour- for those who love the old world charm with palaces and heritage walks
Educational Tour- for students and research enthusiasts
Farm stay tours-visiting villages and farms in various cities,
Religious places and memorials of Punjab that include gurdwaras, temples, war memorials and museums.
Eco & Wildlife Tours offering nature walks, visits to the wetlands and various activities like hiking, water sports, bird watching etc. Princely Punjab, a tour that covers the princely states of pre Independence era and many many more.
Punjab Government also organizes Rural Olympics and tours to let the visitors explore the festivals like Hola Mohalla that includes martial arts activities and Baisakhi, the harvest festival.
Punjab is at its best with spiritual fervor and festivities during the Gurparb celebrations. The lush green farms and the beautiful landscape with charming biodiversity is an attraction which is hard to resist. The myriad stories told by its monuments, the villages with their warmth and hospitality, the traditional bazaars with ethnic products and the mouth watering cuisines. Visit Punjab to experience Punjab.