Last Updated At: 03-Oct-2024
Punjab, a lush-green state, reminds us of richness, royalty, and grandeur. The state attracts tourists in huge numbers who love knowing more about its rich traditions, culture, heritage, historic places, architectural marvels and warm-hearted people. They are mesmerised by the sense of “Punjabiyat” displayed in the positivity, spontaneity, and vibrancy of its people who live their life to the fullest. The land of Punjab is peppered with awe-inspiring places which will give you a glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of the people residing here. Here we bring you some of the best places to visit in Punjab, especially if you wish to experience the true essence of the state.
Located in the northern part of the country, the land of Punjab is rich in fertile alluvial soil. The vast expanse of mustard fields will remind you of popular and cult Bollywood movies like Dilwale Dulhaniya le Jayenge. Revisit the chapters of history and know what makes Punjab a tourist hotspot and a culture-rich state.
Over the years, the state has stood strong against multiple invasions and wars on its soil. The relics of those days can be seen in its forts, palaces, museums, etc. Visit some of the most striking places in the city and enjoy the mezbaani of full of life, generous to a fault, loud and boisterous Punjabis who will win your hearts with their simple, loving gestures.
When planning to visit this awe-inspiring state close to the north-western fringes of the country, remember to plan your trip in winter. Enjoy salubrious weather while exploring the place, soaking in its beauty and culturally vibrant fairs and festivals!
Talking about the different tourist locations in Punjab, the capital of the state, Chandigarh, is the first city that absolutely deserves all the attention it gets. This city accurately represents how the world sees Punjab— pompous, vibrant, and extravagant. Independent India’s first planned city Chandigarh houses several of the best places in Punjab. This cosmopolitan city, planned and designed by Le Corbusier, offers a lot to discerning tourists. The vast expanse of gardens, sweeping boulevards, serene lakes, well-manicured gardens, and opulent civic buildings will leave a lasting impression in your mind. Chandigarh tops the list if you are looking for the best places to visit in Punjab, and now you know why.
One of the most popular tourist spots in Punjab, Amritsar can be a major source of awe and inspiration for every traveller. The best places to visit in Amritsar include historical sites like the Wagha border and Jallianwala Bagh. First and foremost, the famous Golden Temple, the most important religious place for all Sikhs worldwide, is located here. Built in 1604 by the 4th Sikh guru, Guru Ram Das, the Golden Temple attracts many tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.
Of the many places to see in Amritsar, the Wagha Border, Akal Takt, and Jallianwala Bagh deserve special mention. The Wagha Border is the shared region between India and Pakistan, and the Closing Ceremony is a treat to behold. Indias’s Border Security Force( BSF) and Pakistan’s Rangers conduct the ceremony, which lasts for 45 minutes and witness a display of grandeur and valour from both parties.
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Cricket remains at the heart of India, and every cricket enthusiast is already aware of the Mohali Stadium, or the famous IS Bindra Stadium housed in the Punjabi city of Mohali. Another planned city, Mohali, is one of the most visited tourist destinations of Punjab that boasts lush green views, profound greenery, and amazing weather. The best part of Mohali is seeing modern and contemporary buildings and ancient, well-preserved historical monuments side by side, adding to the city's charm. With a bucket load of fun activities like trekking and rock climbing, there is not a single boring day at Mohali, one of Punjab’s famous places.
Pathankot lies at the congruence of three states, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu Kashmir, and shares the border with Pakistan. Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and very close to hill stations like Dalhousie and the Kangra valley, Pathankot demonstrates Punjabi history and heritage. The Nurpur Fort is a symbol of the great Pathans who inhabit the region that is protected by the lofty ranges of the Himalayas on one side and the Shivaliks on the other. Other tourist destinations include the Ranjit Sagar Dam and the Shapur Kandi Fort.
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Established during the Indus Valley civilization, Jalandhar is one of the most ancient cities in Punjab. The city was incidentally the starting point of many revolutionary movements that accelerated India’s freedom struggle. The major historical sites include the Jang E Azadi memorial and the Shaheed-e-Azam museum, which provide a concrete idea about the nation's fight for independence. Food lovers will love to gorge on the authentic Punjabi dishes served at the Rangla Punjabi Haveli and get the true taste of food items like “sarson da saag” and Makki di roti apart from a glimpse into the Punjabi way of life. If you plan a trip to Punjab, do not forget to add Jalandhar to your itinerary.
Sirhind is one of Punjab's most famous religious destinations, lodged between the cities of Ludhiana and Ambala. Owing to its strategic location, Sirhind was used as a frontier by the Mughal army troupes and equally important for Hindus and Muslims. Tombs of the famous Mughal architect Ustad Sayad khan and Khwaja Khan, known as Ustad ki Mazar and Shagird ki Mazar respectively, as well as Hindu temples like Mata Chakreswari Devi Jain Temple, are all housed here. The peak seasons are usually during the winter when the temperature falls below the usual and offers a charming view of the surrounding scenery.
Colloquially termed the Paris Of Punjab, Kapurthala has garnered much acclaim owing to the specimens of spellbinding architecture that dominate the city. The main tourist attractions of the city include the Jagatjit Palace, the Jagatjit Club, and the Elysee Palace — each of them with its own unique architectural splendour. The lavish gardens and the historical venues at Kapurthala make it one of the best places to visit in Punjab, particularly during the autumn and spring seasons. The road and railway network connects Kapurthala to the biggest metropolitan locations of Northern India and is very well connected to the Raja Sansi International Airport at Amritsar. What tourists enjoy most here is the tranquil atmosphere and the laid-back environment of the Shalimar Gardens and the Wetland Kanji, which are also ideal for picnics.