Best Places to Visit in Punjab | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Punjab Travel Guide
Quick overview of Punjab with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Punjab, India! Located in the northern part of the country, Punjab is a vibrant and culturally rich state that offers a unique travel experience. Known as the "Land of Five Rivers," Punjab is famous for its fertile agricultural lands, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. This region is home to the iconic Golden Temple, a spiritual and architectural marvel that attracts millions of visitors each year. Additionally, Punjab is renowned for its vibrant festivals, such as Baisakhi and Lohri, where you can immerse yourself in the colorful traditions and lively celebrations. Whether you're exploring the bustling cities of Amritsar and Ludhiana or venturing into the serene countryside, Punjab promises to captivate you with its rich history, religious significance, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Punjab Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Punjab videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Punjab in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Punjab Trip
Prepare for your Punjab trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Best Places To Visit in Punjab
1. Amritsar: Located in the heart of Punjab, Amritsar is a city that holds immense historical and religious significance. The main attraction here is the Golden Temple, a stunning Sikh shrine that attracts millions of visitors each year. The city also boasts of the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial garden that commemorates the tragic massacre of 1919. Amritsar is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can indulge in some retail therapy and savor delicious Punjabi cuisine.
2. Ludhiana: Known as the "Manchester of India," Ludhiana is a bustling industrial city in Punjab. It is a major center for textile manufacturing and is home to numerous factories and mills. Apart from its industrial significance, Ludhiana also offers a glimpse into Punjab's rich cultural heritage. The city is dotted with beautiful gurudwaras (Sikh temples) and historical landmarks like the Lodhi Fort. Ludhiana is also a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi clothing and accessories.
3. Chandigarh: As the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a well-planned city that seamlessly blends modernity with nature. Designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier, the city is known for its immaculate gardens and architectural marvels. The Rock Garden is a must-visit, featuring sculptures made from recycled materials. Chandigarh also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs to explore.
4. Jalandhar: Situated on the banks of the River Beas, Jalandhar is a city with a rich historical past. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Devi Talab Mandir and the Shiv Mandir, which attract devotees from far and wide. Jalandhar is also known for its sports industry, with numerous sports goods manufacturers based here. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, making it an interesting place to visit.
5. Patiala: Patiala is a city that exudes royal charm and grandeur. It was once the capital of the princely state of Patiala and is known for its magnificent Patiala Fort and Qila Mubarak Complex. The city is also famous for its traditional Punjabi clothing, especially the Patiala salwar. Patiala is a great place to immerse yourself in Punjabi culture and witness the opulence of its royal heritage.
6. Amritsar: Located in the heart of Punjab, Amritsar is a city that holds immense historical and religious significance. The main attraction here is the Golden Temple, a stunning Sikh shrine that attracts millions of visitors each year. The city also boasts of the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial garden that commemorates the tragic massacre of 1919. Amritsar is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can indulge in some retail therapy and savor delicious Punjabi cuisine.
7. Ludhiana: Known as the "Manchester of India," Ludhiana is a bustling industrial city in Punjab. It is a major center for textile manufacturing and is home to numerous factories and mills. Apart from its industrial significance, Ludhiana also offers a glimpse into Punjab's rich cultural heritage. The city is dotted with beautiful gurudwaras (Sikh temples) and historical landmarks like the Lodhi Fort. Ludhiana is also a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi clothing and accessories.
8. Chandigarh: As the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a well-planned city that seamlessly blends modernity with nature. Designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier, the city is known for its immaculate gardens and architectural marvels. The Rock Garden is a must-visit, featuring sculptures made from recycled materials. Chandigarh also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs to explore.
9. Jalandhar: Situated on the banks of the River Beas, Jalandhar is a city with a rich historical past. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Devi Talab Mandir and the Shiv Mandir, which attract devotees from far and wide. Jalandhar is also known for its sports industry, with numerous sports goods manufacturers based here. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, making it an interesting place to visit.
10. Patiala: Patiala is a city that exudes royal charm and grandeur. It was once the capital of the princely state of Patiala and is known for its magnificent Patiala Fort and Qila Mubarak Complex. The city is also famous for its traditional Punjabi clothing, especially the Patiala salwar. Patiala is a great place to immerse yourself in Punjabi culture and witness the opulence of its royal heritage.
Hotels Map Of Punjab
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Punjab.
Tours And Activities In Punjab
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Punjab. Read real reviews and highlights.
Food & Drinks To Try In Punjab
1. Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti: This traditional Punjabi dish is a must-try when visiting Punjab. Sarson da Saag is a delicious mustard greens curry, typically served with Makki di Roti, a cornmeal flatbread. The combination of flavors and textures is truly delightful.
2. Butter Chicken: Punjab is famous for its rich and creamy Butter Chicken. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy, enriched with butter and cream. This dish is best enjoyed with naan or rice.
3. Chole Bhature: Chole Bhature is a popular Punjabi dish consisting of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). The combination of tangy and spicy flavors makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
4. Amritsari Fish: Amritsari Fish is a specialty of Punjab, particularly in the city of Amritsar. Fish fillets are marinated in a blend of spices, coated with gram flour batter, and deep-fried until crispy. It is often served with mint chutney and makes for a delicious appetizer or main course.
5. Lassi: Lassi is a refreshing yogurt-based drink that is popular throughout Punjab. It is made by blending yogurt with water, sugar, and sometimes flavored with fruits like mango or rose. Lassi is a perfect beverage to cool down during hot summer days.
6. Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag: This combination is not only a popular dish but also a staple in Punjab. Makki di Roti is a flatbread made from cornmeal, which is typically enjoyed with Sarson da Saag. The earthy flavors of the saag and the slightly sweet taste of the roti complement each other perfectly.
7. Paneer Tikka: Paneer Tikka is a vegetarian delight that is loved by both locals and tourists. Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and grilled to perfection. It is often served with mint chutney and makes for a great appetizer or snack.
8. Punjabi Kadhi: Punjabi Kadhi is a tangy yogurt-based curry that is thickened with gram flour and flavored with spices. It is typically served with steamed rice or roti. The combination of sourness from the yogurt and the warmth of the spices makes it a comforting and flavorful dish.
9. Punjabi Samosa: Punjabi Samosa is a popular street food in Punjab. It is a deep-fried pastry filled with a savory mixture of potatoes, peas, and spices. Samosas are often served with tamarind chutney or mint chutney and are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
10. Punjabi Kheer: Punjabi Kheer is a traditional rice pudding that is often prepared during festivals and special occasions. It is made by simmering rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. The creamy and aromatic dessert is a sweet ending to a Punjabi meal.
Best Time To Visit Punjab
The best time to visit Punjab, India is during the winter months of November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. This is a great time to explore the historical sites and cultural attractions of Punjab, such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Jallianwala Bagh memorial. Additionally, the famous festivals of Punjab, such as Lohri and Baisakhi, are celebrated during this period, offering visitors a chance to experience the vibrant local culture. It is important to note that summer months in Punjab can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, making it less favorable for outdoor activities. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit to Punjab during the winter season to make the most of your trip.
Flight Calendar For Punjab
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Punjab.
Transportation To Punjab
There are several transportation options to Punjab, India.
1. Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Punjab is by air. There are several airports in Punjab, including Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, Chandigarh International Airport in Chandigarh, and Ludhiana Airport in Ludhiana. These airports are well-connected to major cities in India and also have international flights.
2. Train: Punjab has a well-developed railway network, and there are several trains that connect Punjab to other parts of India. Major railway stations in Punjab include Amritsar Junction, Ludhiana Junction, and Chandigarh Junction. Trains from various cities in India regularly operate to these stations.
3. Road: Punjab is well-connected by road to other parts of India. National Highways like NH1, NH44, and NH5 pass through Punjab, making it easily accessible by car or bus. There are also state-run and private bus services that operate to and from Punjab.
4. Metro: The city of Ludhiana in Punjab has a metro system, which provides convenient transportation within the city.
Once in Punjab, there are various local transportation options available, including buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws, to travel within the state.