Punjab Tourism

Quick Overview 

 Category  Details  Capital   Chandigarh  Location  Northwestern India  Languages  Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Lahnda  Currency   Indian Rupee  Festivals   Lohri, Baisakhi, Hola Mohalla, and Gurpurabs  Cities  Amritsar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Bathinda, Patiala, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Pathankot, Firozpur, Barnala, Khanna, Malerkotla, Batala, Gurdaspur   Top Attractions   Sri Harmandir Sahib, Jallianwala Bagh, The Partition Museum, Virasat-e-Khalsa, Ram Tirath Temple   Best Time to Visit   November to February Activities  Witnessing the Wagha Border Ceremony and vibrant rural festivals  Famous Cuisine Butter Chicken, Chole Bhature, Dal Makhani,  Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti and Paneer Tikka Shopping Places Lawrence Road, Hall Bazaar, Guru Bazaar, Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar, Gurudwara Market

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Chandigarh and explore its attractions, such as the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Rose Garden, and Capitol Complex.

Day 2: Drive from Chandigarh to Amritsar and seek blessings at the Golden Temple

Day 3: Visit Jallianwala Bagh and witness the parade at Wagah Border

Day 4: Head to the local shopping markets 

Day 5: Move to Patiala and visit the majestic Qila Mubarak Complex and the revered Kali Temple.

Day 6: Visit Ludhiana and explore the Punjab Agricultural University Museum and its famous textile markets.

Day 7: Departure from Punjab

Budget & Accommodation

Exploring Punjab is a budget-friendly option compared to other destinations. A short to mid-range trip to Punjab can cost around INR 15,000 to INR 40,000. Punjab offers a range of cosy accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays to luxury hotels. A decent stay in Punjab starts at INR 500 per night. However, the price can vary depending on location, number of rooms, and amenities. 

Transportation:

Transportation in Punjab can be cost-effective. Buses and taxis are readily available within cities and between destinations. For long-distance travel, train and bus travel are affordable options. 

Ideal Time to Visit

 Seasons  Min/Max Temperature   Ideal For  Summer (April to June)  22°C/45°C  Experiencing the vibrant Baisakhi festival   Monsoon(July to September)  25°C/35°C  Festivals like Teej  Winter (November to March)  7°C/20°C Sightseeing and exploring attractions

Culture 

Punjab has a rich culture that is reflected in its festivals, music, language, art, and attractions. 

Dance and Music: 

Witness the true essence of Punjab’s cultural tourism through its electrifying dance, which includes bhangra, jhumar, and sammi. This state is also known for its upbeat music, including the khyal dance, as well as the thumri, ghazal, and qawwali. 

Traditional Clothes & Language

The traditional attire also speaks louder about Punjab's culture. In Punjab, men wear Kurta-pyjama with turban, and Women prefer Patiala suits, salwar-kameez and lehenga-kurta. Additionally, Punjab is renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts, especially the intricate "Phulkari" embroidery and hand-woven silk shawls with traditional motifs.  Besides, the Punjabi language, Hindi, and English are also widely spoken in Punjab.  

Festivals 

Punjab celebrates a wide range of festivals, many with strong roots in agriculture, Sikhism, and Hinduism. Some of the most prominent include Lohri in January, Baisakhi in April, Basant Panchami in January and Hola Mohalla in March. Guru Nanak Dev's birthday is celebrated with great zeal. Karva Chauth, Diwali and Kapurthala Heritage Festival are other notable festivals. 

Cuisine

No trip to Punjab is complete without tasting its authentic cuisine. Local dishes such as makki di roti, sarso saag, and paratha are renowned throughout northern India. Don’t miss out on lassi. Besides, vegetarian options are ample, and non-vegetarian dishes like butter chicken and chicken fry are also readily available. For authentic Punjabi food, do try the ‘Brother Ka Dhaba’ restaurant in Amritsar.  

How To Reach 

By Air: Fly to nearby airports, either in Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) in Amritsar and Chandigarh International Airport (IXC). 

By Train: Take a train from New Delhi Railway Station to Amritsar Junction (ASR), Ludhiana Junction (LDH), Pathankot Cantonment (PTKC), Phagwara Junction (PGW), or Beas Junction (BEAS). 

By Road: Punjab is well-conncted by road with Delhi(329km) and Haryana (321km)

Things to Do in Punjab

Punjab offers a wide range of activities from exploring its religious and historical sites to enjoying a wild safari at its nature reserves. Visiting Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), exploring Jallianwala Bagh and witnessing Wagah Border Ceremony are the best things to do in Punjab. Head to Chandigarh to enjoy a visit to the rock garden and boating at Sukhna Lake. Don’t miss the Ludhiana Zoo Tiger Safari and Deer Parks for a nature retreat. 

Shopping

Tourism in Punjab is thriving due to its vibrant shopping places. Shopping here is a delightful experience that combines traditional crafts with modern retail. Recommended purchases include Phulkari Embroidery, Punjabi Juttis, woollen shawls, blankets, Patiala Salwar Suits, and various wooden and Metal crafts. Key markets like Hall Bazaar, Guru Bazaar, Lahori Gate Market, Adalat Bazaar, and Chaura Bazaar offer a wide range of souvenirs. 

What to Pack 

Light, breathable fabrics, especially in the warmer months. 

Pack clothes like a kurta and salwar for religious places. 

Comfortable walking shoes 

Wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, reusable water bottle

A lightweight scarf or shawl is often used to cover the shoulders or head at religious sites. 

A Travel guidebook for better exploration

Other important Information 

With affordable accommodations, easy access to hospitals, and pleasant weather, Punjab is a good place for elderly Parents. It is also an excellent destination for kids, offering a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and recreational activities. Additionally, Punjab is an excellent destination for pet owners with many dog-friendly attractions and areas. While many places welcome pets, some restrictions apply, including gurudawaras, cafes, and hotels.

Tips 

Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons, as they can be crowded. 

Travel during the Monsoon and summer months to get a heavy accommodation discount.

Cash and UPI are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry small change for local vendors.

Pack your bags according to the weather conditions.

Do carry the necessary medications

Enjoy complimentary meals at Gurdwara langers. 

Do take permits if you are travelling with a pet.