Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab

Located in the northwestern part of India. Punjab means the land of five rivers. Known for its cuisine, culture, and history. Punjab is visited by tourists who want to enjoy its vibrant culture and food. Here are Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

The fertile land of farms and forts. Punjab has been aptly nicknamed the ‘Smiling Soul of India’. Where you will always see smiles on the faces of the inhabitants. Who take pride in their religion and culture. Though the state does not have any significant adventure activity to offer. Yet entertainment is guaranteed! 

There are many Forts in the state that tell the tale of the land’s past. The Golden Temple, The Wagah border, The Jallianwala Bagh, The Sheesh Mahal. Are some of the major tourist attractions in Punjab. The list becomes endless as every street of Punjab is an attraction in itself. Each region of Punjab has a different story and unique beauty hidden inside it.

1. Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is a pilgrim spot for the Sikh religious community. Located in the holy city of Amritsar. Popularly known as the Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib. This gurudwara is acclaimed as one of the holiest sites of the Sikhs. Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru began the construction of this gurudwara in 1585 AD. The construction was completed by his successor, Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1604.

Swarm Mandir

Fondly known as Swarn Mandir. This two-storied structure is covered with around 400 kg of gold. The temple is surrounded by a large lake. Which is known as Sarovar. This Sarovar is considered to be filled with Amrit. Which means ‘holy water’ or ‘immortal nectar’. The water in Sarovar is believed to have medicinal properties and curative powers. And hence, devotees bathe in the tank to cleanse their souls.

There is a narrow walkway of around 202 feet X 21 feet. Which leads to the temple. There are four entrances to the temple that signify the importance of acceptance and openness. These doorways and arches reflect both Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. Within the temple complex, there are shrines dedicated to the Sikh gurus, saints, and martyrs. This place is on the top of our list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

Guru Granth Sahib

The Guru Granth Sahib, which is the holy book of the Sikh. Lies inside the Golden Temple. All the decoration and marble work of the temple dates back to the 19th century.

2. Qila Mubarak Complex, Patiala

Qila Mubarak Complex, an ideal example of Sikh palace architecture. Is one of the prominent tourist attractions of the city. The entire city of Patiala has grown around the Qila Mubarak Complex. Built by Maharaja Ala Singh in 1764. This complex was the residence of Patiala royals. Until the construction of the Old Moti Bagh Palace. The complex was originally constructed as a mud fort or kachi Garhi. In an area of around 10 acres. And then reconstructed as a pakka qila. The complex is segregated into two parts. The inner part called the Qila Androon. And the outer part called the Darbar Hall. The Darshani Gate, Shiva Temple, and shops selling traditional ornaments and clothes. Catch the attention of tourists. The architecture of this palace is a perfect blend of the late Mughal and Rajasthani styles.

3. Attari Wagah Border

Attari Wagah Border is the only road border crossing between India and Pakistan. Often known as the Berlin wall of Asia. This border lies on the Grand Trunk Road between Amritsar and Lahore. On this border, a retreat ceremony called ‘lowering of the flags’ is held every evening, since 1959. During the ceremony, the Border Security Force (B.S.F) of India and the Pakistan Rangers soldiers perform an energetic parade.

This 40 to 45 minutes ceremony takes place every evening before sunset at the Wagah Border. As the sun sets, the iron gate at the border is opened. And the flags of India and Pakistan are lowered and folded by their respective soldiers. The ceremony ends with a  handshake between the soldiers of both countries. Wagah Border opens between 10 am and 4 pm. While the flag down ceremony starts at 4:30 pm. And ends with the national anthem at 5 pm.

4. Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh, Mahal was built by Maharaja Narendra Singh in 1847. Behind the Moti Bagh Palace. And was the residential palace of the maharajas of Patiala. This edifice is also known as the Palace of Mirrors. Because of its appealing colored glass and mirror work. Adding to the beauty, the mahal has a lake in the front. And a bridge across the lake. Commonly known as Lakshman Jhula. The mahal has a museum. Which has the largest collection of medals from different parts of the globe. Beautiful and detailed artwork, carved over walls and ceilings. Demonstrates the hard work of artists from Rajasthan and Kangra. Every year, many cultural programs and heritage festivals are organized in the Sheesh Mahal.

5. The Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where nature can be witnessed in its most expressive form. The area was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 2000. Under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The sanctuary consists of 13 revenue villages. And is inhabited by the Bishnoi community. The Wildlife Area has a tropical dry mixed deciduous forest. Which is Winhabited by several varieties of animals. The Black Buck Deer are found in plenty. And freely roam even in domestic neighborhood. Tourists can also spot a porcupine, nilgai, wild boar, jackal, and various other animals

6. Rangla Punjab Haveli

Rangla Punjab Haveli is a traditional Punjabi village. Themed resort on the Jalandhar Phagwara Highway. This resort has the ambiance of a lost Punjabi village. And the waiters are dressed in tehmat-kurtas and phulkari jackets.

It has a marriage palace and an enclosure called Rangla Punjab. Where cultural programs are organized every evening. This new age Dhaba with a flavor of old Punjab. Is a completely vegetarian resort run by the Jains of Jalandhar.

From an exterior of Nanakshahi bricks to a collection of antique artifacts. The place evokes the old world charm. With folk music playing in the background. This eatery is thronged by people heading to and from Punjab. Especially during winters. Dal tadka, karahi paneer, and kheer are its top-selling all-season delicacies. In winters, Sarson da saag and Makki di roti is the most favorite dish.

7. Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib

Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib, situated on the Sirhind-Morinda Road. It is an important religious venue for Sikhs. It is believed that in the year 1704, Sahibzada Fateh Singh and Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Were bricked alive as per the order of Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind. This Gurudwara was built to commemorate their sacrifice.

The inner complex of the Gurudwara houses many famous structures. Such as Gurudwara Bhora Sahib, Gurudwara Burj Mata Gujri. Gurudwara Shahid Ganj, Todar Mal Jain Hall, and Sarovar. The entrance gate is constructed using white stones. And leads to a white marble pathway. The main building of the Gurudwara boasts of typical Sikh architecture. With white stone structures and golden domes. The significance of this Gurudwara brings it to the list of

The inner complex of the Gurudwara houses many famous structures. Such as Gurudwara Bhora Sahib, Gurudwara Burj Mata Gujri. Gurudwara Shahid Ganj, Todar Mal Jain Hall, and Sarovar. The entrance gate is constructed using white stones. And leads to a white marble pathway. The main building of the Gurudwara boasts of typical Sikh architecture. With white stone structures and golden domes. The significance of this Gurudwara brings it to

The inner complex of the Gurudwara houses many famous structures. Such as Gurudwara Bhora Sahib, Gurudwara Burj Mata Gujri. Gurudwara Shahid Ganj, Todar Mal Jain Hall, and Sarovar. The entrance gate is constructed using white stones. And leads to a white marble pathway. The main building of the Gurudwara boasts of typical Sikh architecture. With white stone structures and golden domes. The significance of this Gurudwara brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

Jor Mela

The annual festival of Shaheedi Jor Mela is celebrated in the month of December. To commemorate the sacrifice of these martyrs. The serenity and peacefulness rub on to tourists. And provides them a chance to view a truly historic site.

8. Hydraulic Research Station

Hydraulic Research Station is famous for the various models of dams and irrigation projects displayed here. Travelers are sure to be amazed at the engineering techniques used for the construction of these dams and irrigation projects. It is situated in Malikpur, around 7 km away from Pathankot. A comprehensive description and detailing is provided to tourists who wish to gather more information regarding these models. Which brings it the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

9. Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh is a garden site of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. That is located close to the Golden Temple Complex. This public garden houses a memorial. Which was established in 1951. To pay homage to the thousands of people, who were killed in the incident.

Around 10,000 people gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh. To peacefully protest against the Rowlatt Act on 13th April 1919. Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer with his army of 150 troops ordered open fire at the crowd. 400 people were killed on the spot. And 1500 wounded people were left to die in the well within the garden.

In 1961, a 45 foot red stone pillar in the shape of flame was built in the Jallianwala Bagh. Tourists visiting the park can see the bullet marks on the walls. And the point from where 1600 rounds of bullets were fired by troops on innocent people.

Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust

Spread over 26,000 sq. mt, this garden site houses a Martyr’s Gallery. Which holds an exhibit of portraits of some freedom fighters. Managed by the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust. This memorial was established as per the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act. Passed by the Government of India in 1951.

10. Kiratpur Sahib

Kiratpur Sahib is a town known for its glorious past and sacred gurdwaras. Gurdwara PatalPuri, where Sikhs immerse ashes of the deceased. Is the most renowned landmark of this place. The sixth Sikh guru – Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji – established this place in 1627. It is also the birthplace of Guru Har Rai and Guru Harkrishan.

The head of Guru Sri Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru. Was brought here after he was executed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in Delhi. At this site, Gurudwara Babangarh Sahib was built. Gifted with a long life of almost 800 years (as per legends). Pir Buddan Shah – a Muslim saint – is also associated with this town. Apart from gurdwaras, this place also has some famous temples and dargahs. The sacrifice of Sri Tegh Bahadur brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

11. Devi Talab Mandir

Devi Talab Mandir is located in the heart of Jalandhar. Just 1 km away from the railway station. In place of the old Devi Talab, a new temple has been built in the center. Recently a model of Amarnath Yatra has been built within the premises. Near the Devi Talab, one can find an old temple of Goddess Kali.

In the past, the mandir was invaded by several foreign rulers. It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peeths. And it is believed that Mata Sati’s right breast fell here. In Jalandhar, Goddess Kali is also known as Tripurmalini. Lord Shiva of this temple is known as Bhishan Bhairav.

This mandir is famous for the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan. Held every year in the month of December. In Devi Talab Mandir, there is a 200-year-old large masonry tank which is considered sacred by Hindus.

12. Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum

Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum was established in the year 1999. By the Punjab Government. As a tribute to gallant soldiers. It is located on GT Road (Ludhiana–Amritsar Highway). And is around 6.7 km away from Ludhiana Railway Station. There is a large statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at the entrance of the museum. On the sides of the statue, visitors can find old weapons. Along with a massive model of INS Vikrant. Light and sound shows are organized at the museum as well. Visitors can see several portraits of Punjabis. Who have received prestigious bravery awards. Like Paramvir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, and Vir Chakra. Uniforms of the Indian defense forces from the British era are also displayed here.

13. Mansa Devi Temple

Mansa Devi Temple is situated in the Panchkula District of Haryana. Which is approximately 19 km away from Mohali. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. This famous Hindu shrine is counted amongst the most prominent Shakti temples in northern India. The temple of the presiding deity was constructed by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra from 1811-1815. In 1840, another temple called the Patiala Temple. Was built at a distance of 200 m. From the main temple by the then Maharaja Patiala, Karam Singh. Crowded by millions of devotees during the time of Navratras. This ancient temple is a must-visit tourist spot near Mohali. This brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

14. Raj Mahal

Raj Mahal, located in the heart of Faridkot. Was established during the reign of Maharaja Bikram Singh. And was built under the supervision of Balbir Singh. This beautiful edifice exhibits pointed spires. And excellent mirror designs that draw inspiration from French architecture. Earlier, this mahal served as a residence of the royal family. At present, it is resided by the descendants of Maharaja Bikram Singh. This mahal with green lawns and beautifully designed towers sprawls across an area of 15 acres. The walls of this edifice are adorned with antique paintings that are appreciated by every onlooker. ‘Raj Deori’, the entrance, is a heritage building that houses a hospital, known as the Balbir Hospital.

15. Ranjit Sagar Dam

Ranjit Sagar Dam, 17 km away from Pathankot city center. Is built across River Ravi for power generation, irrigation, and drinking water supply. The dam a joint venture of Punjab, Jammu, and Kashmir. And Himachal Pradesh is a symbol of interstate co-operation. Ranjit Sagar Dam is also known as Thein Dam.
Ranjit Sagar Dam was completed in 2000. And generates 600 MW power. It is the highest earth-filled dam in India. There is a municipal garden nearby. And the tourists and locals use the dam site as a picnic spot. Families, especially children, would love to spend their evenings here.

Reservoir

The surrounding hills and the Lake is an ideal spot for relaxation. And also for bird watching during the migratory period. Hence, nature lovers and ornithologists will enjoy their visit here.
Tourists to Ranjit Sagar Dam can also visit nearby attractions. Like Shapur Kandi Fort, Mahakaleshwa Temple, Dera Baba Nanak, and Gurudwara Shri Singh Sabha.
July to October is the best time to visit the Ranjit Sagar Dam. When the reservoir will be full and the surroundings green after monsoons.
Ranjit Sagar Dam is easily accessible from Pathankot. For local transportation, auto rickshaws are available in plenty.

16. Anandpur Sahib

Anandpur Sahib, located in the lower half of the Himalayan range. Is also known as the Holy City of Bliss. This city was founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur – the ninth Sikh guru. It is a popular belief that Dowager Rani Champa of Bilaspur. Gave a piece of land to the guru for attending the mourning of her husband, Raja Dip Chand. Guru Tegh Bahadur raised the village of Chakk Nanaki. Near the remains of Makhowal. Which later became popular as Anandpur Sahib. The annual festival of Holla Mohalla. Which attracts a lot of tourists, is also celebrated here. This place, around 41 km away from Rupnagar. Has some famous gurdwaras and forts that are sacred for Sikhs. This brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

17. Hall Bazaar

Hall Bazaar is a shopping complex located in the city of Amritsar. Located off Hall Road, Hall Bazaar is one of the busiest shopping centers.
Shopping in Hall Bazaar is a memorable experience for the whole family. It is a one-stop place for shoppers. And exhibits a wide range of products. Such as electronics items, ornaments, best quality books, handicrafts, and readymade garments. Though the main attraction in this place is the woolens items. Like carpets, blankets, and shawls. Other products like wooden bangles, silver jewelry, embellished shoes. And traditional embroidered garments are easily available.

Attractions

Some of the best restaurants and food stalls are also located in Hall Bazaar.
Hall Bazaar is also famous for the Gandhi Gate. Which acts as one of the entry points to the Hall Bazaar.
The Amritsar Town Hall and Company Bagh. Can also be visited while shopping at the Hall Gate.
The best time to visit Hall Bazaar is between the months of October and February. When the weather is cooler.
Hall Bazaar is easy to get to. As it is located at a distance of only 1 km away from the railway station. Tourists can reach either by walking, auto-rickshaws, or bus. The uniqueness bought it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

18. Jagatjit Club

Jagatjit Club, built in a Greco-Roman style. Is located in the heart of the city. A symbol of the grandeur associated with the royal family of Kapurthala. This edifice has various columns. That resembles the Acropolis of Athens. Tourists visiting the club can see the coat of arms. With the motto of the royal family of Kapurthala – Pro Rege et Patria (for king and country). In the early 19th century, this place was used as a church. Thereafter, as a cinema hall in the 1940s. And at present, as a club.

19. Gurudwara Shrimanji Sahib Alamgir

Gurudwara Shrimanji Sahib Alamgir is situated in the Alamgir village of Ludhiana city. And comes amongst one of its most popular religious sightseeing attractions. It lies 10 km from the city. And is one of the examples of religious harmony. That prevailed in previous times. At this place, the great Guru Gobind Singh was given protection by his Muslim devotees. Particularly, Nabi Khan and Ghani Khan.

The place has an auspicious tank. The water of which is considered to be sacred by the devotees. According to a legend, Guru Gobind Singh once shot an arrow on this tank. Due to which water came out of it. Since then Sikhs consider the water holy. And take a bath in it to get ‘Mukti’. There is also a popular fair held at this Gurudwara every year in December.

20. Dera Baba Nanak

Dera Baba Nanak, situated at a distance of 45 km west of Gurdaspur. Was built to commemorate Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji – the first Sikh Guru. It is said that he lived here for twelve years. The clothes that were given to him when he visited Mecca are preserved here. In the second week of January on the eve of Maghi is the time. When a lot of pilgrims flock here. The Gurudwara Tahli Sahib is located in its proximity. This place is situated on the left bank of the Ravi river. Close to the Indo-Pak border. Guru Ji lived here and shed his mortal coil opposite to Dera Baba Nanak in the town. Which he named Kartarpur. Captured by Pakistan later. The followers of Shri Guru Nanak built a new town. And gave it its present name. Kartarpur Gurudwara is visible from Dera Baba Nanak.

21. Harike Wetland And Bird Sanctuary

Harike is a bird sanctuary that spreads over three districts of Kapurthala, Ferozepur, and Amritsar in Punjab. The Wetland, along with a lake, came into being in 1953. When the Harike barrage was constructed on the confluence of Rivers Beas and Sutlej.
This is the ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers. As the sanctuary is home to migratory birds, especially in winter. During the migratory seasons, around 20,000 ducks can be found in the sanctuary. Moreover, about 200 species of birds visit the lake every winter.

Beauty

The birds commonly found in the sanctuary are striated grass bird, sulfur- bellied warbler. Great crested grebe, white-browed fantail, yellow-legged gull, brown shrike. Common wood shrike, white-tailed stonechat. Yellow-eyed Pigeon, tufted duck, and yellow-crowned woodpecker. Besides birds, animals like a jungle cat, smooth Indian otter, mongoose. And Indian wild boar is seen in the sanctuary.
The only entry point into the Harike wetlands is from the Nanaksar Gurudwara across the barrage. Permits are required from the Harike wildlife office for entry. Tourists can drive their own vehicles at a low speed.
Winters are the best time to visit the place. Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Jalianwala Bagh, and Bharatpur are the other tourist places nearby. This brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

22. Pushpa Gujral Science City

Pushpa Gujral Science City is a joint project of the Government of India and the Punjab Government. It has been set up in 72 acres of land. In the heart of Punjab, on the Jalandhar-Kapurthala Road.

The subject areas covered here include physical, applied, natural, and social sciences. Engineering, technology, agriculture, health sciences, energy. Industries as well as human evolution and civilization. Environment, ecosystems, Jurassic park, space, nuclear science, information technology, robotics. And biotechnology are other subjects covered in the Science City.

Packages

There are different packages available for visitors. Package 1 comprises Digital Planetarium Show, LASER show, Virtual 3D Show, Flight Simulator, or Earthquake Simulator. And Science City Galleries, and Exhibits. The charges vary from INR200 for adults, INR160 for students. And children to INR650 for a family of two adults and two children.

Package 2 comprises all that is offered in Package 1 as well as the Dome Theatre Film tour. The charges are around INR275 for adults, INR210 for students and children. And INR850 for a family of two adults and two children.

Boating tickets with the packages are charged at the rate of INR20 from adults, INR15 from students and children. And INR70 from a family of two adults and two children. Boating tickets are also available with entry tickets for INR25 for adults, INR20 for students and children. And INR90 for a family of two adults and 2 children.

23. Mukteshwar Temple

Mukteshwar Temple, located just 21 km away from Pathankot. Is believed to be one of the holiest places in Punjab. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. And has a white marble Shivalinga with a copper yoni. Idols of other gods and goddesses, like Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Are also enshrined in this temple. It is believed that the Pandavas stayed in these caves during their Agyatvas (exile). And built this temple to honor and worship Lord Shiva. The Mukteswar Temple is also acknowledged as Mukesran Mandir. The famous Mukesran Da Mela is held here annually in the month of April. On the day of Baisakhi. The temple not only attracts pilgrims from the state. But also from Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh during the mela and Shivratri. Spirituality brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

24. Punjab Agricultural University Museum

Punjab Agricultural University Museum spread over an area of 1000 sq ft. Showcases the rural lifestyle of Punjab. Visitors get to see various things that the local people in the rural areas used. In the earlier days in day to day life. Like carrying of water in gaggers (bronze pots). That has now been replaced by electric motors and pumps. Tourists wanting to see the real or rural Punjab must visit this museum. The museum is located behind the College of Home Science. And is open on all working days from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm.

25. Qila Mubarak

The 1400-year-old Qila Mubarak. Or is otherwise known as Bathinda Fort. Is centrally located in the city of Bathinda. This fort had once been a residence of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. And was the place where Empress Razia Sultana was imprisoned. After being defeated and dethroned.

The fort’s bricks date back to the era of Kushanas. When Bactria or North India was ruled by Emperor Kanishka. This fort is known to have been built by Raja Dab together with Kanishka. Inside this fort, there is a Gurudwara. This brings it to the list of Top 25 Places to visit in Punjab.

These were some of the best places to visit in Punjab according to us. But, there are a lot of tourist attractions as well.

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