Oh, balle balle! That does sound like the rhythm of Punjab. Absolutely yes, as we are talking about the beautiful and vibrant state of India. Some of the wonderful places to visit in Punjab help you dive into history, culture and pure serenity. From trying the famous Amritsari kulcha to witnessing agricultural lands in villages, there’s so much to do.
The best part about visiting Punjab is its hospitality. Locals across the state are super welcoming, thereby melting your heart. What’s more? The presence of vibrant shopping markets makes it easy to buy extraordinary handicrafts for your loved ones. Wondering how to plan a getaway? Check out the best tourist attractions in Punjab right here.
Check out the 12 Best Places To Visit in Punjab
1. Amritsar
The beauty of Punjab lies in the spiritually and culturally enriching city of Amritsar. You simply cannot deny the soothing environment that melts your heart. Being one of the best places to visit in Punjab, it is known for the famous Golden Temple or Harmindar Sahib. It belongs to the Sikh community; however, travellers from all walks of life are free to worship here.
After seeking blessings from the divine, the city surprises you with places of historic significance. Visit Jallianwala Bagh to discover the tragic massacre of 1919. You can then head to the Partition Museum. One of the interesting tourist attractions in Punjab is the Wagah Border. You can see the vibrant ceremony displaying pure patriotism.
Now that you know of the touristy places, let’s talk about the underrated locations. The city is home to Gobingarh Fort, Mata Lal Devi Temple and Ram Tirath Ashram. The flavourful state welcomes you to try Amritsari cuisine, including chhole bhature, Amritsari kulcha and lassi. Make sure to book affordable hotels in Amritsar for a wholesome time.
2. Chandigarh
When you think of a planned city, Chandigarh sure tops the list. It is one of the modern places to visit in Punjab, all thanks to its stunning architecture and planning. Did you know it was originally designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier? That’s exactly why you can see long and clean roads here.
What attracts maximum travelers is the presence of the Rock Garden. It is indeed creative, as you can find multiple sculptures made with rocks. The garden truly defines the amazing craftsmanship of people. Near to the garden is the famous Sukhna Lake, ideal for leisurely strolls and boating.
Rose Garden, Pinjore Gardens and Chandigarh Capitol Complex are a few more places to see. What’s more? The vibrant city invites you to a crazy shopping experience in the Sector 17 market. Shopping in Chandigarh is all about textiles, embroidered bags, fancy handicrafts and so on. You can also be a part of night cycling tours to witness the street-side beauty of the city. It is best to book budget-friendly hotels in Chandigarh for a comfortable stay.
3. Ludhiana
You simply cannot miss the charm of Ludhiana, all thanks to the diverse experience it offers. What is truly one of the best places to visit in Punjab for wanderers as well as business travellers? The city is specifically known for its massive textile and hosiery industry, thereby attracting tourists from all walks of life.
If you wish to understand the city in the best way, visit the Punjab Agricultural University Museum. It showcases rural artefacts and replicas of villages. With a depth of history, you can also check out the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum, Lodhi Fort and Rural Heritage Museum. When travelling with kids, do visit the Rakh Bagh, best known for toy trains and other rides.
Now that you have discovered the best tourist attractions in Punjab, it is time to talk about interesting activities. Head to Ghumar Mandi to buy accessories, clothing and handicrafts. The Tiger Safari Zoo is also an entertaining experience for kids and adults. It is best to book affordable hotels in Ludhiana for a great time.
4. Mohali
Welcome to the urban destination of the state. Mohali is one of the famous places to visit in Punjab because of its mind-blowing infrastructure. The modern city is known for ever-growing industrial estates.
The main tourist attraction of the city is the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. Apart from the business offices, Mohali is best known for its cultural and historical touch. Fateh Burj, Gurudwara Amb Sahib and Gurudwara Singh Shaheedan.
For a bit of thrill and adventure, you must check out Thunder Zone Amusement and Water Park. The city also has buzzing markets and massive malls perfect for shopping. So, book pocket-friendly hotels in Mohali for the perfect balanced budget trip.
5. Zirakpur
If you are looking for an offbeat destination, Zirakpur might be the place for you! Being one of the underrated places to visit in Punjab, the city is known for its urban development. The blend of cultural richness and natural beauty is what Zirakpur is all about!
Did you know the city is a gateway to the key highways connecting Haryana and Himachal Pradesh? The strategic location attracts business travellers too. You must visit the local markets to shop for the best souvenirs. It also has many parks and malls. Do visit Kali Mata Mandir and Gurudwara Nada Sahib for a spiritually enriching time. So, book the best hotels in Zirakpur for a wonderful stay.
6. Patiala
You sure know of the royal havelis of India. Such is the case with Patiala city. It is one of the glorious places to visit in Punjab owing to its rich history. It was once the princely state of Patiala, so you can witness stunning architecture and places of historic significance. It is a fusion of history, vibrant art and warm hospitality that attracts tourists from all walks of life.
The city is home to the famous Qila Mubarak, known for its stunning Sikh architecture. You can also spot the Sheesh Mahal displaying the royalty through vibrant frescoes and paintings. If you love serene places, the Bardari gardens are a must-see. Being one of the top-notch tourist attractions in Punjab, it also has Moti Bagh Palace, Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib and Rajindera Kothi.
After discovering most of Patiala, you cannot miss the buzzing shopping markets filled with Phulkari embroidery and juttis. The cultural extravaganza rises to another level with the city’s local cuisine. Delicious makke di roti and sarson da saag are something that every wanderer cherishes!
7. Hoshiarpur
Are you ready to enter into the Land of Saints? Hoshiarpur is one of the picturesque places to visit in Punjab. It is renowned for its spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Situated in the foothills of the Shivalik range, the serenity is unquestionable!
Takhni-Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary is a famous spot for kids and adults. Meanwhile, you can also visit Dholbaha Village to discover ancient sculptures. Along with this, it is home to Mata Chintpurni Devi Temple, Kamahi Devi Temple and Gurdwara Garna Sahib.
What’s more? The city is specifically known for its age-old craftsmanship. You can witness exquisite shawls, handicrafts, wood inlay work and musical instruments right here. So get ready for an artistically driven time with your loved ones.
8. Pathankot
Situated on the foothills of the Shivalik Range, Pathankot is one of the best places to visit in Punjab. It is often known as the gateway to the states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. That is also why Pathankot is surrounded by lush hills and verdant landscapes. As it is located in nature’s lap, you can also witness the famous Ranjit Sagar Dam.
We sure know travellers who seek spiritual solitude during the trip. If you are that one, a road might be for you! Visit the Kali Mata Mandir and Mukteshwar Temple for a tranquil time. A little history follows travellers everywhere. Such is the case with this place too! Being one of the renowned tourist attractions in Punjab, the city is home to Shahpurkandi and Nurpur Forts too.
9. Jalandhar
You cannot miss one of the oldest places to visit in Punjab. Jalandhar is a buzzing city that is known for its blend of traditional customs and modern infrastructure. The city welcomes you due to the Devi Talab Mandir, known for its spiritual ambience and powerful aura of the Goddess. The fusion of different cultures in architecture makes Jalandhar one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Punjab.
Get ready to witness an 800-year-old Imam Nasir Mausoleum showcasing Islamic intricacies. If you are looking for an entertaining time, visit the Pushpa Gujral Science City. Here you can browse through multiple exhibits, a planetarium and scientific objects. It is the Wonderland theme park that adds different doses of entertainment on your trip.
If you are someone who loves leisurely walks with your darling partner, head to the Nehru Park. It is best known for its well-manicured lanes and floral beauty. Jang-e-Azadi Memorial, Sardar Bhagat Singh Museum and St. Mary’s Cathedral Church might also interest you. Do try the butter chicken and kulchas here. So, make sure to book affordable hotels in Jalandhar for a lovely time.
10. Bhatinda
Bathinda is one of the oldest places to visit in Punjab. Steeped in rich history and spirituality, it attracts travellers from all walks of life. The historic Qila Mubarak is known for its unique architecture thereby attracting history buffs. If you love the greenery, Chetak Park has to be on your list.
What’s more? Visit Takht Sri Damdama Sahib for a spiritually enriching time. It is one of the five Takhts of Sikhism. It is also the place where Guru Gobind Singh compiled the final version of the Guru Granth Sahib. Apart from this, indulge in shopping and street foods for a wholesome time.
11. Ropar Wetlands
In today’s time, the wetland invites more than 120 species of avifauna (birds). You might be lucky to spot bar-headed geese, Siberian cranes and teals. What’s more? It also supports aquatic life, making the region a haven for the state. You can enjoy a calming boating experience and serene strolls in this location.
12. Nangal
Nangal is another important destination in the heart of the state. It is one of the modern places to visit in Punjab during your holidays. Located on the foothills of the Shivalik range, the city is home to the famous Bhakra-Nangal Dam. You can also visit the Gobind Sagar Lake, offering the perfect amount of soothe and satisfaction with its beauty.
Along with its engineering marvels, it also allows you to seek blessings from multiple deities. You can visit Sheetla Devi Temple and Gurudwara Vibhour Sahib for a tranquil experience. Due to its peaceful location, the city is ideal for wanderers seeking a rejuvenating time.
Your Ticket to Punjab!
After tasting the scrumptious lassi and seeking blessings from the Sikh gurus, it is the state of Punjab that awakens you with the same energy. The enthusiastic state invites you for an unforgettable time with food, shopping and the presence of tourist spots. Now that you know the best places to visit in Punjab, book your tickets for a comfortable stay in the city.
