Last Updated At: 03-Oct-2024

Places to Visit in Punjab | A Land of Fairs, Festivals, Fun & Food

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.

List of Best Places to Visit in Punjab to Witness Its True Beauty

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.

Chandigarh. The City Beautiful
Amritsar. The Holy City
Mohali. A Vibrant City
Pathankot. A Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir
Jalandhar. The Leather Hub of India
Sirhind. The Satudar Desh
Kapurthala. Paris of Punjab
Hoshiyarpur. Land of Saints
Gurdaspur. Soak in Extravagant Punjabi Culture
Ludhiana. The Town of Lodhi
Anandpur Sahib. The Birthplace of Khalsa

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!

1. Chandigarh. The City Beautiful

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.

Best Time to Visit. October to March
Places to Visit in Chandigarh. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Rick Garden, Government Museum and Art Gallery, Japanese Garden, Sukhna Lake, Garden of Fragrance, Elante Mall
Things to do in Chandigarh. Boating in Sukhna Lake, hearty breakfast at cafes, cycling through the city, exploring gardens, shopping at Sector 17, and checking out the lovely Rock Garden

2. Amritsar. The Holy City

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.

Best Time to Visit. November to March
Places to Visit in Amritsar. Shri Harminder Sahib or the Golden Temple, Jalianwala Bagh, The Wagah Border, Shri Durgiana Temple, Partition Museum, Mata Lal Devi Mandir, Gobindgarh Fort.
Things to do in Amritsar. Visit the famous Golden Temple, participate in langar service, enjoy Punjabi cuisines, shop for Phulkari dupattas and juttis, and witness the evening program at the Wagah border.

Also Read - Famous Food Of Punjab

3. Mohali. A Vibrant City

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.

Best Time to Visit. November to February
Places to Visit in Mohali. Gurudwara Shri Amb Sahib, Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur War Memorial.
Things to do in Mohali. Rock climbing, trekking, visiting Mohali stadium.

4. Pathankot. A Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir

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.

Best Time to Visit. April to October
Places to Visit in Pathankot. Mata Ashapurna Devi Temple, Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, Nurpur Fort, Hydraulic Research Station.
Things to do in Pathankot. Visit Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple to seek blessings, explore the Nurpur Fort, seek blessings at Mata Ashapurna Devi Temple, shop at local markets, and enjoy lip-smacking Punjabi cuisine.

Also Read - Famous Festivals Of Punjab

5. Jalandhar. The Leather Hub of India

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.

Best Time to Visit. January to March
Places to Visit in Jalandhar. Baba Sodal Mandir, Wonderland Theme Park, Devi Talab Mandir, Jang-e-Azadi Memorial, Wonderland Theme Park, Pushpa Gujral Science City, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Nikku Park Road.
Things to do in Jalandhar. Visit popular leather manufacturing companies, enjoy and have fun at Wonderland Theme Park, revisit history at Jang-e-Azadi Memorial, and check out the amazing collection of scientific exhibits at Pushpa Gujral Science City.

6. Sirhind. The Satudar Desh

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.

Best Time to Visit. April to October
Places to Visit in Sirhind. Aam Khas Bagh, Gurudwara Sahib, Jahaz Haveli Diwan Todarmalji, Gurudwara Sahib Thanda Burj Sirhind, Archeological Museum, Phuwara Chawk, Rauza Sharif.
Things to do in Sirhind. Explore Aam Khas Bagh, pay respects to Rauza Sharif, enjoy the annual festival of Shaheedi Jor Mela, and check out artefacts at the archaeological mela.

7. Kapurthala. Paris of Punjab

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.

Best Time to Visit. October to March
Places to Visit in Kapurthala. Jagatjit Palace, Moorish Mosque, Kanjli Wetlands, Jagatjit Club, Shalimar Gardens, Elysee Palace, State Gurudwara.
Things to do in Kapurthala. Bird watching at Harike Bird Sanctuary, connect with inner self at State Gurudwara, soak in the opulence of Jagatjit Palace, enjoy scenic views at Kanjili wetlands, and a stroll at Shalimar Gardens.

8. Hoshiarpur. Land of Saints

A visit to Punjab remains incomplete without enjoying the charisma and the abundance of the Punjabi city of Hoshiarpur. According to the celebrated Indian Epic Mahabharat, this is where the protagonists, i.e. the Pandavas spend their time during the 13-year-long exile. Hoshiarpur is dotted with several locations and sites that not only represent India’s historical and cultural heritage but also enthrall the onlookers with tier own charm and grandeur. While the Hoshiarpur Archeological museum houses many ancient and pre-historic artefacts, the 400-year-old Biranwala Temple continues to leave historians and pilgrims awestruck even after 4 centuries. The Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary and the Sheesh Mahal are other popular places to see in Punjab.

Best Time to Visit. October to March
Places to Visit in Hoshiarpur. Kamahi Devi Temple, Damsel Dam, Gurudwara Garna Sahib, Dholbaha Fort, Sheesh Mahal, Dera Sant Garh Sahib.
Things to do in Hoshiarpur. Seek blessings at Gurudwara Garna Sahib, pay respects at Kamahi Devi Temple, and relax and rejuvenate at Damsal Dam.

9. Gurdaspur. Soak in Extravagant Punjabi Culture

Lodged between rivers Ravi and Sutlej, Gurdaspur is a place worth visiting in Punjab. Every year a truly grand fair is held here to commemorate the wedding of the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. This is the place to be if you want a proper idea of the rich and extravagant Punjabi culture. Of the many festivals held here, the Shivratri fair and Babahali’s Chhinjh Mela are major tourist attractions of the city. Religious locations include the Dera Baba Nanak and Sri Darbar Sahib, as well as other unique places like the Kabootari Darwaza and Fish park that are perfect for all age groups.

Best Time to Visit. November to March
Places to Visit in Gurdaspur. Dhianpur Shrine, Shri Pindori Dham Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Fish Park, Gurudwara Shri Chola Sahib.
Things to do in Gurdaspur. Pay respects at Shri Pindori Dham Temple, visit Fish Park, and enjoy Babahali’s Chhinjh Mela.

10. Bhatinda. One of the Oldest Cities in Punjab

The oldest city of Punjab, Bhatinda, has been attracting and intriguing a massive number of visitors every year with its allure and lustre. Established by Bala Rao Bhatti, a prominent Rajput ruler of the time, Bhatinda is a classic example of Punjabi exuberance. The dazzling city houses prime tourist locations ranging from religious and pilgrim spots like Damdara Sahib and the Maisar Khana Temple to royal architecture like the Bahia Fort Hotel. Bhatinda is also notable for its industrial progress and is the home to the Guru Nanak Dev Thermal Plant. The cuisines and Punjabi delicacies you can taste here maintain the original recipes to give you an authentic food experience.

Best Time to Visit. October to March
Places to Visit in Bhatinda. Chetak Park, Qila Mubarak, Bhatinda Large Fort, Rose Garden, Takht Shri Damdama Sahib, Gurudwara Haji Rattan, Guru Nanak Dev Thermal, Bathinda Lake.
Things to do in Bhatinda. Enjoy a stroll in Chetak Park, explore Qila Mubarak, revisit history at Bhatinda Large Fort, and pay respects at Gurudwara Haji Rattan.

11. Ludhiana. The Town of Lodhi

Be it a waist to the Clock Tower or a day at the Phillaur Fort, if you are visiting Punjab, you cannot miss out on the many attractions Ludhiana offers. The museums here are filled with ancient relics and artefacts that will tingle your curiosity. The lavish, sprawling gardens like the Nehru Rose Garden and the Rakh Bagh give you respite from the humdrum of the city. Ludhiana is particularly famous for its shopping areas and colourful markets that shopaholics will love and adore. Experience not one but many fun activities, and you will not realize how time has passed. Dependent mostly on agriculture, you can also catch the spellbinding view of Saron Da Khet ( mustard fields) that colour the horizon yellow or Basanti as the Punjabis call it. This city is one of the best places to visit in Punjab for your own Bollywood moment.

Best Time to Visit. October and February
Places to Visit in Ludhiana. Punjab Agricultural University, Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum, Gurudwara Nanaksar Jagroan, Rakh Bagh Park, Hardy’s World Amusement Park, Phillaur Fort, Lodhi Fort.
Things to do in Ludhiana. Visit Lodhi and Phillaur fort, enjoy a stroll at Rakh Bagh Park, have fun at Hardy’s World Amusement Park, and pay respects at Gurudwara Nanksar Jagroan.

12. Anandpur Sahib. The Birthplace of Khalsa

Founded in 1665 by the 9th guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, Anandpur Sahib is only 100 kilometres from Chandigarh. You can enjoy the long drive as you gaze upon the outstanding scenery and landscape or take a train to reach the spot. While there are many religious sites to visit in the city, the most important tourist destinations definitely include the museum and the memorials that can give you a comprehensive idea of Sikh bravery and valour. And if you are a true nature lover, then the Ropar wetlands and Jhajhar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary should get a post on your trip plan. India’s second largest dam, the Bhakra Nangal Dam, is also located here.

Best Time to Visit. August to September
Places to Visit in Anandpur Sahib. Virasat-e-Khalsa, Takhat Shri Kesgarh Sahib Gurudwara, Qila Anandgarh Sahib, Bhakra Dam, Sarovar Anandpur Sahib.
Things to do in Anandpur Sahib. Bird watching at Ropar wetlands, visit the Bhakra Nangal Dam, and check out Virast-e-Khalsa, and Sarovar Anandpur Sahib.

The state of Punjab has a lot to offer to tourists and pilgrims alike. If you are still wondering why you should visit Punjab, plan your trip and experience the beauty of the state firsthand. With Adotrip as your travel partner, enjoy exciting flight deals, amazing tour packages, and sightseeing tours; your trip is surely going to be memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in Punjab

Ques 1. What is the most visited place in Punjab?
Ans 1. Amritsar is the most visited place in Punjab. Known for the Golden Temple, the city is known for its religious significance.

Ques 2. Is there any hill station in Punjab?
Ans 2. Kufri is a popular hill station in Punjab. It is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions.

Ques 3. Which is known as the beautiful city of Punjab?
Ans 3. Chandigarh is the most beautiful and well-planned city in Punjab. Le Corbusier designed it.

Ques 4. What are the top places to visit in Punjab?
Ans 4. Some of the top places to visit in Punjab are -