Punjab, famously referred to as ‘The land of five rivers’, is situated in the north western part of India. This fertile land ranks amongst the most ancient civilizations in the world. Punjab is also famous for its religious diversity as it was here many religious movements were initiated. The scenic landscape, rich history and famous religious sites are the most important reasons for increasing number of visits by tourists. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Punjab.
1. Amritsar
The moment you hear Amritsar mentioned, your mind is sure to recall the famous attraction in the land – The Golden temple. This ancient land is home to various shrines and places of historical importance. Here are the top destinations in Amritsar.
Golden Temple
Jallianwala Bagh
Akal Takht
Tara Taran Sahib
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama
Wagah Border
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
Rambagh Garden
Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary
Khalsa College
Durgiana Temple
Bathinda Fort
Kaiser Bagh Park
2. Chandigarh
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Chandigarh is the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. The city is considered the best planned city in the country. It is called ‘The City Beautiful’ and you will sure agree with it once you visit the beautiful city where modernization has not destroyed the natural treasures of the land. Here are the top destinations in Chandigarh.
Jalandhar, the land that boasts of a rich history is also famous for sports goods. This ancient part of the world, which is mentioned in the epic Mahabharata, has some of the most famous sites of historical importance and religious significance. Here are the top attractions in Jalandhar.
Imam Nasir Masjid
Tulsi Mandir
Shaheed-E-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Museum
Wonderland Theme Park
Devi Talab Mandir
Shiv Mandir
St. Mary’s Cathedral Church
Pushpa Gujral Science City
Company Bagh
Niku Park
Rangla Punjab Haveli
Prithvi’s Planet
Sheetla Mandir
4. Ludhiana
Ludhiana is the largest city in the state. It has its share of historical monuments and religious centers. It is situated closer to the banks of river Sutlej. The land had made a significant contribution during freedom fight. Though not in great numbers, the tourist attractions it has cannot be missed on your tour to Punjab. The important places of Ludhiana include:
Lodhi Fort
Rural Heritage Museum
Tiger Zoo
Punjab Agricultural University Museum
Gurudwara Charan Kamal
Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum
Phillaur Fort
Nehru Rose Garden
Deer Park
5. Patiala
The erstwhile princely state, Patiala, is famously referred to as the ‘City of newspapers’. The city has some of the best architecture that reflects the glorious past of the land. It is a blend of Rajput, Punjabi and Mughal cultures. Given below are the top attractions in Patiala.
Qila Mubarak Complex
Moti Bagh Palace
Banur
Samana
Baradari Garden
Sheesh Mahal
Darbar Hall
Bir Moti Bagh Sanctuary
Lachman Jhoola
Kali Temple
6. Bhatinda
Bhatinda is amongst the ancient cities of Punjab. Some of the monuments found here belong to 3000 BC. Famous for its historical associations, the land was where Guru Gobind Singh challenged and fought the Mughals bravely. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhatinda include:
Bhatinda Fort
Qila Mubarak
Rose Garden
Bhatinda Lake
Bhatinda Zoological Park
Lakhi Jungle
Bir Talab Zoo
Chetak Park
Dhobhi Bazaar
7. Pathankot
The geographical location of Pathankot gains importance as it is the meeting point of Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. The scenic beauty of the land and its rich history have made the land a popular tourist destination. Here are some of the leading tourist attractions in the city.
Mukteshwar Temple
Ashapurni Mandir
Kathgarh Temple
Nurpur Fort
Ranjit Sagar Dam
Hydraulic Research Station
Shahpurkandi Fort
Kali Mata Ka Mandir
8. Kapurthala
Earlier referred to as the ‘Paris of Punjab’, Kapurthala is an excellent city with amazing architecture and breathtaking gardens. It was here that Guru Nanak attained enlightenment in 1499. Historical significance, scenic landscape and spectacular monuments make this place a unique destination. Given below are some of the important tourist attractions in Kapurthala.
The Jagatjit Palace
Jagatjit Club
Elysee Palace
Panj Mandir
Kanjli Wetland
Shalimar Garden
Nihal Palace
State Gurudwara
Moorish Mosque
9. Mohali
Mohali, Chandigarh and Panchkula together are called Tri-city. The city acquired its name after Guru Gobind Singh’s eldest son Sahibzada Ajit Singh and hence is also called as SAS Nagar. While retaining its ancient heritage, Mohali, is also home to a good number of IT industries. The top tourist attractions in Mohali include:
Rose Garden
Silvi Park
Mataur Lake
Rock Garden
Sukhna Lake
Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
Gurdwara Amb Sahib
Mansa Devi Temple
Gurudwara Nada Sahib
Punjab Cricket Association Stadium
10. Ropar
Ropar, also known as Rupnagar, is yet another ancient town in Punjab. Archaeological evidences show that the place belonged to the era of Harappan civilization. Ropar also happens to be the first Harappan site to be excavated in independent India. The top destinations in Ropar include:
Anandpur Sahib
Chamkaur Sahib
Bhakra Nangal Dam
Ropar Wetland
Gurudwara Parivar Vichhora Sahib
Gurudwara Bhatta Sahib
Jateshwar Mahadev Temple
You feel part of the ancient world when you travel the length and breadth of Punjab. Even a couple of weeks in Punjab will not suffice to cover all the important destinations in the land of five rivers. Any mention of important tourist destination that I missed writing about is welcome.
