The picturesque state of Punjab or Panchal with its sprawling farmlands has been aptly nicknamed the smiling soul of India. The fertile terrains are drained by the majestic Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Chenab and Jhelum and abound in natural beauty. Punjab tourism thus has plenty to offer tourists from all across the world.
The tourism department of the Punjab Government has developed some comprehensive package tours that include sightseeing the eminent tourist attractions surrounding a particular belt at an affordable price. Besides, the state famed for the imperial Golden Temple exudes an underlying aura of deep-rooted sanctity. The Ram Tirth, Amritsar and Balmiki's hermitage are two renowned Hindu pilgrimage sites in Punjab while Mazaar, Pir Baba Haji Rattan, Bathinda City is a legendary mosque in the secular state.
Punjab, an erstwhile princely state of India and the former empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is opulent in majestic and lavish palaces and crenellated forts. The state was also a mute spectator to the horrors of the Jalianwala Bagh massacre.
The state is well connected with airports at Chandigarh and Amritsar, several railway stations as well as arterial national highways that link Punjab with the outside. The colorful and exuberant state also boats of a diverse natural heritage and abounds in festive celebrations throughout the year. The state where Bhangra music and dhaba culture reigns is a shopaholic's paradise with its woolen and hosiery products, carpets, jutis and other handicrafts.
Punjab, the land of five rivers and astounding cultural diversity is renowned for its cuisine, culture and history. The bright green fertile farming land, shimmering waters, skies in various shades of blue give your senses an ever lasting liveliest experience. The charming cities here are dotted with enticing monuments, gurudwaras, sacred shrines, temples, ashrams, wide lakes, museums, shopping centers, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Popular Tourist Destinations in the Punjab
- Golden Temple
- Wagah Border
- Quila Mubarak
- Jallianwalah Bagh
- Art Gallery at Sheesh Mahal
- Sukhna lake
- Bhakra Nangal Dam
- Shahpur Kandi fort
- Tarn Taran Lake
Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is a famous pilgrimage center and one of the most famous tourist attractions of Punjab and India. The oldest and holiest shrine of the Sikh faith, it is revered by thousands of devotees of all faiths across the world. The temple is nestled amidst a beautiful pool called "Amrit Sarovar". The dome of the temple is covered by a layer of Gold plating which gives it a brilliant dazzle in the summer sun, hence the name Golden Temple.
Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh was the site where hundreds of innocent and unarmed protesters were trapped and massacred by British army on 13th of April, 1919. Remains of bullet marks, pierced walls, and a martyr's well which became the funeral ground for thousands of people who jumped off to protect themselves from the firing are testimonies of the biggest tragedy in India.
Wagah Border
Wagah Border, 28 kilometres away from Amritsar separates India from Pakistan. Major tourist attraction here is the "Lowering of Flags" ceremony conducted by the security forces of India and Pakistan namely Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers.
Last Updated on 7 March 2013
