Punjab

Punjab India,famously quoted the land of five rivers, is a fertile land with agricultural and natural abundance. Here the warmth of the summer is challenged only by the warmth of the people of this state.Lip-smacking food, vibrant handicrafts, and energetic bhangra are but only a few things this state has to offer.

Places to Visit in Punjab

Though the major attraction of this state is the Golden Temple in Amritsar, it is not the only thing Punjabhas to offer. There are Rose Gardens, Wagah Border, and many more.

Here's a list of the top 5 tourist places in Punjabthat one simply cannot miss:

Amritsar

One of the most famous temples in Punjab, the Golden Templeis located in this very city making it one of the major Punjab tourist attractions.The temple here is also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib. After a pious visit to the temple one can roam the streets of Amritsar and buy jootis, suits, etc while indulging in malai lassi.

Chandigarh

Chandigarh, the capital of Punjabis one of the major highlights of Punjab tourism.Considered one of the cleanest cities in the country, this city has the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, and International Doll Museum as places of tourist interest.

Bhatinda

Bhatinda, known as the 'city of lakes', this city in this state has the oldest surviving fort in the country called Qila Mubarak. When you search ‘tourist spot Punjab’,Bhatinda comes up at the top and attracts a lot of tourists here. There are also Rose Garden and Zoological Garden and Bir Talab Zoo as well as Maisar Khana Templeand Takht Shri Damdama Sahib. Therefore, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Pathankot

Pathankotis one of the many places to visit in Punjab.However, what makes it special it is located at the foothills of Dalhousie and borders Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir. River Chakki passes through the region. Pathankot has a lot of religious places of interest, like Kathgarh Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Shahpurkandi Fort, and Nagni Temple.

Ludhiana

Gurudwara Shri Manji Sahib, Phillaur Fort, and Lodhi Fort - the ancient ruins and architectural marvels of the Lodhi dynasty are among the prominent tourist places in Punjab. The rich history of Punjabis further complemented by Hardy’s World Amusement Park, Nehru Rose Garden, and the Rural Museum which are found in Ludhiana.

Best Time to Visit Punjab

During summer, the scorching heat of the sun beats the state of Punjab. The state records temperatures around 35°C - 45°C. The monsoon months are predictably wet and thus not the best time to visit in Punjab. The milder months of October to March, with an average temperature of 14°C, are best for enjoying all that Punjabhas to offer.

Foods to Try in Punjab

If there is one thing Punjabcan boast about doing the best, it is its food. Dairy products like ghee, butter, and cream are heavily used in Punjabi cuisine. Neither the vegetarian dishes nor the non-vegetarian Punjabi dishes disappoint. Among the Punjab famous food, butter chicken has to top the list. However, equally worthy of the coveted position are dishes like sarson ka saag, makke ki roti, chole bhature, and of course, malai ki lassi.

Festivals in Punjab

If there is one way to describe the Punjabi spirit, it is vibrant and lively and that is reflected in the festivities of the state. Agriculture being the primary occupation of the state, a lot of the festivals are agriculture centric. Baisakhi and Lohri are the harvest festivals of Punjab.Basant Panchami is anotherfamous festival of Punjab.

Culture in Punjab

The culture of Punjabis reflected in its clothes, dance, music, and architecture, and it is as rich and vibrant as the people. Bhangra as a dance form is like a boost of energy to a worn-out being. Phulkari, Pidhis, Jootis, Durries, and Parandis are some of the well-known handicrafts of Punjab.

Adventures in Punjab

Lion Safari in Chhatbir Zoo

Located 17 km away from Chandigarh, this zoo in Punjabprovides a safari experience where animals are kept in open enclosures. The highlight of the safari is obviously a lion sighting.

Bird watching in Amritsar

Harike Wetland near Amritsar is the largest wetland in India. Wigeon, common teal, pintail, shoveller, and brahminy ducks are dominant attractions for bird-watching enthusiasts.

Boating at Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh

Located at the foothills of the Shivalik range, this is one of the sought-after tourist places in Punjab.The serene beauty of the lake in harmony with the lush greenery of the surrounding makes for a perfect boating experience.

Conclusion

The fertile land of Punjab, the land of patriotic fervour and butter chicken, jootis and Lohri, is a wonderful addition to anybody's bucket list.