FROM TALES OF PATRIOTISM TO SPIRITUALITY, PUNJAB
About Punjab:
It is also known as the land of five rivers, namely Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum. Only Sutlej, Ravi and Beas rivers flow in today’s Punjab. The other two rivers are now in the state of Punjab, situated in Pakistan. The Punjab State is divided into three regions: Majha, Doaba and Malwa. Agriculture is the backbone of Punjab’s economy. Apart from that manufacturing of scientific instruments, electrical goods, financial services, machine tools, textiles etc. Punjab has stood strong even in the hard times it went through. It contributes nearly two thirds to the total production of food grains and a third of milk production in the country. It is the leading producer of wheat, hence major contributor to the national food security. Punjab also has the lowest poverty rate in India and has won the best state performance award, based on statistical data compiled by the Indian Government. Punjabi, the official language of the state, is the tenth most widely spoken language in the world. It is also the fourth most spoken language in Asia. Not jus tin Asia even in United States and few parts of Europe is also dominated by punjabis. Witness the rich history of the world’s first and oldest civilizations, the Indus Valley Civilization spanned much of the Punjab region, with cities such as Harappa and Mohenjodaro now located in the modern-day Pakistani province of Punjab. 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. And because of that every year, thousands of tourists throng to this city. And did you know that punjabi’s are the most famous and known for welcoming and food too. This region is dominated by Sikh faith. For the contemporary traveler, beyond the tranquility of Harmandir Sahib lies a throbbing city. Bustling traditional bazaars with a maze of narrow streets selling everything from delicious kulcha-chholas to beautifully handcrafted kirpans, give a glimpse of its bygone importance as a medieval trading post. Located as it was on two legendary trails such as the Silk Route and the Grand Trunk Road. So be it history or architecture or ancient culture to modernism, this place has it all. So its a must visit place, so make sure to plan your itinerary well.
Best time to experience and explore Punjab:
October to March is the winter season which is also considered the best season to explore. The day-time temperature stays around 26°C while during the night; it drops down to 0°C. Some regions of the state also experience less than 0°C. That is why Winters are comparatively the best time to explore Punjab. its respite from the harsh heated waves. You can even explore the city markets and religious areas on feet during these months. And make sure to visit the beautifully lit up and reflected in the sacred pool. And you can even get a chance to experience lots of festivities like Lohri, Basant Panchami, and Hola Mohalla. Best to explore the new culture during these months.
March to May, its summer season in Punjab. The weather remains sultry and dry during this season, with temperatures fluctuating between 29°C and 45°C. During the summer season, Punjab witnesses the hot harsh winds blowing across the state. Cities such as Jalandhar and Moga experience the most tropical climate in the state around this time. Tourists usually avoid visiting Punjab during the summer season due to the sapping heat that prevails across its expanse. Its really not a good time to visit. Evenings are little relaxing, and little comfortable to take stroll. So if you cannot endure, don't plan your trip during these months.
June to september, is the monsoon season in this region. Of Course it brings respite to the harsh heatwaves and scorching heat. With rainfall alternating between 300 mm to 1000 mm, the climate usually remains damp and arid. Sometimes the rainfall is heavy and incessant depending on that, you can plan a self drive trip as well and witness the lush greenery. You will encounter some peaceful, spectacular and picturesque sceneries. Tourists who step visit Punjab during August can experience the entertainment of the Teeyan festival.
Places to visit in Punjab:
Amritsar: The city of Amritsar is known for the world’s most iconic golden temple. Amritsar ’s golden temple is also known for its dining at the world’s biggest community kitchen which feeds 100,000 people a day. But did you know this place has a lot to speak in the form of history too?Amritsar’s history includes the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre where the British shot dead hundreds of innocent civilians, and Operation Blue Star, the standoff between the governments and militant Sikhs inside the Golden Temple. This city brings back the energy it is soulful. And when in Amritsar, how can you miss Wagah Border Ceremony? Its a 45 miniatures ceremony where you will witness the guards from the Indian Border Security Force and the Pakistan Rangers saluting each other, lowering and folding their flags, and closing the gates at the border.
Key highlights of Amritsar:
1. The golden temple
2. Wagah Border
3. Partition museum
4. Jallianwala Bagh
5. Rambagh garden
6. Harike wetland and bird sanctuary
7. Durgiana Temple
8. Bhatinda fort
9. Kaiser Bagh park
Chandigarh: one of the most organised city and known for weekend trips among youths. Here you must explore the famous rose garden where you will find some exquisite variety of flowers. Rock Garden, this massive 40-acre garden is a colourful mosaic of art pieces and sculptures. The rock garden is situated at Uttar Marg in Sector 1, 1.5 km from Sukhna Lake. There are more than 5,000 statues within its bounds, the Rock Garden in Chandigarh is a true example of 'Best From Waste’. And how to recycle and reuse it. That’s why this city is called one of the organised city of its reason. Sukhna Lake, perfect for either early morning jogs orevenmng strolls with you cloves ones with a hot cup of coffee. Government Museum and Art Gallery, to explore some history, art and culture in the heart of the city. Fun city, with an expanse of 43 acres, this water amusement park in Ramgarh is the biggest in North India. It boasts of one activity pool, three landing pools and a wave pool, a cluster of water slides of various shapes and sizes
Key highlights of Chandigarh:
1. Rose garden
2. Rock garden
3. Sukhna Lake
4. Government Museum and Art Gallery
5. Fun city
6. Butterfly park
7. International doll museum
8. Timber trail
9. Morni hills
10. Chandigarh botanical garden
Jalandhar: known for its rich history. Apart from that this city has beautifully preserved the rich heritage, architecture, and culture of Punjab. Jalandhar is one of the oldest cities of Punjab. This city was known as Jalandhar Doab and was a part of the eastern territory of Alexander’s kingdom. History lovers this is your calling now! This city’s geographical location is between the two rivers Beas and Sutlej. This place was known as Prasthala in Mahabharata and later renamed to Jullundur during the British Era. In fact, it’s present name Jalandhara is also after a demon king whose name can be traced in the Puranas and Mahabharata. You must make a trip to this city and its not expensive at all.
Key highlights of Jalandhar:
1. Rangla Punjab
2. Devi Talab Mandir
3. Sodal Mandir
4. Pushpa Gujral Science Centre
5. Wonderland Theme Park
6. Jama Masjid Dargah Imam Nasir
7. Tulsi Mandir
8. Kartarpur Gurudwara
9. Saint Mary’s Cathedral Church
10. Shiva Mandir
Ludhiana, one of the major cities of India, it is the largest city of the state of Punjab as well as of north India. This place attracts tourists and travellers across the world because of its modern culture and traditional Punjabi food. This city offers a wide spectrum to explore from the historic monuments along with modern day malls and parks and so much more. Such as Gurudwara Mehdiana Sahib, It is believed that Guru Gobind Singh and his followers rested here after the great battle against the Mughal army led by Aurangzeb. The architecture of the gurdwara fascinates many as the walls are inscribed with writings of important Sikh history. The Punjab Agricultural University is the third oldest agricultural university of India. It consists of a museum which depicts India’s agricultural development since the time of independence.
Key highlights of Ludhiana:
1. Gurudwara Mehdiana Sahib
2. Pavilion Mall
3. Rakh Bagh Park
4. Hardy’s World
5. Waves Mall
6. Punjab’s Agricultural University Museum
7. Nehru Rose Garden
8. Guru Nanak Stadium
9. Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum
10. Gurudwara Shri Manji Sahib
11. 1Deer Park
12. Phillaur Fort
13. Silver Arc Mall
14. Bilwanwali Masjid
15. Punjab Rural Heritage Museum
Patiala: it is one of the princely cities of Punjab. The background of the city is wrapped up in the grandeur and liveliness of the past rulers. It has a rich culture and art is the base. Patiala is home to various places that speak of its history and culture. From temples and gurdwaras to palaces and forts. This will surly put you in awe. You can start your trip with kali temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It has a six foot tall and beautiful idol of Kali devi. Motibagh Palace, this is made up in Rajasthani style. Previously it was the palace for the kings but now the old palace is home to the National Institute of Sports of Patiala.
Key highlights of patiala:
1. Kali Temple
2. Baradari Garden
3. heesh Mahal
4. Motibagh Palace
5. Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib
6. Qila Mubarak Complex
7. Omaxe Mall
Bathinda: it lies in the heart of Punjab. Bathinda is bestowed with natural beauty as well as rich historical sites. It is counted among the favourite lands for all the foodies as well as people seeking natural sightseeing. It is a stunning place where you will get the true essence of Punjabi culture. From a big glass of lassi to the famous Bhangra dance. From huge glass of lassi to witnessing surreal beauty. Are you someone who is really interested in the flora and fauna then you must visit rose garden. You can spend some time with your children and family through organising picnic. Qila Mubarak Gurudwara Sahib is a very important historical site in Bathinda. It is located in the middle of the city. This majestic architecture looks very similar to the shape of a boat. It is one of the most poplar places among the photographers as well. Mazaar of Peer Haji Rattan is a popular place for religious harmony. This place is one of the best places to visit in Bathinda which welcomes devotees from all faiths.
Key highlights of Bathinda:
1. Rose Garden
2. Chetak Park
3. Qila Mubarak
4. Mazaar Of Peer Haji Rattan
5. Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Gurudwara
6. Lakhi Jungle
7. Maiser Khana Temple
8. Bir Talab Zoo
9. Bahia Fort
10. Zoological Garden
Pathankot: it is one of the prominent cities in Punjab that is often used as a gateway for Chamba and Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. This destination is surrounded by picturesque foothills of Kangra and Dalhousie, with the river Chakki flowing close by and the majestic shivaliks in the background creating a beautiful scenery in your minds. Pathankot, although, often serves as a major pit-stop for tourists travelling to the mountains of Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Jammu & Kashmir, Chamba and Kangra and head further deep into the Himalayas. You can drive through it, and definitely head to the Himalayas if you plan your trip in a flexible way. Here you can Explore The Heritage, Architectural Marvel, the oldest dam for river Ravi.
Key highlights of Pathankot:
1. Ranjit Sagar Dam
2. Mukteshwar Temple
3. Shahpurkandi Fort
4. Hydraulic Research Station
5. Nagni Temple
6. Nurpur Fort
7. Kali Mata Ka Mandir
8. Kathgarh Temple
9. Shani Dev Temple
10. Ashapurni Mandir
11. Laxmi Narayan Mandir
12. Novelty Mall
13. City Centre Mall
Local food to try in Punjab region: from lush green farms to one of the best butter chicken in the world, and kulchas. This place is recognised because of food. Punjab is home to authentic tandoori food. It is believed that the 'tandoor' originated in Persia and was introduced to India by the Arabs.
Butter chicken, the most famous and well known across the world. Just grab some juicy chicken pieces bathed in a creamy sweet and salty gravy bursting with authentic flavours. You can have it either with rice or roti.
Sarson ka saag and Makki ki roti is the highly selling and eaten cuisine across the nation and it is loved for its Simple, savoury and full of rustic flavours.
chole bhature , can’t say no to it. The dish has become one of the favourites with people across the country and is also one of the must try Indian delicacies.
Dal makhni, from street side dhabas to five stars you can find it everywhere. Master the art of cooking the queen of all dal preparations.
Machhi Amritsari, these are well cooked and beautiful pieces of fish, coated in a spicy batter and deep fried to a golden perfection. Garnished with a sprinkling of garam masala and a dash of lemon juice for that extra level up.
Ways to reach Punjab:
By air: There are a number of airports in Punjab in cities like Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Ludhiana. Amritsar, and Chandigarh stations are international airports while the Ludhiana airport serves domestic purpose only. Travelers from within and even outside India can book tickets to these airports to reach Punjab in the fastest, and most convenient ways. Various airlines like Jet Airways, Indigo, Vistara, Air India, Qatar Airways, and more, operate regular flights to Amritsar.
By railways: There are around 90 railway stations in different districts of Punjab which make it even more convenient for travelers to reach as close to their destination as possible. Trains also serve as more economical means of transport and are best for budget travelers. A large number of trains operate to and from these stations such as Jbp Atari Special, Shan-e-Punjab, Moga Shatabdi, Amritsar Shatabdi, Amritsar Express, Swarna Shtbdi, Sachkhand Express, Garib Rath Express, Golden Temple Mail, Punjab Mail, and more. Punjab Mail is one of the most important trains. Punjab Mail route passes through states of Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
By Bus: you can get buses, cabs, and private taxis are available for traveling to Punjab by road. Travelers can also choose to drive by themselves by using a Punjab route map