Punjab

Punjab, the northern state of India, has been the home to the world’s oldest civilization. It is known for its fertile soil bounded by three rivers – Beas, Sutlej, and Ravi. Originally called the Land of Five Rivers – during pre-partition because of the five tributaries of River Indus flowing through its lush green land. Punjab is also known for its rich culture that has played an incredible role in the country’s freedom movement.

It is home to some great poets, philosophers, thinkers, spiritual leaders, artists, musicians, scientists, and more. Authentic Punjabi food like Sarson ka saag, Makki di roti, tandoori chicken, lassi, rumali roti, naan, stuffed paranthas, kulchas, and more. Punjabi food is soaked in desi ghee and butter, and spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander seeds are commonly used to prepare mouth-watering dishes.

It is also the land where the countryside is marked by miles and miles of yellow mustard flowers. Locals here are known for their high tolerance towards all religions and communities. The Sikh community, the dominating religion here, is famous worldwide for its brotherhood and magnanimous attitude. The Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, the world-famous Golden Temple, and the daily langar served to thousands of visitors irrespective of their religious beliefs exemplify the true Punjabi spirit.

What makes Punjab so special and unique? The native embroidery called Phulkari, the high-pitched foot-tapping music, zealous Bhangra dance with the energetic dhols accompanying, colorful dresses, exuberant celebrations and festivals, pomp and gaiety, its food and drinks. Going for a vacation to Punjab means a plethora of choices of destinations. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, Sukhna Lake, and the Rose Garden in Chandigarh, Phillaur Fort in Ludhiana, Devi Talab Mandir in Jalandhar, the Qila Mubarak in Bhatinda, Moti Bagh Palace and Bahadurgarh Fort in Patiala, Jagatjit Palace and Kanjli Wetland in Kapurthala, and the Ranjit Sagar Dam in Pathankot. Nature lovers can drop by the Bhakra Nangal Dam at Nangal and the Ropar Wetland at Ropar. Last, stay back at Mohali to visit the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium and the Mansa Devi Temple. Punjab is also home to six national parks – the Abohar National Park in Fazilka known for the blackbuck and blue bull; the Harike National Park that is visited by thousands of migratory birds during winter, Jhajjar Bachauli National Park in Rupnagar, Bir Bhadson National Park in Patiala and the Mahendra Zoological Park in Zirakpur.

These are the top five destinations for an offbeat vacation in Punjab:

by the kings from the ruling Bhati clan of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan in the 11th century, the Princely state of Kapurthala is better known as the Paris of Punjab. Its architectural marvels catch the fascination of travelers and hence the name. Post-independence, Kapurthala was declared a district of Punjab comprising about 618 villages. The French and Indo-Saracen architectural style of structures and gardens make it a refreshing destination for tourists. The Jagajit Palace is one of the key attractions of Kapurthala. Today, it is part of the National Defense Academy housing under-training soldiers at the Sainik School. Built in 1908, the Palace was the residence of the Maharaja of Kapurthala, Jagatjit Singh. The next halt should be the Kanjli Lake at the Kanjli Wetland for bird lovers. The place is richly populated by many amphibian species, not just bird sightings. Kanwar Bikram Singh built Elysee Place in 1962, a classic example of the Indo-French architectural style. The monolithic façade is an interesting tourist hub. The Moorish Mosque was constructed under the supervision of Maharaja Jagatjit Singh and showed his superior taste in art and architecture. The Mosque has intricate carvings on the walls and ceiling and is surrounded by greenery, giving visitors the chance to sit or stroll amidst natural elements. Panch Mandir is another favorite stopover, especially for Hindus. The entire Temple has been made in white. It was built by Maharaja Fatah Singh Ahluwalia. Jagatjit Club is a must-visit for tourists interested in ancient architecture. It is made in the geek-revival style inspired by the Acropolis in Athens and is the Coat of Arms for the Patiala Royal Family.

Best time to visit: Visiting Kapurthala during winters is ideal as the temperature fluctuates between 15°C and 20°C.

Lying to the east in Punjab, Ropar or Rupnagar is located on the banks of the Sutlej River near the Sirhind Canal. The Shivalik range enhances the natural beauty of the place as Ropar is located at the foothills of the hilly range. The town plays a significant role in India’s history as it was part of the Indus Valley Civilization. The Archaeological Museum at Rupnagar, set up in 1988, is home to many ancient exhibits from the Harappan site. There are also gold coins from Chandragupta Maurya’s time.

The Ropar Wetland is one of the best places to visit in Rupnagar. It is a freshwater riverine, man-made, serving as the home to many fish, mammalian, protozoan, and crustacean species. The biologically diverse lake is also home to 154 bird species, including migratory birds. The Wetland has two endangered species – the Chitra indica turtle and Python molurus snake. The other places of interest at Rupnagar include the Virasat E Khalsa, a museum located near the Gurudwara Anandgarh Sahib. A visit to Ropar is incomplete with a stopover at the Bhakra Dam, the tallest Dam in Asia, an engineering marvel located at the border of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

Another interesting place for visitors is the Sirhind Canal. It is a stunning place to relax and rejuvenate. The scenic beauty of the Canal, clear water and a floating restaurant operated by the Punjab Tourism make it an incredible place for an outing.

Best time to visit: Ropar should ideally be visited between August and November as summer is too hot here and winters too cold.

This is a town located in the Rupnagar district, about 60 km from the district center. The Shivalik Range can be seen clearly from the town. The world-famous Bhakra Nagal Dam has been constructed at this site on the Satluj River. The multi-purpose Project is one of the popular reasons for tourists flocking to the site. The Gurudwara Vibhour Sahib is one of the most frequented places here – this is where Guru Gobind Singh had meditated. The view of the entire town from the Gurudwara is majestic.

There is also a Dharamshala here, known as Mal Kuthiala Dharamshala, located on the banks of the River. The Dharamshala offers free stays to tourists with a Lakshmi Narain temple in the Dharamshala complex. The Nangal Wetland comprising the Nangal Lake is also a good place to visit. It is a site most loved and frequented by bird watchers for the heavenly sightings of unique birds. Look out for the Saras cran, yellow-eyed babbler, Indian parakeet, and more. For Hindus, the Sheetla Devi Temple is another place to visit at Nangal. Located close to Chintpurni, the Temple is visited by believers to seek blessings from Sheetla Mata. There is another magnificent site to visit at Nangal, and beautiful works of art and inscription enhance the appeal of the Temple. The popular Mata Naina Devi Ropeway is operated by the Rajju Marg, where cable cars take visitors up and down from the Temple to the Bhawan.

Best to visit: Plan your visit to Nangal any time between November to March.

This is popularly known as the City of Lakes insss Punjab. It is believed to be one of the oldest cities in the state. Some of the historical monuments here are as ancient as 3000 BC. Historians believe that Guru Gobind Singh had fought the Mughals here. Bhatinda was also the site where brave Rajput king, Prithvi Raj Chauhan, had fought with Mohammed Ghori.

When in Bhatinda, don’t forget to visit the Rose Garden. It is a pleasing spot for a family outing. The garden covers 10 acres of land, and there are multiple varieties of the species. The place is open from early morning hours till late at night. The other place that kids love here is Chetak Park. The entire Park features flowers of different types and lush green growth. Many rides and activities for kids help parents offer a wholesome trip to children. The Qila Mubarak is another top place to visit at Bhatinda. This was the former Gateway of India or the Tabar-e-Hind. The ancient site is an architectural genius. Next, plan to visit the Mazaar of Peer Haji Rattan located at the Hazi Rattan Nagar. The Takht Damdama Sahib Gurudwara is a favorite spot for Sikhs as it is the place where Guru Gobind Singh had readied the Sikh scriptures. The Maiser Khana Temple has been built in honor of Goddess Durga and Jwala Ji. The Temple complex is about 29 km from Bathinda. Finally, drop by the Bahia Fort, which had housed the royal family of Bhatinda and was made into a hotel in 1980. Bird and animal lovers can stop by the Zoological Garden and the Bir Talab Zoo.

Best time to visit: plan your Bhatinda visit anywhere between October to March.