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Places to visit in Punjab

Punjab is a vibrant state in India, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, offering a diverse range of tourist attractions. In this guide, we explore the must visit places in Punjab. Key attractions include the spiritual Golden Temple in Amritsar, the historical Jallianwala Bagh, the border ceremony at Wagah, and the planned city of Chandigarh. Other notable places include forts like Phillaur Fort and Lodhi Fort, and natural wonders like Harike Wetland.

Wiki – Punjab tourism

Popular places to visit Punjab

The top place to visit in Punjab and most sacred site for Sikhs, the Golden Temple is a breathtaking structure covered in gold and surrounded by a holy water tank (Sarovar).

Golden Temple (Amritsar)

The top place to visit in Punjab and most sacred site for Sikhs, the Golden Temple is a breathtaking structure covered in gold and surrounded by a holy water tank (Sarovar). It offers free community meals (Langar) to thousands every day. The calm and spiritual vibe makes it unforgettable. Don’t miss the night view — it’s magical!

A historical memorial site that honors the lives lost in the tragic 1919 massacre—India's turning point in freedom struggle.

Jallianwala Bagh (Amritsar)

A historic garden that witnessed the tragic 1919 massacre, now a memorial of patriotism and sacrifice.

Experience patriotic energy as India and Pakistan perform a spirited flag-lowering ceremony at the daily border parade.

Wagah Border (Amritsar)

Experience the electrifying Beating Retreat ceremony between India and Pakistan soldiers at sunset.

A holy town rich in Sikh history, where Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699.

Anandpur Sahib

One of the holiest cities in Sikhism, home to historic gurdwaras and the birthplace of the Khalsa.

Known for its palaces, gardens, and the iconic Patiala peg—this city is steeped in royal Punjabi culture. Patiala is always in the tourist's list of places to visit in Punjab.

Patiala

Known for its royal heritage, Patiala boasts grand palaces, traditional Patiala salwars, and the famous “Patiala Peg.” The Qila Mubarak complex and Sheesh Mahal offer glimpses into regal history. It’s also a hub for classical music and art. Patiala is always in the tourist’s list of places to visit in Punjab.

 
A blend of modern architecture and urban planning, famous for Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and sector-wise design.

Chandigarh

A well-planned modern city known for Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and beautiful urban architecture.

A princely city with French-inspired architecture, palaces, and vibrant heritage sites.

Kapurthala

Often called the “Paris of Punjab” due to its French-inspired architecture and historical buildings.

A bustling city known for textiles, education, and cultural heritage—from cycle industries to Punjabi folk.

Ludhiana

A buzzing city with lively bazaars, industrial significance, and the Rural Museum at PAU.

Bathinda Fort (Qila Mubarak), a must entry in places to visit in Punjab and one of the oldest forts in India, this structure has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties.

Bathinda Fort (Qila Mubarak)

a must entry in places to visit in Punjab and one of the oldest forts in India, this structure has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties. It holds immense historical value and was visited by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The fort’s rustic charm makes it a treat for history lovers.

A town with archaeological significance and scenic views near the Sutlej River.

Ropar (Rupnagar)

A quiet town that blends ancient history with nature. Visit the Archaeological Museum and the tranquil banks of the Sutlej River. It’s a lesser-known gem for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings and heritage sites.

Hidden Gems in Punjab

A peaceful sanctuary where migratory birds from Siberia and beyond gather in winter.

Harike Wetlands (Tarn Taran)

One of North India’s largest bird sanctuaries and wetlands, this is heaven for nature lovers. Every winter, thousands of migratory birds visit, making it perfect for birdwatching. It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal for a quiet escape. It is one of the reasons for nature’s lovers to visit Punjab and one of top places to visit in Punjab from nature’s perspective.

 

Home to unique rural sports like bullock cart races, showcasing strength and tradition.

Kila Raipur (Ludhiana)

Famous for the Rural Olympics — a one-of-a-kind sports fest with bullock cart races and desi games.

A lesser-known Wagah-style ceremony site, also home to the samadhi of Bhagat Singh and fellow martyrs.

Hussainiwala Border (Ferozepur)

A lesser-known border ceremony site with deep patriotic vibes and martyr memorials of Bhagat Singh and comrades.

A small but lush zoological park perfect for family outings and animal lovers.

Bir Talab Zoo (Bathinda)

A peaceful and relatively lesser-visited zoo with scenic surroundings — perfect for a quiet nature stroll.

A fun, interactive space to explore science, technology, and space exhibits—ideal for all age groups.

Pushpa Gujral Science City (Kapurthala)

A brilliant space for science enthusiasts with interactive exhibits, fun activities, and a planetarium. It combines learning with entertainment and is perfect for kids, students, or curious minds of any age.

A majestic palace complex with Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, now housing a museum and gallery.

Moti Bagh Palace (Patiala)

A royal heritage site that also houses the National Institute of Sports — often overlooked by tourists.

A large zoo with a lion safari and diverse wildlife, located just outside Chandigarh.

Chhatbir Zoo (near Chandigarh)

Not very famous but home to a wide variety of wildlife and an open lion safari — a hit with kids.

 

Located within Patiala Fort, this intricately decorated palace reflects royal lifestyle and frescoed halls.

Qila Androon (Patiala)

An inside palace of Patiala Fort with exquisite mirror work and intricate architecture, hidden from the usual crowds.

A historic fort turned police academy, reflecting Indo-European military architecture and colonial past.

Phillaur Fort (Ludhiana)

An underrated historic fort that once served as a military stronghold and now functions as a police training center.

Built at the spot where Guru Nanak Dev attained enlightenment under a Ber tree—an essential Sikh pilgrimage site.

Gurdwara Ber Sahib (Sultanpur Lodhi)

A serene and sacred gurdwara where Guru Nanak Dev Ji is said to have attained enlightenment. It’s peaceful, not too crowded, and deeply spiritual — perfect for quiet reflection and devotion.