Quick Facts
- Capital: Chandigarh (shared with Haryana)
- Largest City: Ludhiana
- Official Language: Punjabi
- Formation: 1 November 1966
- Nicknames: “Granary of India”
- Borders: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan
- UNESCO Sites: None (Golden Temple is globally renowned)
Contents
History & Heritage
Punjab has a vibrant history, from the Indus Valley Civilization to Sikhism and India’s independence struggle.
- Indus Valley Civilization: Harappa & Mohenjo-daro roots.
- Sikh Heritage: Birthplace of Sikhism, home to Golden Temple.
- Partition: Punjab was divided in 1947.
Geography & Climate
Punjab is a fertile plain, fed by five major rivers.
- Rivers: Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Chenab, Jhelum.
- Climate: Extreme summers and winters; mild monsoon.
Top Places to Visit (Handpicked)
- Amritsar: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh.
- Wagah Border: Beating Retreat ceremony.
- Anandpur Sahib: Historic Sikh town.
- Chandigarh: Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake.
- Patiala: Qila Mubarak, heritage sites.
- Ludhiana: Rural museums, textile industry.
Festivals of Punjab
- Baisakhi: Harvest festival and Sikh New Year.
- Lohri: Bonfires and cultural celebrations.
- Gurpurab: Birth anniversaries of Sikh Gurus.
- Hola Mohalla: Sikh martial arts festival.
Cuisine – What to Eat
Punjab’s cuisine is hearty, rich, and world-famous.
- Staples: Makki di roti, sarson da saag.
- Dishes: Butter chicken, Amritsari kulcha.
- Sweets: Phirni, pinni, lassi.
Arts, Handicrafts & Culture
- Phulkari embroidery and juttis.
- Bhangra and Giddha dance forms.
- Sikh religious music and heritage.
Adventure & Wildlife
- Wildlife at Harike Wetland and Abohar Sanctuary.
- Rural farm stays and tractor rides.
- Heritage walks in Amritsar.
How to Reach
- By Air: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (Amritsar).
- By Rail: Amritsar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh stations.
- By Road: Excellent highways and bus connectivity.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal for a pleasant trip to Punjab.
Sample Itineraries
3 Days – Amritsar & Wagah
- Day 1: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh.
- Day 2: Wagah Border ceremony.
- Day 3: Local food and heritage walk.
4 Days – Heritage Punjab
- Day 1: Amritsar.
- Day 2: Anandpur Sahib.
- Day 3: Patiala.
- Day 4: Chandigarh sights.
Famous Personalities
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh: The Lion of Punjab.
- Baba Deep Singh: Sikh warrior saint.