18 Best Tourist Places in Punjab You Must Visit

source: onlyinyourstate

Punjab, also known as the “Land of Five Rivers”, has been popular for its beautiful nature and rich culture. If you are fond of nature and traditional folk activities, you can consider a holiday in Punjab. Three are multiple beautiful places that you can check out in this region.

Planning a trip to Punjab? Read this article to find out some of the best tourist places in Punjab.

1. Amritsar

source: holidify

It is one of Punjab's most popular and known places, mainly because of the Golden Temple. Apart from being a religious hub, Amritsar is also known for its delicious street food and the Baisakhi festival. Moreover, it has had a historical value since the Jallianwala Bagh massacre happened here. It is also one of the most agriculturally productive cities in India.

• Best Time to Visit: October-March can be ideal for visiting Amritsar since the climate remains peaceful and pleasant.
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 - 3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 12,100 for 2 Nights/ 3 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal)
• Places to Visit: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Akal Takht, Wagah Border, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum
• Things to Do: You can go sightseeing and enjoy photography in the beautiful landscapes. Moreover, you can enjoy the delicious street food. 
• How to Reach: You can visit by air, train and road.

2. Chandigarh

source: itinari

It is the capital of both Haryana and Punjab, which makes it extremely popular. Like Amritsar, it is also known for lip-smacking street food. You will enjoy its perfect blend of modernity and antiquity, with shopping malls, Sukhna Lake, cafes and gardens. Chandigarh is one of the cleanest cities in Punjab, designed out of discarded industrial and urban waste. Additionally, it is well-connected with every part of Punjab, making commuting easier.

• Best Time to Visit: August-March is usually ideal for visiting Chandigarh to enjoy pleasant weather. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 19,900 for 2 Nights/ 3 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal)
• Places to Visit: The Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Leisure Valley, Shanti Kunj, Morni Hills
• Things to Do: You can go sightseeing or enjoy the tasty street food. Additionally, you can go for long drives on the clean and extensive roads. 
• How to Reach: You can visit by air, train and road.

3. Jalandhar

source: thestatesman

This city is known for its rich heritage, holding the history of Punjab. It was a part of the historic Indus Valley Civilisation. This helps you learn more about history by observing these sites. On the other hand, it is a key exporter of sports and leather goods. You can go shopping in the streets or malls to find the latest collection. Additionally, it is popular for dance forms and festivals, such as Jhumar, Gidda and Bhangra. 

• Best Time to Visit: October-March will be ideal for enjoying the pleasant climate of this area. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 15,000 for 4 Nights/ 5 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal)
• Places to Visit: Imam Nasir Masjid, Wonderland Theme Park, Tulsi Mandir, Shaheed-E-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Museum, Devi Talab Mandir
• Things to Do: You can enjoy shopping and sightseeing in Jalandhar. Taking long walks in the surroundings is also common here. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

4. Ludhiana

source: adotrip

The river Sutlej covers this city and is considered the biggest manufacturing hub in India. It is again famous for its historical remains, such as the war museums and ruins of the Lodi Dynasty. You will find an old-school charm here, even after being an industrial town. Ludhiana has attracted pilgrims and religious tourists with its forts and Gurudwaras. Moreover, it is also popular for street food, amusement parks and natural beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: October-June is pleasant here. You can enjoy the weather and have a peaceful vacation. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 8,000 for 1 Night/ 2 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal)
• Places to Visit: Lodhi Fort, Rural Heritage Museum, Tiger Zoo, Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum, Gurudwara Charan Kamal
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and take your kids to the parks. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

5. Patiala

source: goibibo

The name Patiala is essential here if you are listing the most beautiful places in Punjab. It has several architectural monuments and buildings straight from the Mughal and Rajput eras. It is often the preferred destination if you wish to explore the core traditions of Punjab. Apart from the historical sites, you can also go shopping for traditional and authentic Punjabi items, such as parandas, juttis, etc.

• Best Time to Visit: You can visit any time of the year. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 11,000 for 2 Nights/ 3 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal) 
• Places to Visit: Qila Mubarak Complex, Banur, Samana, Baradari Garden, Moti Bagh Palace
• Things to Do: You can explore the historic sites and shop for traditional Punjabi items. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

6. Bhatinda

source: sanity

Bhatinda, or Bathinda, also called the “City of Lakes”, is another well-known tourist spot in Punjab. It is one of Punjab's oldest cities, and has been famous as a historical and religious centre since 7000 BC. This makes it a fascinating spot for historical significance. Apart from that, it has thermal power plants, AIIMS and the Central University of Punjab and is also known for its natural beauty and numerous historical sites.

• Best Time to Visit: October-March will be the best time to visit this spot to enjoy pleasant weather. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 2,100 for one way (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Bhatinda Fort, Rose Garden, Bhatinda Lake and Zoological Park, Lakhi Jungle, Qila Mubarak
• Things to Do: You can explore the historical sites in the surroundings to learn more about Indian history. Moreover, you can enjoy photography here. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

7. Pathankot

source: holidify

Situated in the meeting point of Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, Pathankot is famous for its geographical presence and natural beauty. Pathankot, with its stunning landscapes, serene environment and lush green surroundings, will help you escape the urbanised lifestyle. It is also known for its Loi and shawl weaving industry, which allows you to consider shopping.

• Best Time to Visit: You should preferably visit this spot between October and April. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 9,500 for 2 Nights/ 3 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal)
• Places to Visit: Mukteshwar, Ashapurni and Kathgarh Temple, Nurpur Fort, Ranjit Sagar Dam, Hydraulic Research Station, Shahpurkandi Fort
• Things to Do: You can consider sightseeing or simply enjoying the serene environment during sunsets. Moreover, you can go shopping. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

8. Kapurthala

source: tripadvisor

It is one of Punjab's lesser-known tourist spots, also considered the Paris of Punjab. The reason is hidden in its intriguing architectural scenario. Most landmarks and tourist spots in this region are built in a French and Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, giving them a European appeal. Apart from its historical significance, Kapurthala is also known for spotting migratory birds.

• Best Time to Visit: October-March is an ideal time to visit because of the pleasant weather. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 16,000 for 4 Nights/ 5 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal) 
• Places to Visit: Jagatjit Palace, Elysee Palace, Kanjli Wetland, Moorish Mosque, Shalimar Gardens
• Things to Do: You can explore this area's architectural beauty, analysing the European-styled buildings. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

9. Mohali

source: tripinvites

It is another popular tourist destination in Punjab. It is mainly known for being a major cultural, commercial and transportation centre. Moreover, it has gained popularity for being home to PCA Cricket Stadium and International Hockey Stadium, attracting sports enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: November-February can be ideal for visiting Mohali. It has a pleasant winter climate. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,700 for one way (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary, Silvi Park, Mansa Devi Temple, Punjab Cricket Association Stadium
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and visiting sanctuaries to capture wildlife. Moreover, you can visit the stadiums to catch some sports. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

10. Ropar

source: prakritifarms

Ropar or Roopnagar has been a popular name for the most famous tourist places in Punjab. This ancient town is famous for its historical significance, such as the ruins of the Harappan civilisation. Its Archaeological Museum stores multiple artefacts from this period. If you are into historical incidents, this place is just the perfect destination for a quick holiday. It is also popular for Ropar Wetlands, an ecological zone containing multiple animals of rare species. 

• Best Time to Visit: Tourists prefer October-February to enjoy a pleasant climate. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,800 for 1 Nights/ 2 Days (Include Car, Hotel, Sightseeing, Meal) 
• Places to Visit: Anandpur Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Bhakra Nangal Dam, Ropar Wetland, Jateshwar Mahadev Temple
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and photography in these regions. You can also explore the historical remains. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

11. Nangal

source: environmentbuddy

If you are looking for an offbeat and unexplored region for a holiday, Nangal can be perfect. It is mainly popular for the Bhakra Nangal Dam. It is located on the foothills of the Shivalik ranges, which increases its natural beauty and tourist attraction. Apart from the dam, Nangal is known for its stunning visuals and landscapes. Tourists enjoy lazy afternoons exploring the Sikh history at Virasat-e-Khalsa.  

• Best Time to Visit: Winter is pleasant here so you can visit this region between October and March. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 day 
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,800 for eight hours (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Bhakra Nangal Dam, Virasat-e-Khalsa, Sheetla Devi Temple, Nangal wetlands, Satluj Park
• Things to Do: Tourists enjoy exploring the city to find historical remains and sightseeing across the hills. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

12. Sirhind

source: sanity

Fatehgarh Sahib, or Sirhind, is another popular location in Punjab. It was the military outpost of Prithviraj Chauhan when he battled against Muhammad Ghori. It, therefore, has a rich historical significance, and you can find traces of its past story from the Mughal period. Moreover, it is also a popular pilgrimage spot for the Sikh devotees, as Guru Gobind Singh’s sons were killed here. You can enjoy the forts and gardens to learn more about historical India. 

• Best Time to Visit: You can visit here between October and March for pleasant weather. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,600 for five hours (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Gurudwara Jyoti Sarup, Gurudwara Shaheed Ganj, Tomb of Nabis at Bras
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and exploring the historical remains in different parts of the town. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

13. Hoshiarpur

source: tripadvisor

This is another historical tourist destination in Punjab. Its history can be traced back to the Stone Age. It is also somewhat connected to the Indus Valley Civilisation. If you are into historical adventures, Hoshiarpur will win your heart. Moreover, there is the Takhni Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary, which is heaven for wildlife lovers. There are multiple landmarks in the area, which include forts and museums.

• Best Time to Visit: October-March can be the most pleasant time to visit this place. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 800 - ₹ 1,000 for 1 Night/ 2 Days (Include Hotel)
• Places to Visit: Archaeological Museum, Sheesh Mahal, Bajwara Fort, Takhni Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Things to Do: You can go sightseeing and explore the beauty of nature. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

14. Gurdaspur

source: tripadvisor

If you are curious about the places to visit near Punjab, you can consider Gurdaspur. It is a small and beautiful city surrounded by Sutlej and Ravi rivers. It exhibits Punjab's true culture and tradition, attracting tourists from across India. You can also enjoy delicious Punjabi street food at a reasonable price here. On the other hand, the city has several historical Gurudwaras, which attract Sikh devotees.

• Best Time to Visit: Tourists prefer visiting in the winter and spring seasons, between November and March. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 4,000 for a round trip (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Gurudwara Sri Darbar Sahib and Sarji Sahib, Dera Baba Nanak, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kabootri Darwaza, Fish Park
• Things to Do: You can consider sightseeing in this region and visiting the Gurudwaras to pray. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

15. Firozpur

source: blogspot

It is a beautiful destination in Punjab, a perfect blend of history, culture, nature and religion. It has a history with the freedom movement of India. This is evident as numerous houses here have memorials of the war patriots.

• Best Time to Visit: You should consider visiting between October and March to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this region. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 5,000 for 4 Nights/ 5 Days (Include Car) 
• Places to Visit: National Martyrs Memorial, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Memorial, Saragarhi Memorial Gurudwara, Jain Shwetambar Temple, Harike Wildlife Sanctuary
• Things to Do: You can explore the city and enjoy wildlife photography in the sanctuary. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

16. Mansa

source: wikimedia

Mansa is known as the "area of white gold" because of its snowy cotton fields. Moreover, it is known for its rich heritage and rustic charm in the surroundings. The history of this area is related to the popular Indus Valley Civilisation, which increases its historical significance. Further, his area has numerous forts, temples and Gurudwaras, which attract tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: This place is known for the pleasant winters, making October-March an ideal time.
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,600 for five hours (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Sardulgarh Fort, Gurudwara Patshahi Nauvin Sahib, Brahm Bunga Gurudwara, Samadhi of Bhai Gurdas
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and taking long walks in the cotton fields of this region. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

17. Faridkot

source: britannica

If you are a fan of ancient forts and Gurudwaras, Faridkot will be your favourite destination in Punjab. It has numerous forts and historical landmarks, which can make your stay adventurous. Moreover, multiple temples and Gurudwaras attract Sikh devotees across India. Moreover, the historical city Kotkapura is also located near Faridkot, which you can visit while staying here.

• Best Time to Visit: November-March will be ideal for a pleasant vacation. 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days 
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,600 for five hours (Include Car)
• Places to Visit: Raj Mahal, Darbar Ganj, Qila Mubarak, Gurdwara Tilla Baba Farid, Gurdwara Godri Sahib
• Things to Do: You can enjoy sightseeing and visiting the temples in this area. 
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.

18. Nawanshahr

source: localguidesconnect

It is another popular tourist destination in this region. It offers an unmatched holiday experience to tourists with historical forts and temples. Multiple buildings, such as forts and havelis, are from the Mughal period. Moreover, Nawanshahr has several temples and Gurudwaras, where you can go to pray and get peace of mind.

• Best Time to Visit: October-March will be an ideal time to visit this place.
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 3,600 for one way (Include Car)
• Places to visit: The five forts or havelis by Nausher Khan, Gurudwara Nanaksar, Gurudwara Gurpartap, Kirpal Sagar, Sanehi Temple
• Things to Do: You can consider sightseeing or visiting the temples and historical monuments.
• How to Reach: You can reach by air, train and road.