Exploring Punjab
Travel Guide
As many of you are first-time visitors to Punjab, we recommend you base yourselves in Amritsar and explore the cultural circuit, which incorporates Amritsar, Chandigarh, Patiala.
Amritsar
The spiritual and cultural heart of Punjab, Amritsar is best known for the Golden Temple, but the city offers so much more.
Day 1: The Spiritual Heart – Golden Temple & Heritage Walk
Begin your morning with a soul-stirring visit to the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. Experience the serenity of the sacred sarovar (holy pool) and join the community spirit by having langar, the world’s largest free community meal. Afterward, take the Heritage Walk through the narrow lanes of the old city, filled with centuries-old havelis, bazaars, and handicraft shops.
Day 2: History, Culture & Local Flavours
Start with a visit to the Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant memorial to India’s freedom struggle. Then head to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum and Panorama, showcasing the life of the Lion of Punjab. Enjoy authentic Amritsari kulchas and lassi at a local eatery before heading to the Gobindgarh Fort, where live performances, museums, and cultural shows bring Punjab’s history alive. In the late afternoon, take a short drive to the Wagah Border and witness the famous Beating Retreat Ceremony – a display of patriotism, energy, and synchronized drills.
Chandigarh
India’s first planned city, designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier.
We recommend one full day. Architecture, Gardens & Urban Vibes
Start your morning at the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Chandigarh’s modernist architecture, including the High Court, Secretariat, and Open Hand Monument. Continue to the Rock Garden, Nek Chand’s incredible creation made entirely of recycled materials, followed by the tranquil Sukhna Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride or a peaceful lakeside walk. In the afternoon, stroll through the Rose Garden, Asia’s largest of its kind, and admire its seasonal bloom. Explore Sector 17 Plaza, the city’s vibrant shopping and café hub, perfect for people-watching and local snacks. If time permits, visit the Chhatbir Zoo or the city’s many art galleries and museums. End your day with a fine dining experience at one of Chandigarh’s stylish rooftop restaurants or breweries, blending modern urban vibes with Punjabi hospitality.
Harike
A haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. We suggest 1 day here.
Serenity, Wildlife & Sunset by the Lake
Set out in the morning from Amritsar or Chandigarh for a day trip to Harike Wetland, the largest wetland in North India. This ecological treasure is a paradise for migratory birds, especially during winter when thousands flock here from as far as Siberia and Central Asia. Start with a guided walk or boat ride through the sanctuary to spot species like the bar-headed goose, northern pintail, and the rare Indus river dolphin. In the afternoon, relax by the calm waters, where the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers creates a unique natural ecosystem. Carry binoculars for birdwatching and don’t forget your camera to capture the picturesque landscapes. As the day winds down, enjoy the golden hour at the lake, when the setting sun reflects beautifully on the wetland.
Patiala
Extend your trip to Patiala for Royal Heritage & Culture
The Royal City
Known as the cultural capital of Punjab, Patiala is famed for its royal heritage, vibrant traditions, and grand architecture. Once the seat of the Patiala Maharajas, the city is dotted with historic forts, palaces, and gardens. A visit here offers a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Punjab’s rulers. Explore the majestic Qila Mubarak Complex, a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, and stroll through the beautiful Sheesh Mahal, adorned with intricate mirror work and frescoes. Patiala is also famous for its traditional attire – the Patiala salwar – and its lively bazaars filled with phulkari embroidery, juttis, and local crafts. Adding Patiala to your Punjab itinerary gives you a chance to experience royal history, Punjabi hospitality, and authentic local flavours.
Amritsar
The spiritual and cultural heart of Punjab, Amritsar is best known for the Golden Temple, but the city offers so much more.
Day 1: The Spiritual Heart – Golden Temple & Heritage Walk
Begin your morning with a soul-stirring visit to the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. Experience the serenity of the sacred sarovar (holy pool) and join the community spirit by having langar, the world’s largest free community meal. Afterward, take the Heritage Walk through the narrow lanes of the old city, filled with centuries-old havelis, bazaars, and handicraft shops.
Day 2: History, Culture & Local Flavours
Start with a visit to the Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant memorial to India’s freedom struggle. Then head to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum and Panorama, showcasing the life of the Lion of Punjab. Enjoy authentic Amritsari kulchas and lassi at a local eatery before heading to the Gobindgarh Fort, where live performances, museums, and cultural shows bring Punjab’s history alive. In the late afternoon, take a short drive to the Wagah Border and witness the famous Beating Retreat Ceremony – a display of patriotism, energy, and synchronized drills.
Chandigarh
India’s first planned city, designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier.
We recommend one full day. Architecture, Gardens & Urban Vibes
Start your morning at the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Chandigarh’s modernist architecture, including the High Court, Secretariat, and Open Hand Monument. Continue to the Rock Garden, Nek Chand’s incredible creation made entirely of recycled materials, followed by the tranquil Sukhna Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride or a peaceful lakeside walk. In the afternoon, stroll through the Rose Garden, Asia’s largest of its kind, and admire its seasonal bloom. Explore Sector 17 Plaza, the city’s vibrant shopping and café hub, perfect for people-watching and local snacks. If time permits, visit the Chhatbir Zoo or the city’s many art galleries and museums. End your day with a fine dining experience at one of Chandigarh’s stylish rooftop restaurants or breweries, blending modern urban vibes with Punjabi hospitality.
Harike
A haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. We suggest 1 day here.
Serenity, Wildlife & Sunset by the Lake
Set out in the morning from Amritsar or Chandigarh for a day trip to Harike Wetland, the largest wetland in North India. This ecological treasure is a paradise for migratory birds, especially during winter when thousands flock here from as far as Siberia and Central Asia. Start with a guided walk or boat ride through the sanctuary to spot species like the bar-headed goose, northern pintail, and the rare Indus river dolphin. In the afternoon, relax by the calm waters, where the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers creates a unique natural ecosystem. Carry binoculars for birdwatching and don’t forget your camera to capture the picturesque landscapes. As the day winds down, enjoy the golden hour at the lake, when the setting sun reflects beautifully on the wetland.
Patiala
Extend your trip to Patiala for Royal Heritage & Culture
The Royal City
Known as the cultural capital of Punjab, Patiala is famed for its royal heritage, vibrant traditions, and grand architecture. Once the seat of the Patiala Maharajas, the city is dotted with historic forts, palaces, and gardens. A visit here offers a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Punjab’s rulers. Explore the majestic Qila Mubarak Complex, a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, and stroll through the beautiful Sheesh Mahal, adorned with intricate mirror work and frescoes. Patiala is also famous for its traditional attire – the Patiala salwar – and its lively bazaars filled with phulkari embroidery, juttis, and local crafts. Adding Patiala to your Punjab itinerary gives you a chance to experience royal history, Punjabi hospitality, and authentic local flavours.