Wednesday, September 7, 2011

ExploreYour Punjab

Located in the north west of India, Punjab, the land of five rivers, is popular for its astounding culture and history. Also known as the Granary of India, it is the second largest producer of agricultural products in the country. Renowned for sports and hosiery products, it is one of the prosperous states in India. Beautiful and historical cities and towns of Punjab are dotted with several ancient monuments, gurudwaras, temples, ashrams, serene lakes, sacred shrines, museums as well as wildlife sanctuaries that are home to some of the rare species of animals and migratory birds.

Punjab serves as one of the best tourist destinations in India. Popular for its sumptuous cuisine, rich culture and history, this state is a must to be visited destination for people interested in exploring ancient civilization, heritage, culture, and spirituality. Some of the major cities of Punjab include Amritsar, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Ropar, Bhatinda, Pathankot, Muktsar, Hoshiarpur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Patiala and Kapurthala, which have become the prime tourist circuits of the state.

The best time for visiting Punjab is during the spring season i.e. from February to April, and during autumn, from September to November. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Punjab include Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Jallianwalah Bagh, Sukhna Lake, Gurudwara Bhabour Sahib Purana Quila, Bhakra Nangal Dam, Hussaini Wala Border in Ferozpur, Mehdiana Sahib Gurudwara, and more. Cities like Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Faridkot, Bhatinda, Moga, Sangrur, Sirhand, Gurdaspur, Patiala and Muktsar, offer a large number of attractions, providing visitors a chance to explore the rich culture of the state.
If you are a culture buff and are willing to endure the beginning of the hot Indian summer, you must visit the state in mid-April, during the Baisakhi festival. Also known as the harvest festival, Baisakhi commemorates the New Year as per the traditional Punjabi solar calendar. Feasting and revelry, another main highlight is the vigorous Bhangra dance performed by men dressed up with vibrant attire. Some other common dances in Punjab include Giddha, Sammi, Jaago, Kikli, Malwai Giddha, Jhumar and more.

Plan a trip today and get familiar with the rich heritage of Punjab!


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