The Global Trots

Punjab offers plenty of options for sightseeing and exploration that keep tourists engaged throughout their stay. The most popular among these is the Golden Temple (also known as Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar which is the holiest pilgrimage site in Sikhism. There are historical sites, museums, wildlife sanctuaries, gardens and many more places, which are great for enjoying with friends and family.

1. Amritsar – The Golden City

Amritsar, historically known as Ramdaspur and informally known as Amarbar is the second largest and one of the most significant cities of the Punjab state in India. Amritsar is very close to western border of India and lies about 25 kilometers east of the border with Pakistan. The city is a major commercial, cultural, and transportation centre. Most importantly, Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism, home to the world-renowned Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib). Beyond its spiritual prominence, the city also carries immense historical importance and a proud legacy.

The name Amritsar originates from “Amrit Sarovar,” the holy tank built by Guru Ram Das in the village of Tung. Believed to hold healing powers, this sacred pool became the centre of a growing settlement. The land was purchased by Guru Ram Das for 700 rupees, and a temple complex was constructed around it. Over time, the area developed from Chakk Ram Das into Amritsar, meaning “the Pool of the Nectar of Immortality.”

Amritsar is also a shopper’s delight, offering everything from Phulkari dupattas, Amritsari juttis, and jewelry to spices, dried fruits, and Sikh religious artifacts. Its bustling markets reflect the city’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship. Equally lively are its festivals—Baisakhi being the most significant, celebrated with unmatched zeal through bhangra, dhol beats, and community gatherings to mark the Sikh New Year and harvest season. Other festivals like Lohri, Holi, Guru Nanak Jayanti, and Bandi Chhor Divas further add to the city’s festive spirit, making Amritsar a place where history, faith, and culture come alive.

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport is the nearest airport that is located at a distance of about 11 km from the city center , and has direct domestic flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and international flights to places like Dubai, Doha, Singapore, London, and Toronto. Amritsar Junction railway station is the nearest and busiest railway station which is well connected to all major cities and towns across India via a number of superfast trains. The city is also well-connected by roads and highways from various cities and towns across Amritsar and its neighbouring states. Travellers can easily reach desired destinations through state-run and private buses, Local taxis/cabs and own vehicles.
Amritsar is located around 82 Km from Jalandhar, around 141Km from Ludhiana, around 230 Km from Chandigarh, around 198 Km from Dalhousie, around 208 Km from Dharmshala, around 215 Km from Jammu, around 334 Km from Shimla and around 450 Km from Delhi. The major tourist attractions of Amritsar are:-

2. Patiala – The Royal City

Patiala, once one of the prominent princely states of Punjab, is today the fourth-largest city in the state, located in its southeastern region. It is bordered by Rupnagar, Fatehgarh Sahib, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh to the north, Sangrur to the west, Kaithal (Haryana) to the south, and Ambala and Kurukshetra (Haryana) to the east. The city was founded in 1763 by Baba Ala Singh, the first ruler of the Phulkian dynasty, and soon rose to become a powerful Sikh princely state.

Patiala has strong historical and cultural roots, along with being surrounded by architectural marvels that are a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. In popular culture, the city is highly famous for its traditional 5 Ps: Patiala Shahi Turban (a type of headgear which is worn by Sikhs), Paranda (a coloured tassel braid worn by women in the hair), Patiala Salwar (a pleated, comfortable trouser for women), Patiala Jutti (traditional footwear) and Patiala Peg (a generous serving of liquor). Today, it thrives as an important trade and industrial hub.

The city is equally vibrant in its celebrations, hosting the Patiala Heritage Festival to showcase its rich traditions, and the Patiala Craft Mela, an annual fair highlighting local arts and craftsmanship. Alongside these, Patiala celebrates all major Punjabi festivals with great enthusiasm, including Lohri, Baisakhi, Hola Mohalla, and Basant Panchami, reflecting its lively cultural spirit.

Chandigarh International Airport is the nearest airport that is located about 62 km from Patiala. Patiala also has a domestic airstrip (Patiala Airport), but it’s mainly used for training and private flights, not commercial airlines. Patiala Junction railway Station is the nearest station which is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Jaipur. It is also well linked by highways from various major cities like Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Ambala and Delhi.  Travellers can easily reach desired destinations through state-run and private buses, Local taxis/cabs and own vehicles.

Patiala is located around 55 Km from Ambala, around 74 Km from Chandigarh, around 93 Km from Ludhiana, around 155 Km from Jalandhar, around 157 Km from Bathinda, around 235 Km from Amritsar and around 255 Km from Delhi.  The major tourist attractions of Patiala are:-

3. Ludhiana – Manchester of India

Ludhiana, the largest city of Punjab, lies gracefully along the southern bank of the Sutlej River. Renowned for its flourishing textile and hosiery industries, it has earned the title of the “Manchester of India”. Today, the city stands as a leading manufacturing hub, producing bicycles parts, sewing machines, garments, and other goods that are exported all over the world. Ludhiana got its name from the Lodhi dynasty rulers of Delhi, who founded the city in 1480. The settlement was originally called Lodi-ana (meaning “the town of the Lodhis”), which later evolved into its present name. In earlier times, it was a small village known as Mir Hota.

Apart from being an Industrial Hub, Ludhiana is home to historic forts, revered gurudwaras, and ancient ruins.It has also grown into a prominent educational centre, most notably housing the Punjab Agricultural University, one of the leading institutions in the field.

Steeped in Punjabi culture, the city celebrates festivals such as Lohri, Baisakhi, and the Ludhiana Heritage Festival with great enthusiasm. Each year, the city also hosts the renowned Rural Olympics at Kila Raipur during January and February.

Ludhiana Airport is the nearest airport that is located about 12 km from the city centre (near Sahnewal). Other nearby airports are Chandigarh International Airport (approx 100 km away) and Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar (approx 150 km away). Ludhiana Junction railway station is the nearest and busiest railway station which is well connected to all major cities and towns across India via a number of superfast trains. The city is also well-connected by roads and highways from various cities and towns across Ludhiana and its neighbouring states. Travellers can easily reach desired destinations through state-run and private buses, Local taxis/cabs and own vehicles.

Ludhiana is located around 142 Km from Amritsar, around 63 Km from Jalandhar, around 74 Km from Chandigarh, around 93 Km from Patiala, around 142 Km from Bathinda and around 325 Km from Delhi. The major tourist attractions of Ludhiana are:-

4. Chandigarh – The City Beautiful

Chandigarh, a union territory in India, serves as a capital of Punjab and Haryana, situated near the foothills of the Sivalik mountain range of the Himalayas in northwest India. It is the first ever planned city of India that was designed by the renowned Swiss – French architect Le Corbusier. The city derives its name from the Temple of Goddess Chandi that is situated near the city in Panchkula District. Chandigarh along with two of its neighboring cities of Mohali and Panchkula, collectively referred as the Chandigarh Tricity. Popularly reffered to as the “City Beautiful”, Chandigarh is admired for its modern architecture, organized layout, clean roads, and abundant greenery. It also serves as a gateway to many scenic hill stations in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and further north. 

Chandigarh’s culture is a vibrant mix of modern lifestyle and traditional Punjabi spirit. The city celebrates festivals like Lohri, Baisakhi, and the Rose Festival with vibrant cultural expressions. Additionally, the Chandigarh Carnival,   Diwali and Gurpurab are widely celebrated. The city also offers a rich shopping experience, ranging from traditional Punjabi attire and handicrafts to global fashion brands. Popular buys include Phulkari and Patiala suits, Punjabi juttis, embroidered shawls, handcrafted jewelry, and wooden artifacts, making Chandigarh a delightful destination for both tradition and modern living.

Chandigarh International Airport is the nearest airport that is located about 12 km from the city center, and connects Chandigarh with major Indian cities and some international destinations. Chandigarh Junction (CDG) is a well-connected railway station with regular trains to Delhi, Amritsar, Jaipur, Mumbai, Lucknow, Kolkata and other major cities. The city also has excellent road connectivity via National highways from various cities and towns across Chandigarh and its neighbouring states. Travellers can easily reach desired destinations through state-run and private buses, Local taxis/cabs and own vehicles.

Chandigarh is located around 147 Km from Jalandhar, around 110Km from Ludhiana, around 230 Km from Amritsar, around 115 Km from Shimla, around 128 Km from Kufri, around 55 Km from Kasauli, around 195 Km from Mussorie, around 250 Km from Delhi, around 315 Km from Dalhousie, and around 240 Km from Dharmshala. The Major tourist attractions of this clean city Chandigarh are:-

5. Jalandhar – The City Of Sports

Jalandhar, formerly known as Jullundur, is the oldest city and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments and traditional values. Nestled between the two rivers Sutlej and Beas, the city embodies the glorious history of Punjab. Its name is derived from the demon king Jalandhara of Hindu mythology. With origins dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization, Jalandhar has seen the reign of the Mauryas, Mughals, and Sikhs before coming under British rule. It even served as the capital of Punjab after India’s Independence until Chandigarh was established in 1953.

Today, this ancient city has transformed into a thriving commercial and industrial hub, blending heritage with modern growth. Jalandhar is referred to as the sports capital of India, having produced renowned athletes and is a leading exporter of sports goods. Jalandhar is also well known for its leather industry, especially footwear and leather products.

The city’s cultural vibrancy comes alive during the Harballabh Sangeet Mela, one of the world’s oldest classical music festivals, held annually at Devi Talab Mandir. In addition, festivals like Baisakhi, Lohri, and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm, highlighting the spirit and traditions of Punjabi culture.

The nearest airport to Jalandhar is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, located about 75 km away , offering both domestic and international flights. Another nearby option is Ludhiana Airport, around 60 km from the city, with limited domestic services. Jalandhar City Railway Station is a major  junction in Punjab, providing direct connectivity to Delhi, Amritsar, Jammu, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other cities, while Jalandhar Cantt Railway Station also serves the region. The city enjoys excellent road connectivity through national highways, linking it to major cities and neighbouring states. Travelers can easily reach their destinations via state-run and private buses, taxis, cabs, or personal vehicles.

Jalandhar is located around 83 Km from Amritsar, around 47 Km from Hoshiarpur, around 63 Km from Ludhiana, around 148 Km from Chandigarh, around 156 Km from Patiala, around 165 Km from Bathinda, around 194 Km from Dalhousie, around 159 Km from Dharmshala, around 223 Km from Jammu, around 221 Km from Shimla, around 236 Km from Kufri and around 372 Km from Delhi. The major tourist attractions of Jalandhar are:-

6. Anandpur Sahib  – Holy City of Bliss

Anandpur Sahib, located in the Rupnagar (Ropar) district of Punjab, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Sikhs. It is the place where the ninth Sikh Guru – Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and the tenth Sikh Guru –  Guru Gobind Singh Ji, lived. It was founded in 1655 by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and later became the center of Sikh faith and strength under Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who created the Khalsa Panth here in 1699. The sacred site where this historic event took place is now marked by a prominent gurdwara. Over the centuries, the city witnessed many historic battles between the Sikhs and the Mughals, making it a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and spiritual heritage.

The city is home to multitude of Gurudwaras that were built in honor of Sikh Gurus, as well as five forts on the border of the city, constructed by the tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Goind Singh ji that testifies to the city’s military history. Surrounded by the scenic Shivalik hills and the Sutlej River, Anandpur Sahib offers both spiritual serenity and natural beauty. Its bustling markets offer religious items and souvenirs like Sikh artifacts, devotional items, books on Sikhism, and local handicrafts like miniature weapons and traditional Punjabi attire.

The primary and most significant festival celebrated in Anandpur Sahib is Hola Mohalla, a grand display of Sikh martial arts, kirtan (devotional music), and colorful processions. Other major festivals include Baisakhi, which commemorates both the harvest season and the birth of the Khalsa, and various Gurpurabs honoring the Sikh Gurus.

The nearest airport to Anandpur Sahib is Chandigarh International Airport, situated about 90 km away and offering both domestic and international flights. Ludhiana Airport, located around 100 km from the city, is another option but provides only limited domestic services. The town is also served by Anandpur Sahib Railway Station, a small station with a single platform that offers the most direct rail access. Anandpur Sahib is well connected via National Highway 503 (NH 503) which links to various cities and towns. Travelers can easily reach their desired destinations via state-run and private buses, taxis, cabs, or personal vehicles.

Anandpur Sahib is located around 222 Km from Amritsar, around 86 Km from Hoshiarpur, around 115 Km from Ludhiana, around 132 Km from Chandigarh, around 120 Km from Patiala, around 315 Km from Delhi, around 232 Km from Dalhousie, around 158 Km from Dharmshala, around 280 Km from Jammu, around 125 Km from Shimla, around 140 Km from Kufri and around 92 Km from Kasauli. The major tourist attractions of Anandpur Sahib are:-

7. Bathinda –  The City Of Lakes

Bathinda, formerly spelt as Bhatinda, is among the oldest cities of Punjab, renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Located in the Bathinda district of south-western Punjab, the city derives its name from the Bhati Rajput kings who ruled the region during the 6th century. The iconic Qila Mubarak Fort, built by Raja Dab around the 10th century, holds great historical significance as it was the place where Razia Sultan, the first woman ruler of Delhi, was imprisoned in 1239. Bathinda, fondly called the “City of Lakes,” also witnessed the battles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji against the Mughals in 1634. Once influenced by the traditions of the princely state of Patiala, Bathinda today stands proudly as its own district.

Often referred to as the “Power Hub of Punjab,” the city is home to several thermal power plants, including the Guru Nanak Dev Thermal Plant, as well as a large oil refinery and a fertilizer plant. Alongside its industrial importance, Bathinda remains a prominent historical and religious centre, attracting visitors with landmarks like the Qila Mubarak Fort and its scenic artificial lakes. The city’s bustling markets add to its charm, offering everything from traditional Punjabi jewellery such as Kundan, Meenakari, and Polki designs to local delicacies like papad-wadiyan, jaggery, and homemade pickles.  

Major festivals in Bathinda include the Virasat Mela, a heritage festival that showcases Punjabi culture, along with popular regional celebrations like Lohri and Baisakhi, which are extensively celebrated throughout Punjab. The city also celebrates significant religious festivals like Gurpurabs, as well as local festivities like Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s birthday.

The nearest airport to Bathinda is Bathinda Airport, located about 25 km from the city, with limited domestic flights. For wider connectivity, travelers often use Chandigarh International Airport (around 230 km away). Bathinda Junction is one of the largest railway stations in Punjab, well connected to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Jaipur. By road, Bathinda is accessible via National Highways NH-7, NH-54, and NH-148B, with frequent state-run and private buses, taxis, and personal vehicles ensuring convenient travel.

Bathinda is located around 190 Km from Amritsar, around 142 Km from Ludhiana, around 130 Km from Chandigarh, around 157 Km from Patiala and around 319 Km from Delhi. The major tourist attractions of Bathinda are:-

8. Pathankot –  Gateway to the North

Pathankot is a prominent city in Punjab that is often used as a gateway to Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Strategically located, it shares its western border with Pakistan and serves as the meeting point of three northern Indian states—Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Nestled at the foothills of Kangra and Dalhousie, with the river Chakki flowing nearby, Pathankot enjoys both natural beauty and geographical importance.

With origins rooted in ancient times and legends from the Mahabharata era, the city has witnessed the rule of Rajputs, Mughals, and Sikhs, each leaving behind a rich legacy. It is believed that Pathankot was established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru. The city takes its name from the Pathania Rajputs who once ruled here, and for centuries, it was known for its flourishing Loi (shawl) weaving industry. Today, alongside its historical charm and green landscapes, Pathankot also houses significant defense establishments, including bases for the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

The city’s economy is driven by agriculture, trade, and defense, while its bustling markets are popular for woodcraft, handloom, woollens, and dry fruits. Reflecting a blend of Punjabi, Dogri, and Himachali influences, Pathankot showcases a vibrant cultural mix and serves as a natural link between the plains and the hill stations of Dalhousie, Dharamshala, and Chamba.

Pathankot’s cultural spirit comes alive during major Punjabi festivals such as Lohri, Baisakhi, and Teeyan, celebrated with traditional customs. The revered Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple plays a central role in these festivities, especially during Maha Shivaratri, while Gurupurab adds to the city’s spiritual vibrancy, making Pathankot a hub of cultural and religious celebrations.

Pathankot Airport is the nearest airport that is located about 3 Km from the city, offering limited domestic flight services. Other nearby options include Gaggal Airport (approx 60 km away), Jammu Airport (approx 90 km away) and  Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar (approx 100 km away). The main rail hub is Pathankot Junction, which offers excellent connectivity to Delhi, Jammu, and several other major cities through multiple trains. By Road, Pathankot is accessible via National Highways and Expressways, with frequent state-run and private buses, taxis, and personal vehicles providing easy travel access.  

Pathankot is located around 111 Km from Jammu, around 82 Km from Dalhousie, around 86 Km from Dharmshala, around 113 Km from Amritsar, around 100 Km from Hoshiarpur, around 172 Km from Ludhiana, around 220 Km from Chandigarh, around 265 Km from Patiala, around 293 Km from Manali and around 481 Km from Delhi. The major tourist attractions of Pathankot are:-

9. Kapurthala – City of Palaces and Gardens

Kapurthala, situated in the Doaba region of Punjab near Jalandhar , is one of the state’s most elegant and historically rich cities. The city’s named after Rana Kapur, a descendant of the Rajput Gharana of Jaisalmer, who founded this place in the 11th century. The city later flourished as the capital of the Ahluwalia dynasty, which enriched it with a remarkable legacy of culture and architecture. Its golden chapter unfolded under Maharaja Jagatjit Singh (1872–1949), who, inspired by French and European culture, transformed Kapurthala into a city of palaces, gardens, and monuments adorned with striking Indo-French designs.

Often hailed as the “Paris of Punjab” for its wonderful architecture and gorgeous gardens, Kapurthala was also among the first cities in Punjab to introduce modern civic amenities such as a drinking water system, communications, and underground sewerage—many of which continue to function even today. Its bustling bazaars, traditional cuisine, and heritage walks reflect a vibrant lifestyle rooted in history yet alive with modern charm.

Adding to its cultural vibrancy, Kapurthala hosts the Kapurthala Heritage Festival, also known as the Baba Jassa Singh Ahluwalia Heritage Festival. Organized by the Kapurthala Heritage Trust in collaboration with INTACH and supported by the Punjab Government, this grand event celebrates the city’s rich traditions and architectural grandeur. Alongside, Kapurthala also comes alive during Punjab’s major festivals such as Lohri, Baisakhi, and Hola Mohalla, reflecting its deep-rooted festive spirit.

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar is the nearest airport that is situated about 70 km distant and offers  both domestic and international flights. Another nearby option that travelers can use is Chandigarh international Airport which is located around 150 km from the city. Kapurthala Railway Station serves as the city’s main station , which connects the city to Jalandhar, Firozpur, Amritsar, Delhi, and other major destinations. Kapurthala is also well connected by road, with Highways, linking it to nearby cities and states. Travelers can easily reach their desired destinations via state-run and private buses, taxis, cabs, or personal vehicles. 

Kapurthala is located around 68 Km from Amritsar, around 60 Km from Hoshiarpur, around 81 Km from Ludhiana, around 174 Km from Chandigarh, around 174 Km from Patiala, around 161 Km from Bathinda, around 390 Km from Delhi, around 208 Km from Dalhousie, around 173 Km from Dharmshala, around 239 Km from Shimla, around 254 Km from Kufri and around 207 Km from Kasauli. The major tourist attractions of Kapurthala are:-

The destination has an enormous range of things that tourists can experience and explore on tour to Punjab.

• • Cultural and Religious Experience:-

• • Relive the history of Amritsar at Jallianwala Bagh

• • Walk down the Wagah/ Attari border to see the retreat ceremony

• • Heritage Walk, Amritsar

• • Visit partition Museum and learn about the partition of India

• • Visit Virasat –e-Khalsa museum and get a peek into the rich history of Sikhism

• • Explore marvelous Forts and majestic Palaces

• • Watch and enjoy Kila Raipur Sports Festival

• • Visit Rock Garden to see the creativity of Nek Chand

• • Leisure Activities:-

Punjab is well connected to the rest of the country through airway, railway and roadway. The various ways of reaching the Punjab are mentioned below:-

By Air

Punjab has seven airports of which six are operational, four Domestic and two International Airports.

• • Domestic Airports are –
    • • Sahnewal Airport (also known as Ludhiana Airport) – located near the town of Sahnewal, 5 km southeast of Ludhiana on the Grand Trunk Road.
      • Bathinda Airport – located near Virk Kalan village, 20 km northwest of Bhatinda. The Airport is a civil enclave at the Bhisiana Air Force Station of the Indian Air Force.
      • Pathankot Airport – located 3 km from the nearest city Pathankot.
      • Adampur Airport – located at Adampur town of Jalandhar district. It is situated on Jalandhar – Hoshiarpur main highway and 23 km northeast of Jalandhar.
  • International Airports are –
    • • Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport in Amritsar, about 11 kilometres northwest of the city of Amritsar.
      • Mohali/Chandigarh International Airport or Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali , approximately 13 km from Chandigarh city center

These airports are well connected with major cities of the Country such as Delhi, Mumbai, Cochin, Srinagar, Chennai, Kolkata via direct flights. Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport is the prime and busiest airport of the Punjab and receives flights from international destinations such as Dubai, Birmingham, London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok Doha and Ashbhagat. The Mohali airport is the secondary international airport of Punjab and serves those international flights that come from Sharjah, Dubai and Bangkok. Upon arrival, travellers can avail of hotel shuttle, private taxis or any other transport as per their convenience to reach their desired destination.

By Train

Punjab has an extensive railway network of 285 railway stations which connect it to different parts of the country via railways. The five main Punjab railway stations are Amritsar Junction, Ludhiana Junction, Jalandhar City, Beas, and Bhatinda Junction. Lot of trains operate to and from these stations such as Shan-e-Punjab,   Moga Shatabdi, Amritsar Shatabdi, Amritsar Express, Swarna Shatabdi, JBP Atari Special,  Golden Temple Mail, Punjab Mail, and more, which make it more convenient for travelers to reach as close to their destination.  The usual route of these trains passes through states of Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Travellers can avail Private taxis, cabs, tuk-tuks and buses for transfers from railways to desired destinations.

By Road

Punjab has a great road network, which connects it through state and national highways to the rest of the country. The state has three major highways i.e.  –

• • NH 44 (old numbering was NH 1) which connects Punjab to Jammu in the Northern part and Delhi in the Eastern part,
  • NH 54 which junction at NH 44 in the Northern part and connect Punjab to Rajasthan in the Southern part ,
  • NH 7 which connects Punjab to Haryana in the Southeast Part .

Other National Highways are NH 3, 5, 9, 52, 62, 103A, 205, 703, 703A, 754, 344 and 152.There are numerous privately-operated buses and state Government-run buses that ply at frequent or regular intervals from Punjab to neighboring state of Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.  Travellers from nearby destinations can opt to drive their own vehicle to Punjab. Travellers can also hire private cars or Local taxis.

Punjab has numerous modes of transport to travel within the state that travellers can choose as per their Budget, Preference and convenience.

Buses

Punjab has an excellent bus service system operated by Government-Run in the name of Punjab Roadways and PUNBUS. Apart from that, private operators also cater to the needs of travellers. Buses are inexpensive and easily available in every city, town, and village of the state. The bus fare will depend upon the distance covered.

Trains

Punjab has well developed railways which connect important towns and cities with each other. Trains are the most convenient and comfortable mode of travel between districts of Punjab. Intra-city trains are not available in the state. Trains are quite pocket-friendly, and best for budget travelers.

Auto Rickshaws

Auto rickshaws and shared tuk-tuks in Punjab are considered as second affordable transportation next only to Buses. It can be found at bus stands, Railway Stations, and Residential Areas and at important places.  This is a good choice for short distances or within city limits. Auto Rickshaws aka Autos usually charge by the meter and if charged by unmetered then keep in mind while choosing it – agree on a fare with the driver before the journey. The fare will depend upon the distance covered.

Taxis/Cabs

Taxis are comfortable, convenient and safer than auto rickshaws. This is a good option, if the traveller is alone or going to an unknown destination even though the rates will be higher than auto. Regular taxis are available at designated taxi stands located at places such as the Airport, Railway Stations, major Bus stands, and in front of important Hotels.  App-based services such as Uber and Ola Cabs are also available to travel within Punjab and to nearby cities.

Foot

Every place of interest is not possible to cover on foot but a small locality can be explored in detail. Travellers can opt for heritage walks around in Amritsar.

Rental

Travellers also have an option of renting cars for exploring Punjab at their own pace. A number of companies provide both self-driven and chauffeured cars for rental. Travellers should check out the credibility and past records of the rental companies before hiring vehicles. Rates vary according to the vehicle, the model, the season and how long one wants to rent it. Rules and prices of renting can also vary from company to company. Rental companies can also charge a security deposit and ask for submitting a copy of the driving license (National or International) and some original ID such as passport, pan card or voter ID which is given back once the vehicle is returned.

Cycle and E Rickshaws are also available for short journeys and can be found at important places. It is the cheapest mode of communication in Punjab.