The vibrant and sprawling state of Punjab is celebrated for its cuisine, culture and history. Its primary cities are Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Patiala. Persian for ‘Five Waters’, Punjab is named after the five great rivers of the area: the Jhelum, the Ravi, the Chenab, the Sutlej, and the Beas. The availability of water sustains a strong agricultural industry.
The region has a rich religious make-up incorporating Sikhism, Islam and Hinduism. The resulting examples of royal shrines and temples, and the magnificent paradigms of Sikh architecture are notable attractions, as are the various rituals and practices that surround them.
Punjab’s long and chequered history spans many civilisations, including the Greeks, Persians, Arabs, Turks, Mughals, Balochis, and British – each of which has left its mark. The tangible texture and layering of many peoples, beliefs and styles of building that combine in this incredibly interesting destination. With its ancient forts, regal palaces, grand monuments and momentous battle sites, it offers a plethora of interesting historical sites.
Punjabi cuisine is unique and mouth-watering with a wide range of dishes that can be enjoyed vegetarian or non-vegetarian The local Punjabis are heart-warmingly welcoming and happy to share their culture, as they have done for centuries.
Highlights
The Golden Temple in Amritsar | 800-years-old Payal Fort | Ancient Fort at Bathinda
Interesting facts
With the dissolution of British India in 1947, the region was partitioned between India and Pakistan
