BEST OF PUNJAB
Punjab
The word "Punjab" is a combination of the Sanskrit words panj- Five, and ab- Water, giving the literal meaning of the "Land of Five Rivers". Deriving its name from five full-bodied rivers–Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab, which flow through its vast plains. Punjab is a state in northwest India and borders Pakistan on the west, Jammu & Kashmir on the north, Himachal Pradesh on its northeast and Haryana and Rajasthan on the south. Punjab's capital is Chandigarh, which is administered separately as a Union Territory since it is also the capital of neighbouring Haryana. Other major cities of Punjab include Mohali, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala and Jalandhar. The people that live in the state of Punjab are known as Punjabi and speak Punjabi Language. The Punjabi language, finds its origin in the Indo-European linguistic family that includes Persian and Latin. Punjab is the largest single provider of wheat to India. Naturally replete with fertile soils and rich water sources, Agriculture is the largest industry in Punjab and has continually and infinitely contributed towards the food security of the Indian Republic. Punjab also has the lowest poverty rate in India.
Historically, Punjab has played host to a number of ethnicities, including the Aryans, Persians, Greeks, Afghans and Mongols, thus bestowed with a rich tangible heritage. Reflecting this history are the countless sites that dot the state: impressive forts & palaces, ancient monuments, architectural marvels and many a battlefield.
The history of Punjab goes back thousands of years. Undivided Punjab has been the cradle of the Indus Valley Civilization, the remains of which can be seen at the Ropar archaeological site and its dedicated museum. This fertile ancient land finds mention even in Mahabharata and Ramayana. Infact it is believed that the Ramayana was written here by Valmiki ji. Places like Rupnagar, Kiratpur, Dholbaha, Rohira and Ghuram...all in Punjab; have unearthed artifacts that date back centuries. In Sanghol are 107 statues of the Kushan period evoking memories of a flourishing Buddhist monastery. This monastery was visited by Hiuen Tsang in the 7th century. The milestones in the history of Punjab are the migration of the Aryans to Punjab between 516 BC to 321 AD, immediately followed by Alexander's invasion, which changed the fate of India as a whole. The last point of Alexander’s entry in India can be seen in Gurdaspur. The Muslims ruled till around 1300 AD and then came the rise of the Sikhs from 1700 AD to 1849 AD. Punjab has always ranked high when it comes to courage, might and valour.
The Indian state of Punjab was created in 1947, when the Partition of India split the former Raj province of Punjab between India and West Pakistan. The mostly Muslim western part of the province became West Pakistan's Punjab Province; the mostly Sikh eastern part became India's Punjab state. Many Sikhs and Hindus lived in the west, and many Muslims lived in the east, and so the partition saw many people displaced and much intercommunal violence. The capital of the undivided Punjab province, Lahore, ended up in West Pakistan after partition, so a new capital for Indian Punjab state was built at Chandigarh. On November 1, 1966, the mostly Hindu southeastern half of Punjab became a separate state, Haryana. Chandigarh was on the border between the two states, and became a separate union territory which serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana..
From the late 1970s to the 1990s, Punjab was struck by political, governmental and religious turmoil, to form a Sikh state called Khalistan.
During the 1970s, the Green Revolution brought increased economic prosperity for the Sikh community in Punjab
Punjab's economy was acutely affected in the 1980s and early 1990s but it is now on the path to recovery.
The climate in Punjab comprises of three seasons:-
a) Summer spans from mid April to the end of June.
b) The rainy season is from the months of early July to end of September.
c) The winter season is experienced during the months of early December to the end of February.
Punjab’s many festivals–Teej, Lohri, Basant, and Baisakhi, to name some–are celebrations that mirror the farming ethos. Indeed, Bhangra, the traditional dance of Punjab revolves around, and replicates a farmer’s daily life.
General Information:
State Capital : Chandigarh
Population (2021-cencus) : 3.07 Crore persons
Area : 50,362 sq. km
Altitude : 180m – 500m
State Language : Punjabi
State Animal : Blackbuck
State Bird : Northern Goshawk(Baaz)
State Flower : Gladiolus
Major Rivers : Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab
Main Places in Punjab
*Amritsar
*Chandigarh
*Anandpur Sahib
*Jalandhar
*Kapurthala
*Patiala
Amritsar
The word Amritsar means the holy pool of nectar (the drink of the gods). Amritsar is a city situated in the state of northern Punjab, the northwestern region of India. It is 25 kilometers away from the Pakistan border. Amritsar is one of the prime destinations for pilgrimage in India. It is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion. It is the centre of Sikhism and the principal place of worship for Sikhs and visited by thousands of tourists from across the world.
Amritsar has been chosen as one of the heritage cities for HRIDAY - Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India. Amritsar is home to Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as "the Golden Temple," one of Sikhism's most spiritually significant and most-visited gurudwaras.
Amritsar was founded in 16th century by Sri Guru Ramdass ji, the fourth guru of the Sikhs in about 1574 A.D. The origin of the city lies in the village of Tung. It is said that Guru Amardas purchased the land from Emperor Akbar and decided to build a tank at the site. The construction of Amrit Sarovar from which the city gets its present name was stared by Sri Guru Ramdass. His successor, Sri Guru Arjan Dev, completed the project and located the Harmandir Sahib in its midst. The construction of the Golden Temple was initiated by Guru Arjan Dev while Guru Hargobind, who accorded the religion a martial temper, built the Akal Takht in 1606. Work began on digging the holy pool in 1573 and Harmandir Sahib completed in 1601. When Guru Arjan Dev completed the writing of Holy Granth sahib, a copy of Guru Granth Sahib was ceremonially installed in Harmandir Sahib in 1604. Baba Buddha Sahib was appointed the First Granthi. The walled city and narrow streets were developed in the 17th and 18th century.
The British took over Amritsar in 1840 A.D. The years under the British rule saw the demolition of the outer walls of the city and rebuilding of gates, the construction of Town Hall from where they administered the city of Amritsar.
The partition of India in 1947 also had a major impact on the city, when the state of Punjab was divided between India and Pakistan. This led to many people being displaced from both sides on the border and led to riots. The city of Amritsar has gone through a lot, throughout history but now it has flourished in many ways and plays an important role in the development of Punjab and the country. It is now a major pilgrimage and tourism hub.
Amritsar has a semi-arid climate typical of northwestern India and northeastern Pakistan. It has 5 seasons, winter(mid Nov - mid Feb), spring(mid Feb- Mar), a very hot summer (April-June), the monsoon season (July-September) and autumn ( mid-October – mid November). Amritsar is 3rd coldest city in India during wintertime.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Amritsar
Nearest Railhead : Amritsar
Road Distance : Dharamshala 210 Km, Chandigarh 250 Km, Jammu 201 Km, Delhi 450 Km, Manali 400 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Golden Temple(03 Km): The Golden Temple or 'Hari Mandir', situated in Amritsar, Punjab, is the most sacred pilgrim spot for Sikhs. The site of the temple was sacred to the Sikhs since the time of the 4th guru, Ram Das. Construction of the Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar) was initiated by Guru Amar Das, the third Guru, in 1570 and was completed by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru. His successor, Guru Arjan Dev began work on the building after inviting Mian Mir, the Sufi saint, to lay its foundation stone in 1588. 1601 Harmandir Sahib completed. In 1603-1604, the first volume of the Guru Granth Sahib ji, was prepared in this city and was installed at Darbar Sahib on August 16, 1604.
The Akal Takht (The throne of immortality, lit. the never ending throne) the seat of Sikh political power was built by Guru Hargobind ji in 1606. Two flags representing temporal and spiritual authority and Sikh sovereignty were set up in front of the Akal Takht. Here Guru Hargobind ji wore two swords of Miri and Piri (temporal and transcendental authority) Around 1830, Maharaja Ranjit Singh had Muslim goldsmiths to gold-plate some parts of the inner section of the Darbar Sahib. The Gold plating led to it being called the Golden Temple.
All Sikh people try to make a visit to the temple and take bath in holy tank of the temple. kitchen and recitation of the divine word never cease here. Every day more than 25,000 people, (during special occasions 100,000 people) have free food in the ‘Guru-ka-langer’, irrespective of caste, creed, colour or gender.
Jallianwala Bagh(02 Km) : Jallianwala Bag is located near to Golden Temple and is a Martyrs' Memorial built in the shape of eternal flame of liberty, in the memory of those people who died on 13th April 1919 in the bagh. Here, about 1500 to 2000 persons who were attending a peaceful meeting during the freedom to celebrate the Baisakhi Festival and on hearing that a meeting had assembled, Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer with his army of 150 troops ordered open fire at the crowd.
According to British Raj sources, around 379 people were dead and 1500 wounded people were left to die in the well within the garden. Today, this public garden houses a memorial, which was established in 1951, to pay homage to thousands of people killed during the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. The British Queen Elizabeth II and her husband laid a wreath at the Memorial on 14 Oct.' 1997.
Timings: 6 AM - 7 PM in summer and 7 AM - 6 PM in winter
Gallery Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM in summer and 10 AM - 4 PM in winter
Ram Bag(02 Km) : Situated towards the north of city Amritsar, Ram Bagh was the former palace grounds of Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780–1839), who founded the Sikh empire. Maharaja took Lahore in 1799 and made it his capital in 1802 he came to Amritsar. In 1818 he got constructed Ram Bagh Garden after the name of Guru Ram Das, the forth Sikh Master. In the park's northwest corner is Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama museum built by Government of India in 1977 displaying a splendid exhibition from the life and expeditions of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, as well as, his personal sword , shield, coins etc.
Durgiana Temple(02 Km) : Durgiana Temple is a important religious pilgrimage of The Hindus in Amritsar. The Durgiana Temple also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Though a Hindu temple, its architecture is similar to the Golden Temple with its main shrine rising from the midst of a tank, its central dome covered with gold, and the rest of the structure clad in marble. This temple derives its name from the Goddess Durga, the chief Goddess. Idols of Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and Vishnu (the protector of the world) are also deified here and worshipped. The temple also beautifully expresses the holy aura of Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu through its magnificent imagery.
This City of Amritsar is pious, as it was visited by Lord Rama. Lava & Kush spent their childhood alongwith their mother Mata Sita on this soil in the Ashram of Maharishi Balmiki. In the courtyard of the Durgiana temple is a tree where Lava and Kusha bound Hanuman after the captured challenge horse of the Ashvamedha Yagya. King Ishvaku Grandson of Surya Devta performed a number of Yagya on this land. The City of Amritsar was how ever established by the fourth Guru of Sikhs Sh. Amar Dass Ji(a Sikh Guru).
The original temple was built in 16th century. But the idea to rebuilt Durgiana Mandir as it stands today was of Gur Shai Mal Kapoor, a great visionary and religious person. His statue in monumental alabaster in a sitting posture has been established just opposite the main entrance or Darshani Deori. The foundation stone of the temple was laid down by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1924 on Ganga Dashmi day who was also an educationist and founded the Banaras Hindu University.
There is a continuous flow of devotees throughout the day till late in the evening. The blessings of the Gods fulfill the desires of all.
The Partition Museum(02 km) : The Partition Museum is a public museum located in the town hall. The museum was inaugurated in October 2016 with a curtain raiser exhibition, and all 15 galleries were opened on August 17, 2017. The museum aims to become the central repository of stories, materials, and documents related to the post-partition riots that followed the division of British India into two independent countries: India and Pakistan. It is a part of the newly inaugurated Heritage Street at Amritsar, which begins from the Golden Temple and ends at the Town Hall. In 1947, British India was divided into India and Pakistan. The Partition of India resulted in the largest m
ass migration in human history, with some 12 to 18 million people directly impacted. According to various estimates, more than 8, 00,000 Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs were killed in the riots that followed the partition between August 1947 to January 1948. Additionally, more than 14, 00,000 people became refugees.
The Partition Museum has been set up as a People’s Museum to remember all those millions who lost their homes or loved ones at that time. Museum housing a collection of stories, oral histories playing on video, a soundscape in each gallery, original artifacts donated by refugees, newspapers, and magazines, photographs showing the migration and camps, letters written by refugees, government documents, and especially created art installations. That holds the memory of the time before, during and after the partition of British India. The museum is devoted primarily to the victims & survivors, and their lasting legacy.
Gobindgarh Fort(03 Km) : Gobindgarh Fort is a historic military fort located in the center of the city of Amritsar. It is built in a square pattern, with a perimeter of 1,000 m and made up entirely of bricks and lime. The fort had 25 cannons mounted on its ramparts and it remained with the Bhangi rulers till 1805. The fort was built to protect Amritsar from any invasion and hence, it was known as the ‘Guardian of the holy city of Amritsar’.
The foundation of the Gobindgarh Fort was laid in 1760 by the leader of the Bhangi misl (clan) of Dhillon Jats rulers. Popularly known as the Bhangian da Killa (fort of the Bhangis). It fell into Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s hands in the early 19th century during his expansionist missions. One of the main reasons to erect the fort was to save Harminder Sahib and the city from the invaders. Maharaja Ranjit Singh renamed it in 1809 after the 10th Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The Fort was captured by the British after the Second Anglo-Sikh War in 1849. After Independence the fort was garrisoned by the Indian army in 1947 and was fortified by the Indian Army until 2006. In 2006 the Government of India handed over the vacant possession of the fort for protection and conservation to the Government of Punjab. It was declared as a historical monument by the Government of Punjab and was opened to the public from 10 February 2017. Today the fort is being developed as a museum and theme park, where visitors can witness the heritage of Punjab.
One must visit this historical fort which is known for its magnificent live shows such as the 7-D sher-e-punjab (Lion-of-Punjab) show on Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Kanda Boldiyan Ne (Light and Sound show), and the Spirit Of Punjab live show. Other important attractions of Gobindgarh Fort Amritsar include numerous exhibitions, a museum, traditional shops, and a restaurant where one can savor the authentic culinary delights of Punjab.
Ram Tirth Temple(15 Km) : Located 15 Km west of Amritsar on Chogawan road, Ram Tirath temple dates back to the epic of Ramayana when Sita was given in the Ashram of Maharishi Balamiki after being abandoned by Rama. Legend also has it that Sita, gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush, here. The battle of Ram's Ashwamedha force with Luv-Kush is said to have taken place here also It is believed that the temple is built on the spot where Ramayana was written by Valmiki Maharishi.
The place has an ancient tank and many temples. A hut marks the site where Mata Sita gave birth to Luv & Kush and also, still extant are Rishi Valmiki’s hut and the well with stairs where Mata Sita used to take her bath. The temple has statues depicting important scenes from the epic - Ramayana.
A four-day fair is held here every November. Devotees take a dip in the ancient tank next to the temple on Purnamashi(Full Moon) night.
Night Ceremony at Golden Temple(03 Km) : Every night, the Granth Sahib is carried in procession along this bridge to its "bed" in the Akal Takht(inner chambers), the seat of the Sikh parliament. Several devout followers and visitors participate in the ceremony, which offers each individual at least a few seconds to help carry the palanquin. During this process these devotees sing the Gurbani Kirtan in melodious and devotional tones. Lines form in front of and behind the heavy palanquin and each man shoulders the burden for a few seconds before passing it along, forming a human conveyer belt that allows everyone to participate and rest.
The Holy Book rests for a few hours in the inner chambers until the commencement of the early morning Palki Sahib Ceremony for bringing the Guru Granth Sahib from the Akal Takht (inner chambers) to the main shrine in Hari Mandir.
The ceremony usually takes place at 11pm in summer at 9:30pm in winter.
Amritsar Heritage Walk : Amritsar town is well known for its heritage buildings and Adventure People India offer some unique heritages walks in the town. Heritage walk is a guided tour deep inside the narrow lanes and Bye lanes of the 400 year old city of Amritsar. One gets to see Katras, Akharas Bungas, Havelis,and Hatties. The walk takes you back in the time as you witness town planning traditional trade and crafts being practiced in the same place and in the same manner as have been done for centuries.
There are many points where the walk takes a traveller, starting from the Town Hall and ending at the iconic Golden Temple and also explored lanes and by-lanes which were not even a part of the walk.
Here is a list of some important places:
Town Hall, Gurdwara Saragarahi, Qila Ahluwalia, Jalebiwala, Udasin Ashram Akhara Sangalwala, Chitta Akhara, Darshani Deori, Baba Bohar, Thakurdwara Dariana, Chowrasti Atari, Taksal (mint, Thakurdwara Raja Tej Singh, Crawling, Ancient
Amritsar Food Walk : Amritsar is famous for its delicious food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Some of Amritsar's favourite food items are puri-chhole, Amritsari fish, chicken or mutton chaap, golgappa, aam papad, jalebi, gulab jumun, gud halwa, and lassi. There are many restaurants serving authentic local food with utmost culinary expertise that will please your taste buds. But the real fun resides in the street food joints and their colorful dishes and beverages.
Some of the famous food shops are Kulwant’s Kulcha , Narayan Poorian wala, Street Foods and Lunch at Kesar da Dhaba.
Excursions:
Attari-Wagha Border(28 Km) : The International Border between India and Pakistan lies 28 kms from Amritsar at Attari on the Grand Trunk Road and 24 Kms from Lahore. The border crossing draws its name from Wagha(Pakistan) and Attari (India) villages.
Wagha is a village located in the Wahgah Zone of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. It is situated 600 metres west of the border. It is 3 kilometres from the bordering Indian last village Attari. The Wagah railway station is 400 metres to the south and 100 metres from the border.
A flag-lowering ceremony is held here daily at sunset by both sides. The ceremony started in 1986 as an agreement of peace, although there was not a conflict at that time. The Wagha-Attari border ceremony happens at the border gate, two hours before sunset each day. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan Rangers . Their steps are matched so perfectly that it is like watching a mirror image of the same exercise. The ceremony is a huge attraction for visitors and is poignant reminder of the partition of 1947 when Punjap was divided between two nations.
Tarn Taran Gurudwara (24 Km) : The Taran Taran City was founded by Guru Arjun Dev Ji , in 1596 when he converted a Pond into a big Tank and the milestone was laid for the welfare of people with the establishment of Shri Tarn Taran Sahib Gurudwara. Further development occurred in 1768 when Sardar Budh Singh and Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia constructed a Gurdwara on the side of the tank. Maharaja Ranjit Singh completed the Sarovar and offered gold to have exterior of the Gurdwara covered. Later on around this Gurdwara a City was constructed.
The site has the distinction of having the largest sarovar (water pond) of all the gurudwaras. It is famous for the monthly gathering of pilgrims on the day of Amavas (a no-moon night).
Tarn Taran is the pivot of Sikh culture and has many historical Gurudwaras. With so many Gurudwaras of historic importance, this makes the Majha belt a historic sikh centre of gathering and interest.
The city has many historical Gurudwaras which include Darbar Sahib Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Gurudwara Guru Ka Khuh (Gurdwara of the Guru’s Well), Gurdwara Bibi Bhani Da Khuh, Gurdwara Takkar Sahib, Gurdwara Lakeer Sahib, Gurudwara Baba Garja Singh Baba Bota Singh, Gurdwara Jhulne Mahal, and Thatti Khara.
Fairs are held here on every 'Amavas' dark night of the month, birth anniversaries of the Gurus, Baisakhi and Diwali.
Gurudwara Goindwal Sahib / Shri Baoli Sahib (45 Km) : Govindwal Sahib Gurudwara is located in Tarn Taran district on the banks of the river Beas, about 23 km from Tarn Taran Sahib. Goindwal Sahib is considered the first Sikh pilgrimage site as it is here that Guru Amar Das Ji, (the third Sikh Guru) lived and preached. After his appointment as Guru in 1552, Guru Amar Das shifted from Khadur to Goindval. That year Guru Amar Das Ji commenced the digging in Goindval of a baoli(well). Thus the Baoli at Goindwal Sahib, became an object of pilgrimage to Hindus as well as Sikhs. The entrance to the Baoli has been artistically decorated. The Baoli had 84 steps and baths in the Baoli Sahib shall be freed from the cycle of birth and death. It is believed that each step after taking a bath in the Baoli provides 'Moksh', liberation from 84,000 cycles of life of this world. Adjoining the Baoli, a magnificent Gurdwara has been built. According to the historians, Emperor Akbar once visited the Guru in Goindwal in 1598 and took lunch in the Langar while he was going from Delhi to Lahore. Akbar was highly impressed by the tradition of Langer.
In the 16th century it became an important center for the Sikh religion during the Guruship of the Guru Amar Das Ji. Guru Amar Das Ji met Guru Ram Das Ji at Govindwal, the next Guru. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was also born there in 1563 AD. Devotees continued to visit Goindval to have a dip in the sacred baoli and pay homage at other local shrines.
Near By Gurudwaras :
Gurudwara Shri Akal Chalana Sahib, Goindwal Sahib / Distance : 665 m
Gurudwara Shri Chaubara Sahib, Goindwal Sahib / Distance : 699 m
Gurudwara Shri Damdama Sahib, Goindwal Sahib / Distance : 3 km
Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Fatehbad / Distance : 5 km
Gurudwara Shri Amb Sahib, Bhairowal / Distance : 8 km
Gurudwara Shri Darbar Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 8 km
Gurudwara Shri Patshahi Dusri Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 9 km
Gurudwara Shri Mal Akhaara Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 9 km
Gurudwara Shri Tapiana Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 9 km
Gurudwara Shri Thada Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 9 km
Gurudwara Shri Chaapri Sahib, Chaapri / Distance : 9 km
Gurudwara Shri Mai Bharai Sahib, Khadoor Sahib / Distance : 10 km
Gurudwara Shri Angad Dev Ji, Tood / Distance : 13 km
Khadur Sahib(32 Km) : Khadur Sahib or Khadoor Sahib is a village located beside the Beas river about 38 kms from Amritsar, 20 Kms from Tarn Taran and 9 kms from Goindwal. Khadur Sahib has been sanctified by visits from eight of the Sikh Gurus.
Khadur Sahib is the sacred village where Guru Angad the second Master lived for 13 years, spreading the universal message of Guru Nanak. Here he introduced Gurmukhi Lipi, wrote the first Gurmukhi Primer, established the first Sikh school and prepared the first Gutka of Guru Nanak Sahib’s Bani. It is the place where the first Mal Akhara, for wrestling, was established and where regular campaigns against intoxicants and social evils were started by Guru Angad. The Stately Gurdwara here is known as The Guru Angad Dev Gurdwara.
Gurudwaras Near By at Khadur Sahib :
-Gurdwara Thara Sahib, stands on the spot where Guru Amar Das received the tilak, of anointment as Guru from the blessed hands of Baba Budha ji who performed the Tilak ceremonies of five Sikh Gurus. Baba Budha was also the first Granthi (head priest) of the Harimandir Sahib.
-Gurdwara Killa Sahib is located where Guru Amar Das would place his pitcher full of water for a moment's respite, from the fatigue of the long tiring walk.
-Gurdwara Mal Akhara is associated with the place where Guru Angad Devji finalised Gurmukhi script. The Gurdwara has a fine hall with canopied doors.
-Gurdwara Sri Tapiana Sahib
-Gurdwara Sri Darbar Sahib(Angitha Sahib)
-Gurdwara Thara Sahib Sri Guru Amar Das Ji
-Their is also the Memorial of Bhai Bala Ji
Harike Wetland(60 Km) : Harike Wetland also known as "Hari-ke-Pattan", with the Harike Lake in the deeper part of it, is the largest wetland in northern India and located 60 Km from Amritsar. The lake formed at the point of confluence of rivers Beas and Sutlej at Harika ford, was declared a national wildlife sanctuary in 1982. Harike is a bird sanctuary came into being in 1953 when the Harike barrage was constructed on the confluence of Rivers Beas and Sutlej.
This is the ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers and attracts thousands of migratory birds from China, Siberia, Afghanistan and Pakistan in winter. Around 375 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. During the migratory seasons, around 20,000 ducks can be found in the sanctuary. The lake is famous for diving ducks, such as the crested pochard, common pochard and tufted ducks which occur in very large numbers. Harike also harbours endangered aquatic mammalian as well as reptilian fauna like Indus river dolphin, smooth-coated otter and seven species of rare freshwater turtles. The mammals found at Harike include the smooth Indian otter, the jungle cat, jackal, Indian wild boar and the common mongoose.
For visitors there is only one main entry point into Harike Wetlands. This is from the Nanaksar Gurudwara across the barrage at the southern end on the Ferozpur side of Harike. While entry to the sanctuary is free, an entry permit is required from the Range Officer (Wildlife), Harike.
Timings : 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fee : Free
Best Time : Winter
Amritsar Village Tour : Drive out of the city for one and a half hours, towards a small village and experience the life in rural Punjab with this village tour. This village tour offers a fascinating opportunity to know the life of a farmer and the great way to soak in the feel of Punjabi village life. It will take you through the rich and traditional villages of Amritsar. On the way you will see fields, orchards, tractors, trucks, rural markets selling farm crops etc. Visit a local family house, where you will be welcomed with a traditional drink Lassi. You will also get to participates in their daily life like milking cows, farm tractor ride, cooking on traditional clay oven and see common farming practices.
Afternoon enjoy the delicious traditional food like Sarson da saag, makki di roti made by local family member on a clay oven(if time permits)
We will take a tractor ride through the beautiful fields and see the seasonal crops growing. This tour will finish with Lunch or tea/snacks with local family. This village tour will be a lifetime experience and later drive back to your hotel for a well-deserved and satisfying sleep with the memories of Punjabi villagers life.
We can also arrange Cooking Class with a Local Family in the village
Key Features of this Tour:
-Interaction with local family
-Feeding livestock
- Watch cows being milked
-Ride on a traditional bull cart/horse cart
-See common farming practices
-Traditional food in Lunch (Sarson da saag, makki di roti) (if time permits)
-Tea and Snacks in the village
-Tractor ride
- wearing a Turban/pagri
- Pick fruits and vegetables from fields (seasonally)
Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan:
About Dera Baba Nanak - Sri Kartarpur Sahib Pilgrimage
Village Kartarpur is located at the west bank of river Ravi where Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent last 18 years of his life. Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak is about 1 km from the Indo- Pakistan border and on the east bank of River Ravi. To the west side of the river is located the town of Kartarpur, Pakistan. Gurdwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib falls in district Narowal of Pakistan, about 4.5 k.m. from the international border near the historic town of Dera Baba Nanak, District Gurdaspur, Punjab. The Indian part of Dera Baba Nanak - Sri Kartarpur Sahib corridor involves a 4.1 k.m. long four lane highway from Dera Baba Nanak to international border and a state of the art Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at the international border. Dera Baba Nanak is a city situated in Gurdaspur district in the state of Punjab, India. Followers of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji built the town and named it Dera Baba Nanak after their great ancestor.
Distance from Amritsar 45 km by NH354B
Distance from Batala 24 km by District Road
Distance from Gurdaspur 30 km by NH354
Distance from Jalandhar 112 km via Batala
-All Pilgrims who propose to visit Sri Kartarpur Sahib in district Narowal, Pakistan may register here in advance.
-Applicant is required to register himself/herself in advance of proposed date of travel.
-Registration does not confer a right to travel.
-Applicants who are granted permission may be informed only 4 days before proposed date of travel. Therefore, Applicants should make their travel arrangements in advance.
-Pilgrims will go in the morning and shall have to return the same day.
-Pilgrims shall be allowed to visit only Sri Kartarpur Sahib and not anywhere outside.
PERMISSION :
-Foreigners are not allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara through Indian side KARTARPUR SAHIB CORRIDOR.
-Foreigner can visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara from Pakistan side.
-Foreigner having OCI Card (Overseas Citizen of India) can take advance online permission on
https://prakashpurb550.mha.gov.in/kpr/
Chandigarh
Chandigarh also called The City Beautiful, is a city in India located 250 Km from Delhi in north. Chandigarh, derives its name from a temple Chandi Mandir(located in Panchkula, 10 km from Chandigarh), and a fort or ‘garh" beyond the temple, called Chandigarh. Blessed with the resplendent Blue Shivalik Hills, Chandigarh enjoys the special status of being the Capital of two states Punjab and Haryana and also a Union Territory controlled by Central Government. The city was conceived in the 1950s and a European modernist architect was engaged to plan it. Mr. Le Corbusier conceived the master plan of Chandigarh as analogous to human body. He proposed the state to have a head (the Capitol Complex, Sector-1), heart (the City Centre, Sector-17), lungs (the gardens and the leisure valley), mind (cultural and educational institutions), the circulatory system (road network), and the viscera (the Industrial Area). The concept of the city is based on four major functions of living, working, taking care of the body and spirit and circulation.
After the partition of British India into the two nations of India and Pakistan in 1947, the region of Punjab was also split between India and Pakistan. The Indian state of Punjab required a new capital city to replace Lahore, which became part of Pakistan during the partition. After several plans to make additions to existing cities were found to be infeasible for various reasons, the decision to construct a new and planned city was undertaken. The face of modern India, Chandigarh, is the manifestation of a dream that Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru envisaged and Le Corbusier executed. Le Corbusier was in fact the second architect of the city, after the initial master plan was prepared by the American architect-planner Albert Mayer who was working with the Poland-born architect Matthew Nowicki. It was only after Nowicki's untimely death in 1950 that Le Corbusier was pulled into the project. Chandigarh is the India’s first planned city, is a rich, prosperous, spic and span, green city rightly called “ THE CITY BEAUTIFUL ”. Best-planned city in India, with architecture which is world-renowned, and a quality of life, which is unparalleled. Chandigarh is home to numerous architectural projects of Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Matthew Nowicki, and Albert Mayer.
On 1 November,1966, the newly-formed Indian state of Haryana was carved out of the eastern portion of the Punjab, in order to create Haryana as a majority Hindi speaking state, while the western portion of Punjab retained a mostly Punjabi language-speaking majority and remained as the current day Punjab. However, the city of Chandigarh was on the border, and was thus created into a union territory to serve as capital of both these states. Since Chandigarh is a newly developed city, it does not have many historic monuments to offer. However, the Chandigarh city boasts of several beautiful and well-maintained gardens that are a treat to the eyes.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Chandigarh
Nearest Railhead : Chandigarh
Road Distance : Shimla 120 Km, Delhi 250 Km, Dharamshala 260 Km, Amritsar 250 Km, Manali 320 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Rock Garden (04 Km): The Rock Garden of Chandigarh is a sculpture garden situated in the thick forest area; this garden holds its own charms for the visitors. It is also known as Nek Chand's Rock Garden after its founder Nek Chand Saini. There are two rock gardens by Nek Chand. The most famous and most elaborate one is in Chandigarh. There is also a smaller one in Kerala.
He was a government official who started the garden secretly in his spare time in 1957. Today it is spread over an area of 40 acres (16 ha). It consists of man-made interlinked waterfalls and many other sculptures that have been made of scrap and other kinds of waste (bottles, glasses, bangles, tiles, ceramic pots, sinks, electrical waste, broken pipes, etc.) which are placed in walled paths.
In 1951, Nek Chand arrived in Chandigarh to work as a road inspector for the Indian government's Public Works Department. In 1958, he began collecting curiously shaped rocks, discarded materials and recyclable items from the demolition of the villages that once stood on the site where Chandigarh was being built. First seven years (1958-1965) were spent collecting natural material, urban and industrial waste. He was able to hide it for 18 years before it was discovered by the authorities in 1975. In 1975, city inspectors stumbled across this illegal construction in the forest. The Chandigarh bureaucracy wanted it destroyed. When word spread, hundreds of people found their way through the forests to see this enchanted kingdom. After much debate, the Chandigarh Landscape Advisory Committee relented and allowed Nek Chand to open his creation to the public. After visiting the site and recognizing its artistic value, Dr. M.S. Randhawa, an agricultural scientist, gave the site the name Rock Garden. The Rock Garden was formally inaugurated on January 24, 1976, before a crowd of thousands. Thereafter, with a small budget and a group of helpers provided by the local government, Nek Chand was encouraged to enlarge his garden and continue his many projects. The Rock Garden is still made out of recycled materials. With the government's help, Mr. Chand was able to set up collection centers around the city for waste, especially rags and broken ceramics.
This garden is full of objects built from household and industrial waste. There are no flowers or plants in this garden. The object to be seen there are the figure made of raw cement resembling humans and animals. These figures have been decorated with broken but colorful odds and ends of China clay.
The layout of the Garden is based on the fantasy of a lost kingdom. In the true spirit of a make-believe `kingdom’ the Rock Garden has fourteen different chambers, like the forecourt: housing natural rock-forms, a royal poet’s and a musician’s chamber complete with a pond and a hut; the main court (Durbar) where the king’s throne adorns the place with natural stone forms depicting gods and goddesses lining the place; a swimming pool for the queen, etc. Another phase of the garden comprises the grand palace complex, minars, water falls, an open air theatre, a village, mountains, overbridges, pavilions and areas for royal pleasures. The tree and root sculpture offers a powerful counterpoint to the existing vegetation. An open air theatre and a vast pavilion with a centre stage are the other highlights of the Rock Garden where art and culture blend amidst the rustic and exotic environs of the garden.
The Teej Festival, when the Rock Garden assumes a festive look, holds a special attraction for tourists. Young damsels partake in the fun and frolic by swaying on the giant swings, while others adorn their hands with traditional Mehandi (henna), amidst joyful songs and dances. The garden is visited by over 5,000 people daily
Summer opening hours : (1st April to 30th September) 9 am to 7:30 pm.
Winter opening hours : (1st October to 31st March) 9 am to 6 pm.
Entry prices are Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children.
Sukhna Lake(03 Km) : Sukhna Lake is Located in Sector 1 of Chandigarh. This 3 squire kilometer rainfed lake was created in 1958 by damming the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream coming down from the Shivalik Hills. The lake was created by Le Corbusier and the Chief Engineer P L Verma. It is home to several species of fish and migratory birds such as Siberian ducks and cranes. The lake is fringed by a golf course to the south, and Nek Chand's famous Rock Garden of Chandigarh to its west. Earlier some crocodiles were also found in this lake. The depth of Sukhna Lake is 16 feet and is sprawled over an area of 3 sq.km. This the best place for a morning or evening walk. It consists of an eating place and children’s park. It also has facility for boating and rafting for the adventure seekers.
Rose Garden (2 Km) : Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, named after the former President of India, Dr. Zakir Hussain, is a botanical garden and located in sector 16 of Chandigarh. It is one of the most prominent tourist attractions and spread over 30 acres of land and contains around 825 varieties of flowers and 32,500 varieties of trees and medicinal shrubs. It was established in 1967 and was executed under the guidance of Dr. M.S. Randhawa(First Chief Commissioner of Chandigarh) who was a renowned botanist, historian, art and culture promoter.
The roses are planted into beautifully carved out bed. With every rose, a wooden block is kept that in short tells which rose is this and from where it is. This garden is a perfect place for nature lovers who get an opportunity to witness the charming beauty of nature. Rose Garden in Chandigarh is also famous for hosting a huge annual festival, known as Rose Festival. This festival is held every year at the end of February or the beginning of March and is celebrated with huge pomp and show.
The best time to visit the Rose Graden, Chandigarh is between the months of February and March as the flowers are in full bloom during this season. This park also houses a Rose Garden art monument, an auditorium, and a statue of Dr. M.S. Randhawa. There is also a small book cafe inside the garden complex where the book collection of Dr. Randhawa has been put for display.
Timings – 6:00 am to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee – NO
The Government Museum and Art Gallery : Government Museum & Art gallery is located in Sector-10C, Chandigarh and is a premier museum of North India having collections of Gandharan sculptures, Pahari
and Rajasthani miniature paintings. It has a sizable collection of coins, textiles, ancient and medieval sculptures, decorative art, modern and contemporary Indian art. Prior to the partition before 1947, the collections of art objects, paintings and sculptures were housed in the Central Museum, Lahore. Sixty percent of objects were retained by Pakistan and forty percent collection fell in the share of India.
The museum has been designed by the Swiss born French architect, Le Corbusier along with his associate architects namely Manmohan Nath Sharma, Pierre Jeanneret and Shiv Dutt Sharma. The design was completed during the period of 1960-62 and construction took place between 1962 and 1967 and was inaugurated on 6 May 1968 by Dr. M. S. Randhawa, the then Chief Commissioner of Chandigarh. It is part of the three museums designed by Le Corbusier, the other two being Sanskar Kendra, Ahmedabad and National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo.
The campus also has the Natural History Museum. It has four sections: Cyclorama of Evolution of Life, Nature in Art, Evolution of Man and Dinosaurs of India,
The museum complexes remain open 10.00 a.m. to 4.30. p.m. on all days except Mondays
Capital Complex(4.5km) : Chandigarh Capitol Complex is located in the sector-1 of Chandigarh city is a government compound designed by the architect Le Corbusier and It is declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. It is spread over an area of around 100 acres and is a prime manifestation of Chandigarh's architecture. It comprises three buildings, three monuments and a lake, including the Legislative Assembly, Secretariat, High Court, Open Hand Monument, Geometric Hill and Tower of Shadows. The Capitol Complex is Le Corbusier’s most spectacular work.
Secretariat : The largest building in the Capital Complex, built during 1953-59, it is shaped like an eight-storeyed concrete slab. It is a long, horizontal concrete slab form, 254 meters long and 42 meters high, intended as a work place for about 4000 people. The building façade is provided with projects for sun control. The facade of the building gives a sculptural appearance with exposed concrete ramps, perforated with small square windows dominating the front and rear views, concrete walls offers a memorable experience to visitors at the highest point of repose and recreation in the city. The cafeteria rests stop the terrace is like an art object, giving a spectacular view of the city.
The Legislative Assembly : The Assembly building in Chandigarh happens to be the most sculptural of all architectural forms in the Complex. The Legislative Assembly square in plan with a monumental portico standing free from the main building and facing the high court . A pyramid cover the upper chamber of the erstwhile bicameral system, and offer an exciting counterpoint to the main cupola. The building has two parts, the assembly chamber (the Punjab assembly), and the smaller council chamber (the Haryana assembly). The assembly chamber, with a seating capacity of 252 persons, is a study in colour, with the hyperbolic paraboloid dome set within the pastel shades of green, yellow and pink of the three pylons. While at this place you must visit the entrance at the piazza level for ceremonial occasions. The massive 25×25 feet door that Le Corbusier himself painted, as a colorful mural must be seen. Construction of the Palace of Assembly began in 1951 and ended 11 years later in 1962. The building was inaugurated on 15 April, 1964.
The High Court: Punjab and Haryana High Court building is the common building for Punjab and Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The High Court was constructed from 1951 to 1957. The High Court building is L-shaped in plan with the long façade facing the capitol plaza. The building has a rectilinear frame with eight nos. courtrooms located on the main façade, separated from the larger ‘Chief Justice’ Court by a monumental, pillared entrance, extending to the full height of the entrance. It was planned that the design should permit the government to function through out the year, furnishing protection from the sun and monsoon rains. Accordingly, double roof was provided, the upper roof placed over the lower roof was provided in the manner of a parasol, shading the lower roof. The space between the two roofs is left open to enable air currents to move. The rear wall of the court room are decorated with large woolen tapestries designed by Le Corbusier. Apart from the Court rooms, it houses the Offices of many Administrative Branches such as Registrar's Office, Establishment Branch, Gazette Branch and Copying Branch etc. The Offices of Advocate-Generals, Punjab and Haryana also adjoin the main building.
The High Court building, when completed in 1957 proved to be insufficient in space. Therefore, an extension (annex) was proposed and completed in 1962 in which additional courtroom spaces were provided. As of 2019, there are 56 Judges in the High Court. Designed by Le Corbusier, it and several of his other works were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in July 2016
The Open Hand Monument : The Open Hand Monument is a symbolic structure designed by the architect Le Corbusier and located in the Capitol Complex , one of the most significant monuments planned. It is made of matel sheet arises 26 meter from the sunken trench and rotates freely in the wind from a high concrete pedestal. The symbols also meant to convey a message of peace 'Open to give - Open to receive'. It is official emblem of the city (only UT or state in the country to have its own emblem). Le corbusier had conceived and designed this beautiful idea as early as in 1948, but it took decades to materialize and in 1985, (after 20 years of Le Corbusier’s death) ‘Open Hand Monument’ was finally inaugurated
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM, Closed on Public Holidays
Tower of Shadow : Located close to the Legislative Assembly in the Capitol Complex, this airy, partially-open pavilion is a symbolic structure which reflects Le Corbusier’s interest in studying the penetration of sunlight inside a building. It traces the path of the sun through shadows, which are cast both inside and outside the tower.
Geometric Hill : Geometric hill rises from the shadows. It depicts the symbol of the 24 hour solar cycle with the help of an opaque mass that was meant to have been inscribed with a large sine curve.
Martyr's Memorial : The Martyrs' Memorial located near to Parliament Building
Note : Those who want to see the Capitol Complex can visit the tourist information center in Sector 1 to register for a tour. For this, one needs to have an identity proof such as a Passport, license or a pan card. The tourist will visit in three Batches i.e. at 10 AM, 12 PM and 3 PM. The tourist will be sent for visit to the designated places in groups of not more than 30 persons.
Shopping Centre 17 Sector: In the heart of the city, is located Sector 17. This is the main shopping center of the city, also known as the shopper’s paradise is a melting pot for all the shopaholics alike. Replete with several big brand stores, international outlets, food chains and eateries. Shops offering traditional handicrafts and modern fashionable goods. one can also buy goods to suit one’s daily needs and satiating one’s hunger for fashionable items . The market has got something for everyone and is bustling with visitors all through the day. This commercial centre is fully pedestrianised. In evenings, one can see the crowd walking around here and there. The ultimate lightning effects are visible during the evenings.
Punjab University: The premier institution Punjab University is located in the north west corner of the city in the sector 14. Its beautiful red sand stone buildings have been built on awe stuck landscape.
Gandhi Bhavan : This lovely building is located inside the campus of Panjab University, next to a lake. It is centre for learning philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi. This Bhawan seems to be floating like a lotus in a large water pool. It was designed by Le Corbusier’s cousin Pierre Jeanneret, who also designed several other buildings in the university, including the administrative block, and the arts and science blocks.
Excursion:
Chattbir Zoo (15 Km) : Located on the banks of River Ghaggar, 15 km from the city, the Chattbir Zoo is an ideal getaway from Chandigarh. The zoo lies on the Chandigarh-Patiala Road. The zoo was constructed in the 1970s and is home to a large variety of birds, mammals and reptiles. The zoo was inaugurated on 13 April 1977 by the then governor of Punjab Mahendra Mohan Choudhury and it was christened as Mahendra Chaudhury Zoological Park. Initially the zoo was populated by a small number of animals brought from Guwahati Zoo, Assam and it soon became the largest zoo in Northern punjab India .
Chattbir has India's longest walk-in aviary with 300m long walk showcases 32 species of indigenous and exotic birds. The section is made in five different themes included Terrestrial, Rock & Duck, Woodland, Japanese Trail and Rainforest. The months from October to March are considered the best months to pay a visit to Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh. During these months, the day temperatures usually hover anywhere between 20 to 30-degree Celsius.
The zoo is home to 369 mammals, 400 birds and 20 reptiles.
Royal Bengal tiger, White tiger, Asian elephant, Hippopotamus, Indian gazelle, Sambar deer, Swamp deer, Emu, Asiatic lion, Baboon, Lion-tailed macaque, Indian leopard, Jaguar, Himalayan black bear, Sloth bear, Zebra, Chimpanzee, Blue bull, Blackbuck, Gaur, Bengal fox, Striped hyena, Indian boar, Porcupine, Gharial, Mugger crocodile, Indian python, African Buffalo, Civet cat, Goral, Smooth-coated otter, Jackal, Sarus crane, Painted stork
In addition to this, there are various species of birds, including peacocks, cranes, geese, ducks, parrots, sparrows, nocturnal owls and bats; and various sub-species of deer, cat and monkey.
The entry fees:
Adult : Rs. 60,
Kids between the ages 3 to 12 years : Rs. 25
kids below the age of 3 can enter the premises free of cost.
Still Camera : Rs. 150
videography : Rs. 250
commercial shooting : Rs. 40,000
The ferry vehicle costs : Rs. 50
Kids between the ages 3 to 12 years : Rs. 25
Pinjore Garden or Yadavindra Gardens(20 Km) : Yadavindra Gardens, also known as Pinjore Gardens, is a historic 17th century garden located in Pinjore city. The garden in the city of Pinjore on the Ambala-Shimla roadIt is 22 kilometres from Chandigarh. It is an example of the Mughal Gardens architectural style, which was renovated by the Patiala Dynasty Sikh Rulers. The gardens stretch over an area of about 100 acre and is known for its lush greenery, refreshing fountains and serene water bodies.
It was built in the foothills of Himalayas as one of the Mughal gardens summer retreat for the Aurangzeb (1658-1707), who then had his capital at Lahore, by his foster brother architect Muzaffar Hussain, known as Nawab Fidai Khan Koka, It was built during the early days of Aurangzeb's rule but the accurate date is not known. it was likely built for Aurangzeb's personal use as summer retreat. In 1775, the Maharaja of Patiala Amar Singh bought it from the King of Sirmur State Jagat Prakash. The gardens also house a mini zoo, a Japanese garden, a nursery and various picnic spots.
Kasauli (61 Km) : Kasauli (1927 mts.) is a charming quaint little town about 77 Km from Shimla, 35 Km from Kalka and 12 kms from the Shimla-Kalka road. It is developed by British and is an ideal place for those in search of peace and relaxtion. The town takes its name from the village of Kasul that has since merged with the fringes of the town. Kasauli is surrounded by a mixed forest of chir-pine, Himalyan oak and horse-chestnuts.
Monkey Point: This is the highest point in Kasauli but there are no monkeys here. It is 4 km from the Kasauli Bus stand and offers an excellent view of the distant plains of Chandigarh region, river Satluj and Chur Chandni. A small temple is also situated on the top of the hill, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
The Christ Church: Still unspoiled and very much as the British left it fifty years ago, Kasauli has a fine old church. The Christ Church is a typically Anglican structure of the period and its foundation stone laid in 1844.
Kurukshetra (95 Km) :
Kurukshetra is a city in Haryana state and also known as the "Land of the Bhagavad Gita". Kurukshetra has been described in the first verse of Shrimadbhagvadgita, in the form of Dharmakshetra Kurukshetra("Holy Place"). Kurukshetra was named after the King Kuru, who was from the Bahrata Dynasty and was the ancestor of Pandavas and Kauravas in Mahabharata. According to another legend, this is the place where the universe was created by Lord Brahma. According to the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata, the 18-day long battle of Mahabharat was held in Kurukshetra and during this battle, Krishna recited Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna in the Jyotisar. Kurukshetra is closely related to its development with the rise of Aryan civilization and the extinct sacred Saraswati(believed to be dried up 1900 BC). This is the land where Manusmriti was written by Rishi Manu and the compilation of Rigveda, Samaveda by the wise Rishis.
Kurukshetra was conquered by the Mauryan empire in the late 4th century BCE and subsequently became a center of Buddhism and Hinduism. After the decline of Kushan power in the region, Kurukshetra became independent only to become conquered by the Gupta Empire in the early 4th century CE. Under Gupta rule, Kurukshetra experienced a cultural and religious revival and became a center for Hinduism. After the fall of the Gupta, the Pushyabhuti dynasty ruled over Kurukshetra.
The place was at the height of its progress when King Harsha was the ruler. During this time Thanesar was visited by Hieun Tsang, the Chinese scholar. According to archaeological findings, Kurukshetra was made a learning center for people across the world by the Great King Ashoka.
Since 1947, Kurukshetra has become a popular spiritual center and has seen much infrastructure, development, and restoration of old structures. Kurukshetra along with Karnal and Kaithal districts is known as the ‘Rice Bowl of India’ and famous for Basmati Rice.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Chandigarh
Nearest Railhead : Chandigarh
Road Distance : Chandigarh 95 Km, Delhi 160 Km, Shimla 215 Km, Amritsar 320 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Jyotisar – The Birthplace of Gita: Situated about 12 km from Kurukshetra on Kurukshetra-Pehowa road, Jyotisar is an important religious place. It is believed that Mahabharata battle started from Jyotisar and Lord Krishna delivered the eternal message of Bhagwad Gita to Arjuna standing under a banyan tree at this place, before commencement of Mahabharata battle here. It is said that Adi Sankaracharya has identified the place during his sojourn to Himalaya in the 9th centenary. A central place of interest at Jyotisar is a captivating marble statue of Krishna on a beautiful chariot, delivering the immortal Gita to Arjuna canopied by a banyan tree. Millions of people come here to pay their obeisance to the celestial and eternal Gita. The Haryana, Tourism is running a light and sound show daily here in Hindi and English in the evening.
Brahma Sarovar : Brahma Sarovar, as the name suggests, is a water tank in Thanesar and associated with Lord Brahma, the creator of the Universe. It is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe from this land. It is said that the water inside the tank can help those taking a dip in it to attain salvation and considered equal to the merits of performing thousands of Asvamedha Yajnas. According to Local Legends this tank was first excavated by King Kuru the ancestor of Kauravs & Pandavas. Annual Gita Jyanti celebrations is held on banks of Bramsarover in November-December. Many devotees consider one prikarma of this tank equal to making one visit to all the tirth lying within the holy circuit of Kurukshetra 48 Kos. This is a seven days long festival to celebrate the birth of Bhagavad Geeta. Dance performances, dramas, competitions, social campaigns, exhibitions, sacred ceremonies, etc. are organized throughout the week.
Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb : This beautiful tomb and the madarasa (school) are associated with the Sufi saint Abdu'r-Rahim alias Aabd-ul-Razak, popularly known as Shaikh Chehli (also pronounced Chilli) believed to be the spiritual teacher of the Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shahjahan. Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb is a huge complex, which includes a madrasa, Mughal Gardens, two tombs and several other structures. A second tomb is dedicated to Sheikh Chilli's wife. Sheikh Chilli's tomb has an octagonal figure, constructed from buff sandstone and has a pearl shaped marble dome that sits on its top like a crown. His wife's tomb is made from red sandstone, has a marble dome and carved floral designs. Sir Alexandar Cunninghum, the first Director-General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI; during 1862–65) placed the tomb’s construction to around 1650 AD.
These are probably now the same popular Sheikh Chilli ke Lateefey/Kisse (loosely translated to ‘The Tall Tales of Sheikh Chilli’) for children.
Opening time : all days of the week from 9 am to 5 pm. Except Friday (The monument is closed only on Friday)
Entry Fee : for Indian citizens and SAARC along with BIMSTEC country Rs. 15 per person. For other foreigners, the cost of the ticket is Rs. 200.
Shakti Peeth – Bhadar Kali Mandir : The temple is dedicated to Devi Kali which is one of the nine forms of Devi. The temple is among 52 Shakti-peethas. Bhadrakali shakti peetha is also known as Savitri peeth, “Devi Peeth”, “Kalika Peeth” or “Aadi Peeth”. Origin of Shakti Peeths is an ancient story. Legends say that Goddess Sati married Lord Shiva against the will of her father, King Daksha. One day Daksha performed a Yagya where he invited all deities, but not his own daughter. Sati visited the ceremony unexpectedly, Daksha insulted her and her husband Goddess Sati could not bear the slander of her husband, and threw herself into the sacred yagya fire. Devi Bhagwati laid down her life and became a ‘Sati’. Clasping her holy dead body to his heart, the distraught Shiva started pacing all over the universe. This act of Shiva made the other Hindu Gods extremely worried. Watching all this, Lord Vishnu cut her dead body with his ‘Sudarshan chakra’ into 52 parts. In this way, the places where these parts fell emerged as sacred “Shaktipeeth”. All this was done for general good of one and all. Naina Devi, Jwala ji, Kamkhya ji etc are among the 52 holy Shaktipeethas. It is believed that right ankle of Maa Sati fell down at Shaktipeeth Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Mandir in Kurukshetra.
The legend has it that before marching out for the battle of Mahabharta, the Pandvas along with Lord Krishna offered worship here praying for their victory and donated the horses of their Chariots which made it an age-old tradition of offering horses made of silver, mud etc, depending upon one’s means, once the desire have been met. The Tonsure (head shaving) ceremony of Shri Krishna & Balram was also performed at this Shaktipeeth Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Mandir. Paying a visit to Sati and spending some time here will definitely give you some ridden with energy and positive vibes.
Temple Timing:
Summers: From 16 Mar Till 31 Oct: 5:50 AM till 8:00 PM,
Winters: 1 Nov Till 15 Mar: 6:15 AM till 7:30 PM,
On Saturdays and Navratras,
The temple remains open till 9: 00 PM,
Aarti : 5:15 AM (Morning) and at 7:15 PM (Evening).
Sri Krishna Museum : Krishna Musuem is located near Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre. Krishna, the embodiment of intellectual and spiritual glory has been a subject of adoration ever since the character got deified as a God. The museum has six galleries, three each in two blocks and is an ideal place for those interested in history and Indian mythology. It endeavours to present the multifaceted personality of Krishna as narrated in the episodes of Mahabharata and the Bhagvata Purana. He is the most popular character in Indian myths and legends. The museum houses a huge collection of exhibits like stone sculptures, bronze castings, leaf etchings, miniature paintings, clay pottery and terracotta artifacts. The exhibits here represents Krishna here as a philosopher, a supreme lover, godhead and a hero. On display are an extension of this museum is the Multimedia Mahabharata and Gita Gallery set up by Haryana Tourism
Timing : The museum is open on all days of the week from 10 am to 5 pm.
Entry Fee : The entry fee is Rs 30 per person, Rs 10 for kids below the age of 10 and Rs 10 for group of students from schools and colleges.
Raja Harsh ka Tila : The site spread over an area of 01 Km x 750 m. This site was excavated by Shri B.M.Pandey of Archaeological Survey of India. A few potsherds of Painted Grey Ware found from the lowest level of the site indicate the existence of a settlement before starting a continuous habitation at the site since Christian era. A few painted 'Grey Ware' shreds were found in the pre-Kushana levels. Associates with the post-Gupta period include polished red ware. Several brick structures discovered from the mound also belong to these two periods.
Bhishma Kund : The large water reservoir is dedicated to Bhishma, the forefather of the Pandavs and Kaurav or associated with the famous legend of Mahabharata. It is believed that Pitamaha Bhishma (father figure revered by both Kauravas and Pandavas) lay on the arrowed bed here, created by Arjuna; from here he saw the epic Battle of Mahabharata. The place now has a temple next to a water tank called the Banganga or the Bhishma Kund. There is a legend attached to this water tank. When Bhishma was thirsty and he requested for water, Arjun shot an arrow in the ground letting out a water spring to the quench Bhishma's thirst
Sannihit Sarovar : Sannihit Sarovar is a sacred water reservoir situated at a distance of 03 kms from Kurukshetra on Pehowa Road. The Sannihit Sarovar is believed to be the abode of Lord Vishnu.
Bathing in the waters of the tank on the day of Amavasya (night of complete darkness), or on the day of an eclipse is believed to bestow blessings equivalent to performing the ashvamedh yajna.
Sarovar premises also houses shrines of Dhruv Narayan, Sri Hanuman, Lord Vishnu, Dhruv Bhagat, Laxmi Narayan and Goddess Durga. Sikh Gurus too have visited this holy place from time to time. Large crowds of Hindus come here for Pinda Daan for the peace of their loved ones.
Anandpur Sahib
Anandpur Sahib is a city in Rupnagar district (Ropar), Located near the Sutlej River, the city is one of the most sacred places in Sikhism, being the place where the last two Sikh Gurus lived, Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This is the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699.The city is home to Kesgarh Sahib Gurdwara, one of the five Takhts in Sikhism.
The city is a pilgrimage site in Sikhism. It is the venue of the largest annual Sikh gathering and festivities during Hola Mohalla in the spring season.
Anandpur Sahib was founded in June 1665 by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. He previously lived in Kiratpur, He lived in the Guru ka Mahal in the old quarter of the town. A museum dedicated to, and named after him, displays a collection of oil paintings depicting the trials and tribulations of his times. In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was tortured and beheaded for refusing to convert to Islam under the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, a martyrdom that led Sikhs to rename the town to Anandpur and crown his son Gobind Das as per his orders (also known as Gobind Rai) as his successor and famous as Guru Gobind Singh. A shrine has also been raised in honour of Bhai Jaitha, who carried Guru Tegh Bahadur’s head from Delhi to Punjab, after the Guru’s execution.
The growing strength of Sikhs in Anandpur under the tenth Guru, after the execution of the ninth Guru, raised concerns of the neighboring Pahari rajas - the vassals of the Mughal Empire, along with the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. In 1693, Aurangzeb issued an order that banned large gatherings of Sikhs such as during the festival of Baisakhi. In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa panth and gathered a large armed militia. This triggered Aurangzeb and his vassal Hindu kings around Anandpur to blockade Anandpur. This led to several battles
Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, the town’s most sacred shrine, built on a hillock with the lower Shivaliks as a backdrop, is where Guru Gobind Singh formed the Khalsa Panth (Sikh Nation). It was in commemoration of the third centenary of the founding of the Panth, that the sprawling Khalsa Heritage Complex was envisaged and shaped into the state-of-the-art repository that we know it today. Called the Virasat-e-Khalsa. This museum sheds light on the vision of the Sikh Gurus, and provides an insight to Sikh history, culture and heritage. As a Sikh bastion, Anandpur Sahib was heavily fortified and today the fortifications include gurdwaras. Of these, Gurdwara Qila Anandgarh Sahib was where the Khalsa army was held under siege, while Gurdwara Holgarh Sahib hosts the town’s largest, most spectacular festival, the Hola Mohalla. This week-long jamboree, drawing visitors from around the world, includes mock battles, equestrian events, elephant processions, kirtan, poetry recitations and endless meals at community kitchens.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Chandigarh
Nearest Railhead : Ropar
Road Distance : Chandigarh 80 Km, Shimla 200 Km, Delhi 330 Km, Dharamshala 190 Km, Amritsar 170 Km, Manali 320 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Gurudwara Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib: Kesgarh Sahib is the principal Sikh temple in the town. It marks the birthplace of Khalsa and one of the five religious authorities (Five Takhts) of Sikhism. Standing on a hillock, the present complex was built between 1936 and 1944.
This is the historic site where, on the day of Baisakhi in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh initiated his followers into the order of the Khalsa (Sikh nation). Legend maintains that the Guru requested those present to volunteer their heads to him. When five brave men, now known as the Panj Piare (five beloved), came forward to lay down their lives, the Guru instead baptised them with amrit (holy water). The Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, re-built in the 20th century, contains the sanctum sanctorum where the belongings of Guru Gobind Singh – a khanda, a dagger and several spears – are preserved.
Anandpur Sahib Fort : Anandpur Sahib, the town where the Khalsa was founded, was established by Guru Teg Bahadur on the banks of River Sutlej. It was once fortified by five majestic forts. Of these, the main fort built in red brick by Guru Gobind Singh, is still standing. A subterranean well inside the fort, accessed by a sharp flight of stairs, is an intriguing feature of its architecture. It is here that the annual Hola Mohalla festival is held.
Guru Teg Bahadur Musuem : The Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Museum was built in 1983 in commemoration of the third centenary of the Guru’s martyrdom. Located near Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, the museum’s architecture reflects that of the gurdwara. A large collection of paintings, narrating the history of the Sikhs, including depictions from Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life, is displayed here.
Timings: 10am – 5pm (Tues-Sun) / Closed: Monday / Entry: Free
Khalsa Heritage Centre : The Virasat–e-Khalsa in Anandpur Sahib was begun in 1999 to commemorate the third centenary of the founding of the Khalsa Panth (Sikh nation) by Guru Gobind Singh. Spread across a generous 6,500 sq m, the recently opened Viraasat-e-Khalsa museum tells a memorable story of both Punjab and Sikhism, using hand-crafted artefacts and the latest technology. Designed by acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, this story-telling repository is the first of its scale in the world, and has been envisioned as the world’s largest cultural and historical museum dedicated to a single community. Conceived as two functionally integrated sets of buildings, the Western complex, forming the gateway for the town provides pedestrian access to the Eastern complex over a 165-metre bridge. A series of reflecting pools create an expansive water body between the two complexes with arcaded walkways and gardens on either side. Public facilities and a cafeteria are located at the base of the bridge.
Timings : 10am-5pm (Tues-Sun) / Closed: Monday / Entry: Free.
Gurdwara Sisganj : built by Ranjit Singh to mark the place where Guru Tegh Bahadur's severed head after his execution in Delhi, was cremated in 1675. Guru Gobind Singh had a platform and shrine built on the site of the cremation.
Gurudwara Bhora Sahib : A three-storey domed Gurdwara which was the residence of Guru Teg Bahadur. where the 9th Guru used to meditate and compose hymns. It now houses the Guru Granth Sahib.
Gurudwara Thara Sahib : A 5 square metres (54 sq ft) platform in the front of Damdama Sahib where Bhai Kripa Ram Dutt along with other 16 Kashmiri Pandits sought his help in 1675. They came to seek protection from Aurangzeb and requested Guru Teg Bahadur to save them from forcible conversions to Islam
Gurudwara Akal Bunga Sahib : This Gurdwara is opposite to Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib. It was built by a pujari named Man Singh in 1889. Here Guru Gobind Singh after the cremation of the "head of Guru Teg Bahadur" had delivered a sermon after the beheading of his father Guru Teg Bahadur in Delhi
Gurudwara Damdama Sahib : Close to Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib, it shares the compound with Anandpur Bhora Sahib and Thara Sahib, which is also called Guru ke Mahal. This Gurdwara remembers the residential quarters of Guru Tegh Bahadur. He used to welcome and counsel Sikh sangats who would visit him. Guru Gobind Singh was designated as the tenth guru at this place. The octagonal domed building here was built in 20th century
Gurudwara Manji Sahib / Gurudwara Dumalgarh Sahib : This Gurdwara is on the northern side of Takht Shri Keshgarh Sahib. Here, Guru Gobind Singh used to train his sons. This place was used as playground; wrestling and other competitions were held here.
Gurdwara Shaeedhi Bagh : This Gurdwara is located on the road between Takhat Shri Kesh Garh Sahib & Kila Anand Garh Sahib. In early days of eighteenth century this place was a big garden during skirmishes between Sikh Army and Bilaspur Army, many Sikh soldiers laid their lives here in this garden, hence this place is termed as Gurdwara Shaeedhi Bagh.
Gurdwara Mata Jit Kaur : Mata Jit Kaur, wife of Guru Gobind Singh had a vision "Divya-drishti" of the atrocities and cruelties on Sikhs and young sons. She was cremated near Quilla Holgarh Sahib. This place is now termed Gurdwara Mata Jit Kaur.
Gurdwara Guru Ka Mahal : It was the first building of Chak Nanaki, Anandpur Sahib. The foundation stone was laid here. Guru Gobind Singh, Mata Gujri, Mata Jit Kaur, Mata Sundar Kaur, Mata Sahib Kaur and four sons of the Guru had been living here: Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh were born here. Gurdwara Bhora Sahib, Gurdwara Manji Sahib and Gurdwara Damdama Sahib are part of Gurdwara Guru Ka Mahal Complex.
Excursion:
Kiratpur Sahib : Kiratpur Sahib was established in May 1626 by the 6th Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, who bought the land from Raja Tara Chand of Kehloor through his son, Baba Gurditta. The place is also associated with the memory of a Muslim saint, Pir Buddan Shah was gifted with a very long life (local legends say about 800 years).. Here the seventh and eighth Gurus were born and brought up
It is situated on the bank of the Sutlej about 10 km south of Anandpur, about 30 km north of Rupnagar and 70 km from Chandigarh.
Guru Hargobind settled in Kiratpur in 1635. Guru Sahib spent about 10 years of his life at Kiratpur Sahib. It remained the seat of the Sikh Gurus until Guru Tegh Bahadur founded a new village, Chak Nanaki, in 1665, about 8 kms further north of Kiratpur, the present Anandpur Sahib.
Guru Nanak Dev is said to have visited this place when it was little more than a wilderness. Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru spent the last few years of his life here. Both Guru Har Rai and Guru Harkrishan were also born at this place and they received the Gurgadi (Guruship) at this place.
Some popular hindi films shooted here like Veer-Zaara (2004). Zohra Sehgal, plays a character in this movie whose last wish is that her ashes should be immersed in Kiratpur.
Gurdwara Patalpuri Sahib: Gurdwara Patalpuri Sahib is situated at Kiratpur Sahib. It has been built on the banks of the river Sutlej and is the place where many Sikhs take the ashes of their dead to be immersed in the river here. Guru Hargobind Ji in 1644 as well as Guru Har Rai in 1661 were cremated here. The ashes of Guru Harkrishan Ji were brought from Delhi and immersed here in 1664.
Shri Naina Devi Ji Temple : The Temple of Shri Naina Devi Ji is situated on a hilltop(1219 m), base of which also has samadhi of bhagat Jatt Jeona Morh, in the Bilaspur District and 25 Km from Kiratpur Sahib. There is also a cable car facility that moves pilgrims from the base of the hill all the way to the top. The hills of Naina Devi overlook the Gobind Sagar lake. The lake was created by the Bhakra-Nangal Dam.
It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peeths in India; it is one of the highly venerated Shakti Temples in India. According to Hindu mythology, sati, consort of Lord Shiva, killed herself by jumping in the sacrificial fire when her father Daksha Prajapati insulted her husband. This enraged Shiva who started roaming the entire universe with the body of Sati in his arms. Lord Vishnu dismembered the dead body of Sati to calm down the anger of Shiva. Various body parts of Sati fell at fifty-one different places in India that later became sacred as Shakti Peeths. Shri Naina Devi Temple is also known as Mahishapeeth because of defeat of demon Mahishasur by the Goddess.
Special fair is organized during Chaitra, Shravan and Ashwin Navrati and are celebrated at the temple with great vigour, which attracts millions of visitors from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and other corners of the country.
Jalandhar
Jalandhar is a city in the Punjab State. Its name was rendered Jullundur during the British period. The city is named after Jalandhar, a demon king who was the son of the Ocean., mentioned in the Puranas and Mahabharta. According to another legend, Jalandhar was the capital of the kingdom of Lav, son of Rama. It was the capital of Trigarttas (people living in the "land between three rivers": Ravi, Beas and Sutlej) in the times of Mahabharata war.
The history of Jalandhar District comprises three periods — ancient, medieval and modern.
Ancient Period, The whole of Punjab and the area of present Jalandhar District was part of the Indus Valley Civilization. Harappa and Mohenjo-daro are the sites where remains of the Indus Valley Civilization have been found extensively. The archaeological explorations made during recent years have pushed the ancient times of Jalandhar District of Harappa period.
In 7th century, during the rule of King Harsha Vardhana a famous Chinese traveller by the name of Hiuen Tsang visited India, and during this period kingdom of Jalandhar was under Raja Utito.
According to the Chinese pilgrim Fa Hien, who travelled India between 399 and 411 C.E., there were large numbers of Buddhist Viharas in India. In Jalandhar District alone there were as many as 50 Vihars and Maths of Buddhism.
Medieval period of Jalandhar began during the period of Ala-ud-din Khilji (1296 – 1316). Jalandhar was conquered by the Ghaznavids during the reign of Ibrahim of Ghazni between 1058–89. The Mughal domination ended in 17th century, after the death of Aurangzeb.
Modern Period, The modern era of Jalandhar commenced from 1846 AD. Ranjit Singh annexed Jalandhar in 1811, and in 1846 the city of Jalandhar became the headquarters of the territory acquired by the British after the first Sikh War. The Partition of India in 1947 saw Jalandhar become part of the new dominion of India and become the part of Punjab state.
The city is located almost 375 km from Delhi, 142 km from Chandigarh and about 90 km from Amritsar.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Amritsar
Nearest Railhead : Jalandhar
Road Distance : Kapurthala 20 Km, Amritsar 90 Km, Chandigarh 150 Km, Shimla 270 Km, Delhi 375 Km, Dharamshala 170 Km, Manali 360 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
St Mary’s Cathedral Church : St Mary's Cathedral Church is an old Church which was constructed by Rev. Fr. John Macodnnel in 1947, in the memory of St. Patrick. The demolition of the old church was started on 15th February, 1987. The foundation stone for the new church was blessed by His Holiness Pope John Paul II in February, 1986 and laid by His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Symbhorian Keeprath Bishop of Jalandhar Diocese on 19th April, 1987. The roofing of the basement, the balcony and the main church were done on 19th September, 19th November and 19th December, 1987 respectively. The church was designed in such a way as to highlight the secular character of our motherland. The new church was blessed by His grace Archbishop Jose Sanchez, the special delegate of Pope John Paul II from Rome and inaugurated by His Grace Archbishop Agostino Cacciavillan, the Vatican Ambassador and the Apostolic pronounced to India on 29th October, 1989, the day of the National Festival of Light, Diwali.
Devi Talab Mandir : Devi Talab Mandir is located in the heart of Jalandhar City about 1km from the railway station. It is an ancient temple and one of the famous Jalandhar attractions. The old Devi talab has been renovated and in his centre, a new temple has been built. Recently a model of Amarnath Yatra has been built in the premises. An old temple of goddess Kali also stands by the side of the Devi Talab. The gilded Mandir is famous for the ‘Hariballabh Sangeet Sammelan’ held every year in December at its precincts for the past 125 years. Famous classical music exponents – both instrumental and vocal come together and perform at this gathering. In Devi Talab, there is a large masonry 200 year old tank sacred to Hindus.
Dakhni Sarai : Dakhni Sarai was built in the 17th century by Mughal nobleman Ali Mardan Khan. The large quadrangular setting typifies a rest house of the times, the outer walls of which enclose a half-domed mosque, a well, geometric gardens and rooms for travellers. A magnificent gateway, ornamented with tiles and fine red sandstone screens, welcomes visitors to the compound marked by circular bastions on all corners.
Mughal Bridge : To the east of the Dakhni Sarai, in Mallian Kalan village is one of the few remaining Mughal-era bridges. Built during Shah Jahan’s reign, it spans the Dhauliveni River, is made of Lakhauri bricks and has five supporting arches, the central one being the highest.
Phillaur Fort : Originally a serai (inn) builtby Shah Jahan on the Grand Trunk Road, the magnificent Phillaur fort was substantially reconstructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh to serve as the easternmost outpost of his empire. Designed by the Maharaja’s Italian and French generals, the fort’s architecture has a distinct European character. It has an extensive moat and its outer walls are inclined inwards to deflect cannon balls. Later, it became an artillery centre for the British Indian Army. Since 1981, it has been a training school for police – the oldest in India – and is today called the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Police Academy.
Sarai : Not far from Nakodar is Nur Mahal, a small town best known for the ruins of a beautiful medieval sarai built by Noor Jehan. Sacked on several occasions and effectively ruined by armies from within and outside Punjab, it wasn’t till the end of the 19th century that the town saw a turnaround when the British restored the sarai’s grandeur. Its exquisitely ornamented western gate stands like an imposing sentinel over the marketplace today.
Shiv Mandir : Shiv Mandir is located at Gur Mandi, near Imam Nasir Mausoleum and was built by the Nawab of Sultanpur Lodhi. Located near the medieval mausoleum of Imam Nasir and Jalandhar’s Jama Masjid, the temple structure is an interesting amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. It is a popular destination for devotees to flock to on Shivratri.
Tombs of Mohammad Momin and Haji Jamal at Nakodar : Nakodar is home to two 17th century architectural gems, the beautifully maintained Mughal-era tombs of court musician Mohammad Momin, a tanpura maestro, and his student Haji Jamal. The tomb of Mohammad Momin has striking pointed arches, carved screens, intricate glazed tiles and plaster walls with painted designs. Facing it is the tomb of Haji Jamal, set atop a square platform with two flights of steps on each side, and crowned by a bulbous dome, also ornamented with splendid tiles.
Pushpa Gujral Science City : The Pushpa Gujral Science City is an institution of fun and learning dedicated after the mother of late, I. K. Gujral, the 12th Prime Minister of India. Located midway Kapurthala and Jalandhar. Pushpa Gujral Science City is the biggest project of its kind in north India and it stretches over an area of 72 acres of land. Science City is being built with its aim of learning, fun & amusement out of Science for people of all ages & all walks of life. It will arouse creativity in young minds, help in building a scientific temper in the state.
Timings : 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Time Required : 3-4 hours
Entry Fee : INR 150 - INR 1050
Wonderland Theme Park : Wonderland Theme Park is an amusement water park with water games and water rides and is a prime attraction in Jalandhar. Wonderland Theme Park, spread over 11 acres, is located about 6 km from Jalandhar bus terminus and 8 km from the railway station on Nakodar Road. This park offers many thrilling rides. The water rides include bumper cars, flying jets, horror house, boating, kiddies’ boating, play house, flying dragon and a slide splash. Among the several attractions, the wave pool is probably the most popular.
There is an aqua dance floor, where visitors can dance to the tunes of the latest Punjabi songs. The dance floor is underneath a canopy, which has artificial clouds from where the water comes down like a rainfall. The Dry Park is open throughout the year, but the Water Park is closed during winters.
Timings – Opening & Closing:- Monday – Friday: 9.00 AM – 10.00 PM , Saturday: 9.00 AM – 10.00 PM , Sunday: 9.00 AM – 10.00 PM , Public Holidays: 9.00 AM – 10.00 PM
Rangla Punjab Haveli: Rangla Punjab Haveli in Jalandhar is a centre where the culture, traditional lifestyle and various art forms of Punjab are showcased. Ranging from the traditional dances of Bhangra and Gidda, to live puppet shows known as Kuthputli and even the showcasing of traditional Punjabi artefacts of phulkari and juttis, which you can take back home, this cultural museum and showhouse aims to guide you through all the glory of Punjabi culture and history.
Excursion:
Jang-e-Azadi Memorial Jalandhar (Kartarpur) : The Memorial is aimed at disseminating knowledge about the rich cultural heritage of the State in the minds of youngsters. The site, which falls on the Jalandhar-Amritsar national highway, was carefully selected by the State Government keeping in mind its easy accessibility to visitors and to add another tourist destination for those on way to the Golden Temple. Punjab Freedom Movement Memorial Foundation was formed by Government of Punjab for implementation of this prestigious project
Kapurthala
Kapurthala is a city in Punjab, founded in the 11th century by Rana Kapur of Jaisalmer, from whom the town derives its name, and was the capital of the Kapurthala State in pre-independence India, ruled by the Ahluwalia Sikh rulers. Kapurthala has been associated with warriors and kings. It is most intimately connected with Baba Jassa Singh, the founder of the Ahluwalia dynasty, a prominent leader of the Sikh Confederacy whose strength, piety and courage have acquired a legendary status in Punjab history. His nephew, Sardar Fateh Singh, fought alongside Maharaja Ranjit Singh while his great-grandson, Randhir Singh would prove his mettle during the First War of Independence in 1857. Randhir Singh’s grandson, Jagatjit Singh inherited the throne in 1877, ruled the state uninterrupted for 71 years, and is looked upon as the architect of modern Kapurthala. A brilliant, highly educated and widely travelled man, the Maharaja had an abiding interest in aesthetics and architecture. While his keen interest in development and reform, saw Kapurthala acquire a modern sewage and water system, a telephone exchange, an improved judiciary, a State Assembly and State Council, free and compulsory primary education, and agricultural co-operative credit societies, all within a period of twenty years at the turn of the 20th century. The City of Kapurthala has several buildings and places based on French and Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is also known as city of Palaces & Gardens. The Jagatjit Palace, Moorish Mosque and Panj Mandir are a major attraction for visitors to Kapurthala.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Amritsar
Nearest Railhead : Jalandhar
Road Distance : Amritsar 70 Km, Jalandhar 20 Km, Chandigarh 170 Km, Shimla 240 Km, Delhi 390 Km, Dharamshala 210 Km, Manali 345 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Sainik School (Jagatjit Palace) : The Sainik School, formerly known as Jagatjit Palace, is housed in what was formerly the palace of the erstwhile Maharajah of Kapurthala state, Maharajah Jagatjit Singh. The palace was designed in 1906 by a French architect Mr Monsieur M Manteaux, the palace is clearly inspired by Versailles and Fontainebleau, it is the most well known resident of the Palace of Versailles. The construction of this palace was commenced in 1900 and completed in 1908 in time for the new wife of the Maharajah Anita Delgado. Spread over 200 acres, the palace sits amidst a fabulous garden dotted with statues and fountains.The Jagatjit Palace is now inhabited by the Sainik School to train boys for the National Defense Academy which was established here in 1961.
Moorish Mosque : Kapurthala’s unique Moorish Mosque was designed by the same French architect who designed the Jagatjit Palace. a replica of the Grand Mosque of Marakesh, Morocco,
The mosque was built in 1930. Its construction was started in 1927 completed in 1930. Inspired by the Qutbia Mosque in Marakesh (Morocco), consecrated in the presence of the Nawab of Bahawalpur. The mosque is considered a National Monument by the Archaeological Survey of India,
Elysee Palace : The Elysee Palace was commissioned by Kanwar Bikrama Singh and completed in 1862. This building has now been converted into MGN School of Kapurthala.
Jagatjit Club: Jagatjit Club is an elegant building situated in the heart of the city based on the Greek roman style of architecture.It is located in the heart of the city. A symbol of the grandeur associated with the royal family of Kapurthala, The building has been used for a variety of purposes since it was constructed, it was used as a church in the early nineteenth century, as a cinema hall in the 1940s and now houses a local club which includes a well built badminton court, a card room and a dining hall.
Shalimar Gardens: Shalimar Gardens are situated in roughly the centre of the city and provide an escape from the hustle-bustle of the city. It is a beautifully well-laid compact garden with swimming pool and mausoleums of erstwhile rulers of Kapurthala . The Shahi Samadhs (The Royal Cenotaphs) in the Shalimar Gardens emphasize the traditions of its ruling Dynasty. Marble obelisks inside the red sandstone Chambers, are Memorials to the former Rulers and their families. Nearby, a grand structure built in 1880 and built on a marble plinth, houses the Samadhs of Maharajas Kharak Singh, Jagatjit Singh and Paramjit Singh.
A Basant Panchami Mela is organized every year in Baradari, inside the Shalimar Gardens. It is also a building of historic relevance.
Panch Mandir (Five Temples): Panch Mandir of Kapurthala is a place of reverence for all faiths. Panj Mandir (five temples) is a historic 18th century temple complex located in the very midst of Kapurthala.. Built during the reign of Sardar Fateh Singh, an extraordinary feature of this temple is that from the entry door, one can view all the five idols and pay obeisance to all.
The State Gurdwara: The striking red sandstone building(now painted white) of the state Gurudwara was consecrated in 1915. Built in the Indo- Saracenic style, it has vast expanses of marble haloed by the feet of the hundreds of devotees. It is situated in the center of the city on the Sultanpur road. Recently, it is being renovated. There is a big park behind the Gurudwara building.
Gurudwara Ber Sahib : The Gurdwara Ber Sahib is situated at Sultanpur Lodhi and is a popular religious site for Sikhs. This historic site is of great importance to Sikhism. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji - the first Sikh guru – spent 14 years 9 months 13 days of his life . The place derives its name from a Ber tree (Zizyphus Jujuba) said to be planted by Guru Nanak himself and under which he first uttered the Mool Mantra or the "Sacred Word or Revelation" of Sikhism. A fair is organised in the month of November every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of first sikh guru shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Kanjli Wetlands: Kanjli Wetland, a man made wetland situated 5 km away from Kapurthala on river Kali Bein, at the outskirts of the city and is a popular picnic spot . the Kanjli Wetland’s water-spread area boasts 92 species of birds besides various kinds of mammals, amphibians and fish and It is a common site for bird watching and boating. Apart from its hydro-ecological importance, the wetland also draws sacred value from the sanctity accorded to the Bein rivulet – in which Guru Nanak Dev attained enlightenment. This is a paradise for wildlife photographers and conservationists. Which created in 1870 by constructing the headworks across the perennial Bien River, a tributary of the Beas River to provide irrigation facilities to the hinterland. Its main goal was to provide irrigation to farmers in the region. Kanjli Wetlands is included as a part of the Ramsar Convention, which is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetland
Pushpa Gujral Science City : The Pushpa Gujral Science City is an institution of fun and learning dedicated after the mother of late, I. K. Gujral, the 12th Prime Minister of India. Located midway Kapurthala and Jalandhar. Pushpa Gujral Science City is the biggest project of its kind in north India and it stretches over an area of 72 acres of land. Science City is being built with its aim of learning, fun & amusement out of Science for people of all ages & all walks of life. It will arouse creativity in young minds, help in building a scientific temper in the state.
Timings : 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Time Required : 3-4 hours
Entry Fee : INR 150 - INR 1050
Patiala
Patiala is Punjab’s most well-known princely state. The fifth largest city in Punjab, It is located around the Qila Mubarak (the 'Fortunate Castle') constructed by the Sidhu Jat chieftain Ala Singh, who founded the royal dynasty of Patiala State in 1763, and after whom the city is named.In popular culture, the city remains famous for its traditional Patiala shahi turban (a type of headgear), paranda (a tasselled tag for braiding hair), Patiala salwar (a type of female trousers), jutti (a type of footwear) and Patiala peg (a measure of liquor). it is located 65 km away from Chandigarh.
Patiala was a part of Sirhind during the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. Following the ascension of Aurangzeb as Emperor, Wazir Khan, the governor of Sirhind, bricked two of Guru Gobind Singh’s young sons alive. This caused widespread anger and disenchantment, leading to many battles between the Sikh and Mughal armies. Sirhind was destroyed, and Baba Ala Singh carved out an independent principality. He laid the foundation of the Qila Mubarak in 1763, around which the town of Patiala, as we know it now, flourished. One of his descendants, Maharaja Narinder Singh gave the city some of its finest buildings, including the Moti Bagh Palace and the Sheesh Mahal. Patiala’s most flamboyant ruler, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, said to be the first Indian to own an aeroplane, was an enthusiastic patron of sports, while his son, Yadavindra Singh, played an important role as Chancellor of the Chamber of Princes, agreeing as he did, along with 22 other rulers to accede to the Indian Union.
After the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 in which the Marathas were defeated by the Afghans, the writ of the Afghans prevailed throughout Punjab. In 1808, the Raja of Patiala entered into a treaty with the British against Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Lahore in 1808, The rulers of Patiala such as Karam Singh, Narinder Singh, Mahendra Singh, Rajinder Singh, Bhupinder Singh, and Yadvindra Singh were treated with respect and dignity by the British.
It was Maharaja Bhupinder Singh (1900-1930) who gave the Patiala state a prominent place on the political map of India and, in the field of international sports.
His son Yadvindra Singh was among those Indian princes who, readily came forward to sign the Instrument of Accession, thus facilitating the process of national integration.
The first settlers of Patiala were the Hindus of Sirhind. The royal house is now headed by Captain Amarinder Singh who is also the current Chief Minister of Punjab. The royals are considered cultural and political icons in east Punjab.
General Information
Nearest Airport : Chandigarh
Nearest Railhead : Chandigarh
Road Distance : Chandigarh 65 Km, Jalandhar 160 Km, Kapurthala 180 Km, Shimla 180 Km, Delhi 260 Km, Dharamshala 285 Km, Amritsar 240 Km, Manali 45 Km,
Best time to visit : Round the year
Sites to Visit:
Qila Mubarak : Qila Mubarak that stands on a 10-acre ground in the heart of the city, contains the main palace, the guesthouse and the durbar hall. It was the principal residence of the Patiala royals until the construction of Old Moti Bagh Palace. The castle itself is a great example of Mughal and Rajasthani styles of architecture and each of its 10 courtyards are unique in size and character. the bazaar borders the streets that run around the Qila and stalls selling ornaments, juttis and parandas can be found.
The complex has ten courtyards along the north–south axis. Each courtyard is unique in size and character, some being broad, others very small and others mere slits in the fabric of the building.
Qila Mubarak was built by Baba Ala Singh in 1763, founder of the Patiala royal house. Originally a kachigarhi (mud structure), the fort was later refurbished using baked bricks. The fort complex is essentially divided into two parts, an outer public space and the Qila Androon (interior fort) which served as the private palace of the royal family. Every year it's decorated beautifully for the Heritage Festival.
Sheesh Mahal : The Sheesh Mahal is another tourist attraction in Patiala. Built behind the main Moti Bagh Palace to serve as a pleasure complex. Literally meaning the palace of mirrors, it is a small part of the Old Moti Bagh Palace that was built in the 19th century by the Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845-1862). Maharaja Narinder Singh was known to be a great patron of art and literature. He engaged great painters from Kangra and Rajasthan to paint the walls of the Sheesh Mahal. The Lakshman Jhula, a bridge that runs across the lake is the highlight of the Mahal. The Medal Gallery set up in the Sheesh Mahal has on display the largest number of medals and decorations in the world, numbering 3,200. These were collected by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, the ruling King of the princely state of Patiala from 1900-1938 from all over the world. His illustrious son Maharaja Yadvindra Singh gifted this priceless collection to the Punjab Government Museum. The collection contains medals from England, Russia, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, Thailand, Japan, Finland, China, and a host of other countries of Asia and Africa.
The Sheesh Mahal now houses a museum, an art gallery, the famed medal gallery and also the North Zone Cultural Centre.
Baradari Gardens: The Baradari gardens surround the Baradari palace located in the north of old Patiala city, just outside Sheranwala Gate. It was built in a mughal style in 1876 by Rajinder singh. The gardens, laid under Maharaja Rajindera Singh were planted extensively rare trees and shrubs, dotted with impressive Colonial buildings and a marble statue of Maharaja Rajindera Singh and the Fern House. The 19th century Fern House, a replica of the one in Calcutta forms a unique attraction along with quaint Rink Hall.
The name Baradari is divided into two parts. The word Bara stands for twelve and ‘Dar’ stands for gates. Earlier this garden was having 12 Gates, now with the passage of time many of the twelve gates have closed down. It was built as a royal residence with a cricket stadium, a skating rink and a small palace set in its heart named Rajindera Kothi. The gardens include a museum building with collections of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. After extensive restoration it opened as a heritage hotel run by Neemrana Hotels group in 2009. It is Punjab's first heritage hotel
National Institute of Sports: Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (popular as National Institute of Sports) is Asia’s biggest Sports Institute, situated in Patiala city and founded in 1961. The institute was renamed as Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in January 1973. It is the academic wing of the SAI (Sports Authority of India), which was established by the Govt. of India. It has produced high-quality coaches and contributed their assistance in the preparation of the national team for different international games. The institute is well-equipped with all the modern facilities including Library, Museum, Classrooms, Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Indoor Halls, Cycling Velodrome, Squash Courts, Conditioning Unit, Hockey Fields, Athletic Track and Outdoor courts. Sauna Bath, Steam Bath and Hydrotherapy is also available for the recovery of players.
Today, several sport memorabilia, like a hass (doughnut shaped exercise disc), weighing 95 kg, used by the Great Gama for squats, Major Dhyan Chand's gold medal, from 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, and PT Usha 1986 Seoul Asiad shoes, are housed at the National Institute of Sports Museum. NIS is housed in the Old Moti Bagh palace of the erstwhile royal family of Patiala, which was purchased by the government of India after Indian Independence.
Kali Devi Mandir : The Kali Devi Mandir at Patiala is a Hindu temple dedicated to Maa Kaali was built by the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh, in 1936. He brought the 06feet statue of Divine Mother Kali and Paawan Jyoti from Bengal to Patiala. It is situated opposite the Baradari Garden. The temple, made entirely in white marble, in itself is a work of art. It has been declared a national monument.
Bahadurgarh Fort: The Bahadurgarh Fort is 6 kilometres away from Patiala city. It is situated on the Patiala-Chandigarh road. The fort was constructed by mughal Nawab Saif Khan in 1658 A.D. . It is said that the fort was renamed later on to commemorate the stay of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, who stayed here for three months and nine days before leaving for Delhi where he was executed by Aurangzeb in 1675. Thus, it is called the Bahadurgarh Fort now. With time it was renovated and a gurdwara was built by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala in 1837. The construction of the entire fort was completed in eight years. It covers an area of 2 km2. The fort is enclosed within two rounded walls and a moat. The circumference of the fort is slightly over two kilometers. Since 1989, the grounds of the fort serve as the Punjab Police Commando Training School. People visit this Gurudwara on the occasion of the festival of Baisakhi on 13 April, every year.
Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib: This is one of the most famous places to visit in Patiala. According to local tradition, a Jhivar of Lehal, waited upon ninth Guru of Sikhs Guru Tegh Bahadur during his sojourn at Saifabad now known Bahadurgarh. He requested that the Guru might be pleased to visit and bless his village so that its people could be rid of a severe and mysterious sickness which had been their bane for a long time. The Guru visited Lehal in 1672 and stayed under a banyan tree by the side of a pond and the sickness in the village subsided. The site where Guru Tegh Bahadur had sat came to be known as Dukh Nivaran, literally meaning eradicator of suffering. The pond of Gurdwara is supposed to be very pious and to be the cure of various people of the area from a disease. And thus it got its name ‘Dukhniwaran’, that is, the eliminator of suffering.
Gurdwara Moti Bagh: Gurudwara Moti Baag is situated in the outerskirts of the Patiala City. According to Sikh tradition, Guru Tegh Bahadur, during his journey to Delhi where he was executed by Aurangzeb in 1675, stayed here for a while, in 1675. Saint Saif Ali Khan was a great follower of Guru, to fulfil his wish Guru came to his Place Saifabad now known Bahadurgarh. The holly Guru stayed here for 3 Months. Saif Ali Khan Served the Guru with great devotion. In daytime Guru Teg Bahadur used to meditate on the Place inside the Qila or Fort and at the night time, he would come here. It was then jungle and no memorial was raised until Maharaja Narinder Singh of Patiala (1823-62), who had already built the Motibagh Palace, constructed this Gurdwara in 1852.
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