Tourism of Punjab - 1 | Punjab State (PPSC) PSC: Preparation - PPSC PCS (Punjab) PDF Download

Introduction

The tourism industry has become increasingly important in Punjab. The state government has introduced various incentives to promote tourism, including tax breaks, a single window clearance facility, and loan provisions for tourism-related projects. To further boost tourism, the Government of Punjab established the Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board, led by the Chief Minister.

The Punjab tourism department has implemented several initiatives to encourage the growth and promotion of tourism in the state. Major cities such as Amritsar, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Ropar, Bathinda, Pathankot, Muktsar, Hoshiarpur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Patiala, and Kapurthala have been developed as prime tourist destinations. Additionally, Punjab tourism is actively working to promote the region's traditional handicrafts, handlooms, and local cuisines.

Renowned Tourist Attractions in Punjab

Amritsar

Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple):

• Location: Central Amritsar, Punjab, India.
• Significance: Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple or Shri Darbar Sahib, is a revered Sikh Gurdwara situated on a rectangular platform in the middle of the Amrit Sarovar, a sacred pool. The name "Amritsar" is derived from this pool, meaning "Pool of Nectar."
• Historical Background: The Gurdwara was designed by Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, who also installed the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, inside it. The Gurdwara was renovated in 1764 by Jassa Singh.
• Architectural Features: The architecture of Harmandir Sahib is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles. The Gurdwara has a two-storey marble structure, with the upper floor gold-plated and topped with an iconic golden dome, shaped like an inverted lotus.
• Notable Enhancements: In 1830, Maharaja Ranjit Singh covered the upper floors of the Gurdwara with 750 kg of gold, enhancing its grandeur.
• Access and Daily Activities: Harmandir Sahib is accessible via the Guru’s Bridge. The temple is famous for offering free meals, known as langar, to more than 10,000 people daily.

Durgiana Mandir:

• Location: Amritsar, Punjab, India.
• Construction: Built in 1921.
• Architectural Style: The temple's design resembles that of the Golden Temple, featuring a central dome and canopies, similar to a Sikh temple.
• Dedication: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, also known as the Laksmi Narayan Temple.
• Inauguration: The temple was inaugurated by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya.
• Location Details: Durgiana Mandir is situated in the middle of a small lake called Durgiana.

Ram Tirth:

• Location: Approximately 11 km west of Amritsar, on Chogawan road.
• Historical Significance: Ram Tirth is believed to have been constructed during the ancient period of the Ramayana.
• Mythological Importance: The site is associated with Rishi Balmiki, who is said to have dwelled here. It is believed that Sita gave birth to her sons, Luv and Kush, at this location.
• Annual Fair:. four-day fair is held at Ram Tirth on the full moon night in November, attracting visitors and pilgrims.

Jallianwala Bagh:

• Location: Situated in the heart of Amritsar’s old town, Punjab, India.
• Historical Event: Jallianwala Bagh is infamous for the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, which occurred on April 13, 1919. British Army commander General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on a gathering of Baisakhi pilgrims and non-violent protesters, resulting in 379 deaths and 1200 injuries.
• Significance: The massacre is regarded as one of the cruelest acts of violence in the history of the Indian freedom movement.
• Memorial Features: The park now includes memorial monuments, galleries, and a sound and light display, making it an important tourist attraction.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum:

• The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, located at Company Bagh in Amritsar, is dedicated to the legendary ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh, known as the "Lion of Punjab." The museum showcases the bravery and chivalry of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, along with the various weapons he used in his battles against enemies. A highlight of the museum is the light and sound show, which immerses visitors in the atmosphere of historical war scenarios.

Goindwal Sahib:

• Goindwal Sahib is a town situated 30 km southeast of Amritsar and holds great significance as a Sikh religious pilgrimage site. Guru Sri Amar Das constructed a Baoli, or step-well, with 84 steps in this town. It is believed that bathing in this well while reciting the Japji Sahib grants Moksha or Mukti. The site attracts both Sikhs and Hindus, with its entrance adorned by murals depicting important scenes from Sikh history. A large community kitchen, or langar, provides food to the numerous visitors each day.

Khadur Sahib:

• Located 52 km from Amritsar, near Goindwal, Khadur Sahib is a revered place where Guru Angad Ji, the second Sikh Guru, spread God's message for many years. Guru Angad Ji transformed the small village of Khadur into Khadur Sahib. In honor of Guru Amar Das Ji, a magnificent Gurdwara Khadi Sahib, or Khadur Sahib, has been built in this sacred place.

Baba Bakala:

• Baba Bakala is a small town in Amritsar with historical significance and is an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs. It is closely associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th Sikh Guru. The historical Gurdwara in Baba Bakala, located 45 km from Amritsar, is dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur and is also linked to Baba Makhan Shah Labana and Mata Ganga.

Thara Sahib:

• Thara Sahib is located to the north of Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, situated between Gurdwara Jyoti Sarup Sahib and Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib. The term "Thara" refers to a raised masonry platform, and this site is revered as the Shrine of Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the ninth leader of the Sikh religion. It is believed that Guru Teg Bahadur sat and prayed at this spot after being denied entry into Harmandir Sahib by the Mahants.

Barnala

Gurdwara Arisar Sahib:

• Gurdwara Arisar Sahib is situated on the Mansa-Barnala road, close to Dhaula village, approximately 14 km from Barnala city. This gurdwara, constructed from white stone, is linked to the story of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s horse. In addition to serving langar (community meals), the gurdwara also offers accommodation facilities.

Qila Mubarak:

• Qila Mubarak is a historical fort located in Bathinda, Punjab, India. Its origins trace back to AD 90-110, and it is believed that Razia Sultan, the first woman to rule from the Delhi throne, was imprisoned here after her defeat. The fort’s bricks date back to the Kushana period during the reign of Emperor Kanishka. Standing about 39 meters high, Qila Mubarak features 38 burjas (watchtowers) and houses a gurdwara built in memory of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Gurdwara Shri Damdama Sahib:

• Gurdwara Shri Damdama Sahib is located in Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, India. It is one of the five Takhts, or seats of authority in Sikhism. This gurdwara holds historical significance as the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, along with Bhai Manni Singh, compiled the complete version of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib in 1705.

Bhagwati Mandir:

• Bhagwati Mandir is situated in Maisar Khanna, a village in Bathinda city, Punjab, India. The temple has a history dating back to the 17th century. The villagers of Maisar Khanna were devoted followers of the Jawalamukhi temple located in Kangra. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwati, and its followers have strong ties to the traditions of the Jawalamukhi temple.

Government Museum and Art Gallery:

• The Government Museum and Art Gallery is located in Chandigarh, India. Inaugurated on May 6, 1968, the museum was designed by the renowned French architect Le Corbusier. The museum comprises several wings, with the art gallery being particularly attractive. It boasts a rich collection of Gandhara sculptures, as well as Rajasthani and Pahari miniature paintings.

Chandi Mandir:

• Chandi Mandir is a temple dedicated to Chandi Mata, the Goddess of Power, located near Chandigarh, India. Nestled amid the picturesque Shiwalik hills, the temple features statues of various deities, including Chandi Mata, Radha-Krishna, Hanumanji, and Lord Rama. Special prayers and decorations are arranged during the Navratri festival to celebrate the goddess.

Rock Garden:

• The Rock Garden, also known as Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, is situated in Chandigarh, India. Established by Nek Chand, a government official, in his spare time in 1957, the garden now spans an area of 40 acres. It is renowned for its unique sculptures made from recycled materials, primarily industrial and household waste, as well as discarded items. The garden showcases Nek Chand’s creative vision and dedication to repurposing waste into art.

Sukhna Lake:

• Sukhna Lake, located in Chandigarh, is a man-made reservoir at the foothills of the Shiwalik range in the Himalayas. It was formed in 1958 by damming the Sukhna choe, a seasonal stream originating from the Shiwalik hills. The creation of the lake was the vision of Le Corbusier, the city’s architect, and Chief Engineer PL Verma.
• Over the years, Sukhna Lake has become a vital sanctuary for various migratory birds, including the Siberian duck, storks, and cranes, especially during the winter months. The lake is also a popular venue for numerous festive celebrations in Chandigarh. Recognizing its ecological importance, the Government of India has declared Sukhna Lake a protected national wetland.

Faridkot

Faridkot Fort:

• The fort is situated 30 km south of the current town of Faridkot along NH-15. It was named Faridkot in honor of the great Sufi Saint Baba Farid, who visited the area, inspiring the rulers to change its name from the earlier Mokulhar. The fort is constructed entirely of Nanakshahi bricks and lime mortar. Raja Hamir Singh reconstructed the fort in 1775.

Features of the Fort:

• Sheesh Mahal: The fort is also known as Sheesh Mahal due to its remarkable hall of mirrors and intricate wall paintings.
• Architectural Style: The halls of mirrors, originally the prayer rooms of the ruling family, were inspired by Rajasthani style.

Historical Significance:

• The fort’s construction and renovation reflect the rich history and architectural heritage of the region.
• It stands as a testament to the influence of Sufi saints in the region, as seen in the renaming of the town.

Gurdwara Tilla (Chilla) Baba Farid:

• Location: Near Qila Mubarak in Faridkot.
• Historical Significance: Baba Farid, a renowned Sufi Saint, stayed at this location for 40 days before continuing his journey to Pakpattan.

Daily Activities:

• Shabad Kirtan: Religious hymns are recited daily.
• Langar:. communal meal is served every day to visitors.

Aam Khas Bagh:

• Location: Preet Nagar, Fatehgarh Sahib.
• Historical Background: Aam Khas Bagh was originally built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan along the military road connecting Delhi and Lahore. It was known for its innovative cooling system called Sarad Khana.

Nearby Monuments: The complex is close to several other historical sites, including:

• Sheesh Mahal: Part of the Daulat-Khana-e-Khas.
• Hamam: An ancient bathing area.
• Tank:. water tank with unique heating methods.

Fountains: The palace compound featured fountains that were supplied with water from a nearby well, using underground conduits.

Garden and Nursery:. beautiful garden and nursery are maintained within the complex.

Shaheedi Jor Mela: During this annual event, a light and sound program depicting the history of Sirhind and the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons is presented at night in Aam Khas Bagh.

Sanghol Archaeological Museum:

• Location: Sanghol village, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. The village is also known as Uchha Pind by the locals. It is situated 40 km west of Chandigarh along the Chandigarh-Ludhiana Road, and is 16 km away from Sirhind railway junction.
• Historical Significance: The museum displays a collection of antiques from various historical periods, including the Harappan, Kushan, and Mauryan periods.
• Building of Sanghol Archaeological Museum: The museum building is designed to showcase the rich archaeological heritage of the region, with a focus on the artifacts discovered in and around Sanghol.

Fatehgarh Sahib Gurdwara:

The Fatehgarh Sahib Gurdwara is situated in the Fatehgarh Sahib district and was established to honor the martyrdom of the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. In 1704, these young martyrs were bricked alive by Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor of Sirhind. The main complex of Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib includes several Gurdwaras, such as:

• Gurdwara Bhora Sahib
• Gurdwara Burj Mata Gujri
• Gurdwara Shahid Ganj

Additionally, there is a large sacred pool, known as a sarovar, located within the complex.

Firozpur

Jain Mandir:

• The Jain Mandir, dedicated to Parsavanath the 23rd Tirthankara, is a stunning three-storey temple located in Zira, Firozpur. This temple attracts numerous visitors, particularly due to its remarkable feature: a 1200-year-old brass idol of Parsavanath. The walls of the temple are adorned with paintings that depict the life of this Jain Tirthankara, providing insight into his experiences and teachings.

Anglo Sikh War Memorial:

• The Anglo Sikh War Memorial, located in Firozpur, was built by the Government of Punjab to honor the brave fighters of Punjab who resisted British troops in various battles, including Mudki, Ferozeshah, Sabhraon, and Chellianwala. This three-storey building is positioned along the banks of the Rajasthan Canal and the Sirhind feeder. Inside the memorial, visitors can find displays of weapons and oil paintings depicting scenes from these historical battles, preserving the memory of the courageous efforts made by the fighters.

Fazilka

Asafwala War Memorial:

• The Asafwala War Memorial, situated 7 km from Fazilka town on National Highway No. 10 (now 7), honors the martyrs of the 1971 war between India and Pakistan. This memorial serves as a historical site to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.

Gurdaspur

Gurdwara Shri Chola Sahib:

• Gurdwara Shri Chola Sahib is located in the town of Dera Baba Nanak within the Gurdaspur district of Punjab, along the left bank of the Ravi River. This sacred site is significant because Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the last 12 years of his life here. The gurdwara houses an original chola, or robe, believed to have been worn by Guru Ji during his pilgrimage to the holy sites of Mecca and Medina.

Mahakaleshwar Temple:

• The Mahakaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient place of worship located in the town of Kalanaur. What makes this temple unique is its Shivalinga, which is positioned horizontally—a rare feature as it is the only temple in India where the Shivalinga is placed in this manner.

Gurdwara Achal Sahib:

• Situated about 7-8 km from Batala in the Gurdaspur district, Gurdwara Achal Sahib is considered a holy shrine. According to history, Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited this site with his disciples during the Shivratri festival. At that time, many Siddh-Yogis resided here, and Guru Nanak Dev Ji engaged in discussions with them, demonstrating his divine power. He is believed to have planted a tree at this location.

Hoshiarpur

Archaeological Museum:

• The Archaeological Museum in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, is located approximately 30 km northwest of Hoshiarpur city. Inaugurated on November 7, 1971, by SGS Pathak, the former Vice-President of India, the museum's main collection features sculptures from the Dholbaha area, known for its archaeological significance. Dholbaha is believed to be one of the earliest inhabited regions in the world, with evidence of human activity dating back to prehistoric times. The museum houses various artefacts such as stone tools, axes, sculptures, and fossils discovered in Dholbaha, showcasing the area's rich history.

Jalandhar

Shiv Mandir:

• Shiv Mandir, established during the Lodhi era, is located in the bustling market of Gur Mandi, Jalandhar. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, featuring a chief gate designed in the style of a mosque, while the rest of the temple is built in the Hindu architectural style. This blend of architectural styles adds to the temple's unique charm and historical significance.

Devis Talab Mandir:

• Location and History: Devis Talab Mandir is situated in the Jalandhar district of Punjab. This ancient temple is believed to be over 200 years old. The temple features a grand pyramidal Shikhara and is covered with gold plates. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, dedicated to the goddess Tripurmalini. The temple complex includes a sacred water pond.
• Deity and Significance: The goddess worshipped here is Tripurmalini, and the temple also houses a shrine for Lord Shiva, known as Bhishan Bhairav. The temple is renowned for the annual Hariballabh Sangeet Sammelan, a major event in Indian classical music held every December for the past 125 years.

Sodal Temple:

• Location and Beliefs: Sodal Temple, located in Jalandhar district, is dedicated to the child incarnation of Baba Sodal, who is believed to possess supernatural powers. It is said that he grants all wishes, especially those made by children.
• Festivals: The temple celebrates the festival of Anant Chaturdashi on the full moon of September, which is marked by a large fair.

Serai Nurmahal or Mughal Serai:

• Historical Background: Serai Nurmahal, also known as Mughal Serai, is located in the ancient town of Kotkahlur near Jalandhar. It was built on the orders of Noor Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in AD 1618. The construction was supervised by Zakariya Khan, the then Governor of the Doab.
• Architectural Significance: The Serai is a notable example of oriental architecture and is the only known monument in Jalandhar. It is distinguished by its historical significance and architectural features. The monument is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Pushpa Gujral Science City:

• Overview: Pushpa Gujral Science City is spread over 72 acres on the Jalandhar-Kapurthala Road in Punjab. The science city covers a wide range of subjects, including physical, applied, and natural sciences, engineering, technology, agriculture, health sciences, energy, and human evolution.
• Exhibits and Attractions: Visitors can explore topics such as ecosystems, space, nuclear science, information technology, robotics, and biotechnology. The science city offers various packages and boating facilities for visitors.

Kapurthala

Gurdwara Ber Sahib:

• Location and Significance: Gurdwara Ber Sahib is located in Sultanpur Lodhi, in the Kapurthala district of Punjab. This site is significant because Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, spent 14 years, 9 months, and 13 days in this area. He used to bathe in the Bein River, which flows through this district.
• Guru Nanak's Experience: One day, while bathing in the Bein River, Guru Nanak disappeared for three days. After this period, he returned to the same place where Gurdwara Shri Sant Ghat Sahib is now located. This event is an important part of Sikh history and adds to the spiritual significance of the area.
• After his return, he dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev Ji planted a Ber tree at this location, which has since grown into a large tree. This site eventually became known as Gurdwara Ber Sahib.

Panch Mandir:

• Panch Mandir, a historic temple complex in Kapurthala, Punjab, was founded by Sardar Fateh Singh Ahluwalia, the founder of the Kapurthala state. The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, featuring a central dome surrounded by smaller temples dedicated to various deities. A replica of this temple was once displayed in the pre-partition Punjab Museum in Lahore. Archaeologists study Panch Mandir for its rich architectural significance and cultural value.

Moorish Mosque:

• The Moorish Mosque in Kapurthala, commissioned by Maharaja Jagjit Singh Bahadur and completed in 1930, stands as a symbol of religious tolerance during the Maharaja’s reign. The mosque, inspired by a French mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco, features beautiful paintings by students of the Mayo School of Arts in Lahore and is set within a picturesque garden. Overview of Moorish Mosque

Shalimar Gardens:

• Shalimar Gardens, located in the heart of Kapurthala, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The garden features cenotaphs of the Royal family of Kapurthala, crafted from marble and red stone. With its blend of French and Indo-Saracenic architecture, this stunning garden is a must-visit destination in Kapurthala.