In 1947, Partition split the province of Punjab up, giving a portion to India and a portion to the newly created Pakistan. It was a traumatic, violent episode in the region’s history, but today, India’s Punjab is a joyful, inviting place. History and religion hold hands everywhere you go, from the Dalai Lama’s home in Dharamasala, to the Raj-remnant Shimla and mystical Rishikesh. Punjab state itself is the homeland for India’s wonderfully welcoming Sikh community. It’s dotted with gleaming temples, with the 16th century Golden Temple in Amritsar its mind-blowing centerpiece.
Famous for the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab also deserves a high five for its Bhangra, festivals, food and fantastically friendly welcome.
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In its inner sanctum, priests and musicians chant from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book, while elsewhere in Punjab, frequent festivals bounce to a soundtrack of Bhangra beats. Butter chicken is a famous foodie speciality, as are syrupy gulab jamuns. It’s a heady mix. In fact, forget just sightseeing – a visit to Punjab is about immersing the senses and opening the mind to magical, memorable experiences.
Discover more in our Punjab travel guide.