Punjab is the state of the Sikhs. In the streets, you will see many turbands and bearded men in traditional dress. Punjab, and Amritsar in special, has the only open border crossing between India and Pakistan ( Lahore ). Lahore used to be the capital of Punjab until it was allocated to Pakistan . For many travellers, Punjab and Haryana are the states through which to pass when they're leaving Delhi behind and continuing their way to the Himalayan states. The capital city of Chandigarh boasts of several beautiful and well-maintained gardens that are a treat to the eyes. It also acts as a base for further excursions in North India . The other important tourist center is Amritsar that nestles the Golden temple, a holiest pilgrimage for Sikhs. Ludhiana is famous for hosiery and woolen goods that are also exported all over the world. Patiala is famous for its healthy food and loving people. One can also buy wonderful parandaas (hair decoratives), exciting Patiala peg (turban) and jootis (sandals).

The typical Punjabi is an extrovert, a sociable fellow who likes to eat well, dress well. Even if he's in a tight spot he would like to twirl his moustache and say "Chardi kala" ("on the up and up") to those who ask how he's getting on. He learns quickly and assimilates new cultures without difficulty; family honour is sacrosanct to him, but in other matters he tends to be liberal minded. It is a matter of pride to be "up to date". His enterprise and capacity to work hard are legendary and his deepest ambition is to "be his own boss": many an émigré Punjabi have started life in a strange land driving a cab or working in a café and gone on to buy out the owner within a couple of years.

The culture of Punjab is best reflected in its folklore, ballads of love and war, fairs and festivals, dancing, music and literature. Punjab holds numerous religious and seasonal festivals, such as Dussehra, Diwali, and Baisakhi, as well as anniversary celebrations in honour of Gurus and saints. The bhangra, jhumar, and sammi are the popular dance forms. The giddha, a native Punjabi form, is a humorous song-dance performed by women. In addition to Sikh religious music, semiclassical Mughal forms, such as the khayal, thumri, ghazal, and qawwali, continue to be popular. Punjabi literature owes its origin to the mystical and religious writings of the 13th century Muslim sufi (mystic) Shikh Farid and of the 15th-16th century Guru Nanak, founder of the Sikh faith, who were the first to use Punjabi extensively as medium of their politically tinged poetic pursuits. Author Bhai Vir Singh and the poets Puran Singh and Dhani Ram Chatrik inaugurated the modern Punjabi literature at the beginning of the 20th century.

Top Destinations In Punjab are:
Amritsar , Chandigarh , Ludhiana , Shadiwal, Pathankot

India Travel Destination Guide

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