Planning a trip to Punjab? Here's what you must not miss

The fertile plains of Punjab encompass dramatically varied travel experiences. Swaying golden fields contrast with vibrant towns. Imposing gurudwaras tell tales Sikh resilience and imposing forts are a testament to the state's significance in the country's history. Each visit here uncovers a new facet and every facet is more intriguing than the other. We bring to you some of the top experiences from one of the most versatile travel destinations in the country.

Hola Mohalla, Anandpur Sahib

This celebration of the martial arts tradition of the Sikhs transforms the quiet, holy town of Anandpur Sahib into a veritable fairground where daredevilry, showmanship, devotion and faith combine to form a colorful spectacle. Hola Mohalla held in Spring, after Holi, offers a first-hand insight into the very best Punjab has to offer: a proud tradition of bravery, large-heartedness and intense faith. Expect mock duels, riders astride two or even three horses charging by as crowds cheer them on, motorbike stunts by the young, volunteers urging you to partake of the langar, and the sound of gurubani emanating from nearby gurudwaras.

Partition Museum, Amritsar

There were books and films along with stories handed down from an older generation about the Partition, but for a long time there was no museum to record the agony of the mass migration in the aftermath of the partition of India into two countries, India and Pakistan. The first-ever museum on the Partition powerfully captures those troubled times through exhibits highlighting real-life stories, newspaper clippings, personal artifacts of affected people and much more. A must-visit to get a perspective on the trauma that 1947 brought to millions of ordinary people caught on the wrong side of the newly drawn borders.

Baisakhi Festival, Bathinda

Punjab brings in its New Year called Baisakhi (mid-April) with much fanfare as towns, cities and villages reverberate to the sounds and sights of colourful celebrations, music, dance and feasting. One of the state's most significant festivals, it has a dual significance: it is both a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and a commemoration of the establishment of the Khalsa in the 17th century. This is the time to witness Punjab’s most joyous face, with people decked out in their festive finery enthusiastically performing traditional dances such as the bhangra and giddha to the vibrant beat of dhols. Sikh devotees across Punjab head to beautifully lit gurudwaras to celebrate the Sikh New Year. One of the places which erupts with festive fanfare on Baisakhi is the Takht Sri Damdama Sahib 20km from Bathinda.

Guru ka Langar, Amritsar

While in Punjab, take part in a langar at a gurudwara to get a first-hand insight into the great values of sharing, equality and service that this centuries-old Sikh tradition stands for. At the langar or community kitchen, all barriers of faith and economic or social status disappear when diners sit on the floor as equals to share a simple, free meal. It is said that the Mughal emperor Akbar also partook of the langar when he came to meet the third Sikh guru. You could also lend a hand to experience the dedication and devotion of volunteers who do most of the work in the kitchens and the service at the langars. The langar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar runs round-the-clock and serves between 75,000 to 100,000 people daily.

Shopping in Patiala

Patiala was once a trendsetter in couture. Under the maharajas of Patiala, famed for their pomp and style fashion thrived and trends emerged. The tradition still lives on. Colourful and vibrant, the town’s craft is best sourced by scouring the lanes and bylanes of its fascinating local markets: there is a mind-boggling array of footwear or juttis that you can match with every outfit, hair extensions called parandis, a version of the traditional salwar known as the Patiala salwar, or even silken drawstrings that this town specializes in. In fact, Patiala is a favored stop for trousseau shoppers in the state. Adalat Bazaar is a great place to shop for these items.