Best time to visit : October and February (pleasant weather for sightseeing in Jalandhar)
The north-western region of India is dominated by the vivacious cities of Punjab, Jalandhar being one of them. Located in the extremely fertile Doaba region flanked by Beas and Sutlej rivers, the city is home to many religious and historical tourist places. The city is believed to have its name derived from the demon king Jalandhara who was killed by Lord Shiva. The region also marked the eastern extent of Great Alexander’s Empire. Today, the city showcases the modern facet of Punjab state and is visited by tourists having diverse interests.
Facts
Jalandhar is counted among the two oldest cities of Punjab, the other being Multan (now located in Pakistan’s Punjab). It is also designated as the cleanest and the most developed city of the state. The region is also called the NRI hub of India, credited with a huge population of non-resident Indians. Located on the world-famous Grand Trunk Road, it is the second important city (after Amritsar) to appear on the route within India. Jalandhar served as the capital of Punjab for long, replaced by Chandigarh in 1953. The city is extremely hot and humid during summers and moderate to extremely cold during winters.
Punjabi cuisines at dhabas and restaurants are irresistibly delicious. Haveli is a popular destination to enjoy authentic local preparations like sarson da saag and makki di roti, along with lassi (buttermilk). Rangla Punjab is another well-known spot, designed in the form of traditional Punjabi villages. Visit Sagar Ratna for South Indian dishes and Billa Kulfi Corner to relish on tasty milk preparations.
Local markets of Jalandhar are known for selling authentic sports goods (manufactured in the same region) and interesting items like Punjabi Jutti (a kind of slipper). Traditional Punjabi clothes (extremely attractive) can also be purchased here. The city also accommodates world-class shopping malls, the most popular ones being The Galleria, Viva Collage Mall, The Metropolitan, City Square and Ansal Plaza.
Nearby Places:
- Kapurthala (about 20 km.): Popular for Jagatjit Palace (with a magnificent Durbar Hall), Elysee Palace, Shalimar Gardens, Panch Mandir and Kanjli Wetlands.
- Nakodar (about 25 km.): Known for two beautiful tombs of Haji Mahal and Mohammad Mommin and a number of religious sites.
- Nurmahal (about 36 km.): It is the childhood town of Noor Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and is known for Nurmahal Serai, a beautiful quadrangle structure.
- Khatkar Kalan (about 50 km.): Native town of Bhagat Singh (a revolutionary Indian Freedom fighter), known for Sardar Bhagat Singh Museum and Memorial.
- Amritsar (about 80 km.): The holiest city of Punjab, Amritsar is admired for Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh Memorial and the nearby Wahga Border.