Chandigarh, Oct 3: Punjab is charting a new course in tourism with ambitious plans to position the state as one of India’s premier destinations with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announcing that world-class tourist sites are being developed in the hilly regions near Pathankot, while Amritsar and Mohali are receiving major upgrades to attract both domestic and international visitors.
“Punjab is ready to welcome the world,” CM Mann said. “Our focus is on adventure tourism, heritage preservation, and modern entertainment. We are inviting industrialists and private investors to join us in building a new tourism ecosystem.”
The government plans to construct a state-of-the-art film city to attract Bollywood and Punjabi film productions, alongside an international cricket stadium in Amritsar aimed at boosting sports tourism. Officials say these projects will create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, opening new avenues for the state’s youth.
With investments exceeding ₹73 crore in 2024-25, the Punjab government aims to establish the state among India’s top tourism destinations. The Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act, 2025, now provides unified oversight of all tourism projects, ensuring single-window clearances for private investors and direct participation of local communities in tourism revenue.
Heritage and history are central to the plan. The Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum at Khatkar Kalan now features 3D holograms, interactive displays, and multimedia exhibits, while the Saragarhi Museum in Ferozepur highlights the bravery of 21 Sikh soldiers. Historical sites such as Jallianwala Bagh and Qila Mubarak in Patiala have been modernized, drawing a growing number of domestic and international tourists.
Pathankot and the surrounding Shivalik hills are being developed as the ‘Himalayan Gateway of Punjab.’ Ranjit Sagar Dam and Shahpur Kandi Dam are transforming into adventure hubs with jet-skiing, kite surfing, zip-lining, and floating luxury resorts. Fifteen new trekking routes, jungle safaris, camping sites, and rural homestays have been developed in the Kandi districts, providing employment opportunities for local youth as guides, operators, and entrepreneurs.
Adventure tourism is also expanding to Amritsar, where motor paragliding and hot-air balloon rides are being introduced at Chamrod Port. Other activities such as rock climbing, cycling trails, water sports, and nature treks are being rolled out across the state, with trained staff and stringent safety standards ensuring a high-quality experience.
Punjab has earned national recognition for rural tourism. Nawan Pind Sardaran in Gurdaspur was named India’s Best Tourism Village 2023, while Hansali Farmstay in Fatehgarh Sahib received a national award in agri-tourism. Plans are underway to develop over 50 villages as tourism destinations, promoting traditional Punjabi lifestyles, folk music, local cuisine, and handicrafts. Women’s self-help groups are being linked to these initiatives, creating sustainable livelihoods.
Cultural promotion remains a priority. Events such as the Basant Mela in Ferozepur, Kila Raipur Rural Olympics, and programs commemorating the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji attracted lakhs of visitors. Traditional festivals like Lohri, Baisakhi, and Teej, along with performances of Giddha, Bhangra, Qawwali, and Sufi music, are now part of the state’s tourism calendar.
Digital technology is central to this push as the newly launched tourism app allows tourists to book hotels, access transport information, hire guides, check event schedules, and reach emergency services from a single platform. AI-based chatbots in Punjabi, Hindi, and English, virtual tours, Wi-Fi, smart toilets, selfie points, and info kiosks provide a seamless, modern experience for visitors.
Officials said the government’s investment in tourism has generated thousands of jobs in hospitality, transport, handicrafts, guide services, and local enterprises. Mega projects like the film city and international cricket stadium are expected to create thousands more.
CM Mann said that Punjab aims not only to rank among India’s top tourism states within three years but also to establish itself as a global destination.
“Development, preservation of culture, and community participation are at the core of this initiative. Punjab is moving toward a responsible, inclusive, and world-class tourism model,” he said.
