Things To Do
in Jalandhar
Jalandhar is a historic city in Punjab known for its rich textile and craft heritage, vibrant markets, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. It sits along the Beas river and blends traditional Punjabi culture with growing modern amenities. The city is famous for Devi Talab Mandir and its bustling bazaars where visitors can sample authentic street food.
With comfortable winter weather and hot summers, Jalandhar offers a relaxed, expressive snapshot of rural-urban Punjab.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Devi Talab Mandir, where the serene ambiance and beautiful architecture will leave you in awe. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of Jalandhar, enjoying the local shops and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab some traditional Punjabi breakfast at a nearby dhaba.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of Jalandhar at the Jang-e-Azadi Memorial, which commemorates the sacrifices made during India's freedom struggle. Explore the exhibits and learn about the local heroes while enjoying the beautiful gardens surrounding the memorial. Afterward, indulge in some local cuisine at a popular restaurant, sampling dishes like Amritsari kulcha and lassi.
As the sun sets, visit the famous Wonderland Theme Park for some fun and entertainment. Enjoy thrilling rides and lively attractions, perfect for families or groups of friends. Wind down your day with a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors of Punjabi cuisine.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic St. Mary’s Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Jalandhar that showcases stunning Gothic architecture. After exploring the cathedral, head to the nearby Pushpa Gujral Science City, where you can engage in interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling some freshly baked goods and traditional Indian tea.
In the afternoon, visit the serene Shiv Mandir, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where you can experience a peaceful atmosphere and admire intricate sculptures. Afterward, take a short drive to the historic fort of Qila Mubarak, where you can explore the ruins and learn about its fascinating history. Don’t miss out on trying local street food at a nearby stall, sampling delicacies like chaat and pakoras.
As evening approaches, head to the local market for some shopping, where you can find everything from traditional Punjabi juttis to vibrant fabrics. After shopping, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can savor the city views along with delicious Punjabi dishes. End your day with a sweet treat from a local sweet shop, indulging in classic desserts like jalebi or gulab jamun.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🚌Public transport (one ride) | $0.20-0.50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a café | $1-2 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Punjabi culture and food
- Affordable costs compared to big cities
- Walkable old-town core
- Friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to metro cities
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Air quality can deteriorate in winter and during crop burning season
- "ਸਤ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ" - Hello / Good day
- "ਧੰਨਵਾਦ" - Thank you
- "ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ" - Please
- "ਮੈਨੂੰ ਸਮਝ ਨਹੀਂ ਆਈ" - I don’t understand
- "ਇੱਥੇ ਕਿੱਥੇ ਮਿਲ ਸਕਦੇ ਹਨ?" - Where can I find this?
Places to Visit in Jalandhar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic temple complex with domes and arches; ideal for capturing colorful market life and spiritual ambience.
Historic fort ruins set in rural scenery; great for architectural and landscape photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
A well-kept park with ponds and seasonal blooms, offering calm compositions and portraits.
Food in Jalandhar
Jalandhar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy chickpea curry served with fluffy fried bread; a staple at many street stalls and dhabas.
Must-Try!
Corn flatbread paired with mustard greens, a classic winter Punjabi dish.
Stuffed flatbread served with chickpea curry, popular at markets and eateries.
Smoky grilled offerings widely available in tandoori-focused restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling shopping area with street snacks, parathas, chaat, and fresh produce.
Vibrant lines of vendors offering quick bites, tea, and local sweets along the main boulevard.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punjabis often greet with a handshake or 'Sat Sri Akal' among Sikhs; address elders with respect using their titles.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering religious sites; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Jalandhar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and hotels; 5-10% is typical if service is good; small tips for rickshaw or street vendors are appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly accepted in restaurants and larger shops; digital wallets and UPI are common for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often above 40°C; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June to September brings humidity and occasional showers; carry a compact umbrella and light rain gear; cloud cover can soften light for photography.
Cool to mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 8–20°C; layered clothing is advised and many outdoor sites are comfortable in these months.
Jalandhar at Night
Hiking in Jalandhar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible nature trails around Kapurthala; suitable for day hikes and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Jalandhar by plane.
Approximately 120-150 km from Jalandhar; good rail and road connections via NH44.
A smaller domestic airport nearby, with regional flights and good road connections.
Major international gateway about 150-180 km away; reliable domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest community in Jalandhar, with a strong sense of culture and festivals.
Significant Hindu and Muslim populations contributing to a diverse urban culture.
Includes Christians, Jains, and migrants from other states enriching the city’s dynamics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in community life and local leagues; you’ll see matches in parks and school grounds.
Traditional Punjabi sport with festivals and as a leisure activity in villages and towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jalandhar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Punjabi dishes are vegetarian-friendly with dal, paneer, and seasonal vegetables; ask for ghee-free bread or oil-based preparations if needed.