Things To Do
in Khanna
Khanna is a growing town in Punjab's Ludhiana district, strategically located along major road and rail routes. It functions as a practical agricultural and light-industrial hub with a bustling market life and a warm local culture. Visitors encounter Punjabi hospitality, abundant street food, and a pace that blends rural charm with developing infrastructure.
The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the Malwa region and nearby cities like Ludhiana and Patiala.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Gurdwara Charan Kamal, where you can experience the serene atmosphere and enjoy the spiritual vibes of Khanna. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the local bazaar, absorbing the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells that define the essence of this bustling town. Don't forget to stop by a local eatery for a traditional Punjabi breakfast, savoring delicacies like chole bhature or aloo paratha.
In the afternoon, visit the Khanna Fort, a historical site that showcases the architectural beauty and rich heritage of the region. Explore the nearby parks where you can relax and enjoy a picnic, or engage with friendly locals who may share fascinating tales about the town's history. As the sun starts to set, consider a visit to a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made.
As the day winds down, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Khanna's famous dhabas, where you can indulge in authentic Punjabi cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the streets, observing the lively atmosphere as families gather and socialize. Cap off your evening with a cup of chai at a local tea stall, mingling with locals and soaking in the vibrant community spirit.
If your visit coincides with a local festival, start your morning by participating in the lively celebrations that fill the streets with music, dance, and color. Join the locals in preparing traditional dishes and learn about the significance of the festival in Punjabi culture. Visit nearby homes to experience the warmth of hospitality as families invite you to share in their joyous traditions.
In the afternoon, continue immersing yourself in the festivities by attending folk performances that showcase traditional dance forms like Bhangra and Gidda. Engage in interactive workshops where you can learn to dance or try your hand at creating festive decorations. Enjoy street food such as jalebi and samosas, indulging in the rich flavors that characterize Punjabi snacks.
As night falls, the festival comes alive with vibrant lights and music. Find a spot to enjoy the fireworks display, which lights up the sky in celebration. Conclude your evening by joining the locals for a community feast, where you can bond over shared experiences and delicious food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.30-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-35 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏛️Attraction entrance | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm Punjabi hospitality and vibrant markets
- Affordable travel with easy access to Ludhiana and surrounding countryside
- Strong local food scene and easy day trips to rural Punjab
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options in Khanna itself
- Language may be a barrier for non-Hindi/Punjabi speakers in some shops
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Tusi kiven ho?" - How are you?
- "Mainu madad chahidi hai." - I need help.
Places to Visit in Khanna
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, straight water views with early morning mists and golden hour reflections on calm days.
Colorful street scenes, hanging lights, and window displays make for dynamic street photography.
Narrow lanes, architectural details, and daily life provide candid photo opportunities.
Fields, crops, and rural textures offer timeless countryside imagery.
A short excursion to nearby rural outskirts yields pastoral landscapes and distant city silhouettes.
Food in Khanna
Khanna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A winter favorite of greens and corn flatbread, best enjoyed at a dhaba or family-style eatery.
Must-Try!
Spiced chickpeas with fluffy fried bread; widely available for breakfast or lunch.
A crunchy stuffed bread served with chole; common in local eateries and bhai-dhabas.
Creamy lentil dish that pairs well with fragrant rice.
Cottage cheese in spiced tomato gravy or grilled, a popular vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market street food stalls offering samosas, jalebi, bhature, chole kulche, and fresh produce.
Small stalls around the market area serving quick bites like pakoras, kachori, and dough-based sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Namaste' or 'Sat Sri Akal' is common; greet elders first in formal settings.
Dress modestly, especially at religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or temples; use the right hand for giving/receiving and avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Bargaining in markets is common but done with politeness and a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Khanna
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave 5-10% if service is not included. Small tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff are appreciated but not always expected.
Cash remains widely used in Khanna; digital payments via UPI wallets (PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay) and card payments are increasingly accepted at larger shops and restaurants in Ludhiana and newer establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often in the mid-30s to 40s C; stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Relatively humid with periodic heavy showers; roads can be slick, carry a compact umbrella, and protect electronics.
Cool to mild, with cool mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures; a light jacket is handy for evenings and early outings.
Khanna at Night
Hiking in Khanna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy half-day walks through farmland and canal edges offering calm countryside scenery.
Gentle hill-country hikes and viewpoints suitable for those seeking a longer day trip with a local guide.
Seasonal walks along canal edges with opportunities to spot birds and urban-to-rural transitions.
Airports
How to reach Khanna by plane.
Approximately 100–120 km from Khanna; well-connected to major Indian cities and international destinations.
Located closer to Khanna; offers domestic flights and some regional connections; convenient for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Punjabi-speaking with Hindu and Sikh communities; rural-urban mix reflecting agricultural roots and growing commerce.
A mix of traditional families, farmers, and small business owners contributing to a lively local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Punjab, widely played and watched.
Traditional and widely played in rural Punjab, often seen in local events and festivals.
Common in schools and street play, with local pitches in towns around Khanna.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khanna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Punjab has abundant vegetarian options; most dishes are dairy-based. Ask for no ghee if needed and request oil instead of butter on request.
Many lentil and vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid roti made from wheat if gluten is a concern and opt for rice or millet-based breads where available.