Things To Do
in Sanaur
Sanaur is a small town in the Patiala district of Punjab, India, surrounded by fertile farmland and punctuated by traditional Punjabi households. It sits just outside Patiala city, offering a tranquil base with easy access to cultural sites, markets, and canal-side scenery. Visitors can wander narrow lanes, visit temples and gurudwaras, and take short trips into Patiala for historic palaces and museums.
The area showcases Punjabi hospitality, hearty rural cuisine, and a relaxed pace ideal for a short, immersive escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your exploration by visiting the magnificent Sanaur Fort, which boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. As the sun rises, the fort's panoramic views become even more captivating and perfect for photography. Take a peaceful walk around the fort's premises, absorbing the serenity of the surroundings.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a nearby café offering traditional Punjabi cuisine. Spend the afternoon wandering through local markets, where you can find handicrafts and taste local street food treats. Engage with friendly locals and learn more about the area's culture and history.
As the day winds down, return to Sanaur Fort to witness the sunset, transforming the landscape into a palette of oranges and pinks. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the area, soaking in the tranquility as the skies change colors. Dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by folk music, will complete your day in this historic town.
Take a short trip to the vibrant city of Patiala, known for its royal heritage and grandeur. Start with a visit to the iconic Qila Mubarak, exploring its intricate architecture and lush gardens. Enjoy a traditional Punjabi breakfast at a local dhaba to fuel your day ahead.
Visit the Sheesh Mahal and learn about the history of the Patiala royal family while appreciating the stunning craftsmanship of the palace. The afternoon is perfect for shopping; browse local bazaars for Patiala's famous juttis and phulkari embroidery. Break for lunch at an authentic restaurant, savoring rich flavors and aromas.
Return to Sanaur to unwind after a day filled with excitement. Relax at your accommodation, or take a stroll in the local park to savor the cooler evening air. Indulge in a delightful dinner, taking pleasure in the beautiful ambiance of the village.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $0.25-0.60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🧺Weekly groceries (basic staples) | $15-35 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and history
- Delicious Punjabi cuisine
- Close proximity to Patiala and Chandigarh
- Relaxed pace ideal for short breaks
- Limited public transport in rural areas
- Smaller town amenities compared to big cities
- Hot summers can be intense without shade and water
- "ਸਤ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ" - Hello / Good morning
- "ਤੁਹਾਡਾ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਹੈ?" - What is your name?
- "ਮੈਨੂੰ ਮਦਦ ਚਾਹੀਦੀ ਹੈ" - I need help
- "ਕੀ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਅੰਗਰੇਜ਼ੀ ਬੋਲਦੇ ਹੋ?" - Do you speak English?
- "ਧੰਨਵਾਦ" - Thank you
- "ਮੈਨੂੰ ਪਾਣੀ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ" - I need water
- "ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਦਿਸ਼ਾ ਦੱਸੋ" - Please tell me the direction
Places to Visit in Sanaur
Visit one of these nice places.
Tranquil morning light along the canal, with reflection shots of farmers at work and birds in flight over the water.
Rustic architecture, colorful doors, and local life scenes ideal for candid photography.
Lush, historic garden with marble pavilions and long avenues perfect for wide-angle landscape and architectural shots.
Grand palace exterior and surrounding streets offer dramatic dusk and golden-hour silhouettes.
Food in Sanaur
Sanaur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A winter staple featuring mustard greens and spices served with cornmeal flatbread; best enjoyed at local dhabas and traditional Punjabi eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty chickpea curry with fluffy fried bread; widely available at street stalls and casualRestaurants in Patiala and Sanaur.
Stuffed bread from the Punjab region, typically served with chole or chutney at local cafes and dhabas.
Marinated paneer skewers grilled or tandoor-cooked; popular at mid-range restaurants and dhabas.
A refreshing yogurt-based drink, available sweet or salted, perfect to cool down on hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, pulses, dairy, and quick bites; a good place to sample street snacks and chat with vendors.
Bustling historic market with snack stalls, chaat corners, and sweets; ideal for trying street food and buying local spices.
Part of the Patiala market circuit with more upscale eateries and traditional Punjab dishes; great for a relaxed dinner and dessert stops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples and gurudwaras. Remove shoes and cover heads as required; it's respectful to use the right hand for exchanges and to greet elders with 'Ji' after names.
Ask before photographing people, especially in rural or religious settings; some individuals may prefer not to be photographed.
Punjabi is commonly spoken; a polite, friendly tone goes a long way. Learn a few phrases in Punjabi, especially greetings.
Safety
Tipping in Sanaur
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, tipping around 5–10% of the bill is common if no service charge is included. In casual eateries, small round tips are appreciated. Cash is widely accepted, and digital payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry, especially from April to June. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, carry water, wear a hat, and use sun protection.
Rains typically from July to September with high humidity. Expect sporadic showers; carry a compact rain jacket and water-resistant footwear.
Cool to mild, with temperatures often in the 5–20°C range. Light woolens suffice; this is a comfortable time for city walks and outdoor photography.
Sanaur at Night
Hiking in Sanaur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes in the foothills within a short drive, offering open landscapes and rustic paths.
Moderate trails through fields and along canals, suitable for day hikes with village views.
Airports
How to reach Sanaur by plane.
Major international and domestic hub serving Punjab and neighboring states; about a 2–3 hour drive from Sanaur via NH routes.
Smaller domestic airport serving the region; accessible by road and a common choice for shorter trips to nearby cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Punjabi-speaking communities with a mix of rural agrarian families and town residents.
A large portion of the population involved in farming, small businesses, and local crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Punjab, with community leagues and informal games in villages and towns.
Historically significant in Punjab; local clubs and school teams keep the tradition alive.
Traditional contact sport widely played in rural areas and at local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanaur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Punjabi cuisine. Most thalis and curries can be prepared without meat; inform cooks about onion/garlic preferences if needed and ask for ghee-free oil when required.