On the border of Pakistan in northwestern India, the state of Punjab gets its name from the Sanskrit term for “five waters,” owing to the five rivers in the pre-Partition region. It has been a stronghold for India's Sikh community for centuries. It’s the site of the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the holiest gurudwara, or Sikh temple on earth, and draws in scores of pilgrims from across faiths who come to pay their respects at the sacred spot, among other things to do.
The best time to visit Punjab is between October and March, when the weather is most pleasant. Winters can be cool, so it’s a good idea to pack a jacket if you’re coming between January and February. Temperatures begin to rise dramatically starting in April, peaking in May or June, while the chance of rainfall is at its highest during the monsoon season, which traditionally runs from June and peters out in August or September.
Punjab is well-connected by public transportation, with a solid network of buses and trains connecting towns, villages, and cities. Within cities, rickshaws and taxis are an excellent short-distance bet. Hiring a car with a driver is another popular option for half- and full-day tours and longer adventures. There are four airports in the state, but there are no intrastate flights.
While you may be tempted to eat all of your meals in Amritsar’s Old City, famous for its abundance of street food, it’s worth saving a bit of an appetite for a meal at the Golden Temple’s langar or community dining hall. All are welcome to sit among pilgrims and enjoy a plate of vegetarian Indian fare free of charge. Donations are appreciated, and visitors are invited to volunteer in the langar kitchen.
