Tourism Takes Center Stage in Punjab, Heritage Fair at Patiala
Chandigarh, February 11
Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is experiencing a transformative boost in tourism and cultural heritage. Tourism Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond revealed that in 2024, the state allocated approximately Rs. 73 crore for restoring, modernizing, and preserving its historical and cultural monuments. This significant investment has revitalized many key heritage sites and paved the way for new projects aimed at attracting tourists.
As Punjab steps into 2025, the state is set to host grand celebrations and festivals that will draw visitors from around the world. The year has already seen vibrant events like the Basant Mela in Ferozepur and the celebrated Rural Olympics in Kila Raipur. Adding to this festive calendar is the Patiala Heritage Festival, scheduled from February 13 to 16. Organized by the Patiala district administration in collaboration with the Tourism Department, the festival will feature a diverse array of events including heritage walks, a food festival, music evenings, an aero show, nature and flower walks, and even a fashion walk—each celebrating Punjab’s rich traditions while reinforcing its status as a premier tourist destination.
Minister Sond emphasized that, under CM Mann’s dynamic leadership, Punjab is reclaiming its prominence as a top travel hotspot. The state’s commitment to heritage restoration and tourism expansion has led to transformative initiatives that highlight its deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and spiritual legacy.
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The Rs. 73 crore investment in 2024 has already borne fruit with the rejuvenation of several historical landmarks. Notable among these are the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum at Khatkar Kalan and the Saragarhi Museum in Ferozepur, while the Sarai Lashkari Khan in Khanna has seen extensive renovation. Enhancing the cultural landscape further, the grand inauguration of the Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Panorama and the permanent light and sound show at Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Summer Palace in Amritsar—featured during the Rangla Punjab Festival—have captivated audiences.
In a significant move to safeguard Sikh heritage, the state government has also initiated the restoration of Jahaz Haveli in Fatehgarh Sahib, the historic residence of Dewan Todar Mall. “Dewan Todar Mall holds immense significance in Sikh history, and it is our collective duty to safeguard his legacy,” Sond remarked.
Punjab’s relentless efforts in promoting cultural and rural tourism have earned national recognition. In 2023, Nawanpind Sardaran in Gurdaspur was honored as India’s Best Tourism Village, while Hansali Farmstay in Fatehgarh Sahib received top accolades in the Agri-Tourism category in 2024.
With a harmonious blend of heritage revival, cultural celebrations, and modern tourism initiatives, Punjab is well on its way to reestablishing itself as the land of legends, festivals, and timeless traditions.
