Punjabi Diaries: My 8-Day Solo Trip to Punjab

By Om Deshpande | Solo Traveller | Culture Seeker

Day 1: Pune to Punjab – Journey into the Heart of North India

I took a train from Pune to Amritsar — land of golden temples, generous hearts, and unforgettable food. After a long ride, I was ready to explore Punjab solo and soulfully.

Days 2–3: Amritsar – Spirit, Sacrifice & Heritage

• Golden Temple: Peaceful at sunrise, magical at night. The langar is a must.
• Jallianwala Bagh: Deeply emotional — bullet marks, stories of sacrifice.
• Partition Museum: Educational and moving.
• Wagah Border: Electrifying patriotic energy.

🛏 Stay: ₹300–₹400/night near the Golden Temple

Days 4–5: Pathankot & Gurdaspur – Hidden Gems

• Ranjit Sagar Dam: Calm and scenic.
• Shri Kali Mata Mandir: Spiritually uplifting.
• Gurdaspur: Explored Fish Park, Baradari Garden, and had a Punjabi thali at a local dhaba (₹120).

Days 6–7: Ludhiana – Urban Pulse of Punjab

• Punjab Agricultural University Museum: Walk through Punjab’s rural past.
• Rakh Bagh Park & Tiger Safari: Great spots to relax.
• Gurudwara Nanaksar Jagraon: A peaceful, offbeat stop.
• Shopping: Bought juttis, phulkari embroidery, and souvenirs at Ghumar Mandi Market.

🛏 Stay: ₹350/night near Ludhiana Junction

Day 8: Back to Amritsar & Return to Pune

• Durgiana Temple: Known as the Hindu Golden Temple
• Last meal: Enjoyed one final Amritsari kulcha
• Boarded train: Journey back to Pune with a full heart

Budget Snapshot

• Train (Pune–Amritsar–Pune + Local): ₹2,500
• Stays (7 nights): ₹2,800
• Food & Local Transport: ₹1,400
• Entry Tickets & Misc: ₹700
• Total: ₹7,500–₹8,000

Must-Try Punjabi Dishes

• Amritsari Kulcha with chole
• Sarson da Saag & Makki di Roti
• Thick creamy Lassi (in steel glasses!)
• Butter Chicken, roadside chaat, and spicy parathas

Travel Tips for Punjab (Solo Style)

• Stay near city centers or Gurudwaras for safety and convenience.
• Carry a shawl/scarf for religious visits.
• Locals are friendly — don’t hesitate to ask for help.
• Use local buses/shared autos to save money.
• Keep Google Maps and IRCTC app handy!

Final Thoughts

Punjab wasn’t just a destination — it was an emotion. This 8-day solo journey gave me memories, flavors, and faith. Truly, “you don’t need a group to feel joy — sometimes, solo is the way to find your soul.”