Kapurthala, often referred to as the "Paris of Punjab" due to its intriguing blend of French architecture and traditional Punjabi heritage, is a city steeped in royal history. This picturesque city is located in the Indian state of Punjab and is known for its grand palaces, beautiful gardens, and sacred places of worship.
Tourism in Kapurthala has its roots in the city's regal past, which dates back to the 11th century. The city was once the princely state of the Ahluwalia dynasty. Its history of tourism is closely tied with its architectural marvels that were established during the reign of Maharaja Jagatjit Singh, who ruled from 1877 to 1947.
Maharaja Jagatjit Singh was a great patron of art and architecture and had a penchant for European styles, particularly French. He commissioned great buildings that were masterpieces of Indo-Saracenic and European architecture, which attract tourists from all over the world. The most renowned among these is the Jagatjit Palace, which now houses the prestigious Sainik School. Modeled after the Palace of Versailles, it still stands as a testament to the city's grandeur.
Another significant boost to tourism was the creation of places of worship, which are important to the Punjabi community, such as the renowned Moorish Mosque, inspired by the Grand Mosque of Marrakesh, Morocco. The mosque was designed by French architect Monsieur M. Manteaux and its splendid architecture draws visitors from diverse backgrounds.
With the ever-increasing fascination with historical and cultural tourism, Kapurthala has focused on preserving its heritage sites to keep up with the latest tourism trends. The government, along with various heritage societies, has taken initiatives to restore and maintain the city's historical landmarks.
Eco-tourism is another trend that is gaining momentum in Kapurthala. The lush green gardens, such as the famous Shalimar Gardens, provide an array of activities for nature enthusiasts, promoting a more sustainable form of tourism. Moreover, the push towards rural tourism has seen tourists showing an increasing interest in experiencing the local Punjabi lifestyle, cuisine, and culture, especially during festivals like Baisakhi and Lohri.
The introduction of heritage walks and guided tours through the city's historic streets is a recent development in Kapurthala's tourism sector, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s past. With the increase in global travelers and domestic tourists, local markets and culinary ventures have also expanded, thereby enhancing the overall tourist experience in Kapurthala.
Tourists in Kapurthala can explore a variety of historical and cultural sites, some highlights include:
Preserving its historical charm while integrating modern tourist trends, Kapurthala is a destination that offers an authentic glimpse into Punjab’s rich cultural tapestry.
Hill Stations (46)
Religious Places (229)
Historical Places (123)
Museums (33)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (9)
National Parks (16)
Forts (4)
Villages (43)
Zoos (9)
Mountains (24)
Gardens (24)
Waterfalls (9)
Dams (8)
Lakes (20)
Trekking Places (35)
