Punjab Government has planned a series of visionary tourism initiatives aimed at preserving its rich heritage while enhancing its appeal as a global tourist destination. The state is set to open several landmark projects in 2025, including the much-anticipated boutique hotel at Patiala’s iconic Qila Mubarak and the vibrant ‘Rangla Punjab’ festival in February.
The state’s Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, sharing the details, said: “These initiatives represent our commitment to revitalize Punjab’s cultural and historical legacy while fostering economic growth through tourism.”
The historic Qila Mubarak in Patiala is being transformed into a boutique hotel modeled on international standards. Scheduled to open after Lohri, this project promises to become a preferred venue for destination weddings, attracting visitors from across India and abroad. The initiative aims to blend luxury with heritage, offering a unique cultural experience.
The state will host the ‘Rangla Punjab’ festival in February 2025. This grand celebration will highlight Punjab's vibrant culture through drama, literature, art walks, music concerts, and more. The festival is set to position Punjab as a leading cultural tourism destination globally.
Under the Centre’s PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme, projects worth Rs 31.56 crore have already been initiated, including the development of Sri Chamkaur Sahib as a religious and pilgrimage hub. Additionally, Ferozepur (Hussainiwala Border) and Rupnagar (Sri Anandpur Sahib) have been selected for tourism under cultural and spiritual categories, respectively, with a budget allocation of Rs 25 crore each.
In 202, Punjab Government made remarkable progress in enhancing its tourism infrastructure, investing over Rs 73 crore in the preservation and modernization of historical landmarks. Key among them are restoration of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum and a new Light and Sound Show at Khatkar Kalan; beautification of Naina Devi and Virasat-e-Khalsa roads; inauguration of the Saragarhi Museum in Ferozepur and Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial at Sri Anandpur Sahib; and introduction of solar-powered tourism amenities at Ranbir Singh and Shahpur Kandi dams.
The Department of Tourism also celebrated 21 fairs and festivals, including the Basant Festival in Ferozepur, Kila Raipur Rural Olympics, and the Kapurthala Heritage Festival, drawing significant attention to Punjab's cultural wealth.
Punjab also received accolades for its tourism initiatives. Hansali Farmstay in Fatehgarh Sahib was recognized as India’s Best Tourism Village 2024 in the Agri-Tourism category, while Punjab secured first place in the Nidhi Plus Portal rankings in November, uploading over 263 attractions.
Minister Sond emphasized that the state’s efforts in global forums, including FITUR Madrid and ITB Berlin, have amplified Punjab’s presence on the international tourism map. “Through these groundbreaking initiatives, Punjab is reclaiming its legacy as a cultural and historical epicenter while paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future,” said Sond.
