Kapurthala Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, local culture, food, and tips for a safe trip to Kapurthala in Punjab, India.


Introduction to Kapurthala

Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Kapurthala is a small town with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Known as the ‘Paris of Punjab’ owing to its stunning architecture and grandeur, Kapurthala is famous for its royal palaces, gardens, and museums. The town was founded in the 11th century by Rana Kapoor Singh, and over the centuries, it has evolved into a center for art, music, and literature.

List of Places to Visit in Kapurthala

Kapurthala is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the must-visit places.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jagatjit Palace

Built-in 1908 by Maharaja Jagatjit Singh, Jagatjit Palace is the most significant tourist attraction in Kapurthala. The palace is a blend of French and Indo-Islamic architecture and features a grand Durbar Hall, a marble staircase, and beautiful gardens. The palace is now converted into a museum that houses rare artifacts, paintings, and photographs belonging to the royal family.

Elysee Palace

Built-in 1862, Elysee Palace was the residence of the French General who served under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The palace now houses the Sainik School, Kapurthala - a prestigious institution that has produced many notable alumni.

Kanjli Wetland

Located on the outskirts of the town, Kanjli Wetland is a bird-watching paradise. The wetland is home to various migratory bird species such as Siberian cranes, Greylag geese, and Pintails.

Natural Attractions of Kapurthala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shalimar Bagh

Shalimar Bagh is a popular garden located in the heart of the town. The garden is spread over 25 acres and features beautiful fountains, flowerbeds, and dense greenery, making it a perfect picnic spot for families.

Panch Mandir

Panch Mandir is a temple complex located near the town center. The complex features five different temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Hanuman. The complex also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kapurthala

Kapurthala is surrounded by scenic hills and valleys, which provides ample opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Jakholi Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 20 kilometers from the town center, is a popular destination for nature lovers who want to explore the dense forest trails and spot rare wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Kapurthala: Activities and Tours

Kapurthala offers various activities, including cultural tours, wildlife safaris, and adventure sports. Here are some of the best things to do in Kapurthala:

Visit the Shalimar Gardens

Experience the grandeur of Shalimar Bagh, a stunning garden spread over 25 acres with fountains, flowerbeds, and beautiful landscapes.

Take a Wildlife Safari

Explore the wildlife in the Jakholi Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to numerous species of fauna and flora.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kapurthala

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

Visit Jagatjit Palace, a magnificent palace that has been converted into a museum, and explore its rich history and cultural significance.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Take a trekking or biking tour to the Jakholi Wildlife Sanctuary and explore the natural beauty of the region.

Day 3: Explore the Local Culture

Visit the Kanjli Wetland, a bird-watching paradise, and learn about the vibrant culture and heritage of Punjab.

Day 4: Shopping and Food Tours

Explore the local bazaars of Kapurthala and shop for authentic local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 5: Adventure Sports

Try river rafting or kayaking in the Beas River, a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Day 6: Visit the Historical Monuments and Gardens

Explore Elysee Palace, a French-style palace that has served many purposes over the years, and visit the beautiful Shalimar Bagh gardens.

Day 7: Departure

Say goodbye to the lovely town of Kapurthala and catch a flight or train to your onward destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Kapurthala

Must-Try Dishes

When it comes to the food scene, Kapurthala is known for its rich flavors and delectable cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes include kebabs, chaats, tandoori chicken, lassi, and kulfi.

Local Beverages

Lassi, a sweet and refreshing yogurt-based drink, is the most popular beverage in Kapurthala. Other beverages include sweet mango juice, sugarcane juice, and masala tea.

Where to Stay in Kapurthala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kapurthala has many accommodation options for visitors of various budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly hostel, there are plenty of choices available. Some of the popular hotels in Kapurthala include the Jagatjit Palace Hotel and the Hotel President.

What to Buy in Kapurthala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kapurthala is famous for its handicrafts, which include Phulkari dupattas and traditional wooden toys. Visitors can also buy Punjabi Jutti, a type of traditional footwear, and intricate hand-woven textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Kapurthala

Visitors to Kapurthala should respect the local culture and customs. Some of the common customs include greeting people with a ‘namaste’ and removing footwear before entering a temple or sacred place.

Best Time to Visit Kapurthala

The best time to visit Kapurthala is between October and March. The weather during this period is pleasant, and the temperature doesn’t exceed 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kapurthala

Do:

  • Take off your shoes before entering a temple or a religious place
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the delicious food and beverages

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or skimpy clothing.
  • Disrespect the religious or cultural sentiments of the locals
  • Drink tap water, only use bottled water.

Safety and Health

Kapurthala is generally a safe town, and violent crime is rare. Visitors should take normal safety precautions such as keeping their valuables safe and avoiding dark or deserted areas at night.

Safety in Kapurthala

  • Don’t carry too much cash or valuables while traveling
  • Always keep a copy of your important documents with you.
  • Use licensed taxis or public transportation.

Health in Kapurthala

Visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke, especially during the summer months. Also, ensure you have all vaccinations spoken to a specialist.

Getting to Kapurthala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kapurthala

The nearest airport to Kapurthala is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, located about 70 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Kapurthala

Kapurthala has a bus station located in the center of the town, making it easily accessible for visitors coming from nearby areas. Visitors can also take a bus from nearby cities such as Jalandhar and Amritsar.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt for a taxi or hire a car to travel to Kapurthala from nearby cities and towns. The road network is well-established and accessible.

How to Get Around in Kapurthala

Kapurthala is a small town and can be easily navigated on foot. Visitors can also use local transportation such as buses or rickshaws to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Kapurthala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kapurthala is surrounded by many exciting and picturesque destinations that are worth exploring. Some popular nearby destinations include Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Ludhiana, which offer many cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Kapurthala, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning architectural marvels, and scenic surroundings, is a must-visit destination if you’re traveling to Punjab, India. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re now ready to explore the best that Kapurthala has to offer, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Jagarjit Club - Kapurthala Jagarjit Club - Kapurthala