Punjab, the land of five riveres and integrated cultural history, is a treasure trove for avid tourist. For this land of the great gurus not only boasts of ancient monuments but throbs with historical embodiments. It is no secret that whoever comes to this land of yellow fields with Blue Mountains providing romantic and picturesque backdrop has never gone back without imbibing the essence of Punjab. The holiest shrine for the Sikhs is the Golden temple in Amritsar, so called because the dome is covered with gold leaf. Amritsar was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das the fourth guru of Sikhs. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name meaning” Holy pool of nectar” from the body of water around the Golden temple .The exquisite golden temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world .It looks particularly arresting at night when its beautifully lit up with its imposing pure gold dome illuminated. Every day of the year just before sunset, a flag lowering ceremony takes place at the Wagah border ceremony is a popular tourist attraction and side trip from Amritsar. The ceremony lasts for around 45 minute in total. It starts with high patriotic spirits from side of the border, which is thrown open when they reach there. Located not far from Ludhiana, the small village of Kila Raipur hosts the rural Olympics every February, The spectacle has earned would wide recoganitition Bullocks, Camels, dogs, Mules and other animals competing in highly professional events must be seen to be believed .The adrenaline –pumping bullock cart race is the main attraction however the chance to see some really off-bet activities is the hugest draw card. Patiala is the place to come to explore the royal Punjab of the past. Once one of India’s richest princely state, Patiala offers a glorious insight into the history of 18th and 19th century Punjab, particularly the Malwa region, you will be greeted by opulent palace buildings, gardens and parks.