Punjab’s Big Tourism Leap: From Adventure Sports to Film City, State Sets Sights on Global Map

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has rolled out an ambitious plan to reshape Punjab into one of India’s leading tourist hotspots. From thrilling adventure sports in the hills of Pathankot to a brand-new film city and an international cricket stadium, the state is gearing up for a tourism revolution that promises jobs, investment, and a renewed identity for Punjab on both national and international maps.

Pathankot: From Quiet Hills to Adventure Capital

Pathankot and nearby areas are at the heart of this transformation. Dubbed the “Himalayan Gateway of Punjab,” this scenic region in the Shivalik foothills is being turned into an adventure tourism hub. Visitors can soon enjoy jet-skiing, zip-lining, kite surfing, and luxury floating resorts at places like Ranjit Sagar Dam. With trekking routes, jungle safaris, and eco-friendly homestays already popping up, local youth are getting trained as guides and operators — making adventure tourism a new source of livelihood.

Hot-air ballooning and motor paragliding have also taken off in Amritsar, placing Punjab among the few plains states offering such experiences.

Big Dreams: Film City and International Stadium

The state is also opening its doors to the entertainment and sports industries. A world-class film city is in the works to attract Bollywood and Punjabi filmmakers, while Amritsar will soon host an international cricket stadium. These large-scale projects are expected to create thousands of jobs and boost allied sectors like transport, events, and hospitality.

One-Stop Support for Tourism

All of this is being backed by the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act, 2025, which streamlines approvals and encourages community participation in tourism revenues — making the sector more inclusive and investor-friendly.

Heritage Meets Tech

Punjab is also modernizing its rich history. Museums like Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s at Khatkar Kalan and the Saragarhi Museum now feature interactive exhibits and 3D holograms. Upgraded heritage sites like Jallianwala Bagh and Qila Mubarak are seeing more visitors than ever.

Village Life Goes Global

Rural tourism is on the rise, with villages like Nawan Pind Sardaran offering authentic Punjabi experiences — from folk music to local food. Over 50 villages are being prepped to follow suit, with many women leading tourism-based businesses.

Going Digital, Creating Jobs

A new tourism app makes travel in Punjab seamless, offering bookings, info, and AI chatbots. With ₹73 crore invested this year, thousands of jobs have already been created — and many more are on the horizon.