Overview
Ludhiana is Punjab's most populated city and a major industrial center, nicknamed the Manchester of India for its hosiery and textile production. Located on the historic Grand Trunk Road and banks of the Sutlej river, it offers a cosmopolitan slice of Punjabi urban life with shopping malls, sports infrastructure, and the renowned Punjab Agricultural University campus.
Before you go
Accommodation
Hotels cluster near the railway station and along Ferozpur Road. Options range from budget (under ₹1,000) to luxury (Park Plaza from ₹7,500).
Climate
Best visited February to April. Winters (Nov-Jan) can drop to 0°C at night. Summers (May-Jun) reach up to 50°C. Avoid peak summer for outdoor sightseeing.
Food
Famous for Punjabi chicken (Chawla's, Baba's). Street food hotspots include Fountain Chowk, Chaura Bazaar paratha shops, and Dhodha Sweet House in Civil Lines.
Shopping
Known as Manchester of India for hosiery. Wholesale hosiery markets in Bajwa Nagar, Ghara Bhan, and Dal Bazaar. Modern malls at Pavilion, Silver Arc, and Westend.
Transport
Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are the main local transport. Bus routes connect Ludhiana Bus Depot, old courts, and Chaura Bazaar. Traffic in Chaura Bazaar can be congested.