How to get to Ludhiana

When planning a visit to Ludhiana, you are setting off for the largest city in the state of Punjab in India, often referred to as the "Manchester of India" for its industrial might and bustling energy. To decide how to get to Ludhiana, it is worth considering various routes, as this major transport hub is accessible by plane, train, bus, or car. The developed infrastructure allows tourists to easily plan their journey and arrive comfortably in this vibrant metropolis.

Direct air connections to the city itself are often limited, as the local Sahnewal Airport (LUH) handles a small number of flights. Therefore, travellers usually choose to fly to nearby major transport hubs, from where they can quickly reach their destination by car or bus.

The most popular and convenient option is considered to be the airport in Chandigarh (IXC), located approximately 90 kilometres away. It serves many scheduled flights from various regions of the country and ensures excellent transport accessibility. The journey from here typically takes about two hours.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into Amritsar (ATQ), which is situated 124–140 kilometres away and handles international airlines. Another option is the airport in Bathinda (BUP), approximately 116 kilometres away. All these air hubs have well-established connections with the region, allowing tourists to easily cover the remaining part of the journey.

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the city. Ludhiana boasts a major railway station (Ludhiana Junction), which is a vital transport node for the region and provides excellent connections to most corners of the country.

Direct trains regularly arrive here from New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other metropolises. Particularly popular among travellers are the high-speed express trains, such as the "Shatabdi Express", running on the Delhi — Amritsar route with a stop in Ludhiana. The station is located within the city limits, allowing tourists to quickly reach their hotel or begin exploring local attractions immediately upon arrival.

Bus services in the state of Punjab are excellently developed, linking Ludhiana to key points in the region via accessible routes. The trip from the administrative centre, Chandigarh, will take about 2–2.5 hours, during which you will cover approximately 100 kilometres while watching the changing landscapes outside the window. Equally in demand is the route from Amritsar, a city sacred to many travellers: buses cover the distance of about 140 kilometres in an average of 2.5–3 hours.

Tourists also frequently arrive via services from the city of Bathinda and other neighbouring settlements. The routes are served by both budget state carriers and private companies offering comfortable cabins with air conditioning (often designated as Volvo or AC buses), making it easy to plan a trip with the desired level of comfort.

Travelling by car offers the opportunity to see the picturesque landscapes of the state and plan stops along the way at your own pace. The shortest and most convenient route leads from the city of Chandigarh: the distance of about 97 kilometres is usually covered in just 2 hours on a good highway. Many travellers prefer to hire a taxi or a transfer with a private driver to avoid the stress of driving in heavy traffic and to reach their destination in comfort.

Other popular routes connect Ludhiana with important tourist and historical centres of the region. A trip from the famous Amritsar, spanning 141 kilometres, will take approximately 2.5 hours, and practically the same amount of time, about 2.7 hours, will be required for the journey from the city of Bathinda. The cost of a taxi for such distances remains quite reasonable, especially if you are travelling in a group and sharing the expenses.

A trip to Ludhiana, a major industrial and cultural centre of the Punjab state, promises to be rich and interesting. To ensure your journey through India is as comfortable as possible and free of unpleasant surprises, it is worth familiarising yourself with local customs and rules of conduct in advance.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is sharply continental: summers are very hot, while winters can be quite cold. For a summer trip, choose loose clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen) that covers your shoulders and knees. In winter (from December to February), be sure to bring a warm jacket and sweater, as there is no central heating in many buildings.
2. Transport Nuances. For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws. Be sure to agree on the price of the trip in advance or insist on using the meter, although the latter does not always work. Popular ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are also available in the city, which is often safer and more transparent regarding cost.
3. Financial Matters. Major shopping centres, hotels, and restaurants accept bank cards, but cash Rupees are necessary everywhere else: from paying for transport to shopping at local markets. It is best to exchange money at official banks or licensed exchange bureaus, avoiding street offers to prevent fraud.
4. Health and Hygiene. Drink exclusively bottled water and check the integrity of the cap when purchasing. Avoid drinks with ice in street cafes. Pharmacies are frequently found in the city, but it is better to carry a basic first-aid kit with absorbents and remedies for stomach upsets.
5. Language and Communication. The primary language of the region is Punjabi, and Hindi is also widely spoken. English is understood in the service and business sectors, but ordinary people on the street may not speak it. It is recommended to have a hotel business card or your destination address written in the local language to show the driver.
6. Etiquette in Temples. Ludhiana is rich in religious monuments, especially Sikh Gurdwaras. When entering any temple, you must remove your shoes and cover your head with a scarf or cloth (these can usually be borrowed at the entrance, but it is better to have your own). Inside, behave quietly and respectfully.
7. Social Etiquette. Do not photograph local residents, especially women, without their permission. Also, refrain from public displays of affection (kissing and hugging), as society here holds conservative views similar to many traditional cultures.
8. Shopping Tip. The city is known as the "Manchester of India" due to its textile industry. Be sure to visit the Ghumar Mandi or Chaura Bazar markets to purchase high-quality knitwear, woollen items, and shawls at very favourable prices.

Following these simple rules will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of the city and focus on exploring its attractions. Respect for local traditions and reasonable caution will make your visit to the heart of Punjab pleasant and safe.