Baisakhi shines brightest at these five places where tradition, music and celebration unite in festive spirit!
Baisakhi, also called Vaisakhi, is a vibrant harvest festival primarily celebrated in Punjab and across northern India. It signifies the onset of the Sikh New Year and the beginning of the harvest season. The celebration is marked by lively colors, joyful energy, and cultural traditions, as people adorn themselves in traditional attire, dance to folk tunes, and enjoy festive delicacies. If you're eager to experience the colorful processions, traditional performances, and delicious treats of Baisakhi, here are the top 5 places in India to witness Baisakhi festivities.
No mention of Baisakhi is complete without highlighting the grand celebrations in Amritsar. As a major Sikh festival, Vaisakhi commemorates the formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, on 13 April 1699. Rich in historical and cultural significance, the Baisakhi festivities in Amritsar offer a powerful mix of spirituality, tradition, and exuberance. From the radiant aura of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) to the legacy of Jallianwala Bagh, the city captures the resilient soul of Punjab. One of the most striking aspects of the celebration is the Nagar Kirtan — a vibrant procession led by the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones), featuring devotional singing, martial arts demonstrations, and the proudly carried Sikh flag, the Nishan Sahib.
Situated near the Sutlej River, Anandpur Sahib is among the holiest sites in Sikhism, revered as the place where the last two Sikh Gurus—Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh—once lived. It holds immense historical importance as the birthplace of the Khalsa Panth, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Anandpur Sahib is synonymous with Baisakhi celebrations of unmatched splendor. The town also hosts the iconic Hola Mohalla festival, known for its stunning martial arts demonstrations, mock battles, and processions that reflect the rich Sikh heritage.
To truly soak in the grandeur of the Baisakhi Mela, Ludhiana is a must-visit destination. The city comes alive with vibrant cultural performances, energetic folk dances, and traditional music that capture the festive spirit. Visitors can relish the irresistible flavors of Punjabi cuisine, shop for exquisite handicrafts, and enjoy traditional performances by talented local artists, making Ludhiana a perfect spot to celebrate Baisakhi in all its glory.
Jalandhar celebrates Vaisakhi with great enthusiasm and charm. The festivities are marked by lively singing, dancing, and traditional folk performances by both men and women—truly a delight to witness. Villages in and around the city host grand events, embracing the festival with immense zeal and excitement. As spring sets in, locals and visitors alike gather at various spots across Jalandhar to join in the celebrations. Schools also partake in the spirit of Baisakhi, with students delivering speeches, reciting poetry, and performing bhangra.
The rhythmic beat of the dhol is enough to get anyone’s feet tapping during Baisakhi, and when it comes to music and energy, few places match the vibrancy of Delhi. Well before the festival arrives, the city comes alive with festive spirit—especially in the bustling Sikh neighborhoods of Old Delhi and South Delhi. Streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and a sense of celebration fills the air as devotees gather to offer prayers and participate in community service.
