Bhatinda is a city—one of the oldest—in the southern part of Punjab. It is nicknamed the ‘City of Lakes’, because of the artificial lakes present in the city. The town is perfect to get the feel of Punjab. It offers various attractions like Quila Mubarak, Chetak Park, Bahia Fort, Zoological Gardens, Dhobi Bazaar and Mazaar of Peer Haji Rattan. There are plenty of hotels in Bhatinda to accommodate tourists.

Below are listed the top 5 attractions, one must explore on their visit to the old Bhatinda:

1. Quila Mubarak: Quila Mubarak in Bhatinda is an ancient monument. The monument is also known as Bhatinda Fort. The bricks of the fort do date back to the Kushana Period when emperor Kanishka ruled over Northern India. Raja Dab along with emperor Kanishka is believed to have built the fort. The fort became the place where the first Empress of India, Razia Sultana was defeated and imprisoned. The fort is the top attraction in Bhatinda. It has been in existence from around 90-110 AD in its current place and is the oldest surviving fort in India. Know what more top things to do in India.

2. Bhatinda Lake: The lake is located near the thermal power plant. Bhatinda Lake is a favourite spot to spend the evenings for the city locals. The strolling place near the shores of the lake is excellent for a relaxing evening walk. Various eateries located nearby the lake attract a vast number of people. Boating facilities are available at the lake with Kashmir styled Shikara Boats.

Know more about Different Types of Seasons in India (2021) – Winter, Spring, Summer, Monsoon etc

3. Lakhi Jungle: The jungle is situated 15 km off Bhatinda. This forest shelters an ancient Gurdwara where Shri Guru Nanak Dev delivered Shri Japji Sahibs—one lakh holy sermons. The 10th Sikh Guru—Guru Gobind Singh has marked the sacred place with his visit.

4. Mazaar of Peer Haji Rattan: It is one of the most important places of worship in Bhatinda for Muslims. This area of prayer welcomes people from all religions. It is believed that Bhatinda’s Pir Baba is capable of solving any problem. It is located between grain market and Civil Hospital and has a peaceful ambience. The Mazaar of Peer Haji Rattan is a beautiful display of the religious diversity in India as the mosque is built alongside a Sikh Gurdwara and a Hindu temple. It shares its walls with the two, too.

5. Bir Talab Zoo: The Bir Talab Zoo is a notable attraction in Bhatinda spread across an area of 161 acres. The entrance has a beautiful garden beyond which there is an enclosure for birds. Established in the year 1978 by the Red Cross Society, the zoo is currently governed by the Forest and Wildlife Protection Department of Punjab. The zoo is home to several rare and endangered species of animals, reptiles and birds. It is famous for its lawns and gardens.

Visit these places and enjoy your stay in the beautiful city of Bhatinda. There are many hotels in Bhatinda that provide top-notch services.

Must Know: The Unique Culture of India: 5 Major Traditions & Indian Customs