A burst of color greets you as you set foot into the Rajasthani city of Ganganagar—the lush green of the plains, grainy brown of the Thar Desert’s sand, azure blue of the river flowing through and a multitude of hues from the garb of the locals. As if this weren’t enough, the city encompasses you in a melting pot of languages and cultures as well. Located on the northern tip of Rajasthan, bordering Punjab and Haryana, and close to the India and Pakistan frontier, you’ll find it hard to resist the multitudinous charm of Ganganagar.
Founded by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, after whom the city is named, Ganganagar is one of the best-planned cities not just within the state, but in the country as well. The great king planned this city after Bikaner, the region under his rule, faced one of the worst famines in history in the late 19th century, and needed to be irrigated with the waters of River Sutlej.
The multiple hues, the eclectic cultural ethos and the natural locales of the flowing river all contribute to making Ganganagar a city that needs to be explored.
As Ganganagar borders Punjab, it is no surprise that the city houses an important Gurudwara. The historically significant Gurudwara Buddha Johad is a massive religious complex worth visiting. Detailed paintings, intricately carved monuments and a large refreshing pond make this an idyllic location. However, it is best known to be the spot to where Bhai Sukha Singh and Mehtab Singh brought the severed head of Massa, the man who committed sacrilege against the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
There are a number of Hindu temples scattered around Ganganagar. Chanana Dham, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is undoubtedly the most famous and visited one. Islamic relics can also be found here in the forms of tombs. The one you mustn’t miss, of course, is that of legendary lovers’ Laila-Majnu Ki Mazar, one built in remembrance of the star-crossed lovers.
A number of other forts, monuments and sites, such as Baror, are spread across the city, and are of great interest to history and archeological buffs.
Buses and taxis are the most common modes of transport in Ganganagar. Hire a private car if you’d rather sightsee at your own pace. If you’re heading to the desert, don’t forget to hop onto a camel.
On a daily basis there are approximately 12 flights that operate at Faisalabad International Airport.Pakistan Intl Air and طيران إيندوس are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
Besides flying you can also reach Ganganagar through train.Shri Karanpuris one of the most popular train stations in Ganganagar.
By road Ganganagar is surrounded by Abohar, Pilibanga, Hanumangarh which are 24.15 km, 34.02 km, 34.93 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.