Punjab declares Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo As Holy Cities

Chadndigarh, Dec 22

The Punjab Government has officially notified the walled city of Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib) as Holy Cities of the state, granting them special status in recognition of their historic and spiritual significance.

Announcing the decision in a video message, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described it as a “historic step” and a moment of gratitude, humility and responsibility for Punjab. He said the announcement was first made from the sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib during the state-level function to commemorate the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and has now been formally implemented through an official notification.

Mann underlined that three of the five Sikh Takhts—Sri Akal Takht Sahib at Amritsar, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib at Sri Anandpur Sahib and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib at Talwandi Sabo—are located in Punjab, and the cities associated with these Takhts have now been granted the status of centres of faith and holy cities. He said these cities are not only major religious centres but also vital symbols of Punjab’s cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister said the state government would “leave no stone unturned” to ensure comprehensive and holistic development of the three holy cities. He announced that world-class facilities will be developed in the walled city Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Sri Damdama Sahib, with a special focus on facilitating pilgrims and devotees arriving from across the globe. To improve mobility and ease of access, services such as e‑rickshaws, mini‑buses and other forms of public transport will be further introduced and strengthened in these areas.

Mann also made it clear that stringent regulations will apply within the notified holy city limits. The sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco and any other intoxicating substances will be completely prohibited in these cities, a move he said was aimed at preserving and reflecting the sanctity of these sacred places.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment, the Chief Minister said no effort would be spared to provide all necessary amenities and ensure orderly, respectful development in and around these centres of faith. Congratulating the Sikh community and the people of Punjab, he said this decision to declare the holy cities “should have been implemented long ago” but has now come into force with the issuance of the notification.

According to the notification issued on December 15, 2025, the walled city of Amritsar in Amritsar district, the city of Sri Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar district and the city of Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib) in Bathinda district have been accorded the official status of Holy Cities of the State of Punjab.