Culture soaked

Qila Ladhran If you’re looking for a weekend getaway option that includes sumptuous Punjabi cuisine, and lots of shopping, then look no further. Located on the ChandigarhLudhiana highway is Qila Ladhran, a 300- year- old haveli that has now been converted into a boutique hotel. About six hours drive from Delhi, The Ladhran Fort, which belonged to Soumindra Guron’s late husband, Captain Amarjit Singh, is a quaint boutique hotel located a little away from the city. With lush greenery all around, this haveli recreates an old world charm with its brick floors, high ceilings and traditional Punjabi handicrafts on display. On entering the huge Iron Gate, you’ll find yourself in the courtyard— stretch out on the manji and quench your thirst with a kulhad of lassi. The rooms lined along the courtyard house the items on sale, shop for exclusive designer wear, handpainted fabrics, traditional phulkari dupattas, antiques replicas, home décor items and teakwood furniture. The haveli does not have accommodation facilities yet and you will have to head back to the nearby Chandigarh or Ludhiana for the night, after you’re done with the day’s activities.