Guide
About Ludhiana
Ludhiana is a major industrial city in Punjab and the headquarters of Ludhiana district. At the 2011 census the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation area had 1,618,879 residents, of whom 874,908 were men and 743,971 women, and the district as a whole 3,498,739.
Two industries define the city: woollen hosiery and knitwear, and bicycles. Ludhiana is widely described as the centre of India's woollen knitwear industry and as the country's main bicycle manufacturing hub, with many small and medium units making garments, cycles and parts. In 2026 the city also gained a civil airport terminal at Halwara.
Economy and main industries
Woollen hosiery and knitwear are Ludhiana's oldest major industry. The city is home to many well-known knitwear brands, and sources describe it as accounting for the great majority of India's woollen hosiery output.
Bicycles are the second pillar. Estimates of Ludhiana's share vary, but sources put it at more than half and as much as 90 per cent of India's bicycle production. The industry includes both large assemblers and a dense network of parts makers producing a wide range of components. Exports have been a challenge, and the industry has struggled to compete with China in global markets.
Main business areas and markets
Gill Road is the best-known area for bicycle shops and cycle dealers. Gur Mandi is a traditional wholesale market, while nearby Ghumar Mandi is mainly a retail shopping area. Chaura Bazaar is one of the city's well-known shopping markets.
Hosiery and knitwear units are spread across the city, and many manufacturers deal directly with wholesale buyers.
Manufacturing clusters
For buyers, Ludhiana's appeal is its supply chain. Both the knitwear and bicycle industries have many specialised local suppliers, so buyers can often source materials, components and finishing work within the city. Many units are small and specialise in one process, so it is common to work through a trader or agent who coordinates several suppliers.
Air connectivity
For years Ludhiana's business travellers relied on airports in other cities. The civil terminal at Halwara, near Ludhiana, was inaugurated virtually by the Prime Minister in February 2026, and commercial operations began on 15 May 2026 when the first flight arrived from New Delhi. For buyers and exporters visiting the city's knitwear and cycle units, this shortens the journey from the national capital.
Finding businesses in Ludhiana
Common searches in Ludhiana include hosiery and knitwear manufacturers, woollen garment wholesalers, bicycle and parts makers, cycle dealers on Gill Road, yarn suppliers, and transporters. IndiaYP lists Ludhiana businesses by category and locality.
Frequently asked questions
What is the STD code for Ludhiana?
Ludhiana landlines use the STD code 0161. From abroad, dial +91 161 before the number.
What is Ludhiana famous for?
Ludhiana is known for woollen hosiery and knitwear and for producing a large share of India's bicycles.
Where can I buy bicycles in Ludhiana?
Gill Road has a large number of shops selling bicycles and cycle parts.
Does Ludhiana have an airport?
Yes. The civil terminal at Halwara was inaugurated in February 2026 and commercial flights began on 15 May 2026, starting with a service from New Delhi.