Image Source: chandigarhtourism.gov.in
Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, is a city of contrasts. On one hand, it is a planned city with modern architecture and urban design, and on the other hand, it is a cultural hub with rich heritage and vibrant festivals. Chandigarh offers a variety of places to visit for tourists of all interests and tastes.
Whether you want to admire the artistic creations at the Rock Garden, enjoy the serene beauty of Sukhna Lake, smell the roses at the Rose Garden, or explore the wildlife at the Chattbir Zoo, Chandigarh has something for everyone.
In this article, we will take you through some of the best places to visit in Chandigarh and why you should not miss them on your trip.
Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake located in Sector 11 of Chandigarh. It was created by constructing a dam on the seasonal stream, Sukhna Choe, which originates from the Shivalik Hills. The lake is a popular tourist destination and a recreational spot for locals. Visitors can partake in various activities such as boating, birdwatching, picnicking, and water sports at the lake.
The lake is open daily from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm and does not require an entry fee. However, boating charges are applicable at INR 50 per person for two people and INR 100 per person for four people. Sukhna Lake is also well-known for being a temporary home to migratory birds like Siberian cranes, storks, and geese during the winter season.
Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh is not only a popular tourist destination for its charm and beauty, but also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals such as the Mango Festival, Chrysanthemum Show, and Rose Festival. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural atmosphere of the city.
Rock Garden, located in Sector 1 of Chandigarh, is a renowned sculpture garden. It was founded by Nek Chand, a government official who secretly dedicated his spare time to building the garden starting in 1957. Using discarded materials such as metal wires, broken bangles, pottery, and tiles, Chand created impressive sculptures of people, animals and structures. The garden is divided into three phases, each with its own unique theme and collection of sculptures. Its remarkable display of recycling and nature makes it a one-of-a-kind artistic creation.
Rock Garden is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm during April to September and from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm from October to March. Admission fees are INR 30 for adults and INR 10 for children. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking to witness the charm and creativity of Chandigarh.
Located in Sector 16, Chandigarh, the Rose Garden, also known as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, is a magnificent floral garden. Spanning 30 acres, it showcases over 1,500 varieties of roses in various colors, shapes and fragrances, creating a breathtaking sight for visitors.
The garden is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm and has an entry fee of INR 50 per person for both adults and children. The ideal time to visit is between February and March when the roses are in full bloom and the annual Rose Festival takes place. This festival includes cultural events, competitions and exhibitions that draw tourists from all over the country. A must-visit for nature and flower enthusiasts, the Rose Garden offers a splendid experience.
Elante Mall is a sizable shopping mall situated in Sector 17, Chandigarh. It holds the distinction of being the second largest mall in North India and the eleventh largest in all of India. The mall has four floors and a basement, with over 230 stores of various brands, categories, and cuisines.
The mall also has a multiplex cinema, PVR Cinemas, where you can watch the latest movies in different languages and formats. The mall is open from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm every day, and there is no entry fee for the mall. However, the movie tickets range from INR 150 to INR 500 depending on the show time, seat type, and movie format. Elante Mall is a must-visit place for anyone who loves shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Japanese Garden is a serene and cultural park in Chandigarh, located in Sector 31 A. It was built in 2014 by the Chandigarh administration and depicts various elements of Japanese culture, such as pagoda towers, Buddha statues, waterfalls, and golden bamboo.
The garden is divided into two phases, connected by an underground tunnel with beautiful Japanese paintings on the walls. The garden is accessible every day from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, with no admission fee. It is highly recommended for those seeking to immerse themselves in the peaceful and enchanting atmosphere of Japan within Chandigarh.
Chhatbir Zoo, also referred to as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is a wildlife park situated in Sector 21 of Chandigarh. The park is named after Mahendra Chaudhary, the former chief wildlife warden of Punjab. The zoo covers an area of 505 acres and houses more than 1,000 animals of various species, such as tigers, lions, leopards, bears, elephants, deer, and birds. The zoo is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm from Tuesday to Sunday, and remains closed on every Monday and on some national holidays.
The entry fee is INR 100 per person for adults and INR 50 per person for children. The zoo also offers a lion safari, where visitors can see the majestic animals in their natural habitat, and a battery-operated cart, where visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the zoo. Chhatbir Zoo is a must-visit place for anyone who loves nature and wildlife.
The ISKCON Temple, located in Sector 36 B of Chandigarh, is a spiritual and cultural center associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). It follows the teachings of Lord Krishna and the Bhagavad Gita. The temple’s architecture is notable for its white marble dome and red sandstone facade. Inside, there are three altars dedicated to the worship of Radha-Krishna, Gaura-Nitai, and Jagannath-Baladeva-Subhadra.
Visitors can access the temple from 4:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm daily without any entry fee. The temple also offers various services and facilities, such as a library, a guest house, a restaurant, a bakery, and a gift shop. The temple also organizes various festivals, events, and programs, such as Janmashtami, Rath Yatra, and Hare Krishna Festival. ISKCON Temple is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the peace and joy of Krishna consciousness.
Fun City Chandigarh is an amusement and water park located in Sector 21. It is the biggest park of its kind in North India, spread across 42 acres of land. It has rides ranging from thrill to family rides, such as the Crusader, Crazy Falls, and Orange River Raft. It also offers boating and 5D theatre, which are included in the park ticket with no extra charges.
The park is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm every day, and the entry fee is INR 1090 per person for both amusement and water park. Fun City Chandigarh is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to have a fun-filled and exciting day with their family and friends.
The Doll Museum is a fascinating museum in Chandigarh, located in Sector 23 B. It was established in 1985 by the Indian Council of Child Welfare, and displays a collection of over 250 dolls from different countries, such as Russia, Denmark, Germany, Spain, and Korea. The dolls are dressed in traditional costumes, and represent various cultures, professions, and themes. The museum also has a section dedicated to Indian dolls, which showcase the diversity and richness of India’s heritage.
The museum is open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday, and remains closed on every Monday. The entry fee is INR 10 per person for adults and free for children. The museum also charges INR 5 extra for the camera. Doll Museum is a must-visit place for anyone who loves dolls and wants to learn more about the world.
Musical Fountain is a captivating attraction in Chandigarh, located in Sector 17. It is a fountain that dances to the tunes of music and lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for the viewers. The fountain has a circular shape and a diameter of 12 meters. It has 48 nozzles that can spray water up to 6 meters high.
The fountain is open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm every day, and there is no entry fee for the fountain. The fountain also hosts special shows on festivals and occasions, such as Diwali, New Year, and Republic Day. Musical Fountain is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing and entertaining evening in Chandigarh.
Butterfly Park Chandigarh is a well-maintained park and conservatory located in Sector 26. It spans over 7 acres of land and is home to more than 35 species of butterflies, including the Common Mormon, Blue Tiger, and Striped Tiger. The park boasts a diverse range of plants and trees, such as mango, ashoka, citrus, and palm, which serve as sources of nectar and shelter for the butterflies.
Visitors can observe these beautiful insects in their natural habitat at this park. The operating hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, with no entry fee required. This park is highly recommended for nature lovers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of these winged creatures.
Garden of Fragrance is a landscaped park situated in Sector 36 B of Chandigarh. It was established in 1998 and is renowned for its delightful collection of fragrant flowers, including raat ki rani, damask rose, motia, champa, and jasmine. In addition to its floral attractions, the park also offers a picturesque setting for picnics, with its winding pathways, lotus pond, and open spaces.
The park is open to the public every day from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm and does not charge an entry fee. Garden of Fragrance is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty and aroma of Chandigarh.
Topiary Park, located in Sector 35 A of Chandigarh, is a delightful green space that has been in existence since 1987. It is renowned for its intricate and artistic topiaries – expertly shaped shrubs and trees. These topiaries feature various designs, including animals, human figures, and abstract forms, making it a captivating attraction for children.
Additionally, the park boasts swings, slides, and a spacious green garden where visitors can unwind and appreciate the natural surroundings. The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm and has no admission fee. For nature and art enthusiasts, Topiary Park is a must-see destination.
Leisure Valley Park is a sprawling green space in Chandigarh, located in Sector 10. It is a part of a larger complex of gardens and parks that stretches across 8 km, from Sector 1 to Sector 53. The park is a popular destination for nature lovers, joggers, walkers, and picnickers, who can enjoy the scenic views, the musical fountain, and the open-air theatre.
The park is open daily from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm with no entry fee. Throughout the year, it offers a variety of cultural events and festivals such as the Chandigarh Carnival, Rose Festival, and Chrysanthemum Show. It is highly recommended to visit this park for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and charm of Chandigarh.
Botanical Garden is a green oasis in Chandigarh, located in Sector 14. It was established in 2002 and is dedicated to the conservation and display of various plants, especially medicinal and endangered ones. The garden covers an area of 88 acres and has over 3,000 species of plants, such as cacti, succulents, palms, and orchids.
The garden also has a lotus pond, a bamboo grove, a fern house, and a fossil park. The garden, which showcases the flora of Chandigarh, is open daily from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm with no admission fee. It is a highly recommended destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to expand their knowledge of local plant life.
Bougainvillea Park is a colorful and fragrant park in Chandigarh, located in Sector 31. It was inaugurated in 1976 and showcases over 65 varieties of bougainvillea flowers, which bloom in different shades of pink, red, purple, and white.
Bougainvillea Park offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness trail, children’s playground, and musical fountain. The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm and does not require an entry fee.
Additionally, the park hosts the annual Bougainvillea Festival, showcasing cultural programs, competitions, and exhibitions. For nature lovers and those seeking beauty, Bougainvillea Park is a highly recommended destination.
The Le Corbusier Centre is a museum dedicated to showcasing the works and contributions of the renowned Swiss-French architect, Le Corbusier. The museum is situated in Sector 19 B and occupies the same building that was once used as his office during his time in Chandigarh.
On display at the museum are various pieces such as paintings, sketches, letters, photographs, and furniture created by Le Corbusier, providing insight into his vision and philosophy for the city. Operating hours for the museum are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Tuesdays through Sundays, with Mondays being the only day it remains closed. Admission to the museum is free of charge.
Le Corbusier Centre is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and culture of Chandigarh.
Chandigarh is a city that boasts a harmonious combination of modern and traditional elements, art and nature, culture and entertainment. It offers something for every individual, be it adventure, relaxation, shopping or sightseeing. A visit to Chandigarh is highly recommended during your trip to India as it promises unforgettable memories and experiences. Don’t wait any longer – book your tickets now and discover the incredible destinations awaiting you in Chandigarh.
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