admin Chandigarh, the capital of the northern Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, is a modern city that is famous for its architecture, urban planning, and quality of life. It is one of the best-planned cities in India, and its layout and design are known all over the world. The city is well-known for its beautiful gardens, parks, and green spaces, as well as its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do in Chandigarh.
Things to Do in Chandigarh
- Visit the Rock Garden
The Rock Garden is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Chandigarh. It is a sculpture garden that was created by Nek Chand, a government official who started collecting stones, debris, and other discarded materials in the early 1960s to create sculptures in a gorge. Today, the garden covers an area of 40 acres and contains thousands of sculptures made from recycled materials like broken glass, ceramics, and tiles.
- Take a stroll in the Sukhna Lake
Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Chandigarh. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike who come here to relax, jog, walk or simply admire the beauty of the lake. The lake is surrounded by a jogging track, gardens, and a children’s park. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the lake.
- Explore the Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is located in the heart of Chandigarh and is one of the largest rose gardens in Asia. It covers an area of 30 acres and has over 50,000 rose bushes of different varieties. The garden also has a greenhouse that showcases different types of flowers and plants.
- Visit the Government Museum and Art Gallery
The Government Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. It is one of the most important museums in India and contains a wide variety of objects, including Indian miniature paintings, sculptures, ancient coins, and artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization. The museum also has a section dedicated to modern art and features works by famous Indian artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, and Jamini Roy.
- Shop at the Sector 17 Market
Sector 17 is the heart of Chandigarh’s shopping district and is a must-visit for shopaholics. The market is home to a wide variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to street vendors selling everything from clothes to electronics. The market is also a great place to sample local food, with plenty of street food stalls selling delicious snacks like chaat, chole bhature, and lassi.
- Go Trekking in the Morni Hills
The Morni Hills are located around 45 kilometers from Chandigarh and are a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The hills are covered with dense forests and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek to the top of the hills is challenging but rewarding, and visitors can also camp overnight in the hills.
- Visit the Pinjore Gardens
The Pinjore Gardens are located around 20 kilometers from Chandigarh and are a great place to spend a day with family and friends. The gardens cover an area of 100 acres and have several fountains, waterfalls, and beautiful flower beds. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the gardens or take a stroll on the walking paths.
- Experience the Nightlife
Chandigarh has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include the Peddlers’ Pub, Hops n Grains, and the Great Bear. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and drinks at these establishments, and there are also plenty of options for food and snacks.
- Visit the Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden is located in Panchkula, which is around 15 kilometers from Chandigarh. It is the largest outdoor cactus garden in Asia and contains over 3,500 species of cactus and succulents. The garden is spread over an area of seven acres and is a great place to learn about the different types of cactus and their unique features.
- Take a day trip to Kasauli
Kasauli is a small hill town located around 65 kilometers from Chandigarh. It is a popular destination for a day trip and is known for its picturesque views of the Himalayas. Visitors can take a walk on the Mall Road, visit the Kasauli Brewery, and explore the Christ Church, which is over 150 years old. You might love to read our latest post on Things To Do In Kasauli
- Visit the Open Hand Monument
The Open Hand Monument is an iconic structure that represents Chandigarh’s ideology of open-mindedness and peace. It was designed by Le Corbusier, the architect who planned the city of Chandigarh. The monument is located in the Capitol Complex and is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and design.
- Attend the Chandigarh Carnival
The Chandigarh Carnival is an annual event that takes place in February and celebrates the culture and heritage of the city. The carnival features a wide variety of events, including music and dance performances, food stalls, and cultural exhibitions. It is a great way to experience the vibrancy and diversity of Chandigarh.
- Visit the International Dolls Museum
The International Dolls Museum is located in Sector 23-B of Chandigarh and is a great place to visit with children. The museum contains over 250 dolls from around the world, including India, Europe, and Africa. The dolls are dressed in traditional costumes and are displayed in different settings, giving visitors a glimpse of the cultural diversity of the world.
- Visit the Le Corbusier Center
The Le Corbusier Center is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Le Corbusier, the architect who planned the city of Chandigarh. The museum is located in Sector 19 and contains original sketches, photographs, and models of Le Corbusier’s work. Visitors can learn about the architect’s philosophy and design principles and how they influenced the planning of Chandigarh.
- Attend a play at the Tagore Theatre
The Tagore Theatre is a popular venue for performing arts in Chandigarh. It hosts a wide variety of events, including plays, concerts, and dance performances. The theater has a capacity of 600 seats and is a great place to experience the cultural richness of the city.
In conclusion, Chandigarh is a city that has something for everyone. From its beautiful gardens and parks to its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, there are plenty of things to do and see in this modern and well-planned city. Whether you are a nature lover, art enthusiast, or foodie, you are sure to find something to suit your interests in Chandigarh.
