Chandigarh is recognized as India’s planned city which is also a masterpiece of modern architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The city in the foothills of the Shivalik Range offers a unique blend of urban vibrancy and natural serenity. Chandigarh caters to every enthusiast, history explorer, and nature lover, or even if you are on a shipping extravaganza, this city provides you with the best of all experiences. If you are planning on visiting this city let us help you curate an itinerary that will not only make your visit unforgettable but will explain why this city is crowned as “City beautiful”. Let’s delve deeper into 5 must-visit places in Chandigarh, each promising a distinct and captivating experience.
Sukhna Lake: Embrace the Nature:
As you drive through the hustle and bustle of the city, you will be amazed by the serenity that Sukhna Lake provides. Sukhna Lake is a haven for nature lovers that spans over three kilometers and offers a plethora of activities for every age group and every kind of enthusiast. From a light stroll while inhaling fresh air to pedal boats to encompass the serene beauty that surrounds, Sukhna Lakes provides you all.
You can also enjoy the birdwatching as the lake attracts a diverse range of avian residents. From migratory birds such as Siberian Cranes, and common Pochards to Indian species like Indian Cormorants and Egrets, Sukhna Lake provides the best spots for birdwatchers.
Zakir Hussain Rose Garden: Fragranant serenity
Spread over an area of 30 acres, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden was established in 1967. This is Asia’s largest rose garden, comprising 50,000 rose bushes and 1600 varieties of roses, It is a haven for horticulture expertise.
This garden not only hosts roses but is also home to many medicinal plants as well such as bel, bahera, harar, camphor, and yellow gulmohar. Throughout the year extensive work has been put in to keep the roses blooming, and this hard work is also celebrated when the Annual Rose Festival takes place in the garden in February or May. This may be the best time to visit the rose garden, other than the vibrant celebration, you will also be able to experience art exhibitions, prize-winning roses, cultural performances, and food stalls as well.
Rock Garden: Giving New Life to Waste
Rock Garden is located alongside Sukhna Lake, and it represents the depth of creativity and serenity that the City beautiful actually holds. Rock Garden is the birth child of Nek Chand Saini’s creativity, who served as a road inspector for 30 years. During his service, he roamed around the city collecting garbage and stones and started working on a no-building site illegally and secretly. By 1976 when Rock Garden was officially opened to the public it covered almost 30 acres and now it boasts around 40 acres showcasing the creative mind of Nek Chand in the sculptures, waterfalls, and courtyards which is nothing less than a wonderland for the visitors
The whole valley was transformed into a testament to creativity by the use of discarded materials such as broken bangles, tires, and broken electrical appliances. The whole experience will leave you mesmerized. You can also enjoy a large series of swings in the courtyards while enjoying the escape from the city’s buzz.
Sector 17 Market: Shopaholic’s Haven
If you are visiting Chandigarh with hopes of connecting with the City’s heritage and want to learn more about the city’s cultural heritage, then make sure you visit Sector 17 Market. From brands around the world to local traders, the Sector 17 market offers everything. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or or a souvenir hunter, from international brands to contemporary Indian brands you will find everything here.
That is not all! If you are looking to go back in time and experience Old Time India, then Neelam Theater will be your time machine. Here the latest Bollywood busters share the spotlight with the classic Indian cinema experience.
The Indian Coffee House also transcends you to the rich cultural history of Chandigarh. This coffee house does not serve coffee but also serves as a ground for brewing ideas among businessmen, students, and reporters. It is a reminder of the city’s vibrant intellectual pas and space where conversations still continue to brew.
If you still feel bland then wait till the evening when Sector 17 comes alive with dazzling light and water show at the musical fountain. This 30-minute fountain show captivates every individual present there. The show typically starts at either 6:30 pm or 7:30 pm depending on the season.
Elante Mall: Shopping along with entertainment
Often referred to as “City Beautiful’s” biggest and busiest mall, Elante Mall provides its visitors with the experience of entertaining and shopping altogether. With its space exceeding 1 million square feet, this mall houses a diverse range of stores that cater to various budgets and preferences.
You can visit stores from national and international brands to satisfy your thirst for shopping, or you can get entertained while watching the latest blockbusters, or a game of bowling, or can visit the gaming zone where a selection of arcade games and Virtual Reality experiences make you mesmerized.
You can also tantalize your tastebuds with a diverse range of dining options available at Elante Mall. From a food court offering quick bites and street food, and restaurants for more relaxed dining to coffee shops and bakeries to recharge yourself, Elante has it all.
Summary:
Beyond these highlights, Chandigarh offers a variety of experiences to be discovered. You can explore the architectural marvels of the Capitol Complex, delve into the world of art and history in the city’s museum, or embark on a spiritual journey at its religious sites. So what are you still waiting for? Pack your back and get ready for a lifetime experience. The city will leave you with lasting memories, appreciating nature and modern planning, a place brimming with the warmth of its people and culture.
