Places To Visit In Chandigarh

Chandigarh is quite popular as a well-organized city in India that also holds a record of being the first planned city after attaining Independence. It is situated at the foothills of the majestic Himalayan Shivalik range and thus witnesses a favourable climate throughout the year, making it a top favourite amongst backpackers.

Chandigarh houses some of the most exceptional and remarkable marvels, architectural sculptures, well-preserved natural bodies, and wildlife. From gardens to architectural spots, lakes, and lush green forests, Chandigarh has the finest possessions that can make any visitor crave this place to add to their travel goals. Want to know which places are a must-visit while hitting this fascinating concoction of beauty and modernity? Read on to find it out yourself:

Has Something To Offer To Everyone

Road route: Traveling by road is a great option if you are nearby, such as in Delhi. Taxis can be rented from any private company also A bus is also a great option you can directly book bus tickets from Delhi to Chandigarh and travel hassle-free.

Sukhna Lake

Talk about the water bodies of this enticing city, and Sukhna lake is the next thought to hit your mind. This lake holds its name high as one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in India. Sukhna lake came into existence in the year 1958 when it was created by damming Sukhna Chole. Spread across a distance of 3km, Sukhna lake encompasses sparkly waters and is home to many migratory birds. You can easily spot Siberian ducks and cranes at this place, and if you are a bird enthusiast, then this place should definitely be on your itinerary of touring Chandigarh.

Also, it is a place where couples can spend a romantic time together at this picturesque waterbody witnessing the gorgeous sunset and sunrise views. You can also enjoy water activities here by taking a boat trip that merely costs 50 bucks and can be opted anytime between 0930am and 0600 pm.

Open Hand Monument

Designed by Le Corbusier- the architect who planned the city of Chandigarh, this exquisite open-hand monument lists itself in the UNESCO world heritage site. This 50-tonne monument is an official emblem of Chandigarh, which symbolizes peace and happiness. It is a unique 26m tall gem that graces the Capitol complex in Chandigarh, representing the hand to give and the hand to take prosperity, peace, and unity of mankind. Also, it is designed such that it rotates with the wind and stands out as the pride of the city.

This amazing artwork attracts tourists all around the year for all the right reasons and can be visited between 09:00 am and 08:00 pm without any entry fees.

Rock Garden

A weekend getaway to Chandigarh can never be complete if you do not drop down at the delightful Rock garden built by Nek Chand Saini in the year 1957. The history of the rock garden is quite interesting because the founder started this garden as a hobby which has now transformed into one of the most visited places in Chandigarh. He started building this garden secretly and hid it from the eyes of the government for about 18 years until 1975.

Spread across an area of more than 40 acres, Rock garden has more than 5000 sculptures that are segregated into three different arenas, each with distinctive sculptures and figurines. The best thing about this place is everything that this place showcases is made using urban and industrial waste. If you are an art aficionado, you would love to visit this place because every nook and corner breathes art and skills portraying different animals, dancers, musicians, and much more.

The garden remains open for visitors from 09:00 am to 07:30 pm and has an entry fee of INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children.

Chhatbir Zoo

This awe-inspiring city is also home to incredible flora and fauna. You can find out the reality of the statement by taking a tour of the Chhatbir zoo, also known as Mahendra Choudhary Zoological park. Not only does this zoo boasts of being home to the royal Bengal tigers, but it also has ferocious and mighty lions along with other exotic wild animals, reptiles, and birds. It is a quintessential spot for a day out in Chandigarh where you can have some educational experience besides enjoying the lion safari that can give you a lifetime experience.

If you wish to take a stroll in a protected walkway to have a closer look at the enigmatic marvels of nature, then take a stroll in the zoo aviary to give wings to your goals. Also, you can tour the zoo aviary for free without paying any extra charges. The entry charge for kids between the age of 3 years and 12 years is INR 25, and for adults above 12 years of age, the fee is INR 60.

Sector 17 Market

As the name suggests, this lively place is for the shoppers that become more vivacious and vibrant at night. Not only can you shop things here, but also window shop to explore what this city has to offer. It is one of the best-known tourist places in Chandigarh, where you can explore various brands and vendors to buy your favorite stuff. May it be a business trip, solo trip, or a trip with friends and family, you should definitely take out time to visit this market to enjoy a shopping day out.

Sector 17 market is pure bliss and spending an evening here shopping with friends and family fuses the fun element to shop till you drop. Ranging from a huge range of clothing lines to footwear, decorative items, linens, books, and restaurants, you can find almost everything in this market.

Iskcon Temple

To fuel your religious spirits and divine soul, do not miss out on the Iskcon temple in Chandigarh, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Out of all the Iskcon temples spread across the nation’s boundaries, the Iskcon temple of Chandigarh is known for its grand religious ceremonies, devotional songs, and chants that take place almost every day. It is a holy place encapsulated with greenery all around to make it more peaceful and calm.

The Iskcon temple of Chandigarh is also very famous amongst international tourists who visit the country. Besides witnessing families enjoying a devotional retreat at this place, you can also find people enjoying a picnic in the vicinity. Also, there are a huge number of shops where you can buy souvenirs, sweets, and other staples to take back as a memory. The temple remains open from Sunday to Thursday and remains closed every Friday and Saturday. There is no entry fee for the temple, and you can visit the temple between 4:30 am to 5:00 am, 07:15 am to 12:45 pm, and 04:15 pm to 08:00 pm.

Thunder Zone

It is categorized as one of the most hyped and eminent amusement parks in North India. If you wish to experience the exhilarating thrills besides having the thunder chills running down your spine, then the thunder zone is a must-visit place.

This dramatic amusement park is spread across 12 acres and is a perfect getaway spot with family and friends. The entry fees for the Thunder zone vary between INR 500 to INR 1600, and you can enjoy the rides and delight of this place between 10:00 am and 07:00 pm.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Chandigarh city is an excellent blend of picturesque beauty, gardens, wildlife, thrills, and almost everything that you can think of while exploring a new travel destination. Besides being a modern city packed with the hustles and bustles of a busy life, Chandigarh welcomes tourists from all around the globe every year to witness the beauty and treasured possessions of the city.

So, what are you waiting for? If you have been longing to hit this city, do check out the places mentioned above to have a gala good time with your friends and family!