Located in northern India at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills, Chandigarh holds the unique distinction of being the capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana. Designed by the world-renowned architect Le Corbusier, the city was envisioned as a symbol of a modern, progressive India. One of the first planned cities in post-independence India, Chandigarh balances functionality, aesthetics, and green spaces.
The drive from Kullu Manali (THINGS TO DO IN KULLU MANALI) to Chandigarh
takes about 8 hours. Since there is no airport in Chandigarh, traveling by road
is the main option. Along the way, the route passes through mountains and towns
such as Mandi and Sundernagar. There are also cafes and restaurants for comfort
and lunch breaks during the drive.
The Beas River
The Beas River is one of the notable
sights during the drive from Kullu Manali to Chandigarh. It originates from Beas
Kund near the Rohtang Pass and flows through the Kullu Valley before entering
the plains of Punjab. Its waters can appear bluish-green along the highway,
with mountains and forests on either side.
According to Hindu mythology, the river is
linked to the sage Vyasa, who is believed to have meditated and composed the Mahabharata
near its banks. Historically, the Beas River marked the easternmost limit of Alexander
the Great’s invasion of India, showing its long-standing importance.
The river is home to fish such as trout
and mahseer and attracts migratory birds, supporting the local ecosystem along
its course.
Attractions in
Chandigarh, India
Arriving in Chandigarh
immediately feels refreshing, light, cool, and breezy weather. The city’s
well-planned roads, lined with trees and gardens, set the tone for not only touring
Chandigarh, but also the top sites in Chandigarh. Most of the
attractions are located within the main city area, requiring only short drives
between one and another.
(Sukna Lake, Chandigarh, India)
Sukhna Lake
One of the
well-known attractions in Chandigarh, Sukhna Lake is located at the foothills
of the Shivalik Hills. Created in 1958, it is a man-made lake formed by damming
the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream that flows down from the hills. Stretching
over three kilometres, Sukhna Lake comes alive in the early mornings with
people walking, jogging, or practicing yoga. There is also a boating option,
surrounded by walking paths, gardens, and open spaces.
Sukhna Lake is
a popular spot for watching the sunrise or sunset, with a cool breeze making it
a pleasant place for leisure and recreation in Chandigarh. The Sukhna Lake
Promenade also features small food stalls, seating areas, and a view tower.
In fact, Sukhna Lake is a place to sit
back and relax, away from the noise of the world.
Rock Garden
Creativity and
innovation for saving the earth and promoting an eco-friendly concept are what Rock
Garden is about. Spread over 40 acres, the Rock Garden of Chandigarh stands out
for its remarkable use of recycled materials. Everything seen in the garden, from
sculptures to pathways, is made from industrial and household waste such as
broken bangles, glass, tiles, ceramic pieces, wires, pipes, and stones.
Created by Nek
Chand, the Rock Garden is a true example of how everyday discarded items can be
turned into something beautiful. He collected waste from demolition sites and
construction debris, sending a message to the world that even unwanted things
can have a new purpose and life.
Walking through the garden, there are narrow
alleys, small bridges, waterfalls, and open courtyards filled with figures of
people, animals, musicians, and dancers. Even the walls reflect the meaning of
recycling, showing how different materials and designs can bring colour and
vibrancy to art.
Rock Garden is
a must-visit in Chandigarh for anyone who believes the world can become a
better place through mindful reuse instead of waste.
Roses greet you in different scents, colours, shapes, sizes, and varieties at the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden. One of the top attractions in Chandigarh, it requires a bit of a walk from the car park to enter the garden. Spanning more than 30 acres in Sector 16, this rose garden in India is one of the largest in Asia.
Named after India’s former president, Dr. Zakir Hussain, it features over 1,600 varieties of roses and around 50,000 rose bushes, along with many trees and medicinal plants.
Apart from the roses as the main attraction, the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden is also a place where people come for morning walks, relaxation, and photography. The highlight each year is the Rose Festival, usually held in February or March, attracting visitors from near and far for the blooming roses, cultural programs, and competitions.
What to See on a City Tour of Chandigarh
A day in Chandigarh can conclude with a
city tour, a convenient way to get a snapshot of the city without going to
other places. While passing by, it’s about catching a glimpse of the main
attractions in Chandigarh, with a guide explaining the significance of each
landmark along the way.
Leisure Valley
A long stretch of gardens and green spaces
that run across the city, showing Chandigarh’s balance between urban planning
and nature.
Capitol Complex
The area with important government
buildings, including the High Court, Secretariat, and Legislative Assembly, all
designed by Le Corbusier.
Open Hand Monument
The symbol of Chandigarh, representing
peace and unity, visible from the main road.
Bougainvillea Garden
Bright and colorful flowers add charm
along the drive, especially when in full bloom.
Punjab University
Known for its impressive architecture and
large campus.
Government Museum and Art Gallery
A landmark featuring sculptures,
artifacts, and paintings.
Chandigarh War Memorial
Built to honor soldiers who gave their lives, surrounded by open green areas.
