Exploring the Chandigarh - A Guide to Things to Do, Places to Visit and Where to Stay

Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with nature. Designed by the renowned Swiss architect, Le Corbusier, in the 1950s, Chandigarh is known for its impeccable urban planning, grand architecture, and lush gardens. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, Chandigarh has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the marvels of Chandigarh, from the top things to do and places to visit, to the best hotels in Chandigarh for your stay.

Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake that stands as one of the most famous attractions in Chandigarh. With its pristine blue waters, it serves as a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The lake is a popular spot for morning joggers and walkers, offering a serene environment to start your day.

Boating, rowing, trampoline jumping, and even solar cruises are popular activities that can be enjoyed at Sukhna Lake. You can rent a paddleboat, a rowing boat, or even opt for a Shikara ride to explore the beauty of the lake. As you glide through the calm waters, you will be greeted by the sight of Siberian ducks and cranes, adding to the natural charm of the surroundings.

Location: Sukhna Lake, Sector-1, Chandigarh
Timings:5:00 am - 9:00 pm
Activities:Boating, rowing, trampoline jumping, solar cruises
Distance From:
• Airport: 10 km
• Bus Stand: 4.3 km
• Railway Station: 7 km

Designed and executed by Nek Chand, Rock Garden is a massive open-air exhibition hall that showcases sculptures made from urban and industrial waste materials. This unique garden is a testament to the creativity and artistic vision of its creator.

As you wander through the labyrinthine pathways of the Rock Garden, you will come across sculptures made from broken terracotta pots, tiles, glasses, mirrors, and even broken toilet pots. Each sculpture tells a story and adds to the whimsical charm of the garden. The garden also features man-made interlinked waterfalls, further enhancing its beauty.

The Rock Garden is not just a place to admire art, but it also serves as a venue for the popular Teej festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The festival brings the garden to life with vibrant colors, music, and dance.

Location: Sector 1, Chandigarh
Timings: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Entry Fee: INR 30 for adults, INR 10 for children
Distance From:
• Airport: 8 km
• Bus Stand: 3 km
• Railway Station: 9 km

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, Elante Mall is the place to be. Located in the Industrial Area Phase 1, this mall is the second-largest in Chandigarh and offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end brands to local boutiques.

You can spend hours exploring the various Indian and international brands housed within the mall. Whether you're looking for clothing, gadgets, jewelry, or home decor, Elante Mall has it all. The mall also features a food court and several cafes, where you can take a break and indulge in some delicious treats.

Location: 178, Industrial Area, Phase-1, Chandigarh
Timings: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Popular Brands: Zara, H&M, Forever 21, Calvin Klein, MAC, and more
Distance From:
• Airport: 12.4 km
• Bus Stand: 3.4 km
• Railway Station: 13.9 km

Rose Garden, also known as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, is a blooming paradise located in Sector 16 of Chandigarh. Spread over an expansive area, this garden showcases around 825 varieties of roses and over 32,500 varieties of trees and medicinal shrubs.

The garden is a visual treat for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you're a fan of vibrant red roses, delicate pink ones, or rare and exotic varieties, you will find them all in this garden. The best time to visit Rose Garden is during the annual rose festival, which takes place from the end of February to the beginning of March. During the festival, the garden comes alive with cultural events and competitions.

Location:Sector 16, Chandigarh
Timings: 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
Highlights: Annual rose festival, musical performances, competitions
Distance From:
• Airport: 9 km
• Bus Stand: 2 km
• Railway Station: 7 km

Located in Zirakpur, near Chandigarh, Chattbir Zoo, also known as Mahendra Choudhary Zoological Park, is a must-visit for animal lovers. Sprawling over an expansive 202 acres of land, the zoo is home to a vast variety of animals, birds, and reptiles.

As you explore the zoo, you will come across majestic lions, graceful deer, playful primates, colorful birds, and even the royal Bengal tiger. The zoo aims to provide a natural habitat environment for the animals, allowing them to thrive in their surroundings. One of the highlights of the zoo is the lion safari, where you can get up close and personal with the king of the jungle.

Location: Chattbir Zoo Road, Zirakpur, Punjab
Timings: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: INR 40 for adults, INR 20 for children
Distance From:
• Airport: 12 km
• Bus Stand: 5 km
• Railway Station: 12 km

Sector 17 Market is the heart of Chandigarh and a shopaholic's paradise. This bustling market is replete with big brand stores, international outlets, food chains, and eateries, catering to the needs of both locals and tourists. From trendy clothing stores to bridal boutiques, you will find everything you're looking for in Sector 17 Market.

The market is divided into multiple sections, each offering a unique shopping experience. Whether you're in search of traditional Punjabi attire, handicrafts, or the latest fashion trends, you will be spoilt for choice in this vibrant market. Don't forget to explore the street food stalls and indulge in some local delicacies while you're here.

Location: Sector 17, Chandigarh
Timings: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
Highlights: Big brand stores, international outlets, street food stalls
Distance From:
• Airport: 10 km
• Bus Stand: 0.5 km
• Railway Station: 8 km

Embracing the spirit of Zen, Japanese Garden is a beautifully maintained park in Chandigarh, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in Sector 31A, this garden features pagoda towers, waterfalls, meditation centers, Buddha idols, and several other structures inspired by Japanese architecture.

The park is divided into two phases, interconnected by an underground tunnel adorned with beautiful Japanese paintings. As you stroll through the garden, you will be mesmerized by the tranquility and beauty that surrounds you. It's the perfect place to find inner peace and reconnect with nature.

Location: Sector 31A, Chandigarh
Timings: 7:00 am - 6:30 pm
Highlights:Pagoda towers, waterfalls, meditation centers
Distance From:
• Airport: 17 km
• Bus Stand: 5 km
• Railway Station: 12 km

Gedi Route, formerly known as Azaadi Route, is a popular attraction in Chandigarh, especially among the youth. This route extends from Sectors 8, 9, 10 to 11 and is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively ambiance.

The term "gedi" refers to late-night drives and bike rides that young people embark on to unwind and socialize. The route is lined with street cafes, fast food joints, and college hangouts, making it the perfect place to spend an evening with friends. As you drive along the Gedi Route, you'll be immersed in the energetic atmosphere and the buzzing street life of Chandigarh.

Location: Sectors 8, 9, 10, 11, Chandigarh
Highlights: Nightlife, street cafes, fast food joints
Distance From:
• Airport: 10 km
• Bus Stand: 3 km
• Railway Station: 9 km

The Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. Located in Sector 10, this museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts, prehistoric fossils, modern art, and portraits.

The museum is divided into various sections, each offering a unique glimpse into different aspects of Indian history and culture. The National History Museum, the National Gallery of Portraits, and the Chandigarh Architecture Museum are some of the sections you can explore. Whether you're a history buff or an art enthusiast, this museum is a must-visit.

Location: Sector 10, Chandigarh
Timings:10:00 am - 4:30 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Highlights: Archaeological artifacts, modern art, portraits
Distance From:
• Airport: 7 km
• Bus Stand: 2 km
• Railway Station: 7 km

The International Dolls Museum in Chandigarh is a unique museum that showcases a wide collection of fascinating dolls and marionettes from all around the world. The museum is home to dolls from countries like Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Spain, Korea, and Russia, standing alongside a vast collection of Indian dolls.

As you wander through the museum, you'll be amazed by the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail in each doll. The collection reflects the diverse cultures and traditions of different countries, making it a truly enriching experience. The museum also organizes puppet shows and cultural events, adding to the vibrancy of the exhibits.

Location: Bal Bhawan, Sector 23B, Chandigarh
Timings: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Highlights:Collection of international dolls, puppet shows
Distance From:
• Airport: 8 km
• Bus Stand: 2 km
• Railway Station: 8 km

When it comes to accommodation in Chandigarh, Chandigarh offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or stays, you'll find something to meet your needs. Here are some of the best hotels in Chandigarh:
Mango Grove Hotel in Chandigarh's Sector 17 is a delightful oasis nestled in the heart of the bustling city. This charming hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and elegance, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel's strategic location provides easy access to the city's main attractions, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs.

With its well-appointed rooms in chandigarh and contemporary amenities, Mango Grove Hotel ensures a pleasant stay for its guests. Each room is designed to provide a serene retreat, complete with modern furnishings, cozy beds, and all the essential facilities to make your stay comfortable.

Mango Grove Hotel in Chandigarh's Sector 17 is a delightful oasis nestled in the heart of the bustling city. This charming hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and elegance, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel's strategic location provides easy access to the city's main attractions, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs.

With its well-appointed rooms and contemporary amenities, Mango Grove Hotel ensures a pleasant stay for its guests. Each room is designed to provide a serene retreat, complete with modern furnishings, cozy beds, and all the essential facilities to make your stay comfortable.

These are just a few examples of the many hotels available in Chandigarh. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose the one that suits you best.
 

Chandigarh, with its well-planned architecture, lush gardens, and vibrant culture, offers a unique blend of modernity and tranquility. From the serene Sukhna Lake to the artistic wonders of Rock Garden, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a shopaholic, Chandigarh has it all. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the marvels of Chandigarh, where every experience is sure to leave you with cherished memories.