Chandigarh being both Haryana and Punjab’s Capital is India’s first planned city. It is a union territory, i.e. straight administered by the central government. Chandigarh received its name from an ancient temple devoted to goddess Chandi (15Km from Chandigarh). Chandigarh is a town which can be visited if you get tired of daily routine as it is situated in the foothills of Shivaliks hills which gives it a subtle and natural beauty. Its urban planning is world-renowned created by famous architect Le Corbusier. The city is planned in accordance with nature preservation in mind.
The most spectacular building by Le Corbusier is the Capitol complex. It is the seat of the government of the States of Punjab and Haryana. It comprises three structures: the Secretariat, the High Court, and the Legislative Assembly. And in the centre stands the giant metallic sculpture of The Open Hand, the official emblem of Chandigarh, signifying ‘Open to give’ Open to receive. Chandigarh’s Capitol Complex was in July 2016 declared by UNESCO a World Heritage site.
For the nature lovers, Rose Garden is a blooming paradise exhibiting a thousand varieties of flowers, trees, and medicinal herbs. It is the largest garden of its kind in Asia spreading over an area of 30acres. The flowers are in their full bloom during the month of February and March. Rose garden is the most attractive tourist place in Chandigarh. The gardens that adorn the Chandigarh are Pinjore Garden, Hibiscus Garden, Bougainvillea garden, leisure valley, botanical garden, terraced garden and many more.
A must-visit place in Chandigarh is Rock Garden, a garden of mosaic art pieces and sculptures. It is a true example of ‘Best from waste’ created by Nek Chand, a former road inspector of Chandigarh. The waste material used by him includes terracotta pots, light fixtures, broken toilet pots and bangles and many more.
Sukhna Lake, a man-made lake located in the foothills of Shivaliks. The cool breeze from the lake serves as a perfect place for people to spend long hours here. Boating, rowing, trampoline jumping, and walking are activities that travellers can enjoy. Migratory birds and Siberian cranes can also be seen here.
The other tourist attractions that a traveller can enjoy visiting are Shanti Kunj, Fun city, Art and Museum Gallery, Sec-17 market, Elante Mall, Dolls Museum, Chat Bir Zoo, and much more to visit and rejoice. Traveler can also see nearby hill stations Kasauli, Shimla, solan that are easily accessible from there.
Chandigarh can be seen during any time of the year but the best time is between August to November as this time temperature is neither too hot nor too cold.