Chandigarh

Chandigarh, the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, is known as India’s first planned city. Designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier, it stands out for its modern architecture, wide roads, and well-organised layout. The city is clean, green, and peaceful, making it a great destination for both travellers and residents.

Apart from being an administrative hub, Chandigarh is also a popular tourist destination. From natural attractions like Sukhna Lake to artistic wonders like the Rock Garden, the city has something for everyone. Many travellers exploring Punjab tour packages also add Chandigarh to their journey because of its beauty and easy connectivity. Shoppers can enjoy Elante Mall, while history lovers can explore the Capitol Complex.

What makes Chandigarh special is its relaxing lifestyle and balanced mix of nature and urban spaces. Whether you want to enjoy gardens, taste Punjabi food, or use it as a base to explore nearby regions, Chandigarh offers a memorable experience for every traveller.

Best Time to Visit Chandigarh:

The best time to visit Chandigarh is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers (April-June) can be hot, while the monsoon season (July-September) brings greenery along with occasional heavy rains.

How to Reach Chandigarh:

By Air

Direct Flight

1. Departure City: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata
2. Arrival City & Airport: Chandigarh International Airport, Chandigarh
3. Time Taken: Around 1-2 hours
4. Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, GoAir

Connecting Flight

1. Departure City: Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi
2. Arrival City & Airport: Chandigarh International Airport, Chandigarh
3. Layover Cities: Delhi, Mumbai
4. Time Taken: Around 3–5 hours (including layover)
5. Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, GoAir

By Train

The Nearest Station is Chandigarh Junction. Well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Amritsar, Kolkata, and many other cities with regular trains.

By Road

Highways connect Chandigarh to Delhi, Shimla, and nearby towns. Chandigarh is well-supported with state-run buses, private cabs, and self-drive options that make travel easy and comfortable.

Places to Visit in Chandigarh:

There are many places to visit in Chandigarh. Here are the top places:

1. Rock Garden: Created by Nek Chand using recycled materials, this artistic garden is full of sculptures and pathways. A must-visit for creativity lovers. It is one of the most unique attractions in India. Visitors of all ages enjoy exploring its artistic corners.
2. Sukhna Lake: A calm spot for boating, evening walks, or simply enjoying the lake view. Perfect for relaxation. The sunrise and sunset views here are especially beautiful. It is also a favourite picnic spot for families.
3. Rose Garden: Asia’s largest rose garden with thousands of rose species. Best enjoyed during the blooming season. It is also a popular spot for the annual Rose Festival. The peaceful environment makes it great for morning and evening walks.
4. Capitol Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Le Corbusier’s architecture and government buildings. Chandigarh tourism reflects the modern design and planning of the city. The open grounds here are often used for events and gatherings.
5. Pinjore Gardens: Located about 20 km from Chandigarh, this Mughal-style garden is famous for its fountains, greenery, and historic design. It is especially beautiful in the evenings when the lights brighten the pathways. Families often visit here for picnics and cultural programs.