Are you planning a trip to Chandigarh, India and wondering which city to visit? Chandigarh is known for its stunning gardens, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. It’s no wonder the tricity area has several urban centers worth exploring. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the top towns around Chandigarh and what they have to offer.
✍️ By Rahul Goyal · Chandigarh Life
Quick answer: 14 City in Chandigarh: Discovering the Diversity and Culture of Each City — our top picks include Chandigarh, Panchkula, Mohali and Zirakpur, among others. Below you’ll find what makes each special, along with locations and key details to help you choose.
If you’re trying to discover the rich and various tradition of India, a visit to Chandigarh is a must. Known as the “City Beautiful,” Chandigarh is a union territory and a capital city of states, Punjab and Haryana. It is the primary planned city in India and is famous for its architectural marvels, lovely gardens, and rich history.
Table of Contents
1. Chandigarh
Chandigarh is the capital city of the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. It is one of the best-planned cities in the country and is famous for its stunning architecture, gardens, and lakes. There are plenty of tourist attractions in Chandigarh, including the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and the Capitol Complex.
2. Panchkula
Panchkula is a planned city located in the state of Haryana. It is located on the outskirts of Chandigarh and is known for its green spaces, temples, and golf courses. One of the most famous tourist attractions in Panchkula is the Mansa Devi Temple, which is located at the foothills of the Shivalik Range.
3. Mohali
Mohali is a city located in the state of Punjab and is part of the Chandigarh Tricity. It is known for its sports facilities and is home to the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. Mohali is also known for its well-planned residential sectors, including Sector 68 and Sector 69.
4. Zirakpur
Zirakpur is a small city located in the Mohali district of Punjab. It is situated at the outskirts of Chandigarh and is known for its proximity to the Chandigarh airport. Zirakpur is a developing commercial hub and is home to several department stores, markets, and restaurants.
5. Kharar
Kharar is a small town located in the Mohali district of Punjab. It is located on the outskirts of Chandigarh and is known for its serene and peaceful environment. Kharar is also known for its historic significance and is home to several historic temples, such as the Kharar Gurudwara.
6. Derabassi
Derabassi is a small city located in the Mohali district of Punjab. It is situated on the outskirts of Chandigarh and is known for its industrial and agricultural importance. Derabassi is home to several factories and warehouses and is an important trading hub in the region.
7. Kalka
Kalka is a small city located in the Panchkula district of Haryana. It is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its lovely scenery and cool weather. Kalka is famous for its railway station, which is the starting point of the Kalka-Shimla Railway.
8. Pinjore
Pinjore is a small town located in the Panchkula district of Haryana. It is located on the foothills of the Shivalik Range and is known for its stunning gardens and palaces. Pinjore is well-known for its Mughal Gardens, which are spread over an area of 100 acres.
9. Kasauli
Kasauli is a small hill station located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a distance of 77 km from Chandigarh and is known for its beautiful scenery, great weather, and colonial architecture. Kasauli is well-known for its Christ Church, which is a famous tourist attraction.
10. Solan
Solan is a city located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a distance of 48 km from Chandigarh and is known for its scenic beauty, temples, and heritage sites. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Solan is the Shoolini Mata Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga.
11. Shimla
Shimla is the capital city of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at a distance of 119 km from Chandigarh and is known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and snow-capped mountains. Shimla is a popular tourist destination and is well-known for its Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, and Christ Church.
12. Morni Hills
Morni Hills is a hill town in the Panchkula district of Haryana and is the only hill station in the state. It is located around 45 km from Chandigarh and is known for its scenic views and the twin lakes of Tikkar Taal. The area is maintained by Haryana Tourism and is a popular weekend getaway for trekking and boating.
13. Ropar
Ropar is a city located in the Rupnagar district of Punjab. It is located at a distance of 44 km from Chandigarh and is known for its historic importance. Ropar is home to several historical sites, including the Ropar Archaeological Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization.
14. Kurali
Kurali is a small city located in the Mohali district of Punjab. It is situated at a distance of 25 km from Chandigarh and is known for its lovely temples and gurudwaras. Kurali is also known for its agricultural importance and is home to several farms and orchards.
What is the best time to visit Chandigarh and its surrounding cities?
The best time to visit Chandigarh and its surrounding cities is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant.
How can I travel between the towns in Chandigarh?
You can travel between the towns in Chandigarh by hiring a taxi, taking a bus, or driving yourself.
Is it safe to travel to Chandigarh and its surrounding towns?
Yes, Chandigarh and its surrounding cities are considered safe for tourists.
What are some of the best places to eat in Chandigarh?
Some of the excellent places to eat in Chandigarh include Pal Dhaba, Gopal Sweets, and Nik Baker’s.
What are some of the best places to shop in Chandigarh?
Some of the best places to shop in Chandigarh include Sector 17 Market, Elante Mall, and Palika Bazaar.