Chandigarh is one of the best places to visit in the country. It is a city of art and heritage, and if you are planning a trip to this beautiful city, we have got some amazing tips and tricks for you. This city is home to some of the best art galleries and tourist spots in the country. From beautiful lake views to international museums, Chandigarh has it all. Here are best tourist places to visit in Chandigarh
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Top Attractions in Chandigarh
The Capitol Complex, constructed by Swiss-French modernist architect Le Corbusier, is one of the top attractions in Chandigarh. The complex is spread over 13 acres and features a Legislative Assembly building, a High Court, an art gallery and museum, as well as government offices, hostels for government officials, and other facilities for parliamentary and government activity. The complex is named after the capital of India during the time of the dominion of British.
The city is often referred to as the ‘Garden City’ due to its many beautiful parks and gardens. Some of the prominent ones include the Sector 17 Market garden, Sukhna lake garden, ISKCON temple garden, rock garden, international dolls museum garden, terraced garden, etc. Apart from these, there are various places of tourist interest in Chandigarh such as Hops N grains pub & restaurant or Mansions pub & restaurant for delicious food and drinks.
Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, Chandigarh
Nek Chand’s Rock garden is an iconic tourist attraction in Chandigarh, filled with sculptures made of industrial waste and broken glass. The Rock garden contains over 5,000 pieces of art, making it one of the best places to visit for those who are interested in art and sculpture. There is something here for everyone, whether you enjoy art or not.
The rock garden is located close to other popular attractions in Chandigarh like the Elante mall and Sukhna lake. If you are visiting Chandigarh for couples, the rock garden is a great place to spend time together. It has a picnic area and several benches where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh
Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake located near the Shivalik Hills at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is a popular place for tourists and locals to visit for its beautiful views, recreational activities, and diverse wildlife. The lake is home to a wide variety of aquatic and land species, including turtles, fish, and birds. It is also known for its beautiful sunset and sunrise views.
In addition to recreational activities like sightseeing and photography, visitors can also enjoy trampoline jumping or outdoor gym workouts at the lake. The lake is a great place for all those who are looking for a romantic or exciting place to spend an afternoon or night in Chandigarh.
Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Chandigarh
The Zakir Hussain Rose Garden in Chandigarh is home to over 800 types of flowers and over 32,000 types of trees and medicinal shrubs. The garden is named after the former Indian president Zakir Hussain, who donated the land for its establishment in 1967. The garden hosts over 50,000 rose bushes with more than 1600 species and hosts the annual ‘Rose Festival’ in the February-March season.
A popular attraction of the garden is its garden gallery, which houses a variety of rose and hibiscus plants. It is conveniently located just a km from the city center of Chandigarh. In addition to its beautiful flowerbeds and garden gallery, the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden is also known for its annual rose festival, which features various rose and hibiscus competitions.
Chhatbir Zoo, Chandigarh
Chhatbir Zoo, also known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is a 505-acre wildlife park located in Chandigarh, India. The zoo is home to over 1,200 animals representing over 100 species. The park offers an open enclosure to the animals to retain their natural habitat environment. It is a great place for a picnic with family, and it also educates young children about animals and plants. The zoo is a great place for people of all ages to enjoy the beautiful and diverse wildlife of Chandigarh.
Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh
The Government Museum and Art Gallery is home to many art pieces including the trippy painting of the Himalayas by Nicholas Rewrich. The museum also contains a library of approximately 4,600 art books as well as references to various arts and associated subjects. It boasts of the largest collection of the world-renowned and popular Gandhara sculptures after the museum in Lahore, Pakistan.
The museum initially housed a museum by Le Corbusier, who was best known for his architectural designs throughout the world. Today, although it is no longer used for that purpose, it still serves as a place of interest for locals and tourists alike. It is located in Chandigarh City, which is a beautiful place to visit if you’re looking for some adventure and adventure in your trip to Chandigarh.
International Dolls Museum, Chandigarh
The International Dolls Museum in Chandigarh is home to dolls from all over the world. The museum features dolls from various parts of the world, including Germany, The Netherlands, US, UK, Korea, Spain, and Denmark. Each of these dolls is unique and demonstrates a different culture and history. In addition to the dolls themselves, the museum also showcases the doll culture from India and beyond. It features various doll collections depicting famous stories like Alibaba, Sleeping Beauty, and Cinderella.
The dolls in this museum are fascinating both as art pieces and historic icons. They are a testament to the rich culture of dolls throughout history and present an interesting look into our past. The dolls at the International Dolls Museum are a must-see for any lover of dolls or art!
Japanese Garden, Chandigarh
The Japanese Garden in Chandigarh is a 13 acre park located in Sector 31. It features a pagoda tower, meditation huts, statues of Buddha, Zen garden, and a small pond with pretend crocodiles. The park has two parts which are connected using an underground tunnel decorated with Japanese paintings.
It was inaugurated by former Indian President Shivraj Patil in 2014 and is open to the public in 2016. The Japanese Garden is known for its striking architecture, serene atmosphere, and lush vegetation. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, the Japanese Garden is a place of beauty and peace.
Nada Sahib Gurudwara, Chandigarh
Nada Sahib Gurudwara is a place of religious and spiritual significance in Chandigarh. The Gurudwara is located near the Ghaggar-Hakra river and Shivalik Hills of Panchkula. This place has been mentioned in Indian history as the Battle of Bhangani was fought here. It is also a place of celebration, as the full moon of every month is celebrated here like a festival. The Gurudwahra has been around for centuries, serving as a place of worship for Hindus and Sikhs alike.
The Gurudwara is best known for its architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. It is a place of great cultural importance in Chandigarh and is worth visiting to experience its rich history and fascinating culture.
Fun City Waterpark, Chandigarh
Fun City Waterpark is the premier amusement and water theme park in Chandigarh. It is located about 20 km away from the city center, making it a popular day or weekend destination for residents and tourists alike. The park is home to one activity pool, three landing pools, and a wave pool, with various water slides of various shapes and sizes. In addition to its recreational activities, the park also houses an amusement park alongside the waterpark, with a variety of exciting rides and activities for visitors to enjoy.
The park is best known for its family-friendly attractions, including several fountains, picnic areas, and play areas for children. Food joints are also available to cater to visitors’ taste buds. All in all, Fun City Waterpark is a great place to spend a day or weekend away from city life and enjoy some fun and adventure in beautiful Chandigarh.
Elante Mall, Chandigarh
Elante Mall is the largest mall of north India, covering an area of 20 acres with a leastable space of 1 million square feet. The mall is located in Industrial Area Phase 1 of Chandigarh and boasts of a diverse assortment of stores, including international and Indian brands. Besides, it has a cinema multiplex, food courts, and various cafes and restaurants to offer a variety of dining options. It is home to various Indian and international brands, making it a popular place for local residents as well as visitors. The mall also has a hotel on its premises. It is a place for both locals and visitors to shop, dine, and leisurely relax.
National Gallery of Portraits, Chandigarh
The National Gallery of Portraits in Chandigarh is a government-maintained gallery that houses photographs and paintings depicting key players and events in India’s independence. The museum was established in 1977 and has undergone several renovations since then, including a recent overhaul in 2007. It is currently managed and curated by the State Government of Chandigarh. The gallery displays rare documents, portraits, archives, books, sculptures, and paintings relating to the Independence era.
The Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh also houses artwork and treasures, including trippy paintings of the Himalayas by Nicholas Rewrich and a child art gallery. These museums provide an invaluable glimpse into the history of post-independence India as they house memorabilia from different periods of the country’s history.
Mansa Devi Temple, Chandigarh
Mansa Devi temple is located near Bilaspur village and was constructed by Maharaja Gopal Singh around the 19th century. The temple is known for its wall paintings, architecture, and a tree around which devotees tie sacred threads to receive answers to their prayers. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Chandigarh and is known for its extensive collection of paintings, antiquities, and sculptures. It is a great place to stroll by in the evening, enjoy music, and take pictures. Visitors to Mansa Devi temple are often seen spending time in the temple’s garden or taking part in religious activities such as prayer or meditation.
Sector 17 Market, Chandigarh
Sector 17 Market is a famous tourist destination for those who love to shop. The market offers a variety of regional and international items to choose from, including hand-crafted jewelry, ethnic clothing, and home décor. It is located in Sector 17 and open from 10 am to 10 pm, all days of the week.
The market is known for its big brand stores, international outlets, food chains, eateries, and a variety of vendors. Visitors can explore the market on foot and get quality traditional Punjabi clothing, footwear, books, and restaurants. Whether you are visiting the city for business or leisure, Sector 17 Market has something for everyone.
Open Hand Monument, Chandigarh
The Open Hand Monument in Chandigarh is a famous tourist attraction and symbol of the government of Chandigarh. It is located in the Capitol Complex of the city, and can be seen from multiple locations. The monument is designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier and is 85 feet high from its sunken trench. It is an iconic monument that conveys a powerful message: “Open to Receive”.
The monument stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage and culture, and is one of the best places to visit if you are interested in exploring the city’s history and culture. Besides, it is also a great place for families to spend time together.
GEDI ROUTE
Situated in Sector 1 of Chandigarh, the Gedi Route is a prime attraction of the city. It is abuzz with activity, street cafes, and college going students. The route extends from Sectors 8, 9, 10 to 11 and is known for its late night drives and bike rides. The name of the route was recently changed to ‘Azaadi’ Route. Travelling between Chandigarh and Rishikesh via road is 4:33 hours. The difference between Chandigarh and McLeodganj by road is 240 km and the time to travel is 5:10 hours.
The name of this route was given after the Gedi village in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh where many freedom fighters were buried. If you are travelling to Chandigarh, it is best you visit this place as well.
Butterfly Park, Chandigarh
The Butterfly Park is a must-see attraction in Chandigarh. The park is managed by the Forest and Wildlife Department of Chandigarh and is home to more than 30 species of butterflies over an area of 7 acres. The park attracts numerous butterflies due to the availability of different flower species. It is located in the front of the main entrance of Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology in Sector 26, making it easy for visitors to access the park.
The park offers a variety of activities, including walks, talks, and photobooth sessions that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the park’s resident butterflies. The park also has a café where visitors can enjoy refreshments while admiring the beautiful butterfly garden. Admission to the park is free but donations are appreciated. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit the Butterfly Park in Chandigarh!
GARDEN OF FRAGRANCE
Garden of Fragrance is a spectacular picnic spot in Chandigarh. Home to fragrant plants like Mehndi, Haar Shingar, Raat ki Rani, Motia, Champa, Demask rose and varieties of jasmine, it offers a delightful walk for its visitors. A great place to relax and enjoy the fresh environment, Garden of Fragrance has a variety of flower beds to please your eyes and nose. The garden has a beautiful lake and is dotted with huts for picnic purposes.
You’ll find it easily from the Netar Garh Bus Stop on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road or the adjacent Sector 17 market. It offers scenic beauty of lake and greenery all around. Besides, it is easily accessible by car from Chandigarh’s city centre as well.
Cactus Garden, Chandigarh
Cactus Garden is located in Panchkula, the capital of Haryana state. It is spread over 7 acres and is home to over 500 varieties of cacti and over 3,500 species of plants. The garden was established in 1987 to preserve endangered species of cactus in the area. It is now Asia’s largest cactus garden and National Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden and Research Centre.
Besides, it is also home to a distinctive bonsai collection and holds a cactus show every year in March. Cactus Garden covers various horticultural activities such as research, education, conservation, and public outreach. The garden is open to the public daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but visitors are required to apply for a tour permit at least 24 hours in advance by filling an online form.
Historical Tours
Chandigarh is popularly known as ‘Garden City’ of India for its beautiful greenery and exquisite gardens. The city is home to various tourist attractions, including the stunning open hand monument of Le Corbusier, the Government Museum and Art gallery that houses beautiful artworks and treasures from across the country, and the majestic Connaught place which is a popular leisure place of Chandigarh city.
The government museum is an iconic place to visit for its rich heritage, with art treasures and artifacts dating back to ancient times. It has a collection of paintings, sculptures, costumes, textiles, and other material cultures of all major civilizations. The museum also displays the elegantly carved depiction of the Buddhist Ghandar Civilization and Phulkari art form along with portraits of Guru Gobind Singh ji.
Another must-visit tourist attraction is the Ranakpur temple complex which was built by maharaja Dalip Singh in 1858. It features a series of gilded pagodas and other structures built in exquisite French style architecture.
The city has many old colonial buildings with intricate chandil work designs that add charm to its landscape. You can have a panoramic view of the city from the top floors of some of these buildings.
International Dolls Museum
The International Dolls Museum in Chandigarh is a kid-friendly tourist destination located just a short walk from the city center. The museum is home to dolls from 25 different countries and features dolls from all regions of the world, including Denmark, Netherlands, Germany, Korea, Spain, and India.
The museum’s Indian section explores various aspects of Indian culture through dolls. There are also sections dedicated to art and fashion dolls and action dolls. In addition to displaying beautiful dolls from around the world, the museum also offers regular workshops for adults and children interested in learning about doll making or storytelling.
The museum is open from 10 am to 4:30 pm on Tuesday through Sunday and visitors must pay an entry fee of INR 10 per person. This allows them to access the museum’s collection of dolls and learn more about their history and culture.
Government Museum and Art Gallery
The Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh is a museum that houses a large collection of art works from Pahari and Rajasthani paintings to Gandharan sculptures. It is known for its extensive collection of paintings, antiquities, and sculptures. The museum also contains artworks by international artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Le Corbusier.
The museum aims to inspire appreciation of the ideals embodied in art and bring it closer to people’s lives. Whether you are interested in art history or simply looking for an interesting place to visit, the museum is a great place to explore local culture and heritage.
Le Corbusier Centre
The Le Corbusier Centre is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous architect and designer Le Corbusier. The museum features a collection of his work, as well as exhibits on the history of architecture and design. One of the best features of the center is its guided tours that take visitors through some of Le Corbusier’s most famous buildings.
However, the best way to learn about Le Corbusier’s life and work is through in-depth interviews with experts, such as architects or art historians. In addition to providing a great place to explore some of his iconic designs, the Le Corbusier Centre is also a place where people can learn about the art and history of architecture.
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is located in the Sector 10 area of Chandigarh and is one of the best places to visit in the city. The museum is home to a rich collection of ancient artifacts, including statues, paintings, and carvings of various animals and human figures. Besides exhibiting objects from various eras in Indian history, the museum also focuses on the evolution of life on Earth.
It displays a wide range of interesting creatures, including extinct species and those involved in conservation efforts. The museum is best known for its extensive fossil collection, which spans over 5 million years of evolutionary history. It is a popular destination for historical tours in Chandigarh and is always worth a visit if you are looking for some great cultural attractions in the city.
Shanti Kunj
A historical tour of Shanti Kunj is an excellent way to explore the rich heritage of India. The international dolls museum in Shanti Kunj has a wide range of dolls and puppets from over 25 different countries, including those from India. You can find everything from dolls from different regions of India to dolls from other parts of the world.
Shanti Kunj is also home to some of the best Himalayan mountaineering destinations, including Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. If you’re interested in exploring the culture and history of India, a tour of Shanti Kunj is a great place to start. The dolls museum in this historic city has plenty to offer pierce lovers of dolls and doll-related culture.
Cultural Tours
If you’re in Chandigarh, there is no better place to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture than at the government museum and art gallery. The museum has a vast collection of artworks from different parts of the country, reflecting the diverse heritage of India. It also houses a valuable collection of ancient Gandhian artifacts, including uniforms and mementos of Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from art, it has a section on natural history and collections of geology and meteorology.
Apart from art, it has a section on natural history and collections of geology and meteorology. The temple is an institution with great spiritual significance for people of all hues and creed. It is also known for organizing various cultural events such as music festivals and dance programs. If shopping is your thing, Sector 17 market is a great place to visit. It boasts of great variety in food stalls and shops that sell arts and crafts products of different regions of India.
For an international flavor, head to the international dolls museum where you can learn about cultures around the world through dolls. In case you are looking for a vibrant atmosphere, Hops N Grains is the place to be. You can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture by touring its top places to hangout.
Mango Festival in Chandigarh
The Mango Festival or Mango Mela is held annually at the Pinjore Gardens of Chandigarh. The festival lasts for two days and showcases over 4000 varieties of mangoes and how they are grown. The festival is held between April and June during the month of Baisakhi, which is celebrated as the harvest festival in Punjab.
The Mango Festival is a popular cultural event of Chandigarh, offering tourists a chance to enjoy local food and culture. The city is also known for hosting other festivals such as Lohri, Rose Festival, Baisakhi, Dusshera, Diwali, and the Chandigarh Carnival.
Kalagram
If you are looking for a place to spend an exciting and cultural day in Chandigarh, consider spending time at the Kalagram Craft Village. This village is located just 5 km from the city center of Chandigarh and is a great place to learn about local artistry. It is known for its offbeat attractions, such as hand-crafted items and art exhibitions.
One of the best ways to experience Kalagram is to shop in the Sector 17 Market. Here you can find a variety of local hand-made crafts, clothing, and food. If you’re interested in art, stop by one of the art exhibitions at the village and witness some of the best work from local artists. Another great place to spend your time at Kalagram is participating in the Baisakhi festival, which is celebrated in many places in India.
Tagore Theater
If you are looking for an exciting cultural tour in Chandigarh, then consider visiting Tagore Theatre. This theatre is located in Sector 18 of the city and is famous for its traditional performances. In addition to its regular shows, this venue also hosts various cultural events throughout the year. These range from recitals and concerts to educational programs and film screenings.
One of the best things about Tagore Theatre is that it is open to everyone, regardless of age or culture. Whether you are interested in hearing stories from the past or seeing local talent, there is sure to be something on their calendar that suits your interests. Besides, if you want to experience traditional culture, visit Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh.
Rose Festival
The Rose Festival is celebrated in Chandigarh, India annually in February. The Rose Festival showcases over 800 types of flowers and over 32,000 types of trees and medicinal shrubs. It is held at the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden near the city center, which is just 1 km away from the garden. The garden is open to the public and contains a number of beautiful flower beds and fountains. Various other festivals and events can be experienced in Chandigarh.
These include Lohri, Baisakhi, Dusshera, Diwali, and the Chandigarh Carnival. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique offerings and it is a great place to explore, learn, and experience all that it has to offer.
FAQ’s
What are the best places to hang out in Chandigarh?
Chandigarh is a beautiful city with plenty of places to enjoy your time spent there. Some of the top tourist attractions in Chandigarh are as follows:
1. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden
2. Sukhna Lake
3. Sector 17 Market
4. Hops N Grains
5. Rock Garden
6. International Dolls Museum
7. Terraced Garden
What are the best activities to do in Chandigarh?
Some of the best activities to do in Chandigarh are water skiing, fishing and boating at Sukhna Lake. Chandigarh Carnivals at the Leisure Valley is also a great place to visit for a festive experience. You can also try trekking in the nearby Himachal Pradesh, explore some of the most sought-after places in Chandigarh like the city’s famous lakefront areas, or take a leisurely drive around to find your favorite places.
What are the best restaurants to eat at in Chandigarh?
There are many great restaurants to explore in Chandigarh, and some of the most popular ones include Uncle Jack’s, Hedgehog Cafe, and Amritsari Kulcha Hub.
At Uncle Jack’s, enjoy typical Punjabi delicacies like kadhi, punjabi chhole, lachha parantha, Amritsari fish, stuffed kulcha, makki di roti and sarson ka saag.
For international cuisine, try gourmet lanes like The Local at The Oberoi Grand. There you can discover French fare like escargots or duck confit with apricot gastrique, or Japanese sushi at Sushi Takarazuka.
If you’re looking for a more local flavor, then check out local food specialties like lassi, naan, parantha and roti from Chandigarh.
And of course, don’t forget about international cuisines! Sample Indian curry at Zandukee or shawarma at Shawarma King.
We also recommend these popular places to explore: The Natural History Museum and Le Corbusier Centre Chandigarh is a city of art, heritage, and culture.
Which attractions are worth visiting on a budget ?
If you’re looking for attractions that are worth visiting on a budget, then nature places in Chandigarh such as Parks, Historical Places, and Lakes should be at the top of your list.