Chandigarh is the 1st planned modern city of India designed by the French architect
Le Corbusier. Chandigarh and the area surrounding it were constituted as a union
territory on 1st November, 1966. It serves as the joint capital of both, Punjab
and Haryana states. It is bounded on the north and west by Punjab and east and south
by Haryana. Total area of the union territory is 114Sq.Km.
Location & Attractions
Rock Garden
The world-acclaimed Rock Garden, dotted with sculptures created from scrap materials
and unusual rock formations, is Chandigarh's pride. Created from discarded concrete
and tiles, this unique garden spreading over 64 acres showcases urban art and offers
a quiet spot to relax. Created in the 1970's by artist Nek Chand it is indeed a
fascinating amalgam of nature's marvels and man's creativity.
Sukhna Lake
The 3 sq kms manmade Sukhna Lake is an idyllic retreat for a communion with nature.
The well-paved promenade, meandering along the banks of the lake, is ideal for a
jog or walk along the soft and shimmering waters while the lush lawns are perfect
to enjoy the soothing setting. The old Chandi Devi temple, that lends its name to
the city, stands near the lake. Renowned musicians often play classical Indian music
by the lakeside. Boating facilities are also available.
Zakir Rose Garden
The pretty Zakir Rose Garden, named after India's illustrious former President Dr.
Zakir Hussain, is Asia's largest rose garden. Spread over 27 acres, it is dotted
with more than 17,000 rose bushes embracing 1,600 species and dramatic colour fountains.
The fragrant garden is the venue of the annual Festival of Gardens or Rose Festival,
and offers a truly soothing experience to the senses.
Pinjor Garden
Pinjore Gardens, also called Yadavindra Gardens are 20 km from Chandigarh, 15 km
from Panchkula, on the Chandigarh Shimla road. Taxis and buses ply regularly between
Pinjore, Kalka, Panchkula and Chandigarh. Pinjore lies on the foothills of the lower
Shivalik ranges. The fascinating Mughal Gardens one of the most popular picnic spots.
A mini zoo, plants nursery, a Japanese garden, historic palaces and picnic lawns
await tourists. Especially at weekends, fountains are switched on and after dusk,
lights pick up the beauty of the palaces by night.
Chhatbir Zoo
CHHATBIR Zoo has gone for an image makeover. Wild grass has given way to beautiful
landscaping. The cages are neat and clean. The information board is updated. The
birth of new fauna which has gone up in the recent past is being controlled.
Parwanoo
Parwanoo is a delightful town in itself with picturesque views and is also a comfortable
base for visiting many sights in the vicinity including the scenic Renuka Lake,
Dagshai town, the fort at Subathu and the gardens at Pinjore. Designed on the lines
of a formal Mughal garden with formal quartered gardens cut by water channels and
dotted with fountains, the gardens spread over 100 acres and have pavilions designed
in a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. At Parwanoo, guests can also
enjoy a ride in the cable car to the hilltop for a breathtaking view of forested
mountains and scenic valleys. A children's park, a restaurant and hotel at the summit
offer a relaxing retreat for the family.
Kasauli
Kasauli, a pocket of paradise in the Shivaliks, is an enjoyable and accessible getaway
from Chandigarh. Developed by the British in the 19th century, the town retains
the charm of a colonial cantonment with its quiet cobbled sun-dappled paths lined
with cottages, orchards and tall old trees. With a cool fresh mountain breeze tinged
with the scent of pines, soothing bird song and quietude, Kasuali is an ideal destination
for a rejuvenating holiday. At night the plains below morph into a mesmeric sea
of twinkling lights.
