Famous as the City of Beauty, Chandigarh is a scenic Indian city and the capital of Haryana and Punjab. Enchanting gardens, impressive architecture, a serene lake, and many attractions help the city live up to its sobriquet ‘The City of Beauty’. Chandigarh is one of the first planned localities in the country, and its infrastructure and various landmarks boast its fantastic development. As it is one of the cleanest cities in India, exploring Chandigarh is sure to delight you. Lush greenery, multi-hued flowers in various spellbinding gardens, pleasant water features such as fountains, and many other natural attractions will help you reconnect with nature. Its pet-friendly hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals provide great accommodations as well. So, if you have Chandigarh on your mind to explore during your upcoming sabbatical, knowing well-known landmarks and features of the city will make your excursion more enjoyable. Scroll down to find some top things Chandigarh is famous for.
What to look forward to:
- If you're on a budget but still want to see as much of the city as possible, Chandigarh Tourism has a list of the best budget-friendly activities that you can refer to. Some attractions, such as Capitol Complex and National Gallery of Portraits are even completely free to visit.
Good to know:
- To get from attraction to attraction easily, visitors can use the public buses offered by Chandigarh Transport Undertaking.
1. Shopping
Chandigarh is a fantastic destination for shopaholics. It is home to sprawling Elante Mall, which is famous for being the second biggest shopping center in North India. Away from the foot traffic and main road, find Tiny Shop, which is a renowned city treasure. It is open since 1980 and sells a variety of beautiful items, such as artistic locally crafted goods, collectibles, and lovely souvenirs. So, enjoy the fun of shopping when touring through Chandigarh. Try stopping by some of the best spots for biyrani as well.
Elante Mall
Address: 178, Industrial Area, Phase 1, Chandigarh, India
Website: Elante Mall
Opening hours: 10am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
Tiny Shop
Address: Basement SCO 186-88, 17G, 17C, Chandigarh, 160017
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10:30am - 7pm; Sat: 10:30am - 2pm, 4pm - 7pm (closed on Sun)
2. Well-Planned Architecture
Chandigarh is also famous for its well-planned, impressive architecture that you can find throughout the city. Open Hand Monument is one of the most well-known landmarks in the city that speaks volumes about the eye-catching architecture of the city. Le Corbusier designed it as a symbol of peace and prosperity. Tower of Shadows is another famous architectural marvel that you can find in the city. This unique creation of Le Corbusier is effective in manipulating the sun rays and dealing with the light incredibly. Le Corbusier had designed it to study the movements of the sun. Chandigarh Capitol Complex, another creation of Le Corbusier, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and government compound in the city. Take time out of your busy schedule to view these various magnificent architectural feats in Chandigarh.
Open Hand Monument
Address: 31, Uttar Marg, Capitol Complex, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001, India
Website: Open Hand Monument
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
Tower of Shadows
Address: Capitol Complex, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001
Chandigarh Capitol Complex
Address: Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001
Website: Chandigarh Capitol Complex
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Clean City
Besides being the capital of two Indian states and one of the major tourist destinations in India, Chandigarh is also well-known for being one of the cleanest cities in the country. Locals here have maintained the City of Beauty clean by practicing proper garbage disposal. Various natural attractions, such as Sukhna Lake, Rose Garden, nature trails, Terraced Garden, and many more, have helped maintain the serenity of the city and clean environment. Explore this clean and tranquil city leisurely and reconnect with nature during your excursion here.
4. Greenery
Home to a variety of spellbinding gardens and green spaces, Chandigarh is also well-known for its serene greenery. Panoramic Leisure Valley, which is a sprawling 8 kilometers (12.87 miles) paradise for nature lovers, is quite famous among the locals as the lungs of Chandigarh. It’s not only known for its verdant space, but also famous for keeping pollution at bay. City of Beauty is also home to many enchanting gardens, such as Rose Garden, Garden of Fragrance, Pinjore Garden, Terraced Garden, Japanese Garden, Garden of Silence, Botanical Garden, Hibiscus Garden and Bougainvillea Garden (to name but a few). Plan your excursion such that you get to visit all these magnificent gardens in the city.
5. Wealthy City of India
In addition to the greenery, cleanliness, and well-planned architecture, Chandigarh is also well-known for being one of the wealthiest cities in India. It not only holds the political significance of being the capital of two states in the country, but also is famous for its rapid growth and development in the IT sector and economy that has contributed to its prestige of being on the richest cities in the country. Great infrastructure, fast transportation services, tourism, high literacy rate of the city, and commercial significance have contributed to its economy.
6. Capital for two states in India- Punjab and Haryana
The City of Beauty also enjoys the unique prestige of ruling two well-known Indian states, namely Haryana and Punjab, by being their capital city. However, it holds a distinct position and is not a part of either of these states. The city is a union territory, and the Union Government of India rules it. If you view the map, you can get to see that the city straddles between Punjab and Haryana. Enrich your travel experience by exploring this beautiful city.
Fantastic things to do in Chandigarh
Beyond what the city is famous for, the attractions and activities below will make your holiday in the city come to life, so read on!
7. Marvel at exotic sculptures at Rock Garden of Chandigarh
Chandigarh is home to world-acclaimed, unique, and sprawling Rock Garden, which has turned almost into a well-known heritage site. Nek Chand Saini, as per his vision of Sukhrani kingdom, founded this peculiar sculpture garden in 1957. Nestled near the lovely Sukhna Lake, this 40-acre (16 ha) garden features plenty of statues, made by recycling urban and industrial waste.
Explore the peculiar open-air exhibition space, miniature maze, and theater trove on the landscape of this noteworthy garden. Several connoisseurs and artists from all corners of the world visit this magnificent garden. For some fun things to do, marvel at various intriguing sculptures that stand here and delight your eyes by watching pleasant artificial waterfalls and other lovely water features.
Rock Garden of Chandigarh
Address: Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001, India
Website: Rock Garden of Chandigarh
Opening hours: 1st April - 30th September: 9am - 7pm (daily); 1st October - 31st March: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 0.5 USD per adult & 0.15 USD per child
8. Behold the sight of beautiful roses at Zakir Hussain Rose Garden
Chandigarh is also famous for being home to Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, which greets a plethora of nature lovers every year. Being the biggest Rose Garden in Asia, the sprawling 30 acres (12.14 hectares) landscape is home to greater than 1600 varieties of roses and over 50,000 bushes of lovely roses. Stroll through this panoramic garden at your ease and admire beautiful roses. The garden also hosts the Rose Festival in late February or the beginning of March.
Zakir Hussain Rose Garden
Address: Jan Marg, 16B, Sector 16, Chandigarh, 160016, India
Website: Zakir Hussain Rose Garden
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 0.68 USD
9. Enjoy boating at Sukhna Lake
Sitting at the foothills of the Himalayas, Sukhna Lake is a serene and famous attraction in Chandigarh. It is an artificial lake that features clean and clear water, a laid-back atmosphere, and fresh and rejuvenating air. It infuses a pleasant vibe that attracts several visitors to spend quality time by the lake and get refreshed. People enjoy walking and jogging on the promenade, which is present by the lake. People also enjoy the fun of boating in the serene waters of beautiful Sukhna Lake. So, make sure that you visit this idyllic attraction during your excursion in the City of Beauty.
Sukhna Lake
Address: Sector 6, Chandigarh, 160019, India
Website: Sukhna Lake
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Entry is free, but 1.40 USD for boating (up to four people)
10. Be mesmerized by the city's heritage at Government Museum and Art Gallery
Visiting the city’s Government Museum and Art Gallery is an excellent opportunity to learn more about its heritage. This property was first established in 1947 and has become known for its distinctive style. It was created to bring art closer to its people with an extensive collection, which includes works such as the Gandharan sculpture and the Pahari and Rajasthani Miniature paintings.
You will also get the opportunity to view ancient rock idols, metal idols, and coins at this location. Moreover, the Child Art Gallery is the place to go to ensure that even the youngest travelers have a good time on the trip. You may purchase souvenirs to take home as memories of your visit here in the souvenir shop.
Government Museum and Art Gallery
Address: Sector, 10C, Chandigarh, 160011, India
Website: Government Museum and Art Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 0.36 USD
11. See the beautiful avian species at City Bird Sanctuary
Enjoy the splendor of nature by making a trip to the City Bird Sanctuary, which is believed to be home to 25,000 green parakeets. Not only will you have a good time exploring the property, but you will also experience the revitalizing effects of the surrounding environment. This property is home to more than 262 species, including peacocks, grey partridges, and even aquatic birds, so you can observe many different sorts of bird life.
Aside from that, this 2.9 hectares (7.17 acres) property is also a habitat for several plant life, including trees, shrubs, herbs, grasses, and climbers.
City Bird Sanctuary
Address: 279, Ward Number IV, Himalaya Marg, Sector 21A, Sector 21B, Sector 21, Chandigarh 160022, India
Opening hours: 5:30am - 7pm (daily)
12. Spend a wonderful time at Terraced Garden
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Have a good time on your trip, and head to Terraced Garden, where you may take in the beauty and fragrance of the gorgeous flowers and enjoy the incredible scenery. Have a good time wandering the walking paths, and remember to snap some pictures for memories. When you relax in the calming ambiance, you may enjoy entertainment from the musical fountain.
In addition, the Chrysanthemums Show is a seasonal flower show that is hosted at this site. It is typically held in December of each year, so you can view the spectacular arrangements created using various types of flowers.
Terraced Garden
Address: 33 Market Rd, Sector 33B, Sector 33, Chandigarh, 160020, India
Website: Terraced Garden
Opening hours: 5:30am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
13. Get ready to be amazed and learn at High Court Museum
Be ready to be astounded by this museum’s features, where a magnificent display details the past and historical evolution of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. You will discover many political items, including documents and artifacts, that illustrate the intriguing development of this court throughout its existence.
You can visit several exciting attractions here: landmark judgment, handcuffs of Nathuram Godse, and even the original copy of the constitution of India. You will understand how things used to be by looking at the collection of stamps and seals on display in the courtroom that has been re-created for visitors.
High Court Museum
Address: QR44+93H, Capitol Complex, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001, India
Website: High Court Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
14. Admire invaluable collection of dolls at International Dolls Museum
Be delighted to view an incredible collection of dolls in eye-catching traditional outfits by visiting the brilliant International Doll Museum in Chandigarh. The museum boasts an outstanding collection of dolls from about 32 nations, and it has gained international fame and status for it. Decorative, historic, trendy, geographic, and socio-cultural costumes and design aspects of these indigenous and extraordinary dolls are sure to please you. Take a tour of the fascinating museum, and have a memorable experience to cherish forever.
International Dolls Museum
Address: Bal Bhawan, Udyog Path, Sector 23B, Chandigarh, 160023
Website: International Dolls Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 0.15 USD per person
15. Experience nature’s beauty at Leisure Valley
A beautiful sprawling stretch of 8 kilometers (4.97 miles), Leisure valley is one of the most enchanting attractions in Chandigarh. The valley is also famous as the ‘Garland of Gardens’ because it is home to 12 spellbinding gardens. These gardens include Rose Garden, Smriti Upvan, Bougainvillea Garden, Botanical Gardens, Fitness trails, Terrace Garden, Shanti Kunj, Hibiscus Garden, and some more green spaces. Due to its well-maintained green spaces, Leisure Valley is also well-known as the ‘Lungs of the Chandigarh City’. Make sure you visit all these mesmerizing green and floral gardens during your trip to Chandigarh.
Leisure Valley
Address: 10B, Sector 10, Chandigarh, 160011, India
Website: Leisure Valley
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
16. Visit the Garden of Fragrance and smell or admire the fragrant flowers
At the south of enchanting Hibiscus Garden in Chandigarh, visit the beautiful Garden of Fragrance, which is home to different varieties of aromatic plants. The mesmerizing sight of colorful flowers and the great fragrance is sure to please you. Champa, Raat ki Rani, charming Haar Shingar, Jasmine, Mehndi, and many more beautiful flowers adorn the landscape of the garden. Here you can also find a shop, from where you can buy fragrant soaps, oils, and incense.
Garden of Fragrance
Address: Fragrance Garden Rd, Sector 36B, Sector 36, Chandigarh, 160036, India
Website: Garden of Fragrance
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. Watch the iconic Open Hand Monument
Do not miss visiting the iconic Open Hand Monument during your trip to Chandigarh. It’s a peculiar symbolic monument, which is the creation of a renowned architect known as Le Corbusier. It features an 85-feet (26 meters) high hand sculpture that is made from sheets of metal. The monument symbolizes peace, unity and openness. Gaze at the marvelous creation when you visit the Capitol Complex.
Open Hand Monument
Address: 31, Uttar Marg, Capitol Complex, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001, India
Website: Open Hand Monument
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
18. Experience thrill and fun at FunCity
If waterslides, wave pool, and many more such exciting activities fascinate you & your kids, spend a day at fun-filled FunCity. It is the largest water park and amusement park in the entire city. Experience the thrill as you slide down the towering water slides. Feel the wave at a marvelous wave pool. Be pleased to watch your kids playing and having fun in the water.
FunCity
Address: Near Ramgarh. Chandigarh-Nada Sahib Gurudwara Barwala Road,Chandigarh.
Website: FunCity
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD onwards
19. Admire Japanese culture & art at Japanese Garden
Enhance your trip to Chandigarh by visiting the enchanting Japanese Garden while touring the city. The scenic garden spans over 13 acres (5.26 hectares) of land, and it features mesmerizing Japanese plantations, praiseworthy culture, and beautiful art. Various enchanting water features, such as ponds and waterfalls, will delight you. Gaze at the magnificent pagoda towers and golden bamboos at this green space. Experience tranquillity at the meditation center and view Buddha idol.
Japanese Garden
Address: Sector 31 A, Sector 31, Chandigarh, 160030, India
Website: Japanese Garden
Opening hours: 4:30am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
20. Take a tour of Chandigarh Botanical Garden
In the vicinity of Sarangpur village, Chandigarh Botanical Garden is a serene green space that is home to several species of plants and flowers. The establishment of the garden is meant to promote education and research, conserve the flowers and plantations, and spread awareness about the rich floral heritage. It houses over 15 spectacular botanical sections. Find here Medicinal Plants Garden, which has over 55 species of medicinal herbs, climbers, and shrubs, and 75 species of medicinal trees. Amla, Bael, Goolar, Sandalwood, and Jamun are some of the medicinal trees present here.
Chandigarh Botanical Garden
Address: Sarangpur, Chandigarh, 160014, India
Website: Chandigarh Botanical Garden
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 4am - 7:30pm; Sun: 24 hours
Price: Free
21. Capture the beauty of Butterfly Park
Glassy Tiger Butterfly Park Chandigarh Dec 2016
Posted by Tilism-e-Titli پرافسوں تتلی ک on Monday, 9 January 2017
Right before the primary entryway of Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology in Sector 26, this beautiful Butterfly Park is located. It is spread over a zone of 7 sections of land with a fastidious finishing. Uncommon care has been taken to make a decent environment for these butterflies. This stop is brimming with vegetation with an assortment of trees and bushes. The recreation center has a superb assortment of host plants for butterflies which incorporate Ashoka, Salix, Mango, Citrus, Amla, Palm, Capris, and so on.
Butterfly Park
Address: Sector 26, Chandigarh 160019
Website: Butterfly Park
22. Enjoy the views on Timber Trail
Timber Trail, Parwanoo, 40 km from Chandigarh is a perfect weekend getaway
Posted by Chandigarh : The City Beautiful on Sunday, 2 March 2014
Situated amid Shivalik Mountains, Timber Trail is 25-30 kilometers (15-18 mi) from the Haryana-Himachal fringe. Irrespective of its location which is near the city, you will discover enormous tranquility here. You will find this immaculate place surrounded with splendid greenery, natural air and outrageous solace and relaxation.
As you begin the eight minutes of unadulterated excitement by taking the ropeway ride, you will forget all your worries and will lose yourself in the excitement. This ropeway ride will take you to the height of about 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) above sea level. The top is not that big, but you can have delicious food there while beholding the beauty of the hills.
Timber Trail
Address: National Highway 22, Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh 173220
Website: Timber Trail
23. Go wildlife-watching at Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park
MAHENDRA CHAUDHARY ZOOLOGICAL PARK CHHATBIR ZOO Also acknowledged as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park Chhatbir zoo,...
Posted by India Explored on Tuesday, 8 January 2013
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park or ChattBir Zoo was established in the year of 1977. It is home to many reptiles, warm-blooded animals, and flying creatures, but the main attraction of this park is the lion safari. This wildlife heaven offers you an opportunity to go on a safari and roam around with the lions. The Royal Bengal Tigers hold the fascination of this place. The scenic environment coupled with the presence of a lake makes it the perfect place for a fun-filled picnic.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park
Address: Chattbir Zoo Rd, Sahibzada, Ajit Singh Nagar, Chhat, Punjab 140603
Website: Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park
24. Shop till you drop at Elante Mall
Valentines Day Special - Elante Mall, Chandigarh
Posted by Chandigarh - The City Beautiful on Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Elante Mall has two main entrances: one is in the front section and the second entrance is on the back. If you are a shopping freak, then this place is certainly a heaven for you. From numerous local brands to international brands, you can shop for anything here in the Elante Mall. The retail zone of the mall is where you will find Hackett London; Apple eStore; Mango; Zara, Brooks Brothers; Marks & Spencer; Harley Davidson; Guess; Rolex and Tommy Hilfiger and several other famous retail stores. The mall also includes an 8-screen Multiplex of PVR Cinemas. On its top floor, the shopping center has eateries and fast food joints. For children’s amusement, there is a Fun City on the top floor.
Elante Mall
Address: Plot No. 178-178A, Industrial Area, Phase I, Chandigarh 160017
Website: Elante Mall
Breathe new life into your excursion to Chandigarh
Chandigarh boasts abundant beautiful gardens and green spaces, impressive architecture, and shopping options. So, if you are planning to spend your upcoming holidays in Chandigarh, knowing these top things Chandigarh is famous for will make your sabbatical more enjoyable. Be sure to choose among the vacation rentals or hotels for couples for your accommodation needs as well. So, think no further, pack your bags, and head out for a fun-filled trip to Chandigarh.
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arthur .over 2 years ago
i have been to ELANTE MALL five years ago.Very nice place indeed
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