Large sweeping avenues, the serene Sukhna Lake, sprawling parks, spectacular contemporary buildings and the famous Rock Garden, make India's most well-planned city an urban paradise. The capital of the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is an urban oasis with charming tree-lined boulevards and beautifully landscaped gardens. Envisioned and designed in the 1950s by the prominent French-Swiss architect, Le Corbusier, the major buildings of the city are marvels of modern design. The city is neatly divided into sectors, each a self-contained pocket with local markets, schools, parks and other infrastructural facilities. Merely 70 years old, Chandigarh is a young, prosperous and vibrant city. It is extremely pedestrian-friendly and most visitors to the city begin by exploring Sector 17 for its shops and restaurants and Sector 22 for its hotels. What makes Chandigarh a great travel destination is its geographical location at the foothills of the majestic Shivalik range and the Himalayas, and its pleasant climate. The region is also famous because of the fossil remains that have been found here, indicating a wide variety of aquatic and amphibian life. Before civilisation arrived here, it is said this region was submerged under a large lake ringed by a marshy area. Ambala Skirted by the Ghaggar river in the north and the Tangri river in the south, the city of Ambala, in Haryana, holds great historical prominence. It is believed to be the region where the powerful Buddhist centre of the Ashokan empire flourished. It was then called Shrughna (modern-day Sugh). Visitors to the city make a beeline for the Bhawani Amba Temple, dedicated to Goddess Amba. There are several other temples, gurudwaras and churches in the vicinity that can be explored. Boasting bustling markets, Ambala draws visitors for its lively and vibrant shopping scene. The Cloth Market is a great stopover, which is lined with about 1,000 shops selling a fine selection of clothes at wholesale rates. From silks to handlooms, you will be spoilt for choice. The city also hosts a Science Market, where you can shop for a plethora of surgical instruments and science equipment. Its gold jewellery and linen items are also quite popular. Historical records say that the city was founded by Amba Rajput in the 14th century AD, after whom it was later named. Another legend, which gives an alternate version of how this place got its name, suggests that it is a rough variation of ‘Amba Wala’ or the mango-village, as there have always been a large number of mango groves around here. Still another version suggests that the place gets its name from the local goddess Bhawani Amba, who is still revered in the city. Ambala also boasts a great culinary scene and its street food is quite delicious. Ambala can be also seen as the launching pad for exploring Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh and Jammu and Kashmir. Bhakra Nangal Dam Built over Sutlej river, the Bhakra Nangal Dam is the second highest dam in Asia, rising to a height of about 207 m. Travellers in the region should spare a day to visit this architectural marvel. With a length of 518 m and a width of 9.1 m, it is a gigantic structure that leaves one in awe of its size. This is the source of water for all the farms in Punjab and Haryana, which are two of the most important agricultural states in the country. It is also used to produce hydroelectric power. The reservoir of the dam, called Gobind Sagar, has a water capacity of 9.34 billion cubic metre. It is about 88 km long and 8 km wide. Though permission is required to visit the actual dam, the reservoir is open to all. Bhima Devi Temple Constructed sometime between the 9th-11th centuries AD, the ruins of the Bhima Devi Temple are an interesting spot to learn more about history. As evident from excavations from around the area, the temple was once dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that there were three stone plinths here, which may have belonged to the beautiful ancient temple. The stone plinths indicate that the temple must have been built in the Panchayatan style of architecture, in which a main shrine is located at the centre and four sub-shrines are placed in the four cardinal directions. This makes a total of five temples. The temple has figurines and sculptures that are similar to the ones in Khajuraho. Moreover, the remains have shown that the ancient temple included architectural elements like chaitya windows, Bhadramukha and miniature turrets, among others. According to inscriptions unearthed by archaeologists, this area was once referred to as Bhima Nagar. This name is believed to have been derived from a much revered local temple dedicated to Bhima Devi. There are a number of references to this area either by the name of Bhima Nagar or by the name, Panchapaura, which seem to suggest that this was a place of considerable importance between 9th and 12th centuries AD. Sculptures of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Goddess Agni, Lord Varuna (god of air), Lord Surya (sun god), Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya have also been found at this site. Some important inscriptions excavated link the temple to the historical figure of Raja Rama Deva, who might even have patronised it. The ruins are easily accessible from Chandigarh, being only 10 km away from the famous Yadavindra Gardens in Pinjore. Chaneti Stupa The ruins of the ancient baked-brick Chaneti Stupa are said to be dating back to the Mauryan period when the city of Shrughna (now Sugh) was under the rule of emperor Ashoka. According to an account given by the Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang, Sugh was home to a number of important stupas as well as a monastery. The village of Chaneti lies about 3 km north-west of Sugh, and it is highly likely that the stupa at Chaneti was among the ones referred to by Hiuen Tsang. The architectural style of this stupa, formed by concentric layers to create a hemisphere, corresponds with Shahpur and Dharmarajika stupas at Taxila. When constructed, the stupa was most probably surrounded by a wooden railing as no trace of a stone railing has been found. The Kushana period saw the construction of four shrines in four directions near the old circumambulatory path (pradakshina path). A new pathway was also built underneath to walk around it. This is the only place in India where Shugna period terracotta figures of Vaanara (monkey) have been found. Archaeological pieces of evidence have suggested that this was an important trade juncture on the Uttarapath, which lay on the banks of the Yamuna river. According to the travel records of the Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang, the village was big enough and important enough to be home to about a 100 Hindu temples, 10 stupas and five monasteries. Chattbir Zoo Set up with an aim to conserve endangered and rare species of wildlife through captive breeding, the Chhatbir Zoo is spread over an impressive 202 acre of raw scrubland. This makes it the biggest zoological park in north-western India and home to over 1,000 animal and bird species. The zoo also houses a significant number of primates, big cats and several varieties of deer and antelope. Visitors can spot animals like zebra, hippopotamus and crocodiles as well. One of the achievements of the park has been the successful captive-breeding of the gharial, a critically endangered variety of crocodile. The gharial is a majestic reptile that is distinguished by its long and narrow snout. Birdwatchers flock to the zoo to spot a wide variety of pheasants, including the Mongolian and the white-crested Khaleej. The popular exhibits of the zoo include the reptile enclosure, which includes a python and a sand boa. The zoo also offers opportunities of lion and deer safaris that attract a lot of visitors. It is conveniently located merely 17 km from Chandigarh, near Zirakpur. It is a great spot for family outings, especially with children. The zoo was started in 1977 and was a part of the Chhatbir protected forest area. Officially, the name of the zoo is Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park but because it falls in the Chhatbir region, the locals have come to refer to it simply as the Chhatbir Zoo. Complexe Du Capitole Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 under the Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement, the Complexe du Capitole, in Chandigarh, is a must-visit. It is set against the mighty Shivalik range and almost competes with the mountains for grandeur. The complex includes three distinctive masterpieces of Le Corbusier (architect of the city of Chandigarh): the Secretariat, the High Court and the Legislative Assembly. These buildings are separated by large piazzas that provide relief from the towering constructions. It is within the capitol complex that the large and formidable Open Hand monument is situated. A part of the capitol complex, this monument is the largest and tallest of the three edifices. Government Museum And Art Gallery A unique museum that traces the Indian history of partition, it is noted for its paintings, sculptures and artefacts. You can also find fascinating exhibits of Rajasthani and Pahari miniature paintings. The building of the museum was designed by Le Corbusier, who is also the architect of the city of Chandigarh. It is located in the centre of the city and offers panoramic views of the Shivaliks. Mansa Mandir Chandi Mandir Both Mansa and Chandi temples are very popular and a visit to both can easily be clubbed together as they lie only 10 km away from each other. The Chandi Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, who is believed to be the goddess of power. It is a shaktipeetha (devotional shrine where the severed body parts of Goddess Sati fell), from which the city of Chandigarh draws its name. A large number of visitors come to worship at this temple at the time of the Navratris, a nine-day holy festival. The Chandigarh Mansa Devi Temple is located in Panchkula, which is 8 km away from the city. This too is a shaktipeetha dedicated to Mata Mansa Devi. According to local legend, the head of Goddess Sati fell here and as a result, a temple was built in her honour. There are two temples in the Mansa Devi premises. The main temple was believed to have been established by the ruler of Manimajra (a historical town in Chandigarh) in 1815 AD. The new temple, however, is credited to the Maharaja of Patiala. A scenic garden with a large number of medicinal plants has also been created right next to the temple where visitors can relax. The festivities of Navratri see large footfalls. Morni Hills One of the quaint hill towns near Chandigarh, Morni is great place to relax over the weekend. Located in the lower reaches of the Shivalik range, it is a picturesque getaway frequented by travellers from far and wide. While visiting make sure that you set aside some time to explore temples around the area as well as the Morni Fort. Morni has two lakes, which are surrounded by lush green hills and the tranquil waters reflecting them create an ambience of serenity. Morni also offers ample opportunities for adventure travellers. One can go for long nature treks, rock climbing experiences and visit the popular camping site nearby called Tikkar Taal. The area is teeming with many bird species as well, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Naina Devi This is one of the 51 shaktipeethas (where the severed body parts of Goddess Sati fell) associated with the cult of Goddess Durga. It is believed that this is the location where the eyes of Goddess Sati fell and that is why the temple is called Naina (literally meaning eyes) Devi. There is also a peepal tree within the premises that is considered to be as sacred as the temple. It is believed that the actual ancient temple was built in the 15th century under the rule of the Kushan empire. Located 100 km away from Chandigarh, it attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple is perched at a height of 11,000 m in the Shivalik range. A large number of pilgrims visit the temple during the nine day festival called Navratri as well during the season of monsoon. From the temple, a wonderful view of the Gobind Sagar lake can be availed. This lake lends a sense of serenity and natural sublimity to the backdrop of the temple. The scenic beauty of its location also makes it a must-visit. Parwanoo A mere 30 km from Chandigarh, Parwanoo is a great summer retreat into the mountains. A part of the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, it is separated by the town of Kalka by a large river bed that offers picturesque views. The scenic panoramas that Parwanoo offers are accentuated by fruit orchards. Since the weather is moderate and pleasant, one finds many apple and peach orchards throughout the city. As a result, Parwanoo is a great place to not just buy fresh fruits but also get home-made natural fruit products like jams and preserves. Near the town, one can take cable car rides through the Shivalik range to admire the glorious vistas of the surrounding areas. Some of the local attractions that should not be missed include Timber Trail, Gurudwara Nada Sahib, Kali Mata Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. The Kali Mata Temple and the Mansa Devi Temple are quite popular and receive thousands of visitors every year. The Gurudwara Nada Sahib is an important spot for Sikh devotees. Pinjore Gardens Also called Yadavindra Gardens, the beautiful Pinjore Gardens has been built in Mughal style. The gardens was designed in the 17th century by Nawab Fidal Khan, who was the architect commissioned by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The gardens stretch over an area of about 100 acre and is known for its lush greenery, refreshing fountains and serene water bodies. It is a fine specimen of terrace gardening in India. If you are visiting here, try to time your visit to coincide with the celebrations of harvest festival of Baisakhi, between April and June, when the gardens hosts the annual Mango Festival. The gardens also house a mini zoo, a Japanese garden, a nursery and various picnic spots. Rock Garden A visit to the Rock Garden, which is a testament to human ingenuity, creativity and perseverance, is a surreal experience. The garden is an open-air exhibition hall that is the work of a single artist, Nek Chand. It comprises a series of interlinked courtyards, each of which contains a number of similarly themed sculptures created out of a melange of raw materials. According to what has now become local legend, Nek Chand began working on his rock garden at night, after completing work at his regular day job in the early 1960s. He created sculptures with whatever raw material he could find easily at hand. He worked in secrecy for the fear of being caught and reprimanded as the land on which he had begun carving out a small garden for himself was not legally his. When the authorities found out, they were surprised to find the splendid work that he had been able to do on his own. Fortunately, they took the decision to acknowledge his genius and provide him with a salary for his creative work so that he could concentrate full-time on creating the Rock Garden. He was also provided a workforce of about 50 men, who were to assist him in the humongous project. In fact, Nek Chand set up a local network whereby broken crockery and discarded material could be sent to him for being recycled into these magnificent sculptures. The unpretentious entrance of the Rock Garden is misleading at best. As soon as one enters it, one is treated to many arrangements and sculptures. There are vast sets, dreamlike arrangements of rocks and sculptures, all ranging from ethnic statues to a group of astronauts sitting with folded legs. It can be both a trip to dreamland and a tumble down Alice’s rabbit hole. The waterfalls, bridges, alleys and cavernous pathways make it an adventure one is not likely to forget. Sukhna Lake One of the most beautiful man-made lakes in India, Sukhna, located in Chandigarh, is a natural paradise in a cosmopolitan hub. A popular stopover for residents and tourists alike, the lake offers several options for relaxation and entertainment. There are facilities available for boating as well, and shikaras are the latest and the most attractive addition to the fleet. It also offers yachting facilities. A number of artists visit the lake, so if you wish, you can get your portrait made. There a number of sketches by the architect of the city Le Corbusier that have been exhibited around the lake. The surrounding promenade of the lake includes a jogging track and a number of sitting arrangements. Sunsets and sunrises are popular times and children can be seen feeding the ducks that live in the lake. The lake attracts migratory birds like the Siberian duck, storks and cranes, during the winter months. The Rotating Open Hand Monument This monument was designed by the same architect who designed the city of Chandigarh, Le Corbusier. It is part of Sector 1 of the capitol complex but has an imposing presence of its own. It is the official emblem of Chandigarh and has become almost synonymous with the city in popular imagination. The hand is raised to a height of 85 ft and weighs around 50 tonne. It is planted in a trench, which is called the Trench of Consideration. The monument is created out of metal sheets and is an excellent example of the avant-garde art of the period. The hand, with its palm spread wide, resembles a weathercock and rotates in the direction of the wind. Many say that the shape also resembles that of a dove, which heightens the symbolic meaning to include peace and happiness. It can be seen as an artistic representation of the belief that there are always two ways of looking at anything. Another way in which this sculpture-like monument can be interpreted is that one should always be open to both giving as well as receiving. The Secretariat The capitol complex has been set against the mighty Shivalik range and almost competes with the mountains for grandeur. The complex includes three distinctive masterpieces of Le Corbusier (architect of the city of Chandigarh): the Secretariat, the High Court and the Legislative Assembly. These buildings are separated by large piazzas that provide relief from the towering constructions. It is within the capitol complex that the large and formidable Open Hand monument is situated. A part of the capitol complex, this monument is the largest and tallest of the all the three edifices. Shaped like a concrete-slab, the Secretariat is eight storeys tall. It was built during 1953-59 and has the distinctive brise-soleil-louvered screen of deeply sculptured two-storey porticos in the centre. The cafeteria, which is also a part of the building, has been established on the terrace and gives a splendid view of the city. It has been designed like an art object in itself. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden Spread over an area of 30 acre, this is Asia's largest rose garden that has been named after India’s former President, Zakir Hussain. Established in 1967, there are more than 50,000 rose bushes of 1,600 different species that have been planted in carefully planned and landscaped flower beds. There are pathways lined with blooming roses as well as arches and lawns, which are fragrant with the many flowers on display. It is one of the most popular stopovers for people from Chandigarh as well as those who are just visiting the city. The rose garden is also home to a number of medicinal trees. Located next to the city centre, it is easily accessible and locals often come here for picnics. An annual rose festival celebrated at the end of February or the beginning of March sees a large footfall.
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