In 1947, after the partition and independence of India, the Government created the city Chandigarh – a town that was supposed to be the work of art. Chandigarh was designed by the Swiss-French modernist architect Le Corbusier. His buildings include the Capitol Complex with its High Court, Secretariat & Legislative Assembly, and the giant Open Hand Monument. However, other than these destinations, the city offers many tourist spots like Japanese Gardens, Underbridge, and more.
If you are planning to visit Chandigarh for a week and wish to cover the 10 best tourist destinations. Don’t worry! We have prepared a well-thought-out list for you. Visit these places and make your trip more exciting and joyous than ever!
Let’s dive into them one by one!
Sukhna Lake Chandigarh
If you are looking to relax, exercise, or meditate, then the beautiful sukhna lake in Chandigarh will help you experience that all. One of the popular tourist attractions in Chandigarh, Sukhna Lake, resides in the foothills of the Himalayas. Here, you can enjoy boating, ride on shikaras, or have a routine walk with your loved ones. This beautiful lake is the best place that is surrounded by a well-structured jogging track. So if you are in Chandigarh or planning a trip, do not miss enjoying the sunset view of Sukhna Lake.
- Address: Sector-1, Chandigarh
Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, Chandigarh
Counted among the most enlightening places to visit in Chandigarh, Nek Chand Rock Garden is a significant tourist attraction. This renowned, remarkable, and unique sculpture garden is an outstanding masterpiece with a water fountain in the center. The place consists of sculptures built from stones, debris, tiles, bangles, and junk that were left when over 50 villages were cleared to build the city. This place is a must-visit tourist spot. You will surely have a wonderful day there.
- Address: Uttar Marg, Sector-1, Chandigarh
- Timings: 9:00AM – 6:30 PM
Cactus Graden, Chandigarh
One of the most famous places to visit in Chandigarh is the Cactus Garden – Asia’s largest cactus garden. This place is the largest succulent garden in Asia and is situated in the heart of the city, Panchkula. Spread over 7 acres of area, the Cactus Garden is full of rare and endangered species of Indian succulents. This place showcases more than 3500 different species of succulents in a single space. Other than being the best travel place in Chandigarh for tourists, this place is a center of attraction for many botanists
- Address: Sector-5, Chandigarh
- Timings: 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Rose Garden, Chandigarh
Rose Garden is one of the most magnificent tourist places/destinations in Chandigarh. Acting as the landmark of Chandigarh, Rose Garden is considered in every list/article/blog mentioning the best places to visit in Chandigarh. It is built in 30 acres of area and is plotted with 50,000 rose bushes with over 1600 different species. This place is a heaven for all rose lovers. So if you want to see the beauty of flowers and feel the perfect blend of nature, love, and peace, then this place is a must-visit.
- Address: Sector-16, Chandigarh
- Timings: 9:00AM – 10:00PM
Pinjore Garden
Pinjore Garden, also known as the Yadavindera Garden, is another existing and well-maintained place to visit in Chandigarh. The garden can be considered as a small zoo, historic place, with Japanese plants, a nursery, and a picnic spot. Also, this marvelous garden is built on over 100 acres of land and is famous for being one of the most important travel stations in Chandigarh. So visit them today and have fun!
- Address: Ambala-Shimla Highway
Elante Mall, Chandigarh
Elante Mall is one of the largest malls in Chandigarh city that has become a center of attraction for all the people in Chandigarh and the nearby areas. Being one of the prominent shopping centers, Elante mall is also admired for its outstanding architecture and clean/well-maintained facilities. It includes plenty of retailers, food outlets, and play centers, surrounded by a 5-star Hotel on one side.
- Address: SCO 178A, Industrial Area Phase 1, MW Area, Chandigarh
Chattbir Zoo
Also known as the “Mahendra Chaudhry Zoological Park,” the Chattbir zoo houses many exotic/wild 369 mammals, 400 birds, and 20 reptile species. You can visit it with your children or family members to experience the famous lion safari. Also, you can have a great walk with the 300m long path showcasing terrestrial, indegenous, and exotic birds. So visit it today and have a knowledgeable experience.
- Address: Chattbir Zoo Rd, Punjab, 140603
- Timings: 9:30AM – 4:00PM
Iskon Temple
Being peaceful and religious, the Iskon Temple is one of the most serene places to visit in Chandigarh – especially for the spiritual individuals and devotees of Lord Krishana. From day-to-day poojas to traditional celebrations throughout the year, every corner of this temple speaks about purity and devotion towards God.
In the temple’s proximity are an array of shops where memorabilia and sweets among others can be purchased. The template is surrounded by a land encapsulated with dense grass and greenery. Activities like picnics or birthday parties are best enjoyed by the families here – especially on a bright sunny day. So make a plan to visit the holy temple today!
- Address: ISKCON Temple Chandigarh, Hare Krishna Dham, Sector 36-B, Dakshin Marg, Chandigarh, 160036
- Timing: 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM, 07:15 AM – 12:45PM, 4:15PM – 8:00PM
Government Museum and Art Gallery
Government Museum & Art Gallery was designed along with the partition of India in 1947. Before the partition, the properties inside the museum were featured at another destination called the Central Museum. However, post-partition, up to 6% of all the properties in Central Museum was adopted by Pakistan, and others were shifted to the Government Museum & Art Gallery in Chandigarh.
Representing a grand exhibition of various Pahari/Rajasthani paintings, Gandharan sculptures, decorative arts, and more, this museum is surely one of the most exquisite tourist attractions of the city. Additionally, it is a great place to learn and admire the rich history of our country. So don’t forget to visit this museum!
- Address: #502 Sector-10C, Chandigarh, 160011
- Timings: 10:00AM – 4:30PM
Leisure Valley
Covering a massive space of more than 8 kilometers, the Leisure Valley is an elegant park arena in Chandigarh. The valley is considered among the top destinations in the complete country, with multitudes of parks and gardens inside a common premise. From botanical, rose, to terrace, hibiscus, this valley holds twelve imperial parks and gardens spread throughout the area. This valley is also a go-to location for joggers, walkers, and picnic lovers of the city.
Leisure Valley is also acknowledged as the ‘lungs of Chandigarh.’ It was designed by Le Corbusier with an astonishing effort towards making the city a greener place for the people. The valley also hosts a three-day-long festival celebrating the gardens and their beauty. Considered the best tourist attraction in Chandigarh, the Leisure Park is designed for holidaymakers. So visit if you are one!
- Address: Sector-10, Chandigarh
In the end
After visiting these destinations, you will surely understand the beauty of Chandigarh and how its architecture/urban design makes it one of the best-planned towns in the country. To help you make your stay convenient, we have also created a list of the 10 budget-friendly hotels in Chandigarh here. You can connect with them today and plan your trip instantly!