India is a country that comes as a complete package that provides you views ranging from ancient architecture to the latest technology, from big fields with a view of hills covered in snow to sky-high buildings packed together. One such city is Chandigarh, also known as “City Beautiful” or “The City of Beauty” all over the country. It is one of the early planned cities in the post-independence India and is known for its architecture and urban design across the globe.
The city was planned by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier which was a transformation of the earlier plans created by American planner Albert Mayer and Polish architect Maciej Nowicki. Le Corbusier and his team designed most of the government buildings and housing projects in the city. The city has several tourist attractions, and one such structure is the Capitol Complex, which was declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. It is also considered as one of the cleanest cities in India based on a national government survey. Chandigarh has been a beautiful city known for its attractions and one of the best spots for weekend getaway or tourism.
Here are the 10 best places to visit in Chandigarh:
1. Rose Garden
Rose Garden is one of the most visited gardens in Chandigarh, and it represents the clean and green concept of the city. It is located in Sector 16 of Chandigarh and has over 825 varieties of flowers and 32,500 varieties of trees and medicinal shrubs. The garden is also known as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden in the memory of the former president of India. The garden is spread over 30 acres, making it the most extensive garden of its kind in Asia.
2. Rock Garden
Located in Sector 1, Chandigarh, Rock Garden is a massive exhibition of sculptures that are made using industrial and urban waste. This project was designed and executed by a former Road Inspector in Chandigarh, Nek Chand. The garden is also known as Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, and it is located in a massive area of 40 acres. The garden has 5000 statues in the bounds, and it stands as the best example of “Best of Waste.” Nek Chand single-handedly built the garden in his spare time, and it displays how remarkable someone’s imagination can be.
3. Elante Mall
Located in Industrial Area Phase 1 of Chandigarh, Elante Mall is the second-largest mall Northern India and the seventh-largest mall in India, spreading over a vast 20 acres of land. The mall is a project that was launched by Larsen and Toubro, and the mall is now owned by Nexus Malls, a part of US-based global investment firm The Blackstone Group. With new ag technologies in the retail space area like shopping outlets, food court area, PVRs, play zone for kids, Elante is the best place for people to shop and relax on their day-offs.
4. Sector 26 Market
There are several sectors in Chandigarh that are known for different things, but one of the most visited sectors of the city is Sector 26. The market of Sector 26 is spread across a wide area and offers several outlets for people. During the day, it is a busy market for consumers to buy products, and at night, it becomes the hub for the night-life of Chandigarh. It has several bars and restaurants that offer top-notch service to customers. On Sunday’s, the sector is closed, and it gets converted into a market for sale and purchase of pre-owned cars.
5. Sector 8 Market
Situated in the heart of the city, Sector 8 market is one of the most lively markets in the city. It is the starting point of the Gedi route, and it is full of eateries that provide quality food. The outlets have a wide variety of food items, and the market is lit up in the evening, making it an excellent place for people to try good food and chill with their friends and family.
6. ISKCON Temple
ISKCON Temple is present in Sector 36B in Chandigarh and is part of the chain temples of ISKCON Trust, which are present all over the country and across the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and Radha and thousands of devotees visit the temple throughout the year. It is one of the most peaceful places present in the city and recommended by a lot of people.
7. Sukhna Lake
Resting at the foot of Shivalik Hills, Sukhna Lake is one of the few places that gives you the best views for sunrises and sunsets. Stretching for a distance of 3sq. km., Sukhna Lake is a beautifully implemented human-made lake and only one of its kind in the city. It was created in the year 1958 by damming the seasonal Sukhna Stream that flows through Shivalik Hills. The beautiful views it provides makes it a perfect location for a refreshing morning walk or a soothing evening stroll. The lake offers boating services for people where they can hire boats by paying INR 100 to INR 200.
8. Le Corbusier Centre
Le Corbusier Centre is a popular heritage spot in Chandigarh, which is located in Sector 19B, and it is dedicated to the mastermind behind the city beautiful- Le Corbusier. The Swiss-French architect originally designed the city about six decades ago. The building has the legacy of the great architect from his research studies and writings to the designs and works of the famous architect.
9. Sector 17 Market
Sector 17 is the most popular tourist place in the city, and Chandigarh is known for its market and greenery. House for several big brand stores, international outlets, food chains, and eateries. The market is popular among the youngsters as well as the adults as a hang out spot and the latest addition- The laser musical fountain show in the market has brought back life to the market. A market is a must-visit place if you are looking for some fresh air and fresh fashion.
10. Gedi Route
Gedi Route is the hub for youngsters in the city of Chandigarh. Full of street cafes, big houses, and roads that would allow you to cruise around with good music and excellent views, this route is referred to as the way that connects the Sector 8,9,10 to 11. ‘Gedi’ means driving around and chilling with your friends. This route is full of cars and bikes in the evening where people are roaming around with friends.
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