As someone who lives only five hours away from Chandigarh (in Delhi), I've had the opportunity to visit the beautiful city a few times. Chandigarh is a beautiful city and a home away from home because it has everything, from lush greenery that makes your heart happy (because you are breathing slightly better air) to delicious food that makes your stomach happy, and finally, amazing people who make your soul happy. So, here are ten places you should visit during your next trip (or gedhi) to Chandigarh.
Gedhi Route: 10 Touristy Spots In Chandigarh that Shouldn't Be Missed
Sukhna Lake
Visiting the Sukhna Lake is one of my fondest memories of visiting Chandigarh. It's a reservoir resting at the foothills of the Shivalik hills that stretches across three kilometres and has the longest channel of rowing and yachting in Asia (was even the venue for Asian Rowing Championships). If you visit during winter months, you will be able to spot a number of exotic migratory birds like the Siberian duck, storks and cranes if you are lucky. As far as activities are concerned, from boating to kisoks for yummy food to jogging tracks for those who want to take in the view while taking a stroll, the lake has something to suit everyone's moods.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
Elante Mall
Elante Mall is a great place to head if you want to shop, eat, chill or basically roam around in an enclosed space. With brands like Zara, Hamleys, Pantaloons, The Collective among others, the mall homes around 225 brands under one roof along with a slew of cafes, bars, a kids' zone, salons, grocery stores, multiplexes, kids' zones, spas, and others.
Timings: 11 AM - 10 PM
Entry: Free
Leisure Valley
A must-visit to add to your Chandigarh itinerary. Leisure Valley is a continuum of various theme gardens stretching from Sector 1 in the north and leaves Chandigarh at its southern most edge in sector 53. The idea of Leisure Valley was given by the famous French architect Le Corbusier who envisioned a space where people could enjoy and relax in a clean and green environment, away from the pollution and dirt of the bustling city.
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
Entry Fees: Free
Sector 17 Market
The Sector 17 market is centrally located in the city and is a one-stop destination for all types of shopaholics, with shops selling branded clothing, electronics, books, and jewellery. The market's popularity stems from its central location. This plaza has everything on your shopping list, from traditional Punjabi dupattas to juttis, fashion brand outlets, street vendors, and daily needs shops. While you are there, we would suggest trying out the street food kiosks, specially the sweet potato chaat.
Timings: 10:15 AM - 10:30 PM
Rose Garden
Honestly, Chandigarh has some of the nicest gardens to spend some quality time in nature. In Sector 16, near the city centre is situated the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Asia's largest Rose Garden. Spread over thirty acres of land and having over 1,600 different species or roses. The best time to visit the garden is between February and March as the flowers are in full bloom during this season and make for a sight to behold.
Timings: 6 AM - 10 PM
Entry Fees: INR 50
Capitol Complex
Located in the Capitol Complex, the open hand monument is an eighty- five long sculpture that looks like a cross of a hand and flying bird that symbolises peace and prosperity, and has become one of those touristy spots everyone looks forward to checking out. The monument is uniquely designed that even with a weight of 50 tonnes, it rotates with the wind. Adding to its charm, you will witness a backdrop of the Shivalik Hills behind the official symbol of the city.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fees: Free
The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort
Well, this isn't a usual touristy spot 'cause its slightly off the route. The Oberoi Sukhvilas in New Chandigarh is a luxurious getaway, and one you won't regret visiting 'cause the property is as whimsical as it can get. Simply visit the place for grabbing coffee or enjoying a meal if staying isn't something on the cards.
Timings: Open 24 hours (check online for the restaurants)
Le Corbusier Centre
History buffs, this one's for you! The museum is an excellent resource for architects seeking to learn more about the city's sustainability and green architectural model. The museum preserves and displays archival material, documents, paintings, and photographs related to the formation of Chandigarh and is your chance to discover the stories behind one of the world's most planned cities.
Timings: 10 AM - 6PM
Entry Fees: INR 20. For use of camera INR 50 has to be paid
Night Food Street
The Night Food Street in Sector 14 is a super popular spot among tourists as well as residents of Chandigarh. It's an open establishment with a shed roof that acts as a market, open to customers 24/7. Here you can find a variety of food items and cuisines. From desi Chinese food to Indian snacks and even delicious shakes in different flavours. You will see this market hustling and bustling round the clock!
Timings: Open 24 hours
Rock Garden
Another beautiful garden in Chandigarh. Now we know why Chandigarh's called the beautiful city, all these gardens and parks are a god sent for those of us breathing polluted air in Delhi. This garden consists of man-made interlinked waterfalls and many other fascinating sculptures that have been made of scrap and other kinds of wastes like bottles, glasses, bangles, tiles, ceramic pots, sinks, and electrical waste.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry Fees: INR 30
