Chandigarh, sprawling over an area of 114 sq. km, is the capital of Punjab and Haryana and is a city, district and union territory. It is situated near the foothills of the Sivalik range of Himalayas and is among the early planned cities in post-independence India. The master plan of the city which is well known for its architecture and urban designing was designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.
Recently, Chandigarh was identified as a master-planned city with monumental architecture, modernisation, and cultural growth.
It is one of the best-planned cities, its tourism being the hub of north India. It furnishes an unparalleled quality of life and standard of living.
Things to do in Chandigarh
Being the capital of two states, Chandigarh’s architectural and exceptional designs, sumptuous variety of food and relaxing activities make this a sought-after place for tourists. Its systematic roads, sectors and lush greenery are quite an attraction.
With Chandigarh’s favourable climatic conditions, cosmopolitan planning and architecture, tourists can visit gardens, parks, explore street markets and nightlife, visit a zoo or take a hiking trip.
Tourist attractions in Chandigarh
Chandigarh has a wide range of tourist attractions like the Rose Garden, the Placid Sukhna Lake, a blissful leisure valley, a visually delightful rock garden, Pinjore gardens, and the alluring terraced gardens. You can also enjoy the wildlife at Chattbir zoo, adventurous activities like trekking, or visit the famous ISKCON temple.
Places to shop in Chandigarh
To start with, the shopping plaza in Sector 17 is one of the oldest arcades in the city. Malls like VR Punjab and Elante mall specialise in fashionable clothes, latest trends, umpteen activities for children, and some regional Punjabi accessories. Other sectors like Sector 34 Market, Shastri Market, and Sector 7 Market are well known for jewellery, clothing, footwear, Phulkari textiles, handicraft, artwork, household items, and dress material.
Best time to visit Chandigarh
The best time to visit Chandigarh is between the months of October and March when the weather is quite pleasant. Due to its proximity to the Himalayas, it experiences a beautiful fall season between the months of August and November, which is also a good time to visit.
Modes of transport
Chandigarh is well connected to nearby cities by rail and road. Within the city, there is a high volume of several cab service providers, rickshaw pullers, and local buses.
Weather in Chandigarh
The weather here is quite subtle and mild, generally warm and temperate. Rainfall is more prominent in winter than in summer. The average annual temperature in Chandigarh is 24.1 °C.
Airport in Chandigarh
Chandigarh Airport (IATA: IXC) is a custom airport which provides flights to 2 international and 26 domestic destinations. IndiGo offers domestic flights and international flights to and from the Military/Civil airport that serves all three cities – Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali.