Chandigarh, which is situated at the foothills of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, is one of the architectural wonders of India with an area of 114 sq. km. The masterplan of the city was designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. It is one of the early and the well-planned cities in India, which in governance is a Union Territory. It is also the capital city of Punjab and Haryana.
Things to do in Chandigarh
You can visit the Sukhna Lake or the Rock Garden. There are numerous parks and museums here. Visiting the umpteen number of markets in each sector is a delight. According to a study conducted by the national government, it is also one of the cleanest cities in India. So you can enjoy drives on its clean roads or go for club hopping. As per the happiness index, Chandigarh is ranked as the happiest city in India.
Tourist attractions in Chandigarh
The Rose Garden, Pinjore Gardens, Sukhna Lake, Leisure Valley, and the Terraced Gardens are a treat and relief to the eye to enjoy the mesmerising beauty of nature in the city. Besides that, you can experience a day out with the wildlife in Chattbir Zoo. You must also visit the sector 17 market. A visit to Gurdwara Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib, Iskcon Temple and Chandi Mandir will invigorate your inner soul.
Places to shop in Chandigarh
For branded markets, you can shop at the biggest malls of Punjab, VR Punjab mall, and Elante mall, which offer a multitude of brands that aren’t found anywhere else in Punjab. Similarly, sector 17 is a market that is huge and adorns every latest brand in footwear, clothing, household items, books, and even jewellery. Rehri Market in Chandigarh is best known for its small cart type shops that offer the latest products, sometimes first copies, at a very reasonable price.
Best time to visit Chandigarh
There are many events that take place throughout the year. Like in the peak tourist season, you can experience the World Tourism week in September, Crafts fair in November, and in November, they host the Chandigarh Carnival. This is also the time when the weather is at its best.
Modes of transport
There is an array of options available in Chandigarh. The easiest and most reasonable form is to book an Uber or an Ola, app-based cab service within the city. Local buses are also a good option, but because the stands are a little distanced from the markets. Rickshaw and auto service can be used as well.
Weather in Chandigarh
Summers can be hot and dry from April to June. Rainfall is moderate during monsoon from July to August. Chandigarh experiences the best weather from September to November, which is fall. Winters from November to March are quite cold. Its proximity to the Himalayas makes it a cold place in winters.
Airport in Chandigarh
IndiGo runs many domestic and international flights from Chandigarh Airport (IATA: IXC) that serve all three cities – Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali. You can visit the flight schedule page on the official website, www.goindigo.in, to know more.