Not every city in India is planned. There are a few and Chandigarh is arguably the best planned city in India. You don’t believe it! You got to see it to believe it. Regarded as one of the best places for a family trip near Delhi, Chandigarh has the perfect blend of modern life with nature. It is the capital of two states, Punjab as well as Haryana. The tag that goes along with the city is “The City Beautiful”. Get your weekend getaway plan rolling and pack your bags for this planned city. You can be here with your friends, family, colleagues and even on a solo trip. No one can get bored of this city for sure.
While in Chandigarh, you can visit a few other beautiful neighboring cities; Shimla, Solan, and Kasauli. Don’t forget that the national capital is also just a few kilometers away. You can make it a long weekend getaway plan and accomplish the journey.
Things to do and see in Chandigarh
1. Sukhna Lake
We all love lakes. A lake in the plains of Chandigarh is a different experience altogether. The view from the lake which is just at the footstep of Shivalik range is an eye soothing one.
2. Rock Garden
On an adventure trip with friends, you must plan your trip to this spot. We won’t be wrong in calling it a sculpture garden. Founded by Nek Chand Saini, the garden is popularly called Nek Chand’s Rock Garden. Spread over an area of 40 acres, the time spent here is worth it.
3. Rose Garden
There is another garden called the Rose Garden. As the name says it all, it is a park or a garden for nature lover. It is a botanical garden with almost 820 varieties to showcase in flowers. There are medicinal herbs and trees not less than 32000. It impresses anyone visiting this place. Children love to come here and enjoy the soothing atmosphere. Next time, you plan a family trip near Delhi, don’t forget to choose Chandigarh. The best time to visit this garden is from February to March.
4. Shanti Kunj
It is a garden that has been unique in itself for it has been divided by a natural stream. This Kunj then gets divided into five islands. That makes it interesting. It is a place for joggers and those who like to have some time off their work and daily schedule.
5. Terraced Garden
Have you heard of Chrysanthemum Show that happens annually in Chandigarh? If you have, then Terraced Garden is the venue for it. The time of the year when it takes place is December. The chilly winter and the mesmerizing flower show to top up is a sight to behold. Your weekend getaway with family will reach its peak when you visit this place.
6. Pinjore Garden
The spectacular view of this garden which is spread over an area of 100 acres is a must visit when you are in Chandigarh. It is a Mughal Garden that has been maintained well since its inception. The fountains and other water bodies make this garden a well-groomed garden that one can’t miss while on a tour to Chandigarh.
7. Fun City
If you are on an adventure trip with friends or your colleagues to Chandigarh, Fun City is the tourist place where you must pay a visit to. It is an amusement park and lives up to its name. There are various water rides that make it equally entertaining for people of all age.
8. Punjab Kala Kendra
For people who are into art and culture, this place becomes a mandate centre to go to. Punjab Kala Kendra has a great compilation of Modern Art that we don’t get to see otherwise.
9. Japanese Garden
Inspired by Japanese art and culture, Japanese Garden is a garden that has things pertaining to Japan and its culture. You will be taken aback by how different it appears to be.
10. Sector 17 Market
You may be of any age, something that will definitely lure you in Chandigarh is this market. It is an umbrella that huts several international brands, national brands, food chains and more. When on a family trip near Delhi, you have to be here so that you get everything you want under one roof.
11. Mohali Cricket Stadium
A name that every cricket fan will know is located in Chandigarh. Although the official name is Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali Cricket Stadium is its popular name. Be here to assume the adrenaline of every cricket fan.
Budget
As it is a planned city and a little modern than rest of the cities in India, the budget is a little on the higher side. You need to have a budget of around Rs 8000 for two days stay there. This cost remains the same even for solo trip enthusiasts. Though, please note that the budget can easily cross this mark depending upon the landmarks you cover and place where you stay.
How to Reach Chandigarh?
Chandigarh is a planned city and therefore has the facility of being travelled in any mode of transport. The distance from Delhi to Chandigarh is approximately 300 kilometers and can be covered in 6 to 7 hours. As the time required is not much, people prefer going on road trips to Chandigarh.
If you are planning to travel by train, the nearest railway station is Chandigarh Railway Station. Not too far from the city, you can easily hire a taxi from the railway station to the main city. Plan your next weekend getaway to Chandigarh right away!
Are you planning to travel by flight? Don’t worry! Chandigarh has an airport too. You are covered. So, how have you planned your trip?
The city being the most beautiful in Summer and early winter, the best time to visit this city is from August to January. It isn’t too hot but a bit cold, make sure you check the weather forecast and temperature and pack accordingly.
Being a pleasant time to travel to any place, you will enjoy the time in the city with your companions. Around this time of the year, good hotels may be booked. It is advisable to get your bookings done in advance to avoid any miss.
