Things To Do In Chandigarh

‘Chandigarh is a city with less pollution and mostly love in the air’ – MKS

Located at the foothill of the Shivaliks, Chandigarh is India’s first planned city that was built by Le Corbusier, the well known Swiss-French architect. Built-in grid form with lush green gardens everywhere, the city is also known for its architecture and quality of life!

The city has a perfect blend of two cultures and while some love how green, clean, and well planned the city is, some may love it for its colour and chaos. Having said that, in all likelihood, you would be staying here for a night. And while you are here, there are a couple of things to do in Chandigarh during your stay.

Must do’s in Chandigarh

Rock Garden 

Located near Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden is Chandigarh’s sculpture garden that was built in 1957 by Nek Chand during his spare time. The garden is built from industrial and home waste, discarded items that were recycled and given a creative form.

The garden now consists of man-made waterfalls and many sculptures that have been made of scrap and from other waste (bottles, glasses, bangles, tiles, ceramic pots, sinks, electrical waste, broken pipes, etc.).

The exhibition area of Rock Garden is divided into three different phases, that have different types of installations. It is said to be the finest modern wonders of the world, the best places to visit in Chandigarh.

VISITING HOURS:09:00 to 18:00 hours

ESTIMATED HOURS:2 – 3 hours

COST: INR 30 per person for Adults, INR 10 per person for Children

Built from waste material, Rock Garden in Chandigarh.

Sukhna Lake

One of the best things to do in Chandigarh is a trip to Sukhna Lake. Right at the foothills of Shivalik Hills is Sukhna Lake, the most picturesque spot in Chandigarh.

It is a man-made lake and is the only one in the city that was created in the year 1958. The pristine blue water amidst the greenery makes it the perfect spot to take in nature and the fresh air.

The lake is also a great spot for activities like rowing and trampoline jumping. It is also home to several species of fish and migratory birds such as Siberian ducks and cranes. If you want to get away from the crowd you can also go for a short boat ride and relax!

VISITING HOURS:05:00 to 21:00 hours

ESTIMATED HOURS:2 hours

COST: Free Entry, INR 100 Boat per Person for Four, INR 50 Boat per Person for Two 

Boat Ride in Sukhna Lake Chandigarh (Photo Credit – Giridhar Appaji Nag Y)

Le Corbusier Center 

Dedicated to the architect of the city- Le Corbusier, who was a Swiss-French architect. The Le Corbusier Centre is a popular heritage spot that houses the legacy, research, study, writings, and works of the architect.

The center also includes a lawn that has modern sculptures and installations and one main gallery displaying the photographs, furniture, and paintings of Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret.

VISITING HOURS:10:00 to 18:00 hours. (closed on Monday)

ESTIMATED HOURS:1 – 2 hours

COST: Free

Le Capitol – Palace of Assembly

Just a few minutes away from Le Corbusier Center in sector 1 is ‘Le Capitol Complex’. The complex comprises of The Legislative Assembly, The Secretariat, The High Court, that has a double roof, and the outward upper roof symbolizes protection and justice to the people.

However, ‘The Open Hand Monument’, which is a giant hand in metal sheets, that is designed to rotate like a weathercock but symbolically indicates the direction of the state of affairs is the highlight. It is also meant to convey a message of peace ‘open to give, open to receive.

The structures within the complex are said to be Corbusier’s most stunning and creative pieces. Also, please note if you wish to visit this complex, you will have to register with your passport

VISITING HOURS:10:00 to 17:00 hours

ESTIMATED HOURS:2 – 3 hours

COST: Free

Discover More: Engage with India’s Adventure Scene

Open Hand Monument at Le Capitol Chandigarh (Photo Credit – Shankar S)

Getting around in Chandigarh

Since Chandigarh is India’s first planned city, it has a fair number of reliable options to take you from place to place.

Bicycle

Cycling in Chandigarh is a piece of cake! The city has special paths and parks which make it very convenient and easy to get around the city. You can hire a cycle for just INR 100- INR 250 for the day

Cycle Rickshaws

Looking for the best efficient and eco-friendly way to experience the city? We recommend the cycle rickshaws, these tuk-tuks are a very unique experience. However, always make sure to haggle for the price and do not settle for the first amount told to you.  

Taxis

While Chandigarh does have the taxis we recommend using Ola and Ubers instead to avoid scams and travel in comfort! 

Hope our recommendations help you enjoy exploring Chandigarh. If you are looking for a destination that offers a bit of history, delicious food, cultural and spiritual experience in the same region, we suggest visiting Amritsar! You can read more about it on our blog. Or you can simply hit the Plan Your Trip button and We will help plan your dream trip.