Chandigarh is one of my favourite cities. It is the most well-planned and organised city in India. During my recent visit to the place, I tried to find out why this city is so different from rest of the states of our country. I spoke to some locals there and researched about its history and found out some interesting facts!
The name ‘Chandigarh’ is derived from an ancient temple called ‘Chandi Mandir’ which was devoted to the Hindu Goddess Chandi and is situated in Panchkula. In 1966, Haryana was carved out from eastern portion of Punjab, since the city of Chandigarh was on the border; it was created into a Union Territory to serve as a capital for both the states.
The city was primarily designed by French Architect Le Corbusier.
One of the structures built by the legendary architect is ‘Open Hand Monument which is located in Sector 1, Capitol Complex. This motif is a sign of peace and represents give and take of ideas and the message that the city gladly receives all without any distinction.
Chandigarh is a destination which can entertain you to the core! It has ample tourist attractions like lakes, parks and gardens, museums, shopping markets, historical places etc.
Some of the must-visit places here are:
Sukhna Lake: I love to take an early morning or an evening stroll here! This place is very quiet and peaceful. Interestingly, unlike other lakes and scenic spots in other states, I could not spot vendors here, which probably explains the absence of litter and remarkable cleanliness of this place. Bird-watching and Boating are two things you can enjoy here!
Rock Garden: The Rock Garden is situated near Sukhna Lake. In 1957, Nek Chand who has a government official was the founder of this place. He started building the garden secretly in his spare time. When you will enter this place, I bet you will be awestruck by the creativity and innovation. Each of the artwork displayed here is made by using industrial and urban waste/scraps. This place is a must visit!
Leisure Valley: If you love gardens and greenery, this place is ideal for you.
I love the place as it’s a great place to be away from the city humdrum and relax. It comprises of several gardens running throughout the city. The famous Rose Garden of Chandigarh is the largest garden of Asia. Other popular gardens of the city are Garden of Tranquillity, Garden of Rare Plants, Garden of Annuals, Bougainvillea Garden, Botanical Garden and Garden of Aromatic Plants.
Sector 17: Sector 17 is truly a shopper’s paradise! This market reminds me of ‘Connaught Place’ in Delhi. This place is generally crowded and is known for its restaurants and shops. You can shop for branded lifestyle products or traditional handicrafts. Also, this place is famous for its nightlife!
Other tourist attractions here are:
• Parks and Gardens: Rajendra Park, Rock garden, Hibiscus garden, Zakir rose Garden, Smriti Upavan, Terraced Garden, Topiary Garden, Shanti Kunj etc.
• Historical Place : Capitol Complex.
• Museums : Government Museum and Art Gallery, International Dolls Museum, Museum of Evolution of Life.
• Forests : Kansal and Nepli.
TRAVEL FACTS:
Best Time to Visit- October to March
Major Festivals- Baisakhi, Lohri, Holla Mohalla, Gurupurab, Tika, Teeyan, Karwa Chauth, Dusshera, Diwali, Raksha Bandhan
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