1- Rose Garden
Rose Garden, Chandigarh Overview
Located in sector 16 of Chandigarh, Rose Garden is a blooming exhibit that showcases around 825 varieties of flowers and 32,500 varieties of trees and medicinal shrubs. Rose Garden in Chadigarh, also known as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden after the former president of India, is spread over 30 acres and is decked up with an exquisite variety of flowers making it quite popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts. It is the largest garden of its kind in Asia and was built in the year 1967 under the guidance of the First Chief Commissioner, MS Randhawa.
The trees and medicinal plants are, in fact, the garden's most noteworthy features. Neatly planted in a systematic way by expert gardeners, it serves as a perfect place to peacefully stroll about and relax. The Rose Garden is a sight to behold when the flowers are in their full bloom in the months of February and March. The beauty of this garden is only enhanced by the presence of the misty mountains in the background and a gorgeous fountain that is aglow with colorful lights in the evening. With its relaxing environment and verdant beauty, Rose Garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city of Chandigarh.
2- Rock Garden
Rock Garden, Chandigarh Overview
Located in sector 1 of the beautiful city Chandigarh, The Rock Garden is a massive open-air exhibition hall that displays sculptures made from urban and industrial wastes that have been designed and executed by Nek Chand, a former Road Inspector in Chandigarh. It is located between the famous Sukhna Lake and the Capitol Building and is a spectacle that is must-visit! Also known as Nek Chand's Rock Garden, this massive 40-acre garden is a colourful mosaic of art pieces and sculptures. The Rock garden was built in the year 1957 by officer Nek Chand single-handedly in his spare time and has become a long-standing symbol of imagination and novelty in the city. Having a total of about 5,000 statues within its bounds, the Rock Garden in Chandigarh is a true example of 'Best From Waste'.
The exhibition area of Rock Garden is divided into three different phases that have different types of installations and embellishments in them. Each phase deals with a different type of installations and walking through them is a true delight. From terracotta pots, light fixtures, and even broken toilet pots, the creator - Mr. Nek Chand has truly redefined art and craft!
3- Sukhna Lake
Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh Overview
Nestled at the foot of Shivalik Hills, Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh paints a pretty picture. Stretching for a distance of 3 sq. km., Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake and is the only one of its kind in the city created in the year 1958 by damming the seasonal Sukhna Choe (Stream) that flows down the Shivalik Hills. With its pristine blue water, the lake serves as a perfect location for a stream of morning joggers and walkers who can also enjoy the fresh air. In fact, the architect of Chandigarh - India's first planned city - Le Corbusier claimed that this lake would be the centre of wellness pursuits for the residents. The promenade in front of the lake is frequented by walkers and joggers who carry out their exercise regimes here. Moreover, it also has one of the longest rowing channels in the country that host the Asian Rowing Championships. The best way to enjoy a tour of the Sukhna Lake is to go on a lazy boating tour on it. You can hire a boat for an individual or for a couple, which would cost you between INR 50 - INR 100.
Apart from serving as a delight for artists and photographers, the lake is also a great spot for sports activities such as rowing, trampoline jumping along with the recent addition of a Solar Cruise. It is home to several species of fish and migratory birds such as Siberian ducks and cranes. Bounded by a golf course and the famous Rose Garden, the lake offers a mesmerizing escape to its visitors at all times of the day.
4- Pinjore Gardens
Pinjore Gardens, Chandigarh Overview
Pinjore Gardens is a beautiful Mughal Garden made in 17th Century India located in the city of Pinjore, in the district of Panchkula, Haryana. The garden expands over a massive area of 100 acres and is a beautiful place to unwind with nature in the ever-growing concrete city. The Pinjore garden is also known as Yadvinder Garden which is famous all over the world for its well-maintained greenery, refreshing fountains and mesmerising water bodies. Tourists from all over the world visit the Pinjore gardens to experience this Mughal creation that India has very proudly and carefully maintained.
Pinjore Gardens are a good illustration of terrace gardens in India. During Baisakhi, between April and June, the Garden serves as the venue of the annual Mango Festival. It doesn't just have a vast expanse of beautiful flora but also houses a mini zoo, an area dedicated to historic places, a serene Japanese garden, a splendid nursery and some areas that serve as picnic spots. So, the Gardens have enough for everyone, be it kids or adults. Many believe that the Pandava brothers rested her for a while during their exile. The best time to explore the gardens is in the evening time. The entire garden is lit up after sunset in such a way that the ambience of the garden changes completely.
5- Government Museum and Art Gallery
Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh Overview
Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh is one of the most prominent museums of India that speaks of the Indian history and partition. Established in August 1947, the museum is known for its rich collection of paintings, artefacts, and sculptures. Moreover, its unique architecture which was designed by Le Corbusier is highly revered. On 6th May 1968, Dr MS Randhawa, then chief commissioner of Lahore inaugurated the museum.
The mission of this institution is to encourage appreciation of values embedded in art and bring it close to the lives of people through interpretation of its rich collection and innovative programs. Located in the centre of the town, it offers the view of the Shivalik ranges in the backdrop. Visiting it can give you in-depth knowledge in the form Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings.