Best Travel Guide to Chandigarh City Tour & Things to Do
Chandigarh is a city in northern India and is the capital of both the states of Punjab and Haryana. The city was designed by the famous French architect, Le Corbusier, and is known for its well-planned layout, modern architecture, and beautiful gardens. Chandigarh is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chandigarh:
Rock Garden: A sculpture garden made of recycled materials like broken bangles, ceramic tiles, and electrical waste.
Sukhna Lake: A man-made lake where tourists can enjoy boating, bird-watching, and relaxing walks around the lake.
Capitol Complex: A government complex designed by Le Corbusier, consisting of three buildings: the Legislative Assembly, the Secretariat, and the High Court.
Rose Garden: Also known as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, it is the largest rose garden in Asia, with over 1,500 varieties of roses.
Pinjore Gardens: Located on the outskirts of Chandigarh, it is a Mughal-style garden with terraced lawns, fountains, and a mini zoo.
International Dolls Museum: A museum displaying dolls and puppets from all over the world.
Government Museum and Art Gallery: A museum showcasing Indian history, art, and culture.
Chandigarh Architecture Museum: A museum showcasing the architecture of Chandigarh and the work of Le Corbusier.
Apart from these attractions, Chandigarh also has a thriving food scene, with delicious Punjabi cuisine, street food, and international cuisine. Shopping is also a popular activity in Chandigarh, with markets like Sector 17, Sector 22, and Sector 35 offering a variety of goods like clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
Best Time To Visit Chandigarh
The best time to visit Chandigarh is during the winter months of November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. This is a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions like the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and Rose Garden.
The summer months from March to June can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 45°C. However, if you don’t mind the heat, this is a good time to visit if you want to explore the city’s indoor attractions like museums and art galleries.
The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall to the region, which can sometimes lead to waterlogging and disruption of travel plans. However, if you don’t mind the rain and want to experience the lush greenery of the city, this can be a good time to visit.
Overall, the best time to Visit Chandigarh is during the winter months of November to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities.
Chandigarh Travel Information
Here is some essential travel information for visitors to Chandigarh:
Language: The official languages spoken in Chandigarh are Hindi and Punjabi. English is also widely spoken and understood.
Currency: The currency used in Chandigarh is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Climate: Chandigarh has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Chandigarh is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
Transportation: Chandigarh has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. You can also rent a car or bike to explore the city on your own.
Accommodation: Chandigarh offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts.
Food: Chandigarh is known for its delicious Punjabi cuisine, with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes to try. You can find food stalls and restaurants serving local specialties throughout the city.
Safety: Chandigarh is a safe city for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping valuables safe, and being aware of your surroundings.
Overall, Chandigarh is a vibrant and exciting city to visit, with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to see and do. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful city.
Why Visit Chandigarh
There are many reasons to visit Chandigarh, a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Chandigarh:
Architecture: Chandigarh is known for its modernist architecture designed by the famous French architect, Le Corbusier. The city’s Capitol Complex, Open Hand Monument, and various government buildings are some of the best examples of modernist architecture.
Gardens and Parks: Chandigarh is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, including the Rose Garden, Rock Garden, and Sukhna Lake. These places offer a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Food: Chandigarh has a thriving food scene with a wide range of Punjabi cuisine, street food, and international cuisine. You can try delicious dishes like chole Bhature, tandoori chicken, and butter chicken.
Culture: Chandigarh has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore various museums and art galleries that showcase Indian history, art, and culture. The city is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Chandigarh Carnival, Rose Festival, and Mango Festival.
Shopping: Chandigarh has several shopping destinations, including Sector 17, Sector 22, and Sector 35, where visitors can shop for clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
Overall, Chandigarh is a vibrant city that offers a range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in architecture, gardens, food, culture, or shopping, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Best Places to Stay in Chandigarh
Chandigarh offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Chandigarh:
The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort in Chandigarh : This luxury resort is located on the outskirts of Chandigarh and offers world-class amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
Taj Chandigarh: Located in Sector 17, Taj Chandigarh is a luxury hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Hyatt Regency Chandigarh: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a range of amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
JW Marriott Hotel Chandigarh: This luxury hotel is located in Sector 35 and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Lemon Tree Hotel Chandigarh: This budget hotel is located in Industrial Area Phase 1 and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
The Lalit Chandigarh: This luxury hotel is located in Rajiv Gandhi IT Park and offers world-class amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Hotel Mountview in Chandigarh : This luxury hotel is located in Sector 10 and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Overall, Chandigarh offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget guesthouse, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs in this vibrant city.
Budget Hotels in Chandigarh
Chandigarh offers a range of budget hotels that are affordable and comfortable. Here are some of the best budget hotels in Chandigarh:
Hotel Diamond Plaza: This is a budget hotel located in Sector 22, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel City Plaza 7: This is a budget hotel located in Sector 17, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Royal Palace: This is a budget hotel located in Sector 42, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Citi Heights: This is a budget hotel located in Sector 22, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Orbit: This is a budget hotel located in Industrial Area Phase II, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Anthelia: This is a budget hotel located in Zirakpur, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Auzone: This is a budget hotel located in Sector 43B, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, Chandigarh offers a range of affordable accommodation options for budget travelers, with comfortable rooms and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and on-site restaurants.
3 Star Hotel in Chandigarh
Chandigarh has a wide variety of 3-star hotels to choose from, providing comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Here are some of the best 3-star hotels in Chandigarh:
Hotel Sapphire: This is a comfortable 3-star hotel located in Sector 7, with a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and airport transportation.
Hotel KLG Starlite: This is a modern 3-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase II, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Classic: This is a 3-star hotel located in Sector 35B, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Park Grand: This is a 3-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase I, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Orbit-34: This is a 3-star hotel located in Sector 34, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel White Palace: This is a 3-star hotel located in Sector 53, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
The Fern Residency: This is a stylish 3-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase II, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, Chandigarh has plenty of options for comfortable and affordable 3-star hotels, with a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable.
2 Star Hotel in Chandigarh
Chandigarh has a number of 2-star hotels that offer affordable accommodation with basic amenities. Here are some of the best 2-star hotels in Chandigarh:
Hotel Diamond Inn: This is a comfortable 2-star hotel located in Sector 22, with basic amenities, including a restaurant and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Orbit-42: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 42, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Grand Plaza: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 42, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel G K President: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 35, with basic amenities, including a restaurant and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Landmark: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 22, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Golden Inn: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 35, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Central Park 17: This is a budget 2-star hotel located in Sector 17, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, Chandigarh has a number of affordable 2-star hotels, providing basic amenities and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
4 Star Hotels in Chandigarh
Chandigarh has several 4-star hotels that provide luxurious accommodations, modern amenities and personalized service. Here are some of the best 4-star hotels in Chandigarh:
James Hotel: This is a stylish 4-star hotel located in Sector 17, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, gym and free Wi-Fi.
Lemon Tree Hotel: This is a modern 4-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase I, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, gym, spa and free Wi-Fi.
Regenta Central Cassia: This is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in Zirakpur, with modern rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Mountview: This is a well-known 4-star hotel located in Sector 10, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa and free Wi-Fi.
Velvet Clarks Exotica: This is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in Zirakpur, with modern rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa and free Wi-Fi.
Red Fox Hotel: This is a modern 4-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase I, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, gym and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Aquamarine: This is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in Sector 22, with modern rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, these 4-star hotels in Chandigarh offer a range of luxurious amenities and services, making your stay comfortable and memorable.
5 Star Hotels in Chandigarh
Chandigarh offers a number of luxurious 5-star hotels that provide top-notch services, modern amenities, and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the best 5-star hotels in Chandigarh:
The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in New Chandigarh, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
Taj Chandigarh: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Sector 17, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
Hyatt Regency Chandigarh: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Industrial Area Phase I, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
JW Marriott Hotel Chandigarh: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Sector 35, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
The Lalit Chandigarh: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Rajiv Gandhi IT Park, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
ITC Welcome hotel Bella Vista: This is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Panchkula, with spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, these 5-star hotels in Chandigarh offer luxurious amenities, services, and accommodations, making them an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and lavish stay.
Cuisine of Chandigarh
Chandigarh is known for its delicious and hearty Punjabi cuisine, which is a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are some popular dishes to try when you visit Chandigarh:
Chole Bhature: This is a popular breakfast dish in Chandigarh, consisting of spicy chickpeas (chole) and deep-fried bread (bhature).
Butter Chicken: This is a classic Punjabi dish made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce.
Sarson ka Saag and Makki di Roti: This is a traditional Punjabi dish made with mustard greens (sarson ka saag) and cornmeal flatbread (makki di roti).
Tandoori Chicken: This is a popular dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a traditional clay oven (tandoor).
Rajma Chawal: This is a comforting dish made with red kidney beans (rajma) and steamed rice (chawal).
Lassi: This is a refreshing yogurt-based drink that is a popular accompaniment to meals in Chandigarh.
Kulfi: This is a popular frozen dessert that is similar to ice cream, but denser and creamier. Kulfi is available in various flavors like mango, rose, and pistachio.
Overall, the cuisine of Chandigarh is known for its rich flavors and use of local ingredients. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try when you visit Chandigarh.
Shopping in Chandigarh
Chandigarh is a great place to shop for traditional Indian handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and more. Here are some of the best places to go shopping in Chandigarh:
Sector 17 Market: This is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Chandigarh, with a wide range of shops selling clothes, jewelry, accessories, and more.
Sector 22 Market: This is another popular shopping area in Chandigarh, with a wide range of shops selling traditional Indian handicrafts, textiles, and more.
Shastri Market: This is a great place to shop for clothes, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices.
Palika Bazaar: This is a popular indoor market located in Sector 19, with shops selling clothes, shoes, jewelry, and more.
Elante Mall: This is a modern shopping mall located in Industrial Area Phase 1, with a wide range of international and Indian brands, a food court, and a multiplex cinema.
Punjab Government Emporium: This is a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi handicrafts like phulkari embroidery, juttis, and more.
Himalaya Handloom: This is a popular shop in Sector 17 that sells a range of traditional Indian textiles like sarees, salwar kameez, and dupattas.
Overall, Chandigarh offers a great shopping experience for visitors, with a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts or modern fashion, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
How to Reach Chandigarh
Chandigarh is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy to reach from anywhere in India. Here are the different ways to reach Chandigarh:
By Air: Chandigarh has its own airport, which is located about 12 km from the city center. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
By Rail: Chandigarh has a well-connected railway station, with trains from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. The railway station is located about 8 km from the city center.
By Road: Chandigarh is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Amritsar, and Shimla. The city is also well-connected to nearby hill stations like Kasauli, Shimla, and Manali.
By Car: If you’re traveling from nearby cities like Delhi, you can also reach Chandigarh by car. The distance between Delhi and Chandigarh is about 250 km, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
Overall, reaching Chandigarh is easy and convenient, with multiple options to suit your budget and preferences.