The first Indian city to be planned and designed post-independence, Chandigarh is one of the most beautiful towns of India. It is said to be the dream city of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Blueprinted and architected by renowned French professional, Le Corbusier, Chandigarh can be considered as one of the best examples of modern city architecture in twentieth century India.
When India lost Lahore, the historical capital of Punjab to Pakistan in the partition, Chandigarh was born out of India’s liaison with freedom after 200 years, and made the capital of Punjab and Haryana together. It is also one of the seven Union Territories of India
Chandigarh is one of those rare cities where a serene and silent harmony co-exists with sheer urbanisation and still upholds the cultural essence of Punjab-Haryana somehow. The green sidewalks, lawns and parks are as much a part of the cityscape as the streets and concretes. Chandigarh is, thus rightfully called, ‘The City Beautiful’.
As one drives into the city, the jagged outline of the Shiwalik Ranges in the distance looms over the city, dominating an otherwise clear blue sky. Chandigarh is one of the safest cities to travel in India, and also easiest to go around.
Travelling in Chandigarh begins with a visit to the man-made reservoir Sukhna Lake. Created by damming the SukhnaChoe, a seasonal stream coming down from the hills, this picturesque tank was built in 1958. Ever since, Sukhna Lake has been the town’s favourite destination to unwind and relax, to enjoy a boat ride or shikara trip, or just for a casual walk or jog any time of the day.
But the real surprise that awaits here is the fascinating Rock Garden. Started as a secret garden from discarded urban waste by Nek Chand in 1957, it later became a 40 acre-wide premise of spectacular rock displays. Leisure Valley is yet another charming destination, housing Asia’s largest rose garden. Feel free to visit the Capitol Complex – the base from where Le Corbusier worked, now turned into a museum of refined contemporary architecture. The High Court, Secretariat and the Legislative Assembly is also situated at the Capitol.
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