Tourist Places Near Chandigarh: A Blend of Nature & Heritage Sites

Introduction

Fateh Burj, Mohali

The Fateh Burj stands at a height of 100 meters, making it the tallest memorial commemorating the victory of Sikh warrior Banda Singh Bahadur over the Mughals. The architectural style of the memorial reflects historical influences.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding city from the top of the structure, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Mohali. The pond and mounds surrounding the tower pay homage to the landscape where the actual battle took place.

A visit to Fateh Burj offers an immersive experience, allowing you to learn more about the valour of the Sikhs.

Location: Sector 93, Mohali

Timing: 10 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Things to do: Sight Seeing, Picnicking, Photography, Enjoying aerial view of the city

Amusement Park

The main water-based attractions here are the slide pool and wave pool. This amusement park is one of the best places to visit in Mohali with family, and it has rides specifically designed for younger ones as well.

The park offers unique rides in water and amusement parks.

• The water park at Thunder Zone Chandigarh has got Slide Pool, a wave pool, an activity pool, and a kid’s pool. It also has Hira Kari and a big dome slide.
• The amusement park section at Thunder Zone includes rides like Octopus, Columbus, Caterpillar, Music Bob, Splash, striking cars, monorail, aerial runway, and more.

This is one of the best places to visit in Chandigarh with friends. Enjoy some delicious North Indian cuisine and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Additionally, children have their own play areas in both the amusement and water sections to keep them engaged.

Location: Srihind Road, Landran, Mohali

Timing: 10 AM to 7:30 PM

Entry Fee: Rs 1150 (amusement and water park) Only water park: Rs 750 Only Amusement park: Rs 750

Things to do: Water slides, Water Games, Dancing

Introduction

Patiala is a city in the state of Punjab, India. Known for its rich cultural heritage, royal palaces, forts, and museums.

The city is also famous for its traditional clothing, particularly the Patiala salwar, and for its food, including dishes such as paranthas, lassi, and makki di roti with sarson ka saag. If you are travelling by air, you can also check the best hotel near the airport for a comfortable stay.

Distance from Chandigarh: 70kms

Qila Mubarak Complex

It is a historical fort and palace that showcases Patiala’s royal heritage. The building’s architecture and museum in the complex provide an insight into the city’s rich past and royalty. The Qila Mubarak complex has several palaces, each with its own unique features. Some of the notable palaces include:

• Jail Walla Palace (Palace of Royal Prisoners)
• Moti (Pearl) Palace
• Rajmata (Queen Mother) Palace
• Rang Mahal (Palace of Colours)
• Chandra Mahal (Palace of Moon)

Location: Chandni Chowk, Adalat Bazar Patiala

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Ticket: Rs 50

Things to do: Exploring Qila, Photography, local shopping of Punjabi Juttis, and Phulkari

Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh Mahal, also known as the “palace of mirrors,”  is decorated with intricately detailed mirrors and paintings that reflect the magnificence of the artistry of the time. It also has a museum with an impressive collection of art and artefacts, including:

• Miniature paintings
• Carved metal and ivory artifacts from Punjab, Kashmir, Burma, and Tibet
• A vast collection of medals said to be the largest in the world

Location: Old Moti Bagh, Moti Bagh, Patiala

Timing: Open 24 hrs

Entry Ticket: Rs 20Things to do: Exploring Mahal and Local Markets

Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib

This Gurudwara holds a special significance in the Sikh community. This Gurudwara is considered highly auspicious as it is known for its healing powers and is definitely worth visiting Patiala. A number of people used to visit this gurudwara on the occasion of Basant Panchmi and Lohri.

Location: Srihind-Patiala Road

Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM

Entry Ticket: Free Entry

Things to do:

Introduction

Famous for its Holla Mohalla festival, Anandpur Sahib is home to numerous gurudwaras. The majestic Sutlej River borders it on one side and the towering Shivalik mountains on the other.

The primary attraction for tourists is the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, but the bristling river and the snow-capped peaks also add to the natural charm of the city.

Distance from Chandigarh: 82 km

Virasat-e-Khalsa

This museum was built to celebrate the 500 years of Sikhism. You will see a lot of objects that belong to and represent the Sikh-era old monuments of Sikh-era scriptures written by the tenth and last human guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The museum is open to visitors throughout the year. The museum provides amenities such as guided tours, audio guides, and a library.

Location: Anandpur Sahib

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Ticket: Free for a 3-hour visit (Rs 100 for a full-day pass)

Things to do: Explore Museum, Souvenir Shop

Gurudwaras in Anandpur Sahib

You can explore many gurudwaras in Anandpur Sahib. One of the most popular Gurdwaras is Takhat Sri Kesari Sahib Ji. This is the gurudwara where Khalsa Pant was born. Khalsa Panth is a community of Sikhs. The Gurdwara is very near the main national highway.

Sarovar Anandpur Sahib is a place for taking a dip in the holy water. It is like a cleansing ritual for the soul. This is a sacred lake. It is situated next to the Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib Ji Gurudwara.

Location: Near Takhatr Sri Sahib Gurudwara

Timing: open 24 hours

Entry Ticket: Free

Things to do: Take a holy dip in water,

Introduction

Roopnagar is an ancient town of Punjab from the Indus Valley civilization. Ropar Wetland and Archeological Museum are some of the attractions in Ropar. The city is just 1 hr drive from Chandigarh.

Distance from Chandigarh: 47 km

Roopnagar Wetland

Roopnagar wetland, also named Ropar Lake, is specially developed for tourism, and the view of the place is so beautiful that hundreds of visitors every day come to enjoy this scenic spot with family and friends.

It also has a bird sanctuary where several species of migratory birds visit. You can also hire a guide who can arrange bird-watching tours at the site

Additionally, plenty of local food stalls and souvenir shops you can find along the side of the lake. The peaceful lake in the centre and the thick cover of greenery are a delight for the eyes and are worthy of being captured in photographs.

Location: Garh Bagga, Roop Nagar

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Ticket: Free

Things to do: Bird Sanctuary, Local Shopping and Local food

Archaeological Museum

The museum is a fascinating collection of items from the Harappan era, providing a glimpse into the lives of people who lived here thousands of years ago.

The museum showcases tools and ornaments from various periods, including pottery, tools, ornaments, and even a sculpture of Yakshi, a mythical female nature spirit. Additionally, you can catch a glimpse of important protected monuments of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and World Heritage monuments.

The museum houses the archaeological remains of the excavated site near Ropar, the first Harappan site excavated in independent India. The must-visit place if you are visiting Ropar.

Location: Roop Nagar

Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM (Friday Closed)

Entry Ticket: Rs 5

Things to do: Exploring Indus Valley Civilisation, Photography

If you want to enjoy the true vibrant colour, beauty, and culture of Punjab, then Ludhiana is a must-visit place. This city has a rich history that shows the architectural marvels and ancient dynasties such as Lodhi Fort, Phillaur Fort, and Gurudwara Shri Manji Sahib. The Rural Museum, Nehru Rose Garden, and Hardy’s World Amusement Park are also some prominent attractions here.

Distance from Chandigarh: 97 km

Phillaur Fort

This 200-year-old fort, now known as Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Police Academy, holds great historical significance. The place has an extensive moat around it and has 4 bastions on four corners, two watchtowers, tall gates, and a high wall of 4.7 meters, making it ideal for military operations.

Each gateway of the fort has been named after Mughal cities. You can also explore the Dargah inside and the lush green golf course outside. You can enjoy the scenic sight surrounding this majestic fort and relish the history it absorbs amidst its walls.

Location: Punjab Police Academy Campus, Pillaur

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM (Open only on Thursday)

Entry Ticket: No entry fee

Things to do: Explore Rakh Bagh Park, Nehru Rose Garden, Gurunanak Stadium, Local Shopping

Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum

The Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum is a major attraction in Ludhiana, serving as a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The museum aims to educate visitors about the importance of the defence forces.

In the museum, visitors can see weapons, armor, and uniforms used by soldiers. One of the highlights is the sound and light show that reenacts the history of the Indian Freedom Struggle. Named after the majestic statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at the entrance, the museum is spread over 4 acres of land with green lawns surrounding the building.

Location: Grand Trunk Road, Bhattian, Ludhiana

Timing: 9:30 AM to 5 PM (Monday Closed)

Entry Ticket: Rs 40 for adults, Rs 20 for children above 5 years

Things to do: Explore Pavillion Mall, Hardy’s World Fun Park, Gurunanak Bhawan, Local food and Shopping

Introduction

Bhakra-Nangal Dam

The Bhakra-Nangal Dam is located on the border of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. It is the second-tallest dam in Asia. The impressive architectural design of this massive dam will take your breath away. It’s a wonderful location for spending quality time with family and friends.

It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nangal for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. While visiting, you and your companions can enjoy leisure activities and water sports. The reservoir of the dam is known as “Gobind Sagar,”  where you can enjoy various water activities.

Location: Nangal

Timing: 8 AM to 3:20 PM

Entry Ticket: Rs 20

Things to do: Boating, Skiing, picnicking, Fishing

Chintpurni Temple

Due to the divinity and elegant structure of the temple, it is so religious that it attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. When visiting Chintpurni Temple, don’t forget to visit Sheetla Devi Temple to seek Sheetla Mata’s blessings.

In addition to exploring the temple, you can also enjoy the surrounding area. Relax by the Beas River, just 25 kilometres away, and enjoy the greenery all around. If you’re in the mood for shopping, check out the Sangra shopping complex and other nearby places. Foodies can indulge in delicious Punjabi cuisine at nearby restaurants

Location: Chintpurni

Timing: 4 AM to 10 PM

Entry Ticket: Free

Things to do: Visit Naina Devi; do religious shopping; go trekking; ropeway (Naina Devi)

Sangrur, apart from many Gurudwaras, the city has well-maintained parks and gardens. With Sangrur’s vast expanses of fertile land, agriculture has continued to be the main source of livelihood for the locals. Not only does this land feed multitudes of people, but it also provides stunning views from almost any part of the town.

Distance from Chandigarh: 130 km

Visiting Gurudwaras

Sangrur is home to some of the most beautiful gurudwara in the world. Some of the Gurudwaras in Sangrur that you will definitely want to visit are Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, Janam Asthan, and Akoi Sahib.

Each one of these Gurudwaras has its own patron saint, who is believed to be very holy and powerful, which is why devotees and tourists come to these Gurudwaras to cleanse their souls or to get blessings.

Location: Sangrur

Timing: Open 24/7

Entry Ticket: Free

Things to do: Visiting Holy places, local shopping and food

Banasar Bagh Sangrur

Banasar Garden is situated at the northern end of the city. This park is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax. The park is well-maintained and houses the Baradari, a traditional structure with 12 doors. The royal palace of Jind is located in this garden, or bagh. The palace has now been turned into a museum.

Inside the museum, you can find a few manuscripts, weapons, and various other items that belonged to the rulers of Jind. Its surroundings comprise four towers, numerous walkways, many plants and trees, and a mini zoo.

Location: Banasar

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Ticket: Rs 20

Things to do: Picnic, Shopping, Walking