Chandigarh Tourist Places: Famous Attractions and Offbeat Spots

Open Hand Monument

It is the most iconic and symbolic creation that stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. This monument represents the idea of openness. It is a large metal structure and has a unique feature of rotation with the flow of wind.

Secretariat Building

It is the largest building in the capitol complex. This building is known for its brutalist style, that have raw concrete surfaces and a monolithic appearance. The design of the building combats the harsh sunlight, which creates a play of light and shadow.

High Court

This building has a double roof structure that creates a dramatic effect that provides shade in full sunlight. The roof of the building forms a vast canopy that shelters the entrance plaza.

Legislative Assembly

The building features a grand hyperbolic parabolic roof, providing both a striking architectural element and acoustic advantages for the assembly hall.

If you are planning to visit CCA, you can witness the meticulously planned campus that showcases the innovative use of space and light. The college building has a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and thoughtful green natural surroundings.

The college often hosts exhibitions, workshops, and lectures that provide deeper insights into contemporary architectural practices and the rich history of Chandigarh’s urban planning.

Your visit to CCA not only offers a visual treat but also an educational experience, highlighting the enduring legacy of Le Corbusier and the innovative spirit of Indian architecture.

Designed by Le Corbusier, the garden is nestled in a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city’s urban landscape. Its terraced layout, lush foliage, and captivating ambience make it a beloved retreat for residents and visitors alike.

Upon entering the garden, you are greeted with a symphony of colors and scents, and you can admire a diverse collection of plants, including seasonal flowers, evergreen shrubs, and indigenous species, making it a living repository of Chandigarh’s flora.

The Chrysanthemum Show, also known as the Chandigarh Flower Festival, is an annual event that celebrates the beauty and diversity of a wide range of flowers all in one place.

It is held in the beautiful setting of the Terraced Garden every December, attracting visitors from near and far, including locals, gardening enthusiasts, tourists, and botany aficionados.

The park is situated in Sector 26, which is a haven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The park is created in such a way that you’ll be greeted by a lush expanse of verdant foliage carefully curated to attract and sustain a variety of butterfly species.

Interpretative signboards placed strategically throughout the park offer insights into the different butterfly species that can be spotted, their life cycles, and the significance of their presence in the ecosystem.

One of the centre’s main attractions is its impressive collection of aircraft, all meticulously restored to their original condition. The newly built Indian Air Force centre is becoming the attraction centre among tourists visiting Chandigarh.

From iconic warplanes like the Hawker Hunter and the MiG-21 to modern marvels such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, each aircraft has its own unique story of bravery, innovation, and technological advancement.

The museum also featured engaging multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and artefacts that offered a glimpse into the life of an air warrior. Overall, I’m sure that if you plan to visit this center, your visit will also be educational and inspiring.

Most of the items in the museum were originally part of the collection at the Central Museum in Lahore, which was the capital of Punjab. After partition, this remarkable collection was brought to India, and the Government Museum and Art Gallery was created to display it. Some of the most prized possessions in the museum include Gandhara sculptures and Rajasthani miniature paintings.

On the first level, you can explore a museum shop, a waiting area, a child art gallery, and an auditorium. The second level showcases sculptures and other creations, while the third level houses a well-equipped museum library that displays various books.

ISKCON offers a vibrant cultural experience beyond the temple walls. Regular kirtans, or devotional chanting sessions, fill the air with melodies, transporting devotees into a spiritual realm. Educational programs delve into the depths of Vedic scriptures and philosophy, enlightening visitors about Hinduism’s rich intellectual tradition.

ISKCON offers a vibrant cultural experience beyond the temple walls. Regular kirtans, or devotional chanting sessions, fill the air with melodies, transporting devotees into a spiritual realm. Educational programs delve into the depths of Vedic scriptures and philosophy, enlightening visitors about Hinduism’s rich intellectual tradition.

You can find a variety of brands, vendors, and hawkers here. Spending an evening at this local market is both fun and convenient, as it’s easily accessible being close to the city center. There are several outlets where you can find high-quality traditional Punjabi clothing like Phulkari and footwear (Punjabi Jhuttis).

Additionally, there are plenty of bookshops and restaurants. Exploring this market on foot is easy as there is hardly any vehicular traffic. In the evening, there’s a Musical Fountain Show where the water dances to the rhythm of the music. There are many best places to visit in Chandigarh near Sector 17 market.

Fashion lovers can find a plethora of local and international brands, making it a paradise for shoppers. The mall offers a diverse array of dining options. Whether you’re craving local delicacies or international cuisines, you can savor flavors from around the world at the mall’s numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries.

The multiplex cinema provides a cinematic escape, showcasing the latest blockbusters in state-of-the-art facilities. Families can enjoy quality time together at the mall’s entertainment zones, which feature arcade games, bowling alleys, and virtual reality experiences. You can also check the Best Hotel in Chandigarh to stay.

The Amusement Park section includes rides like Octopus, Columbus, Caterpillar, Swinging Chairs, Music Bob, Splash, Striking Cars, Mono Train, Baby Train, Sun ‘n’ Moon, Boat Club, Aerial Runway, and more. There are also many dining options in the park serving delicious multi-cuisine food.

One more amusement park named Thunder Zone is available in Chandigarh. It is situated in Mohali and also offers a variety of water rides and snow activities. It’s important to note that both parks are closed during winter, so plan your visit accordingly.

People also go for trekking in Morni Hills. The view of the morning hill trek offers an adventure opportunity to explore the rugged terrain and scenic beauty of the place. The popular trekking route in Morni Hill includes the Ghaggar River Trek, which follows the course of the Ghaggar River.

Another popular route is the Karoh Peak Trek, which leads to the highest point in the region and provides panoramic vistas of the Himalayan ranges.