Chandigarh is not only prosperous, cosmopolitan and comfortable, it is also buzzing with activity. It is a perfect blend of old-world charm and new-age sophistication. The city is officially a Union Territory that is under the control of the central government. Chandigarh is the joint capital of Haryana and Punjab. What’s more? It is the first planned city post independence. The city was conceptualized by Swiss architect Le Corbusier. He was commissioned in 1950 to plan the city. He conceived of a city that would be people-oriented, replete with sweeping boulevards, gardens, lakes and grand civic buildings. He used his favourite material - reinforced concrete – to give the city its charm and grandeur. Nearly 70 years on and the monuments, parks and civic squares are still standing tall, although a little aged. The city’s sectors are self-contained and pedestrian-friendly.
Chandigarh - Places to Visit
Most tourists seem to spend most of their time in Sector 17, which is known for its restaurants and shops, and Sector 22, which has some of the best hotels in the vicinity. There are quite a few places to visit in Chandigarh. Why not pay a visit to Nek Chand Rock Garden? The rock garden is unique and contains more than 2000 sculptures, which have been sculpted using debris, stones and discarded junk that was left over after 50-odd villages were destroyed to build the city. Upon entering the 25-acre sculpture garden, a new world awaits you. The material used to construct the garden includes concrete, steel drums, light switches, bicycle frames and even broken bathroom sinks! Architecture and design enthusiasts will be enthralled when they visit the Le Corbusier Centre. The museum is home to innumerable documents, sketches and photos of the Swiss architect. It also contains fascinating letters that delve into the politics associated with the project. A letter from Jawaharlal Nehru to the then chief minister of Punjab states, ‘I do hope that you will not overrule Corbusier. His opinion is of value.’ It was part of Le Corbusier’s vision to have a number of parks in the city. In line with his vision of a garden city, Chandigarh has a number of verdant parks. The Garden of Fragrance, which is located away from the city centre, has sweet-scented flower varieties like damask rose and jasmine. The best time to visit Chandigarh is between mid-August and November. This is the time when the weather is not too cold or hot.
Accommodation in Chandigarh
Since Chandigarh is situated in the plains; tourists can enjoy the moderate weather. It is not a good idea to visit the city during the summer. One will never have to look too far before they stumble upon premium and budget OYO hotels. There are a number of rooms available near Chandigarh railway station as well as the Panchkula and Zirakpur bus stands. There are a few OYO hotels near the famous Mohali cricket stadium, IT park and tribune park. Sector 22 has some of the best OYO hotels in the area.
Events in Chandigarh
World Music Day: June The World Music day celebrated every year in Chandigarh at the cultural center of Alliance Francaise. The festival is a rage internationally and is celebrated with great excitement in Chandigarh. To celebrate the spirit of music, an open stage is set for everyone to showcase their musical and dancing talent to a very encouraging crowd. Immerse yourself in this musically driven open stage event by booking a stay at OYO that guarantees you a perfect stay without burning a hole in your pocket.
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Questions and Answers
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1.
Are OYO Hotels in Chandigarh Covid-safe and sanitised?
OYO hotels are being sanitised and maintained as per a strict protocol for minimum touch, sanitisation with high quality cleaners, social distancing and daily temperature check of the staff. These hotels are completely safe!
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2.
What are some of the best accommodation options in Chandigarh?
OYO Rooms has various accommodations options throughout the city. You can find a good place to stay based on what you plan to do in the city and also your budget
What are the most interesting things to do in Chandigarh?
From beautiful theme gardens, museums, fine architectural government building to flea markets and exquisite nightlife, there are plenty of places to explore in this union territory of India. While here, you can also visit the holy ISKCON temple, picturesque Rock Garden, Butterfly Park, Sukhna Wildlife sanctuary, serene Chandigarh Botanical Garden & Nature Park, one-of-a-kind International Dolls Museum, Nepli Reserve Forest, historical museum of Le Corbusier Centre, ChattBir Zoo, artistic Government Museum and Art Gallery and the symbolic Open Hand Monument, which is considered as the official emblem of the city.
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4.
What is a good time to visit Chandigarh?
The best time to visit Chandigarh is between mid-August and November, when the weather is just pleasant to explore the myriad of sightseeing places in the city. The average temperature during the day is around 25°C and the average temperature during the night is 17° C. By that time, the monsoons are almost over, and the temperature starts dropping down. Tourists come from different parts of the country flock this beautiful city of gardens during this time.
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5.
What are some of the best stay options near the railway station?
You can find the most affordable and comfortable accommodations by OYO Rooms near Chandigarh railway station. Some of the hotels near Chandigarh railway station are:
OYO 28225 Hotel Lions Den
OYO 24874 Hotel Dream Palace 45
OYO 9254 The Platinum
OYO 16695 Hotel Sun View
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6.
What are some of the best economy accommodations near the airport?
In close vicinity to the Chandigarh International Airport, you can easily book any of OYO Rooms affordable accommodations. Here are a few good hotels near Chandigarh International Airport
OYO 27061 Hotel Magnum
OYO 26638 Kapoor Guest House
OYO 16715 Hotel City Luxury 45
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7.
What is the best food that you can eat in Chandigarh?
Chandigarh is famous for the rich variety of authentic Punjabi cuisine and is dotted with eateries and restaurants at every street corner. You can eat lachha parathas, butter chicken, Amritsari kulche, tandoori fish and kebabs at Dil Desi. Savour some lip-smacking chaat including spicy golgappas, creamy dahi bhallas and paneer malai tikkas at Gupta Chat in Sector 23. Or visit Amritsari Kulcha Hub in Sector 9 to eat an assortment of stuffed kulchas with a glass of dry fruits lassi for breakfast. Head to Bholey Di Hatti in Sector 44 for enjoying mouth-watering rajma chawal, kadhi chawal, chana samosa and paneer bread pakoda. Sindhi Sweets in Sector 17 serves roh di kheer, jalebi, baalushahi, kulfi and other sweet treasures along with a spread of Indian snacks and desserts. Some popular multi-cuisine restaurants include Saffron, Baluchi, Hot Millions, Sher-e-Punjab, Mehfil and Ghazal.
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8.
Is Chandigarh covered by metro or bus network? What is the best way to travel across the city?
Chandigarh has a well-knit bus network run by Chandigarh Transport Undertaking but metro service is not available here. The best way to travel the city is by bus or to hire a private taxi or auto rickshaw. Alternately, you can also hire bicycles from Pedalchandigarh or rent a self-drive car and traverse the city.
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9.
Are there any shopping markets in Chandigarh?
To satisfy the shopaholic in you, you can explore the lively market of Sector 17, also known as City Centre, which is dotted with innumerable clothing retail outlets, international brand stores, handicraft emporiums, movie theatres, restaurants and pubs. Or if you want everything under one roof, you can head to the expansive Elante Mall, TDI Mall or City Emporium Mall. Don’t forget to check out the traditional tip-turned-up jutis, vibrant Punjabi dupattas and delectable jams and juices.
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10.
What are the less unexplored places in Chandigarh?
Chandigarh has a lot to offer to the visitors. Along with some of the famous sightseeing places, there are a few places which are less explored like Funcity, which is one of the biggest amusement parks in North India and promises a whole day of fun for your family. You can indulge in numerous rides and water slides here to escape the hot weather of Chandigarh in summers. In the late evening hours, visiting the Musical Fountain in Sector 17 could be a rewarding experience as this spot is known for its fascinating music and laser shows. Timber Trail is perfect for a small romantic getaway or a trip with your family. The trolley car takes you up the hill from where you can capture a panoramic view of the hilly terrain.