Start your trip to Chandigarh by immersing yourself in the beauty of the Rock Garden. Created by artist Nek Chand, this unique sculpture garden is a mesmerizing blend of art and nature. Spend your morning exploring the various sculptures, waterfalls, and pathways that make up this enchanting place. Afterward, head to Sukhna Lake in the afternoon. This man-made lake offers a perfect setting for boating or simply relaxing by the water. As the evening approaches, visit the Sector 17 Plaza, the heart of Chandigarh's shopping and entertainment scene. Take a leisurely stroll, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in delicious street food.
Rock Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
Sukhna Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 200 for boating, Estimated Time - 1-2 hours
Sector 17 Plaza: Estimated Cost - Varies based on shopping and dining choices, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Chandigarh is Café JC's. Known for its delicious breakfast options and cozy ambiance, this café offers a variety of dishes such as fluffy pancakes, hearty omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, head to Whistling Duck. This trendy restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from Asian fusion to Continental cuisine. The relaxed atmosphere and picturesque outdoor seating area make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Barbeque Nation. This popular restaurant is known for its live grill concept where you can grill your own starters at the table. Enjoy an extensive buffet spread with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹1,200 per person.
Sunday, August 6
On your second day in Chandigarh, start with a visit to the beautiful Rose Garden. Spread across 30 acres, this garden is home to thousands of varieties of roses, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Spend your morning admiring the colorful blooms and enjoying the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, explore the architectural brilliance of the Capitol Complex. Designed by Le Corbusier, this complex houses the Legislative Assembly, High Court, and Secretariat buildings. Wrap up your day with a visit to the vibrant Elante Mall. Indulge in shopping, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, or catch a movie at the multiplex.
Rose Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
Elante Mall: Estimated Cost - Varies based on shopping and dining choices, Estimated Time - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe JC's. This cozy cafe offers a delightful range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Pal Dhaba. This iconic restaurant serves authentic Punjabi cuisine, including mouthwatering tandoori dishes and rich curries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Whistling Duck. Known for its elegant ambiance and fusion menu, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Chandigarh, don't miss the opportunity to explore the enchanting Pinjore Gardens. Located on the outskirts of the city, these historic gardens are known for their exquisite Mughal-style architecture and stunning landscapes. Another hidden gem is the Government Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Pal Dhaba, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Punjabi dishes. Chandigarh is also famous for its street food, so be sure to try the mouthwatering chaat and golgappas at the local food stalls.