Saturday August 12: Serene Gardens and Tranquil Lakes
Start your trip by visiting the beautiful Rock Garden in the morning. This unique sculpture garden is made entirely from recycled materials and offers a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk. Afterward, head to Sukhna Lake in the afternoon, where you can relax by the water, go for a boat ride, or simply enjoy the scenic views. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Sector 17 Plaza, known for its shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.
Rock Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Sukhna Lake: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe JC's, a cozy cafe known for its delicious breakfast dishes like pancakes, eggs benedict, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 350 per person.
For lunch, try Pal Dhaba, a popular restaurant serving authentic Punjabi cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering butter chicken, dal makhani, and tandoori roti. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
For dinner, visit Whistling Duck, a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable Continental and Asian fusion dishes. Don't miss their signature duck dishes and exquisite desserts. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1200 per person.
Sunday August 13: Wellness and Nature
Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at the International Yoga Day Park. Afterward, visit the beautiful Rose Garden, home to over 1,500 varieties of roses, and take a leisurely stroll through the colorful blooms. In the afternoon, head to Leisure Valley, a sprawling green space that offers walking trails, gardens, and picnic spots. As the evening approaches, explore the serene Japanese Garden, known for its tranquil ambiance and traditional Japanese architecture.
International Yoga Day Park: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Rose Garden: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Leisure Valley: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Japanese Garden: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Chandigarh's International Yoga Day Park is Café JC's, known for its delicious selection of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 250 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Virgin Courtyard, a charming restaurant located near the Rose Garden. Their menu features a variety of Italian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 700 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Pal Dhaba, a local favorite near the Japanese Garden. This iconic restaurant offers a range of Punjabi delights, including butter chicken and naan bread. Average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
Monday August 14: Spa Retreat and Shopping
Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at one of Chandigarh's renowned wellness centers in the morning. Afterward, head to Elante Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the region, where you can shop for both local and international brands. In the afternoon, visit the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive architecture and serene surroundings. As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful Bougainvillea Garden, known for its vibrant floral displays.
Spa Treatment: Cost varies, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Elante Mall: Cost varies, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
Capitol Complex: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Bougainvillea Garden: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Nomad, located just a short distance from the wellness centers. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options including delicious sandwiches and refreshing smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try out the vegetarian delights at Swagath Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. From dosas to idlis, this restaurant offers a wide range of authentic dishes at an average cost of $12 per person.
End your day with a delectable dinner at Virgin Courtyard, an intimate Italian restaurant situated near the Bougainvillea Garden. Enjoy the serene ambiance while savouring dishes like pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Nek Chand's Fantasy Rock Garden. This hidden gem is a hidden oasis filled with whimsical sculptures and secret paths. Another local favorite is the Timber Trail in nearby Parwanoo, where you can take a cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. These lesser-known attractions offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature.