A Shoestring Budget Day Trip in Chandigarh

  1. 9:00AM: Sukhna Lake
    15 minutes (2.7 km) from Elante Mall

    Sukhna Lake is a beautiful man-made lake in the foothills of the Himalayas. Take a walk around the lake or rent a boat for a peaceful view of the surroundings. There are also food stalls and souvenir shops nearby.

  2. 11:00AM: Rock Garden
    20 minutes (5.3 km) from Sukhna Lake

    The Rock Garden is a unique sculpture garden made from discarded materials. The various sculptures depict animals, people, and natural elements. You may also take a guided tour for a more in-depth perspective. The entry fee is INR 50 per person.

  3. 1:00PM: Chandigarh Museum and Art Gallery
    15 minutes (4.8 km) from Rock Garden

    The Chandigarh Museum and Art Gallery has a collection of art pieces from the early Harappan period to modern-day India. A must-see exhibit is the miniature paintings, which are a significant part of the Indian art heritage. The entry fee is INR 10 per person.

  4. 3:00PM: Pinjore Gardens
    30 minutes (20 km) from Chandigarh Museum and Art Gallery

    The Pinjore Gardens are a beautiful Mughal-style garden. There is an amphitheater where cultural events are held, a Japanese garden, and a mini zoo with animals like peacocks and rabbits. The entry fee is INR 25 per person, and the garden is open from 7:00AM-10:00PM daily.

  5. 6:00PM: Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
    1 hour 30 minutes (56 km) from Pinjore Gardens

    The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent place for birdwatching, trekking, and nature walks. You'll find animals like barking deer, monkeys, and various species of birds. The entry fee is INR 10 per person, and the sanctuary is open from 9:00AM-5:00PM daily.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Sukhna Lake (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Rock Garden (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Chandigarh Museum and Art Gallery (2 hours, INR 10)
  • Pinjore Gardens (2 hours, INR 25)
  • Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 145

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Government Museum and Art Gallery and the Leisure Valley. Both are excellent places for relaxation and history. If you are visiting during the winter months, be sure to carry warm clothes as it can get quite cold. If you have less time, skip either Pinjore Gardens or Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also save money by bringing your food and drinks instead of eating out.

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