2 Days in Chandigarh for a Green Escape

Chandigarh is a breath of fresh air with its wide green spaces, clean roads, and beautiful gardens. I love how the city blends urban planning with nature, making it perfect for a short nature-filled getaway. Whether it's walking through the famous Rock Garden or enjoying a quiet moment by Sukhna Lake, there's plenty to recharge your soul.

Punjab, punjab
2 Days
Nature
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Exploring the quirky Rock Garden with its recycled art installations
Morning walk or boat ride at Sukhna Lake with views of the Shivalik Hills
Strolling through the vibrant Rose Garden with over 1,600 varieties of roses
Picnicking in the peaceful Leisure Valley

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovemberFebruaryMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Chandigarh

Kick off your Chandigarh visit with its most iconic spots, blending nature, architecture, and local flavors.

Activities

Morning at Sukhna Lake

Start your day with a peaceful stroll along Sukhna Lake, a man-made reservoir with stunning views of the Shivalik Hills. Rent a paddleboat or simply enjoy the morning breeze. The lakeside promenade is perfect for birdwatching—spot migratory birds if you're lucky.

Sukhna Lake, Sector 16:30 AM - 8:30 AM (best for cool weather and fewer crowds)Free (boat rentals around ₹200-₹400)
Tips:
  • Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
  • Avoid weekends if you prefer quieter moments.
Explore the Rock Garden

A short drive from Sukhna Lake, the Rock Garden is a whimsical wonderland built entirely from recycled materials—think broken ceramics, tiles, and even discarded bottles. The maze-like pathways and waterfalls make it a photographer’s delight.

Rock Garden of Chandigarh, Sector 19:00 AM - 10:30 AM₹30 per person
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of walking.
  • Visit the nearby Japanese Garden for a quick bonus stop.
Lunch at Pal Dhaba

No trip to Chandigarh is complete without digging into buttery North Indian fare at Pal Dhaba, a legendary roadside eatery. Their mutton curry and dal makhani are must-tries, best enjoyed with hot tandoori rotis.

Pal Dhaba, Sector 2812:30 PM - 1:30 PM₹500-₹800 for two
Tips:
  • Arrive early—it gets packed during lunch.
  • Try their lassi for a refreshing finish.

Must Try Foods

Butter chicken
Amritsari kulcha
Chole bhature

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Chandigarh Junction (10 km, 20-25 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
ISBT Sector 17 (buses every 15-20 mins to major attractions)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber and Ola operate widely, or flag down local auto-rickshaws

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Day 2

Day 2 in Chandigarh

A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors to round off your Chandigarh visit, covering the remaining must-see spots and some hidden gems.

Activities

Morning at Zakir Hussain Rose Garden
Morning at Zakir Hussain Rose Garden

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Asia's largest rose garden, home to over 1,600 species of roses. The vibrant colors and fragrances make it a sensory delight. Early mornings are especially serene, with locals practicing yoga and joggers enjoying the fresh air.

Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Sector 166:00 AM - 8:00 AM (best time to avoid the heat and crowds)Free entry
Tips:
  • Visit between February and March for the annual Rose Festival
  • Carry a hat and water as shade is limited
Explore the Government Museum and Art Gallery

Dive into Chandigarh's cultural side with a visit to this museum, designed by Le Corbusier. It houses an impressive collection of Gandhara sculptures, Pahari miniatures, and contemporary Indian art. The architecture itself is a highlight, with its modernist design and open spaces.

Government Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 1010:00 AM - 12:00 PM (opens at 10 AM, quieter in the morning)₹20 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
Tips:
  • Don't miss the section on Indus Valley artifacts
  • Photography is allowed but without flash
Evening at Sector 17 Plaza

Wrap up your trip with a relaxed evening at Chandigarh's iconic shopping and leisure hub. The pedestrian-friendly plaza is perfect for people-watching, grabbing a coffee, or picking up souvenirs. The fountain area comes alive in the evenings with street performers and local vendors.

Sector 17 Plaza, near Neelam Cinema5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (best atmosphere during sunset)Free (shopping and dining extra)
Tips:
  • Try the local chaat at one of the street stalls
  • Visit the underground market for budget shopping

Must Try Foods

Butter chicken with naan at Swagath Restaurant
Amritsari kulcha at Khyber Restaurant
Golgappas at Sector 22 market

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Chandigarh Junction (3-5 km from all locations, 15-20 minutes by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Sector 17 ISBT (frequent local buses to all sectors)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy availability of Uber/Ola and auto-rickshaws throughout the city

Travel Tips

Start early to avoid the afternoon heat, especially if visiting gardens or the lake
Carry water and sunscreen—shade can be limited in some areas
Try local street food like chole bhature or Amritsari kulcha from small vendors near attractions
Rent a bicycle to explore the city’s cycle-friendly paths and cover more ground easily

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