Chandigarh, India
30 October, 2017
Where?
Chandigarh, India.
Why now?
The first planned city in post-Independence India, modernist
architect Le Corbusier was responsible for the exacting urban
design which has seen Chandigarh become internationally renowned as
an example of a “perfect” metropolis. It’s surprising then, that
many travellers to India leave this thriving city – named the
country’s cleanest, wealthiest and happiest – off their hit list.
If you’ve done Rajasthan, a visit to Chandigarh, which serves as
the capital for the neighbouring states of Haryana and Punjab, will
give you a different perspective on the country. We’ve earmarked it
as one of the destinations to visit in 2018.
Don’t miss
Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, where coloured rock and glass
sculptures are scattered throughout the 30 acres. They were
constructed in secret because of legal constraints, but are now a
popular attraction. Fans of
brutalist architecture should check out the Capitol Complex,
where the High Court, Secretariat and Vidhan Sabha are archetypal
examples of the 1950s concrete style. Register for a free tour with
your passport at the High Court Tourist Office. The annual mango
festival in June
celebrates Chandigarh’s state tree and is a particularly grand
spectacle.
When to go?
Spring or autumn – avoid summer because it’s monsoon season and
the city can become flooded.
Who to take with you?
A friend who can’t get enough of festivals, dancing and
colours.
Most likely to bump into
Bar-headed geese at Sukhna lake – about 3,000 migrate there
every winter.
Essentials to bring with you
A good pair of walking shoes for plenty of pavement
pounding.
How to get there
Fly directly into Chandigarh Airport or go to New
Delhi and then take a
scenic train through India’s green hillsides.
