Chandigarh is independent India’s first planned city. Designed by the French architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, popular as Le Corbusier, it serves as a capital of Punjab and Haryana. Standing as a symbol of planned urbanization, Chandigarh is also famous for its gardens like the Rose Garden and the Rock Garden. The calm and serene Chandigarh busts the popular perception that cities are always noisy.
Chandigarh has a dense cover of green; forests, which provide sanctuary for various animal species, surround the city. Sukhna Lake, which lies south of the Rock Garden is home to a variety of birds including migratory ones. CHECK OUT 5 Reasons to Visit Chandigarh in North India
Chandigarh has given India some of the best sportsmen in hockey, wrestling, cricket and other sports. It isn’t surprising then that Chandigarh has more than a handful of well-equipped sports complexes.
A 12 km track was made in 1999 for hosting the Bicycle Safari. Bicycle events are conducted on this track on regular basis. The Punjab Cricket Association stadium at Mohali, on the outskirts of Chandigarh is an international cricket stadium. The Chandigarh Golf Open Championship is one of the most prestigious golfing events in the country.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHANDIGARH
Chandigarh has hotels to suit every budget. Five star hotels are available for Rs 10,000 to Rs 18,000. Budget accommodation can cost around Rs 400 to Rs 800. Several of the mid-range hotels in Chandigarh have tie-ups with tour operators who provide various offers and discounts.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN CHANDIGARH
International fast food joints like McDonalds and Pizza Hut have outlets in Chandigarh. South Indian, Italian, Continental and Thai cuisines are served at various restaurants.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CHANDIGARH
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Chandigarh is as given below. The best time to visit Chandigarh is also specified.
| MONTH | BEST TIME | | MIN. TEMP (°C) | MAX. TEMP (°C) |
| January | | | 2 | 26 |
| February | | | 2 | 26 |
| March | | | 20 | 45 |
| April | | | 20 | 45 |
| May | | | 20 | 45 |
| June | | | 20 | 45 |
| July | | | 20 | 45 |
| August | Best time | | 20 | 45 |
| September | Best time | | 20 | 45 |
| October | Best time | | 20 | 45 |
| November | Best time | | 2 | 26 |
| December | | | 2 | 26 |