Chandigarh
Pinjore Gardens |
Chandigarh is India’s first planned city offering a plenitude of popular and lesser known tourist destinations beyond its geographical territory.
The sacred town of Rishikesh, located at the convergiing point of rivers Ganges and Chandrabhaga, is around 124 km away from Chandigarh. Apart from being a getaway to religious centres like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath, it also offers nearby excursion destinations like Dehradun and Mussoorie.
Chail, located at an elevation of 2150 metres and at a distance of approximately 105 km from Chandigarh, is a popular destination among tourists and honeymooners alike. The major attraction of this city lies in its orchards, snow-capped Shivalik peaks, Chail Wildlife Santuary, Sidh Babba Ka Mandir, Maharaja’s Palace and Cricket Ground among some. Popularly known as the Mushroom City of India, Solan, is located at an altitude of 1445 metres and is 68 km away from Chandigarh. This small city has been gaining popularity for its Mohan Meakin brewery and picturesque spots like the Yungdrung Tibetan Monastery.
Bharatpur, a state located on the edges of the Thar Desert, has experienced countless battles between the Mughals and the British. Conveniently located for tourists to access it, this state displays a rich collection of forts and palaces depicting Mughal and Rajput architecture. Among the lesser known places in terms of popularity and distance is Pinjore Gardens, a 20 km road trip from Chandigarh. Also known as Yadavindra Gardens, this place is a venue for hosting the Mango Festival and houses historical places, a small zoo, a Japaneese garden and many picnic spots.
Rupnagar, a small town located in the state of Punjab has gained popularity because of its location at the site of the Indus Valley Civilisation and nearby the Bhakra Nangal Dam, harbours six main civilisations, archeological and religious sites. Karnal, a tourist spot located in the state of Haryana and at a distance of 124 km from Chandigarh, is known for its historical monuments like Kalandar Shah’s tomb, Kos Minar, Karan Tal and Babar’s Masjid. A less travelled and less explored spot at a distance of 297 km from Chandigarh is Mori with its unique mix of glimpses into the Himalayan belt, temples and architecture.