ALSphere Foundation
Chandigarh moves like music, its lines and curves composing a quiet sonata where nature joins in. Designed by Le Corbusier, this planned city merges modernity with nature in a unique way. I first visited as a tourist, captivated by its greenery and urban design, and soon found myself calling it home.
Chandigarh’s parks are its lifeline, contributing to its pollution-free air and lush beauty. Each park offers something unique, making the city a nature lover’s paradise. The Butterfly Park dazzles with over 35 species of butterflies, while the Topiary Park turns shrubs into whimsical art forms. The serene Japanese Garden provides peaceful space with water bodies, pagoda towers, and meditation centres watched over by a Buddha idol.
The Terraced Garden blooms with vibrant flowers, while the Garden of Fragrance indulges the senses with aromatic plants like mehndi, raat ki rani, and jasmine. For something exotic, the Garden of Palms features 21 species of palm trees amidst cycling tracks and rivulets. For those seeking peace, the Garden of Silence offers tranquillity for meditation with a scenic view of the Shivalik Ranges.
Chandigarh’s diversity of parks extends further. The Botanical Garden showcases evergreen and exotic plant species, while the Cactus Garden surprises visitors with over 500 species of cacti. The famous Rose Garden is a floral wonderland with 825 varieties of roses and thousands of other plants, including medicinal shrubs.
Of course, the Rock Garden stands apart. Created by Nek Chand from discarded materials like broken tiles and bottles, it’s a marvel of human creativity and a top tourist destination. This space transforms waste into captivating sculptures, illustrating Chandigarh’s innovative spirit.
At the heart of the city lies Sukhna Lake, an artificial lake framed by the Shivalik Range. Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, the lake offers a breathtaking view. Boating or cruising on its calm waters is a joy, with the songs of local boatmen enhancing the experience. Dancing to the peppy Punjabi numbers is in itself a treat, while cruising along the lake. The lake also serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds like Siberian ducks and storks, making it a favourite spot for bird-watchers.
Chandigarh’s food scene is equally appealing, offering North Indian classics like Dal Makhani, Rajma, Chole Bhature, and Kulchas. The street food here, especially the chaat, is a treat for food lovers, and dining out is surprisingly affordable. Whether you prefer a casual meal or street food indulgence, the city satisfies all palates.
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Chandigarh’s nightlife buzzes with energy. Discos, pubs, and bars stay open until early morning, giving the city a cosmopolitan vibe. It’s a place where diverse cultures coexist in harmony, creating a welcoming and dynamic environment.
Chandigarh is more than just a city— it’s a balanced fusion of modernity, nature, and culture. Its wide roads, lush gardens, and the warm spirit of its people make it a true urban Shangri-La. Whether you come as a visitor or decide to stay, Chandigarh offers a way of life that combines serenity with vibrance, truly making it a paradise on Earth.
One can resonate with the lines of Ravi Bajaj (Fashion designer):
“Chandigarh is like a crisp white shirt – clean, elegant, and timeless. Its beauty lies in the precision of its design, uncluttered and full of grace.”
Dr. Preeti Talwar
