Hello, my travel buddies, Abhishek is here!!!
Starting on a journey to Chandigarh was a delightful experience—a three-day solo adventure to the planned city.
Route from Jharkhand to Chandigarh
I chose to travel from Jharkhand to Chandigarh by train and got a great deal at Rs. 2,000 per person.
Accommodation in Chandigarh:
I preferred staying at Hotel Rajshree & Spa, which welcomed me with comfort at Rs. 2,000 per night, ensuring a rejuvenating stay. The hotel provides a range of popular facilities, including complimentary WiFi and parking, an airport shuttle service, family rooms, a spa, non-smoking rooms, convenient room service, tea and coffee makers in all rooms, a bar, and a delightful breakfast.
Three Days Itenary for a Trip to Chandigarh
Day 1: Nek Chand’s Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake
I started my journey by taking an auto rickshaw for a 10-kilometre journey that unfolded at Nek Chand’s Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake. Nek Chand’s Rock Garden is a testament to artistic brilliance. Affordable tickets allow access to this unique masterpiece crafted from industrial and home waste. All sculptures in the garden are made from industrial and household waste like pots, tiles, and bottles. The garden features interlinked waterfalls, winding paths, and doors leading to various creations, including stacked pots, artificial waterfalls, dancing dolls, and many other amazing sculptures.
Visiting Sukhna Lake in the evening, located at the Shivalik mountain foothills, offers peace for joggers, walkers, yoga enthusiasts, and tourists. Enjoy migratory birds, serene waters, and Shivalik hills. Locals and visitors cherish the peaceful ambience and snacks from the food stalls at Sukhna Lake Club. The lake view is loved by both locals and tourists and offers a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.
As the day ended, I explored local markets, enjoying Chandigarh’s delicious street food.
Day 2: ISKCON Temple
On day two, Abhishek began with a spiritual journey to the renowned ISKCON Temple, 8 km from the hotel. A budget-friendly auto-rickshaw ride took him to the divine haven. Affordable tickets let me engage in the spiritual ambience of the temple. The ISKCON Temple, devoted to Lord Krishna and Radha Rani, is a place of worship for followers of the Hare Krishna movement. Open from 4:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, it features the largest hall among all ISKCON temples in North India. A special feast is held every Sunday in the temple hall.
After the spiritual retreat, I explored the local markets, delighting in the diverse street food offerings.
Day 3: Garden of Fragrance
On the final day, I planned to visit the aromatic Garden of Fragrance, which was 15 km away from autorickshaws. This place has provided a delightful experience for both the eyes and the sense of smell. Built-in 1998, the Garden of Fragrance in Chandigarh’s Sector 36 showcases pleasant-smelling flower plants like Raat ki Rani, Jasmine, damask rose, motia, Champa, and more. The well-landscaped garden is filled with diverse plants and trees, offering a delightful fragrance as I walk through the pathways. The Garden of Fragrance welcomes visitors every day from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., free of charge. It’s advisable to visit in the evening to avoid the heat.
Food to try in Chandigarh:
Exploring local markets, I relished Chandigarh’s delightful street food, from spicy Tikki Chaat to sweet Jalebi. I also tried Golgappa and Amritsari Kulcha, savouring added a flavorful touch to his Chandigarh experience.
Best time to visit Chandigarh:
The ideal time to explore this city of gardens and lakes is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Tips to travel to Chandigarh:
- Visit the local markets, like Sector 17 Plaza, for shopping.
- Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit.
- Ensure you stay hydrated in winter.
- Use local transportation, like auto rickshaws or buses, for short distances.
- Bring a mix of warm and light clothing.
As I bid farewell to Chandigarh, it made a lasting impression on my travel diary. The city’s mix of tradition and modernity, coupled with its welcoming atmosphere, turned it into a memorable destination.
