Chandigarh's Parks, food & Urban life - Hipster, Alternative fun

• Leisure Valley

  40 minsAdmission Ticket Included

  Today we will explore the "lungs" of the city- its giant interactive parks. We will see you why Chandigarh's linear park system, stretching over 8 kilometers, is the city's pride. We'll begin at the Rajendra Park, known for its lush landscapes and open spaces perfect for a morning walk or yoga. Next, we'll explore the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, home to over 1,600 varieties of roses and numerous fountains, making it a fragrant paradise. I'll take you to the Garden of Fragrance, where the aromatic flowers and plants create a sensory delight. With its blend of gardens, open spaces, and recreational areas, Leisure Valley is not just a park but a vital green artery that breathes life into Chandigarh, providing residents and tourists with a perfect escape from the urban hustle.

• Chandigarh Botanical Garden & Nature Park

  1 hoursAdmission Ticket Free

  This massive green lung to the city, the 176-acre green haven was established to promote conservation and botanical education. It hosts an extensive collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. As your guide, I’ll walk you through its meticulously organized sections, each dedicated to different plant types, including medicinal plants, tropical trees, and rare herbs. You'll explore the beautiful lotus ponds, shaded walkways, and vibrant floral displays. We'll visit the conservatories housing diverse flora, including cacti and succulents, and the bamboo groves that add to the garden's charm. This garden also serves as a vital research center, providing valuable insights into plant conservation and biodiversity. A visit here offers not just a feast for the eyes but also an educational experience about the rich plant life and ecological initiatives in Chandigarh. Interactive and kid friendly! Really wholesome fun.

• Government Museum and Art Gallery

  1 hoursAdmission Ticket Included

  Designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier and inaugurated in 1968, the building itself is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. As your guide, I'll introduce you to the museum's diverse exhibits, including Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings, and a significant collection of contemporary Indian art. The unique feature of this museum is its extraordinary display of antiquities from the Indus Valley Civilization, offering a rare glimpse into ancient history. Additionally, the museum houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, textiles, and decorative arts, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Your visit will provide a fascinating journey through India's artistic and historical evolution, set within a landmark of architectural brilliance.

• Sukhna Lake

  1 hoursAdmission Ticket Included

  Experience a delightful boating vibe on the calm waters of the lake. You'll enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the peaceful ambiance packed with picnic snacks for everyone, especially fun for kids and couples. After our boating adventure, we'll head to the Garden of Silence located at the backside of the lake. This tranquil garden features a large statue of Buddha, providing a perfect setting for meditation and reflection. The serene environment, with its beautifully landscaped surroundings, offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here we'll do some yoga and stretches and hear about the history of the place. Get ready to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of Sukhna Lake and the Garden of Silence!

• Sector 17 Market

  1 hoursAdmission Ticket Free

  Want to shop distinct Indian / Punjabi things to gift back home like spices, artifacts, non tacky clothes or herbal ayurvedic supplements? Let me be your guide as we walk around the open air shopping mall sector designed by Corbusier as a recreational space full of brutalist architecture styled public buildings, iconic food stalls and the state library. Bask in immense pride of how much locals take pride in the city and how the well oiled machinery just works!

• The Rock Garden of Chandigarh

  2 hoursAdmission Ticket Included

  I'll guide you through enchanting pathways adorned with over 2,000 unique sculptures crafted from recycled materials, including broken cutlery, toilets, hardware, electrical switches, road construction material,s and more. This iconic landmark spot has won multiple "best out of the waste" awards internationally and is a huge hit for kids. Take inspiration from its founds Nek Chand's vision. You'll discover hidden waterfalls, tranquil ponds, and themed courtyards each telling a unique story. No need to stand in line, I'd have our entry tickets already purchased included in the tour, as we explore all "phases" or portions of the park, including secret passageways and the lesser-known sculptures tucked away in secluded corners, offering perfect spots for stunning photographs and a truly immersive experience. Get ready to uncover the magic of Rock Garden like never before!

• Chandigarh War Memorial

  30 minsAdmission Ticket Included

  A poignant tribute tucked within the Bougainvillea Garden of Sector 3, where architectural subtlety meets profound historical resonance. Conceived by Lt. Gen. J.F.R. Jacob and designed by students, this sunken, spiral arena—dedicated in 2006 by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam—honors over 10,500 martyrs from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh who fell post-Independence, their names etched on black granite panels that line its galaxy-like layout. Spanning an oval, six-foot-deep amphitheater, it blends seamlessly with Le Corbusier’s Chandigarh vision, its concrete walls pierced with light-filled openings and flanked by ramps, all crowned by vibrant bougainvillea—a citizen-funded marvel initiated by the Indian Express Group, not the state. This is one of India’s largest post-Independence war memorials, this space whispers of sacrifice and valor, a silent galaxy of heroes woven into the city’s modernist tapestry.