Chandigarh-The City Beautiful

Brainchild of the noted French architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh is a perfect blend of post-independence modernity and natural beauty. Situated 250 kilometers north of Delhi and well connected with different parts of the country, the city is a perfect blend of aesthetics and technology, with abundant space and energy for growth.

Being a young city, Chandigarh is not steeped in history like many other Indian cities. However, it more than makes up for this by having its own set of unique and interesting tourist spots.

The most famous of these is Nek Chand's Rock Garden. Fashioned out of industrial and urban waste, it displays art objects resembling human, animal, and abstract forms. The Sukhna Lake is another favorite haunt of the local population and tourists. This 3-sq km rain-fed lake was created in 1958 when a seasonal stream, Sukhna Choe, was dammed.

Chandigarh abounds in theme-based gardens and parks. Possibly the most well-known of these is the Rose Garden, the largest of its kind in Asia. This garden plays host to one of the main cultural events of Chandigarh, the annual Festival of Gardens. The Terraced Flower Garden is also a popular local destination.

The city has the country's maximum concentration of schools per square kilometer. Prominent higher educational institutes include the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Punjab University, Punjab Engineering College, Government Medical College, Chandigarh College of Architecture, and Government College of Arts.

Chandigarh is well-connected to all important neighboring cities by trains, roadways, and airlines. The roads are well maintained, and buses of several state corporations provide affordable connectivity between Chandigarh and the adjoining cities and towns. Chandigarh is connected to several important cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Jammu, and Amritsar via air.

Several tourist destinations, including Shimla and Kasauli, are just a couple of hours' drive from Chandigarh. Many other hill stations that are lesser-known, and therefore untouched by tourists, are also located within a short distance.

Chandigarh is a haven for shoppers, and has several fine restaurants that appeal to individual tastes and palates.

Summers in Chandigarh last from April to September and are hot, although the intense, unbearable heat spells do not last for more than a few days. Chandigarh is at the base of the Shivalik hills, and there is usually a quick shower that gives respite from the heat. Winters can be severe, but are short and enormously enjoyable.