Chandigarh, India

Chandigarh (ਚੰਡੀਗੜ੍ਹ) is a city in northern India that serves as the capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana. It lies directly on the border between the two states and has a special administrative status as a union territory within the Chandigarh Capital Region. The city is not very large but has a distinct culture, shaped by its unique administrative role and planned urban design.

The total area of Chandigarh is close to 44 square miles, making it one of the smallest capital cities among Indian states and territories. It is located about 260 kilometers north of the national capital, New Delhi, and around 100 kilometers east of Ludhiana. The city is home to Panjab University, and Chandigarh International Airport serves the area.

The name of the city is commonly interpreted as the “Fort of Chandi”, referring to the Hindu goddess Chandi, and Chandigarh is considered the first planned city in post-independence India. It is well known for its modern architecture, visible both in the city center and in its residential sectors.

The city’s elevation is estimated to be just over 1,000 feet, mainly due to its proximity to the southern ranges of the Himalayas, especially the Shivalik Range. At the same time, the surrounding region known as the Terai is largely flat.

Tourist attractions in and around Chandigarh include Sukhna Lake, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, the International Dolls Museum, the Japanese Garden, Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, Nek Chand’s Rock Garden of Chandigarh, Nexus Elante Mall, the Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh Botanical Garden, and Tagore Theatre.