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Chandigarh is the 1st planned modern city of India
designed by the French architect Le Corbusier. Chandigarh and the area
surrounding it were constituted as a union territory on 1st November,
1966. It serves as the joint capital of both, Punjab and Haryana states.
It is bounded on the north and west by Punjab and east and south by
Haryana. Total area of the union territory is 114Sq.Km.
The city was
named after the mother goddess of power, Chandi, whose temple
Chandimandu is a feature of the new city. Le-Corbusier was assisted by
his cousin, Pieree Jeanneret and the English couple E.Mazwell Fry and
Jane B. Druel. These 3 architects are responsible for most of the public
and residential building raised in Chandigarh between 1950 and 1965.
The beautiful city also known as 'city of roses', was planned to house
the capital to the erstwhile Punjab state. On partition of Punjab, on
linguistic basis, the present union territory was formed which in
addition to the city of Chandigarh included Mani Majra town and some
villages of Kharar Tehsil of Ambala district.
Much of the
beauty owes to the planning of the city in sectors with houses which
conform to a modern design and its grand Secretariat and Assembly
buildings were build according to Le-Corbusier's plans and a picturesque
lake was also created along with the Shivaliks. The genius of Nek Chand
led to the creation of one of Chandigarh's landmarks the 'Rock garden',
and a rose garden also came up. It is one of the most attractive cities
of India. It has a large lake i.e. Sukhna lake, with beautiful picnic
spots. |
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| The world-acclaimed Rock Garden,
dotted with sculptures created from scrap materials and unusual rock
formations, is Chandigarh's pride. Created from discarded concrete and
tiles, this unique garden spreading over 64 acres showcases urban art
and offers a quiet spot to relax. Created in the 1970's by artist Nek
Chand it is indeed a fascinating amalgam of nature's marvels and man's
creativity. |
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| The 3 sq kms manmade Sukhna Lake is an
idyllic retreat for a communion with nature. The well-paved promenade,
meandering along the banks of the lake, is ideal for a jog or walk along
the soft and shimmering waters while the lush lawns are perfect to
enjoy the soothing setting. The old Chandi Devi temple, that lends its
name to the city, stands near the lake. Renowned musicians often play
classical Indian music by the lakeside. Boating facilities are also
available. |
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| The pretty Zakir Rose Garden, named
after India's illustrious former President Dr. Zakir Hussain, is Asia's
largest rose garden. Spread over 27 acres, it is dotted with more than
17,000 rose bushes embracing 1,600 species and dramatic colour
fountains. The fragrant garden is the venue of the annual Festival of
Gardens or Rose Festival, and offers a truly soothing experience to the
senses. |
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| Parwanoo is a delightful town in
itself with picturesque views and is also a comfortable base for
visiting many sights in the vicinity including the scenic Renuka Lake,
Dagshai town, the fort at Subathu and the gardens at Pinjore. Designed
on the lines of a formal Mughal garden with formal quartered gardens cut
by water channels and dotted with fountains, the gardens spread over
100 acres and have pavilions designed in a blend of Mughal and Rajput
architectural styles. At Parwanoo, guests can also enjoy a ride in the
cable car to the hilltop for a breathtaking view of forested mountains
and scenic valleys. A children's park, a restaurant and hotel at the
summit offer a relaxing retreat for the family. |
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| Kasauli, a pocket of paradise in the
Shivaliks, is an enjoyable and accessible getaway from Chandigarh.
Developed by the British in the 19th century, the town retains the charm
of a colonial cantonment with its quiet cobbled sun-dappled paths lined
with cottages, orchards and tall old trees. With a cool fresh mountain
breeze tinged with the scent of pines, soothing bird song and quietude,
Kasuali is an ideal destination for a rejuvenating holiday. At night the
plains below morph into a mesmeric sea of twinkling lights. |
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