Facts About Chandigarh and Frequently Asked Questions

Explore fascinating facts about Chandigarh and find answers to frequently asked questions on Chandigarh Lifestyle.

Facts About Chandigarh: 48 Fascinating Realties, you can’t Miss!!!

Chandigarh, the capital city of the northern Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, is a beautiful and well-planned city with a rich history and several fascinating facts. From its architectural marvels to its cultural heritage, Chandigarh offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. With its carefully designed infrastructure, lush greenery, and vibrant cultural scene, it is no wonder that Chandigarh is often referred to as “The City Beautiful”. Chandigarh Lifestyle is going to tell you 48 fascinating facts about Chandigarh. 

The name Chandigarh is derived from Chandi Devi Mandir – a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the goddess of power.
The Indian states of Punjab and Haryana share the union territory of Chandigarh as its capital. The city is not part of any state and is directly governed by the Union Government.
Chandigarh joins the elite group of the very few cycle-friendly cities in India with cycle tracks throughout the city making it safe and reliable for cyclists.
Chandigarh is popularly dubbed as the first planned city of India. After Punjab was divided by the British, the Radcliffe Line awarded Lahore to Western Punjab (now Pakistan). So, the Indian state of Punjab was left without capital. India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru wanted a city his countrymen would be proud of. That’s how Chandigarh was born, Nehru’s dream city. It was inaugurated in October 1953, by the then President Rajendra Prasad, and the 400-acre park near the Capitol Complex was named after him.
While it was Nehru’s dream city, it was a celebrated Swiss-French Architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, also known as Le Corbusier who gave wings to Nehru’s dream. He put forth a condition that there won’t be any statues in the parks or roundabouts and promises have been kept so far.
According to fossil remains, Harappan civilization thrived here 5000 years ago. Ancient and primitive remains of human settling apparently began here.
A few years ago, in July 2016, UNESCO listed Chandigarh’s capital complex among its World Heritage Sites. The capital complex is part of various cities spanning across 7 cities – France, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, Argentina, Japan, and India. It stands a testament to the architect Le Corbusier’s architectural brilliance. Naturally, architects from all over the world rever this city.
Chandigarh is dubbed as the greenest city in India. Tree plantation was a major part while planning the city, and it went on without deforestation. There are about 22 species of trees and 26 species of flowers throughout the city.
Chandigarh’s official emblem – “Open Hand” is displayed throughout the city. It signifies peace and reconciliation, and the idea of being open to give and receive.
Chandigarh also boasts of Asia’s largest Rose Garden named after India’s third President – Zakir Hussain. It is spread over 30 acres of land with 16,000 varieties of Rose.
The cities of Chandigarh, Panchkula (Haryana) and Mohali (Punjab) are together known as ‘Tricity’.
The Open Hand is the symbol of Chandigarh government. It is a monumental structure built by La Cor Busier. It symbolises “the hand to give and the hand to take; peace and prosperity, and the unity of mankind”.
Fear of No. 13 The sectors in Chandigarh don’t have the number 13! Since it was planned by a French architect, the inauspicious 13 was never part of the city.
Close to History! Sanghol, a village around 43 km from Chandigarh is an archaeological site. The remnants of the ancient Harappan civilization have been found here. Even some ancient Buddhist stupas are also excavated here.
The climate of Chandigarh is situated near the foothills of Shivalik mountain ranges. The region has a humid subtropical climate; experiences very hot summers, scattered rainfall and mild winters.
Sector 17: The Hub Sector 17 is one of the prime commercial points in the city. The Central Plaza houses the big stores, restaurants and so on. It is also called as the ‘Pedestrian’s Paradise or heart of Chandigarh’ as people can enjoy without bothering about traffic.
The city has cycle tracks in most roads which makes it ideal for cyclists. A Pensioner’s Paradise Chandigarh is the hot seat of three governments, hence many people here are from government jobs or retired citizens. So, it is also called a Pensioner’s Paradise.
The city prides itself on its high literacy rate, with education being a priority for its residents.
The city is known for its top-notch educational institutions, including the prestigious Panjab University.
Sukhna Lake, a man-made reservoir, offers a tranquil escape OR a serene retreat amidst the bustling city.
The city is home to numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, providing a lively nightlife scene for residents and visitors.
The city offers a range of shopping experiences, from bustling markets to upscale malls, catering to all kinds of shoppers.
The city has an efficient public transport system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, making it easy to get around.
The annual Chandigarh Carnival showcases the city’s cultural diversity through various art forms, music, dance, and food.
The Capitol Complex, including the iconic Legislative Assembly and Secretariat buildings, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Le Corbusier envisioned Chandigarh as a city filled with sunlight, open spaces, and greenery to enhance the quality of life.
Art enthusiasts can explore a diverse range of historical and contemporary artworks, and house a rich collection of artifacts at the Chandigarh Museum and Art Gallery.
The city offers a delectable variety of Punjabi cuisine, including popular dishes like butter chicken and sarson da saag.
The city is known for its quality healthcare infrastructure, with renowned hospitals and medical institutions.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court, located in Chandigarh, is one of the oldest high courts in the country.
The city hosts various art exhibitions, music concerts, and theater performances, showcasing its vibrant cultural scene.
Chandigarh is administered by a union territory government, known as the Chandigarh Administration.
The city consistently ranks among the cleanest cities in India and has received several awards for its cleanliness initiatives.
With a vast array of retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment options, Elante Mall in Chandigarh is one of the largest malls in India which offers an unmatched shopping experience.
The city is home to numerous IT companies, contributing to its growing reputation as an IT hub.
Local artisans create exquisite handicrafts, including Phulkari embroidery and traditional Punjabi artwork.
The museum houses a vast collection of dolls from around the world, showcasing different cultures and traditions.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at the picturesque Chandigarh Golf Club, which is a prestigious golfing destination.
The city attracts people from various backgrounds, making it a culturally rich and diverse community.
The city has excellent connectivity with cities like Delhi, Shimla, and Amritsar through road, rail, and air transport.
The city has numerous parks and gardens, providing residents with ample green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
The Tower of Shadows, designed by Le Corbusier, is an architectural marvel that showcases his innovative use of light and shadow.
The city has been a venue for events like the Asian Games and the Davis Cup, showcasing its sports infrastructure.
The city has witnessed the shooting of many Bollywood and regional movies.
The city’s proximity to the picturesque Himachal Pradesh makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the beautiful hill stations.
From spicy chaat to mouth-watering parathas, the city is a food lover’s paradise with its diverse street food options.
The city’s international airport provides convenient connections to various domestic and international destinations.
The city seamlessly merges traditional elements with modern designs, creating a unique architectural landscape.

80 Frequently Asked Questions About Chandigarh

Curious about Chandigarh? Our comprehensive guide answers 80 frequently asked questions about this vibrant city! 

From its rich history and cultural landmarks to practical information on transportation, education, and local attractions, we cover everything you need to know. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these FAQs will help you navigate and appreciate the unique charm of Chandigarh. Dive in to discover insights that enhance your experience in this beautiful city!

Beautiful places such as Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden, Government Museum and Art Gallery are major tourist attractions of Chandigarh. Moreover, one of the unique features in the layout of Chandigarh is its roads, defined as per their functions. There is an integrated system of seven roads designed to ensure efficient traffic circulation.
Chandigarh is one of the earliest planned cities in post-independence India. This city is internationally known for its architecture and urban design.
Chandigarh has its charm whilst being the first planned city of the country. This city also catches your attention of being among the cleanest cities of India.
The Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier invited Fry and Drew to join him in 1951 on the project to build Chandigarh.
There are some popular dishes in traditional Chandigarh cuisine such as Sarson ka Saag, Makki di Roti, Kadhi, Palak Paneer, Punjabi Lachha Parantha, and many more.
Official symbol of Chandigarh is the open hand monument, which you can see in the Capitol complex. Basically, it is close to the high court and is the official emblem of the city. It was conceptualised and designed by Corbusier, but constructed after his death.
The Correct Answer is Ghaggar River. The Ghaggar rises in the Siwalik (Shivalik) Range, in northwestern Himachal Pradesh state, and flows about 200 miles 320 km southwest through Haryana state, where it receives the Saraswati River.
It’s a great place to buy apparel, accessories, handicrafts, and technology. Shastri Market: This bustling market is well-known for its ethnic and traditional fare. From Phulkari embroidery to Punjabi juttis, you’ll discover a wide range of authentic items here.
  • Le Corbusier Centre is a museum of Chandigarh’s Architecture.
  • Sector 17 Market is the shopping Hub of the City/ Heart of the city.
  • Open Hand Monument.
  • Zakir Hussain Rose Garden which is Asia’s Largest Rose Garden.
  • Sukhna Lake is popular for water Sports and Serenity.
  • Elante Mall.
  • Rock Garden Near Chandigarh
Sector 17 is the City Centre which is the heart of Chandigarh’s activities. It comprises the Inter-State Bus Terminus, Parade Ground, District Courts, etc.
There are many factors to make Chandigarh unique. It remains the greenest capital of the country, and one of the most advanced and well-planned cities of India, so it is also called an oasis of the desert.

According to the 1892–1893 District Ambala Gazetteer, the city site was located within the boundaries of the former Ambala district. In 1952, the city’s foundation stone was placed.

As the capital of the states of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a city and union territory in northern India. Since the city is a union territory and not a part of any state, it is directly governed by the Union Government of India.

Adorned as “City Beautiful” as well, Chandigarh is a tourist haven featuring the architectural marvel Capitol Complex, Sukhna Lake, and rock and rose gardens. At the base of the Shivalik range is where Chandigarh is located.

English is Chandigarh’s sole official language. The majority of the population speak Hindi (73.60%) while 22.03% speak Punjabi. Government schools use textbooks from English, Hindi, and Punjabi.

It is often called “Green City” because of its beautiful parks and gardens. It has a clean and fresh surrounding with big green trees across the roads and open space.

The State Fruit of Chandigarh is Mango.

Chandigarh can be appreciated for its multicultural society where people of castes and creeds live together happily. Chandigarh is a cosmopolitan city where people from different religions have intermingled together. However, the majority of the population is the Sikhs and Hindus.

Baisakhi Festival in Chandigarh.This festival holds great significance for the people of Chandigarh and Punjab. It is celebrated on April 13th marking the beginning of harvest.

The state tree of Chandigarh is Mango Tree (Mangifera indica).

The Indian grey mongoose is a mongoose species that is native to India and West Asia. This mammal has been designated as Chandigarh’s state animal.

Chandigarh is the best planned city of the country and is known for its monumental architecture, urban design and quality of life.

A major part of the water requirement of the city is met by canal water. Canal water supply to the city is approximately 305 MLD. There are 200 deep tubewells in the city, which contribute a total of 91 MLD of water from groundwater reserves. Besides there are 39 tubewells, which provide drinking water to rural areas also.



  • Meetha Puda
  • Pinni
  • Karah Prashad
  • Lauki Halwa
  • Shakkarpara
  • Besan Barfi
One of the most thoughtfully planned cities in India, Chandigarh, popularly referred to as “The City Beautiful,” was created by French architect Le Corbusier. Additionally, it is a union territory that serves the capitals of Punjab and Haryana, two nearby states.

Chandigarh has a mixture of various traditions and cultures which is reflected in their costumes. Kurta Salwar is the traditional dress for Punjabi and Haryanvi women in Chandigarh. Jeans, shirts, tops, suits, and T-shirts are also very popular throughout Chandigarh. The usage of Sarees are very less compared to other states in India.

  • Chole Bhature
  • Amritsari Kulcha
  • Rajma Chawal
  • Chicken Tikka
  • Lassi
  • Fashionable and Comfy Footwear
  • Handwoven Carpets & Rugs
  • Antique and Vintage Artefacts
In the heart of the Capital Complex stands the giant metallic sculpture of The Open Hand, the official emblem of Chandigarh, signifying the city’s credo of “open to given, open to receive”.
The master plan of le corbusier:
  • The rapid traffic lanes in the city’s master design are arranged in a grid iron pattern within a rectangular shape. 
  • High-rise and vertical construction was disqualified in consideration of the socioeconomic circumstances and lifestyle preferences of the populace.
Shri Banwarilal Purohit, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab & Administrator of Chandigarh. Shri Banwarilal Purohit is a senior political personality having shaped public affairs in a big way for the last four decades.
The new city’s guiding principles were established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of Independent India, who stated, “Let this be a new town, symbolic of freedom of India unfettered by the traditions of the past….. an expressions of the nation’s faith in the future”.
The new city’s guiding principles were established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of Independent India, who stated, “Let this be a new town, symbolic of freedom of India unfettered by the traditions of the past….. an expressions of the nation’s faith in the future”.
MS Randhawa, an agriculturist-bureaucrat, is credited with planting a wide variety of trees during the early years of the city. Chandigarh avoided becoming an all-concrete jungle, a fate that has befallen several Indian towns, thanks to the tree cover.
Chandigarh was desired as the capital by both Punjab and Haryana following their separation into two separate states in 1966. In order to serve Chandigarh as a joint capital of Punjab and Haryana until a workable solution could be found, the Central Government decided to make Chandigarh a union territory.
UTCA – CHANDIGARH CRICKET | Ranji Trophy: Captain Manan Vohra’s remarkable 134 and 74, alongside Arslan Khan’s brilliant 147 and Shivam Bhambri gritty 98.
Punjab was divided into Punjab and Haryana in 1966. The city of Chandigarh, which lies on the boundary between Punjab and Haryana, was designated as both the joint capital of the two states and a separate union territory.

Chandigarh Municipal Corporation

  • Mayor Kuldeep Kumar, AAP since 20 February 2024
  • Senior Deputy Mayor Kuljeet Sandhu, BJP since 4 March 2024
  • Deputy Mayor Rajinder Sharma, BJP since 4 March 2024
The literal translation of Chandigarh in Chandi Garh, or Fort of Goddess Chandi; the name comes from a nearby Panchkula temple. The two satellite cities of Chandigarh are Mohali and Panchkula. The term “Chandigarh tri-city” refers to the three cities combined.
The literal translation of Chandigarh in Chandi Garh, or Fort of Goddess Chandi; the name comes from a nearby Panchkula temple. The two satellite cities of Chandigarh are Mohali and Panchkula. The term “Chandigarh tri-city” refers to the three cities combined.
The Correct Answer is Jawaharlal Nehru. Chandigarh was the dream city of Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister of India. In 1949 it was the task of the American planner and architect Albert Mayer to design a new town called “Chandigarh”.
English is the sole official language of Chandigarh. The majority of the population speaks Hindi (67.76%) while Punjabi is spoken by 22.02%.
Incumbent Kirron Kher
The first was Gopi Chand Bhargava of the Indian National Congress party, who was sworn in on 15 August 1947, when India gained independence from the British. He was succeeded by fellow Congressman Bhim Sen Sachar, who was then subsequently replaced after 188 days by former Chief Minister Gopi Chand Bhargava.
The deity ‘Chandi’, the goddess of power and a fort of ‘garh’ laying beyond the temple gave the city its name “Chandigarh-The City Beautiful”.
Chandigarh was built in the 1950s by renowned architect Le Corbusier, with unique urban planning that merges nature with modern buildings. The city is well-known for its broad, tree-lined boulevards, well-kept gardens, and magnificent government buildings. It’s also a gateway to the adjacent Himalayan foothills.
Some of the most popular dishes in a traditional Chandigarh cuisine will include Sarson ka Saag, Makki di Roti, Kadhi, Palak Paneer, Punjabi Lachha Parantha, and so more.16 May 2023
The open hand monument, in the Capitol complex, close to the high court is the official emblem of the city beautiful. It was conceptualised and designed by Corbusier, but constructed after his death.
Since majority of people living in Chandigarh are Punjabis the city’s inherent culture has a distinct Punjabi overtone in it. The cosmopolitan nature of this city has also left its mark on it.
Green City, Chandigarh is not only India’s first smoke-free city, but is also the country’s first well-planned city, making it the Green City of India.24 Feb 2022
The State Flower of Chandigarh is Butea monosperma/Dhak Flower. It is also called the Palash flower. Palash was declared the state flower of Chandigarh in 2009.
The Indian grey mongoose is the state animal of Chandigarh.
A lot many factors combine to make Chandigarh unique. It remains the greenest capital of the country, and one of the most advanced and well-planned cities of India, which is why it is also called an oasis of the desert.14 Jan 2020.
Also known as “City Beautiful”, Chandigarh is a tourism paradise with Sukhna Lake, Rock garden, Rose garden and architectural marvel Capitol Complex. Chandigarh is situated in the foothills of the Shivalik range.
1. Sector 5. The first name on the list is the Sector 5 area in Chandigarh. This sector is a VIP zone and one of the posh areas in Chandigarh.
Sector 5 is one of the most beautiful, cleanest and posh areas of Chandigarh. It is a VIP residential area and home to ministers, bureaucrats, influential people and big personalities. It means, in this plush and posh area (sector) of this city, only influential and big personalities live.1 Jun 2020
The major avenues of Chandigarh, with important institutional and commercial buildings located on them. E.g Madhya Marg, Dakshin Marg, Jan Marg, Himalaya Marg, Uttar Marg and Purv Marg.
Chandigarh has a total 56 sectors and after that count, all come in mohali. As of my last update in September 2021, Chandigarh, a Union Territory in India, is divided into 1 district and is further divided into 26 sectors.
Shri Banwarilal Purohit, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab & Administrator of Chandigarh. Shri Banwarilal Purohit is a senior political personality having shaped public affairs in a big way for the last four decades.
U.T. Chandigarh was designed by architect ‘Le Corbusier, and he never designed sector13 in the map when it was designed in 1966, because he considered number 13 as unlucky.
The reason sector 13 did not exist earlier is because the city architect Le Corbusier considered the number 13 as unlucky. The Union Territory of Chandigarh has never had a Sector 13 since it was built in 1966. But now after 54 years, Sector 13 has been created by adding eight areas under this new sector.
2021 Mandip singh brar, ias district magistrate, ut, chandigarh.
1. Sector 5, Chandigarh. Home to several ministers, bureaucrats, influential & big personalities, Sector 5 is a residential area also known as the VIP area (sector) of Chandigarh. Given the fact that some of the city’s big shots live in Sector 5, the locality is one of the cleanest and most posh areas of Chandigarh.
The major part of its 114 sq.km area. As per the census of 2011, 10,25,682 (97.25%) of its population was urban and 29,004 (2.75%) was rural as compared to 82.80% urban and 17.20% rural in the year 1961.
Food Products, Wooden/Wood Products Furniture & Fixtures, Woolen Textiles, Silk, Synthetics including Art Silk Hosiery and Machinery are the other major industries. Tourism & Hospitality: Chandigarh has various tourist attractions inside and around the city.
Some of the best places to live in Chandigarh include Sector 8, Sector 9, and Sector 33. These sectors are often considered favourable choices, providing a safe and family-friendly environment with good schools, parks, and amenities.
Le Corbusier designed various government buildings including the High Court, the Assembly Palace and the Secretariat Building. He also invented the city’s general architecture, splitting it into sectors. Chandigarh houses the largest of the many Open Hand sculptures by Le Corbusier, which stand 26 metres high.
The old Architects office currently named Le Corbusier Centre is one of the earliest buildings constituted in Chandigarh.
Some of these celebrities are – Milkha Singh, Kapil Dev, Abhinav Bindra, Yami Gautam, Ayushmann Khurrana, Yuvraj Singh, Sachin Bansal, Binny Bansal, and the list goes on.
The city has a pre-historic past. The gently sloping plains on which modern Chandigarh exists, was in the ancient past, a wide lake ringed by a marsh. The fossil remains found at the site indicate a large variety of aquatic and amphibian life, which was supported by that environment.
Leisure Valley is the most popular tourist attraction also known as the lungs of Chandigarh City.
It is the emblem and symbol of the Government of Chandigarh and symbolises “the hand to give and the hand to take; peace and prosperity, and the unity of mankind”. The largest example of Le Corbusier’s many Open Hand sculptures, it stands 26 metres (85 ft) high.
The exact geographic coordinates of Chandigarh are30.74°N 76.79°E. It has an average elevation of 321 metres (1053 ft). The city, lying in the northern plains, includes a vast area of flat, fertile land.
The maximum height of the building / buildings to be constructed shall be 74’3″ (22.789m) inclusive of the parapet and maximum number of storeys shall not exceed five(g+4) (c) machine room for lifts, stair heads, water storage tanks, cooling towers for air conditioning shall be permitted within the prescribed height.
The city was planned by the Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier, assisted by Maxwell Fry, Jane Drew, and several Indian architects and town planners.
Shop Cum Office, the concept was however modified in the second phase wherein flats were replaced by offices thereby introducing the Shop Cum Office (SCO) concept.
As per officials, the civic body is cross-checking the returns filed by the owners of around 250 shop-cum-offices (SCOs) and shop-cum-flats (SCFs), of which 150 tax returns have been found incongruous so far.
On January 10, the Supreme Court had ruled that the first 30 sectors of Chandigarh carried the heritage status of Le Corbusier zone and, therefore, conversion of residential houses into floor-wise apartments cannot be permitted in these sectors
Chandigarh is the cultural capital of the region. Many artists and writers live in the city. The frequently held exhibitions, and performances by singers, dancers, musicians and actors have inculcated among city residents a desire for the best in performing visual and plastic arts besides literary encounters.