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Places to Visit Near Chandigarh

One of the most popular places to visit near Chandigarh is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla. This pretty hill station once served as the summer capital of British India which is quite evident from the buildings and structures here that display interesting architectural specimens. 

Shimla, located at a distance of 115 km from Chandigarh, is a great weekend destination owing to the great choices it offers in terms of adventure activities as well as sightseeing. If you are lucky, you may even get to witness snowfall here during winters. 

Distance From Chandigarh: 111 kilometres via NH5

Things to do: Paragliding, Trekking, Sightseeing, Shopping, Toy Train Ride.

Places to see: Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, The Church, Institute of Advanced Studies.

Best Time to Visit: May, June, December, January.

How to Reach: Regular buses for Shimla are available at Chandigarh ISBT 43. The journey takes 4 hours, so travelling in your vehicle is a convenient option.

Whether you're travelling solo or with family, whether you're looking for peace or adventure, whether you enjoy nature or architecture – Dehradun is the place for you. Located in the foothills of Himalayas, it is one of the most common places to visit near Chandigarh. Dehradun is a treasure trove of waterfalls, natural springs and caves. 

You can dip your toes in ice-cold water in Robber’s Cave, enjoy a spellbinding sunset on the Lacchiwala Lake, take Instagram-worthy photos in the Forest Research Institute or treat your palate in the bakeries and shops bear Paltan Bazar – the options are nearly endless in Dehradun. And for a calming spiritual experience, visit the Buddhist Monastery in Clement Town.

Distance From Chandigarh: 172 kilometres via NH 7

Things to do: Cave excursion, Sunset view, Shopping, Sightseeing and exploring the markets

Places to see: Robber’s Cave, Lacchiwala Lake, Paltan Bazaar

Best time to visit: March- June

How to reach: 3 hour drive or an 8 hour train journey from Ambala Cantonment

If you are a cactus lover, don’t miss out a chance to visit the largest cactus garden of Asia at Panchkula which houses some of the rarest species of cacti of the world. The well planned city in Haryana is one of the most highlighted places to visit around Chandigarh.

The place got its name derived from five irrigation canals (‘panch’- five and ‘kula’- canal) which meet at Panchkula.

-Places to see- Some of the major attractions at Panchkula are Gurudwara Nada Sahib, Sarkaria Cactus Garden, Yadvinder Garden and many more.

-Best time to visit Panchkula- Between the months of October- April. Summers are pretty hot and should be avoided.

-Distance from Chandigarh- 11.2 Km approximately via Udyog Path.

-How to reach- The most convenient way to reach Panchkula is by air and the nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport which is about 11 Km from Panchkula.

A quaint hill station located at a short distance of 105 km from Chandigarh, Chail is definitely one of the best weekend getaways near Chandigarh. Chail is less commercialised as compared to Shimla, so you can expect to spend some peaceful moments surrounded by pristine nature and its soothing music. 

The famous Chail Palace that is situated here has been turned into a hotel, so you can enjoy a royal accommodation while you are here. Chail also houses some prominent Hindu temples.

Distance From Chandigarh: 106 kilometres via NH5

Things to do: Hiking, Nature Walk, Camping, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Chail Palace, Chail Sanctuary, Kali Tibba Temple, Cricket Ground.

Best Time to Visit: May, June, December, January.

Tucked away from the din and bustle of the city, Mashobra is a vast green oasis providing a liberating experience to nature lovers. The small hamlet is located at a height of 7,700 feet above sea level close to Shimla. Having minimal human interference Mashobra is an ideal off-the-wall place to visit near Chandigarh for a weekend trip. There are enough resorts and hotels where you can get comfortable accommodation within budget.

-Places to see- Tattapani River, Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Mahasu Devta Temple, Chadwick Falls, The Presidential Retreat and many more.

-Distance from Chandigarh- Mashobra is located 66 km from Chandigarh Airport.

-How to reach- Chandigarh Airport operates direct flights between the major cities of India and abroad.
From there you can take a taxi or cab to reach Mashobra. The closest airport is Shimla Airport which takes 45 minutes from Mashobra by road.

-Best time to visit Mashobra- Between the months of April- June when the climate is pleasant and sunny making it favorable for sightseeing.
You can also witness the festivals like Mahasu and Sipi if you are visiting the place in May.

Tattapani as the name suggests is a hot spring emerging out of the River Sutlej is one of the most popular places to visit near Chandigarh. The site is located at a distance of about 50 Km from Shimla where tourists can enjoy bathing in hot water rich in sulphur content.

It is believed that the water of Tattapani is good for curing skin ailments due to its high mineral content. There are a number of covered areas with bathtub arrangements for those who are not comfortable in bathing in public. The place is also famous among pilgrims who offer donations (Sani Dan) to Lord Shani to get rid of his wrath.

-Places to see- Tattapani are Shiva Cave, Adventure Park, Mahunag, Chindi etc.

-Best time to visit- Winter is the best time when you can enjoy bathing in a hot spring. However, summers are also pleasant when the temperature ranges between (12-20) degrees Celsius. 

-Distance from Chandigarh- Approximately 137 Km via NH 5.

-How to reach- The nearest airport is the Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla and the nearest railheads are Shimla and Kalka from Chandigarh. From both places you can take a taxi or hire a cab to reach Tattapani.

Situated under the watchful gaze of the Shivalik Mountains is Narkanda, just 175 kilometers from Chandigarh. It boasts of the highest peak in entire Shimla district, the Hatu Peak. Covered by a dense green blanket of pines, cedar, deodar, fur – the Hatu stands tall and magnificent as it decorates the skyline of Narkanda. 

The apple orchards and wide green pine forests located on the slopes of the mountain are a treat for nature lovers.  Also, if winter sports are your drug, you're in heaven in Narkanda. Perched at a height of 8100 ft, the hill town is perfect for experienced and rookie skiing enthusiasts.

Distance From Chandigarh: 173 kilometres via NH5

Things to do: Nature camping, photography, skiing and other winter sports

Places to see: Hatu Peak

Best time to visit: November to January

Mussoorie is probably the most popular hill station in Uttarakhand. Due to its proximity to the City Beautiful, Chandigarh, it is considered one of the best places to visit near Chandigarh. The pleasant climate and the scenic landscape of Mussoorie ensure you have a perfect holiday experience here. 

Though it does not have a lot of man-made structures and places to see, there are some marvels of nature that make Mussoorie so charming.

Distance From Chandigarh: 203 kilometres  via NH 7

Things to do: Hiking, Camping, Sightseeing, Rappelling, Zip-Lining.

Places to see: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, The Mall, Dhanaulti.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and Winter.

Located in the foothills of Himalayas, Haridwar is located along the river Ganges. A significant pilgrimage for Hindus, Haridwar is one of the best destinations around Chandigarh. This place gives you a dual experience of nature and culture while you are here. 

Attain peace through yoga on the bank of river Ganges and witness the divine aura of Ganga aarti in the evening – Haridwar is truly magical. The city also houses some highly revered Hindu temples.

Distance From Chandigarh: 207 kilometres via Roorkee - Fatehpur - Kalsiya Marg

Things to do: Yoga, Jungle Safari, Temple Visit, Photography, Ganga Aarti.

Places to see: Mansa Devi Temple, Har ki Pauri, Rajaji National Park, Chandi Devi Temple.

Best Time to Visit: February, March, September, October.

Whether you are an adventure junkie looking for some nerve-wracking action or someone seeking an escape from chaos of the urban lifestyle, Rishikesh is the place you need to be. If you are travelling by car, the journey between Chandigarh and Rishikesh takes 5 to 6 hours, which makes it one of the best weekend getaways near Chandigarh. 

Apart from a popular tourist destination offering fun-filled activities like river rafting and camping, Rishikesh, located in the foothills of Himalayas, is also the Yoga Capital of the World.

Distance From Chandigarh: 218 kilometres via NH 7

Things to do: River Rafting, Trekking, Camping, Yoga.

Places to see: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, The Beatles Ashram.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

One of the most visited cities in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is also among the best places to visit near Chandigarh to spend an eventful weekend with friends or family. The exquisite hill station is the home to Dalai Lama and its culture is highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. 

Dharamshala, apart from some beautifully designed monasteries and other remarkable structures, boasts having the world’s highest international cricket stadium. McLeodganj and Triund treks are other factors responsible for its fame.

Distance From Chandigarh: 243 kilometres via NH503

Things to do: Hiking, Camping, Paragliding, Sightseeing.

Places to see: McLeodganj, Triund, Bhagsu Nag Temple, Namgyal Monastery, Cricket Stadium.

Best Time to Visit: April, May, June, October, November.

Located at a short distance above Dharamshala, Mcleodganj is one of the best places to visit near Chandigarh owing to the variety of amusements it has in store for all kinds of tourists. If you want to find peace by introducing yourself to spirituality, there is a famous Buddhist monastery and a Church.

And if you want to indulge in some action, Mcleodganj is the starting point of Triund trek. Besides, Shiva Café and Bhagsu Nag Falls are some major attractions here!

Distance From Chandigarh: 248 kilometres via NH503

Things to do: Trekking, Camping, Photography, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dharamkot, Triund.

Best Time to Visit: October to June

Kanatal is a perfect mix of panoramic natural beauty, lush green forests and adrenaline releasing adventure sports. Nuzzled by the side of the Chamba-Mussoorie Road, Kanatal is a picture perfect holiday destination. The Surkanda Devi Temple surrounded by sun kissed mountains is a stupendous place for sightseeing. 

Velvety green forests, apple orchards and pristine environs make Kanatal beloved among photography buffs.You can go trekking and valley crossing if you're seeking a quest in the wild. Enjoy a night under the stars while camping, smell the wild flowers and catch a glimpse of wild animals. Nature is ceaselessly marvellous in Kanatal.

Distance From Chandigarh: 154 kilometres 

Things to do: Wildlife photography, camping, bonfire, forest trekking

Places to visit: Surkanda Devi

Best time to visit: April to September

Located in Uttarakhand, Auli is one of the best hill stations to visit in winters. The small town is majorly famous for being one of the top-most skiing destinations in the country. The vast meadows covered in thick blankets of fresh snow and the mesmerizing views of some of the prominent Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi will inspire you to take our your camera and start capturing.

What gives perfect touch to the beauty of this place is the artificial lake located here.

Distance From Chandigarh: 245 km via NH 7 and Paonta - Hatkoti Rd

Things to do: Skiing, Hiking, Cable Car Ride, Pilgrimage, Photography.

Places to see: Auli Lake, Auli Ropeway, Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Settled in the lap of nature on the banks of the Beas River is Kullu, an open valley offering stunning views of natural beauty. The hill slopes covered with deodar and pine appear as scenic backdrops to the town. Mossy meadows and rushing brooks, the smell of the wildflowers and the cool climate – Kullu is veritably paradise on Earth.

And if that's not up to your speed, you can go for the countless adventure sports activities available - like river rafting, trekking and mountain climbing. For those of you seeking spiritual salvation, visit the Raghunath temple and the Sheetla Mata Mandir.

Distance From Chandigarh: 260 kilometres via NH205 and NH154

Things to do: Camping, trekking, photography, shopping

Places to visit: Hidimba Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Manu temple, Kasol

Best time to visit: March to June

How to reach: Take a bus from Chandigarh to Kullu

Must Checkout: Rome Monuments

Palampur is an idyllic place to visit around Chandigarh which attracts common tourists and adventure buffs for a rewarding vacation amidst the hills. The place owes much of its charm to the colonial buildings, ancient temples, sprawling meadows and stunning landscapes.

-Places to visit- St. John's Church, Bundla Chasm, Neogal Park, Chamunda Temple, Tashi Jong etc.

-Best time to visit is- between March- June and September- November.

-Distance from Chandigarh- 252 Km approximately via NH503.

-How to reach- You can travel to Palampur by air. The nearest airport (Dharamshala Airport) is about 40 Km from Palampur. It is also well connected by road and rail from the nearest states. 

Also fondly known as “Mini Israel,” Kasol is one of the most popular spots in Himachal Pradesh among backpackers and solo travellers. The blue waters of the Parvati River flowing through the green foliage of Parvati Valley is a sight to behold. 

To add more to the relaxing atmosphere here are the natural noises of chirping of birds and rustling of leaves. Kasol is easily one of the best getaways that allow you to enjoy the bounty of nature.

Distance From Chandigarh: 281 kilometres via NH154

Things to do: Trekking, Camping, Fishing, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Chalal, Parvati River, Bridge.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

Located on the banks of Parvati River in the Parvati Valley, Manikaran is a small but pretty town in Himachal Pradesh. One can reach Manikaran by taking an overnight journey from Chandigarh. The most iconic landmark in Manikaran is Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib, which is a significant religious place for Sikhs. 

Hot water springs here are another major attraction. The town is also famous for its trekking trails that take you through pristine nature and soothing atmosphere.

Distance From Chandigarh: 285 kilometres via NH154

Things to do: Pilgrimage, Camping, Hiking, Photography, Fishing.

Places to see: Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, Parvati River, Hot Water Spring.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Bir Billing is famous as the paragliding capital of India. Thousands of paragliding enthusiasts from all over the world flock to Bir Billing every year. Besides, you can also enjoy trekking here. The quaint little town is a hub for Tibetan culture, so if you're seeking peace and serenity, you can visit the Tibetan monasteries nearby.

Other fun activities you can indulge in include enjoying the little tea gardens, visiting the yoga retreats and strolling down the winding roads of the hill town.

Distance From Chandigarh: 286 kilometres via NH503

Things to do: Paragliding, Recreational yoga and adventure activities like horse-riding

Places to see: Billing Valley, Deer Park, Palpung Sherabling Monastery

Best time to visit: Throughout the year from July to September

This hill town located in Himachal Pradesh is equally admired by adventurers, explorers, and honeymooners. While the scenic beauty and pleasant climate of Manali makes it a romantic getaway for couples, the wide range of adventure activities that can be tried here make it an excellent destination to taste thrill. 

Located on the banks of River Beas at an elevation of 2050 metres, Manali is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Chandigarh.

Distance From Chandigarh: 299 kilometres via NH3

Things to do: River Rafting, Camping, Trekking, Photography, Motor Biking, Skiing, Paragliding.

Places to see: Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Mall Road, Rohtang Pass.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

The little village of Tosh is very close to Kasol and is slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination. No matter which way you look, Tosh is surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks covered by snow throughout the year. Perched at a staggering height of 7900 feet on the top of a hill, you'll feel closer to God here. 

There's nothing to do except pick up a camera and get lost. Go for a walk and enjoy the stunning views of the Parvati valley, each more overwhelmingly beautiful than the last. With every step, you'll fall more in love with Tosh. If you want to go trekking, it can serve as a base camp for the Kheerganga trek.

Distance From Chandigarh: 300 kilometres via NH154

Things to do: Trekking, Photography, sky gazing at night, camping

Places to visit: Kasol, Kheerganga, Pulga, Rudranaag

Best time to visit: April to October

13 kilometers from Manali lies the beautiful, lost valley of Solang, snuggled between Solang village and Beas Kund. Snow covered glaciers and the hills surrounding the valley make it disconnected from the rest of the world. Visit the valley in winters and relish in slipping over the pristine white snow, or come in summers and go paragliding, zorbing, parachuting, horse-riding. 

Enjoy a long, relaxing walk in the valley, witness the infectious energy of tourists and little children slipping and sliding on the snow. Make small talks with the soft spoken locals and have fun being photographed with furry yaks and rabbits. Buy local handicraft items and bargain to your heart’s content. Reenergize your weary soul at Solang.

Distance From Chandigarh: 313 kilometres via NH3

Things to do: Horse riding, Shopping in the local markets, paragliding, zorbing, parachuting

Places to visit: Manali

Best time to visit: December to February

How to reach: Take a bus from Chandigarh to Kullu, followed by a taxi ride

Sitting at a distance of 312 km from Chandigarh, Lansdowne is a quaint hill station located in Uttarakhand, boasting an elevation of 1700 metres. In addition to offering some breathtaking views, the town also has a number of options to fulfil your desire for sightseeing. 

If you are planning an escape into the lush green mountains of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is just an overnight journey away.

Distance From Chandigarh: 313 kilometres via Nimbuchaur - Haridwar Rd

Things to do: Photography, Hiking, Nature Walk, Camping, Sightseeing, Boat Riding.

Places to see: Bhulla Lake, Garhwal Museum, St. Mary’s Church, Hawaghar.

Best Time to Visit: May, June, November.

Perfect for all kinds of travellers, Dalhousie is a popular hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. The lush green hills it is situated on makes Dalhousie appear extremely scenic. During winters, as the snow envelopes this exquisite hill station in its white covers, it turns into a fairyland. 

For history and architecture enthusiasts, there are some buildings dating back to the colonial era. And for thrill-seekers, there are a few amazing trekking trails in and around Dalhousie.

Distance From Chandigarh: 313 kilometres via Bela - Behrampur Rd

Things to do: Trekking, Camping, Adventure Games, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Kalatop Sanctuary, Khajjiar, Ganji Pahadi, St. John’s Church, Panchpula. 

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to November

How to Reach: Direct buses ply between Chandigarh and Dalhousie. Due to long distance, taking this overnight journey by bus is the most preferred option.

Probably one of the most scenic places you can find Chandigarh, Khajjiar is a small hill station located at a height of 1920 m, near between famous hill stations like Chamba and Dalhousie. Due to its breathtaking landscape, Khajjiar is a popular spot among landscape photographers. 

Whether you are travelling with friends of family, Khajjiar will delight you with its unblemished beauty created by Cedar forests and vast stretch of grassy meadow. The place appears all the more surreal under the covers of snow during winters.

Distance From Chandigarh: 335 kilometres via NH 44

Things to do: Photography, Nature Walk, Hiking, Horse Riding, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Khajjiar Lake, Khajji Nag Temple, Dainkund Peak, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and Winter.

Snuggled in the heart of Nainital district of Uttarakhand is the most popular National Park in India, the Jim Corbett. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to visit near Chandigarh. It is a pioneer project to protect the Royal Bengal tigers and home to a variety of flora and fauna. Whether you're looking to spend a day in nature, or a wildlife geek – the Corbett will be a roller coaster of fun and frolic. 

You can enjoy the park through numerous types of safaris.The elephant safaris are an adventure on their own, spotting scary beasts in the wild on the backs of such gentle mammals. Canter safaris and Jeep safaris are also extremely sought after.

Distance From Chandigarh: 327 kilometres via NH344

Things to do: Wildlife photography, jungle safari, camping, elephant safari

Best time to visit: November to June

How to reach: The best way to reach is by boarding a train from Chandigarh to Nainital

If you like lakes, Nainital is the best hill station you can visit anywhere around Chandigarh. Situated around the Naini Lake, Nainital is gorgeous in its appearance and has a very soothing ambience. In short, it is the perfect recipe for a vacation in hills. 

Besides, there are some more lakes situated close to Nainital which makes sightseeing a memorable experience here. So, if you are looking for some place quiet and soothing, Nainital might be the place for you.

Distance From Chandigarh: 530 kilometres via NH 44 and NH9

Things to do: Boating, Camping, Photography, Sightseeing.

Places to see: Naini Lake, Jama Masjid, Naini Peak, Tiffin Top, Cave Garden.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

Embedded in the crown of snow-capped Himalayan peaks is a tiny gem of a hamlet called Munisiyari. Located just under 800 kilometers from Chandigarh, this little village offers awe inspiring vistas to entice your inner nature enthusiast. You can get a spectacular view of Panchachuli, a group of five gorgeous peaks that look like chimneys. 

It is also the base camp for long and short treks into the Kumaon region of Himalayas, so those of you seeking a rush of adrenaline can easily get a dose in Munisiyari. And if skiing tickles your fancy, you're in for a treat here.

Distance From Chandigarh: 789 kilometres via NH 44

Things to Do: Trekking, camping, photography, Sightseeing

Places to see: Panchchuli, Kumaon treks                      

Best time to visit: March-June, September-October