Terraced Garden Chandigarh is a beautiful, well-known public garden set in Sector 33B of Chandigarh. Established in 1979, it covers an area of about 10 acres and is designed in a terraced layout, inspired by Mughal garden styles. The garden is a popular spot for both locals and tourists due to its serene ambiance, meticulously maintained lawns, colorful seasonal flowers, and decorative fountains.
Location and Accessibility
The garden is situated in Sector 33B of Chandigarh, easily reachable from the city center and other landmarks like the Chandigarh Bus Station (approximately 5 km away) and Sukhna Lake (about 6 km away). Visitors can access the garden by cab, auto-rickshaw, or personal vehicle.
Timings and Entry
Terraced Garden Chandigarh is open daily from early morning to evening, generally from 5:00 or 5:30 AM to 8:00 or 9:00 PM. There is no entry fee to visit the garden, making it an accessible leisure spot for all. However, some special events or activities, like boating or attending flower shows, may charge a nominal fee.
Major Attractions
The Musical Fountain
One of the garden’s main highlights is the musical fountain located in the middle terrace. Every evening from around 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the fountain performs a mesmerizing show where water jets dance to popular Bollywood songs from various genres and eras, accented by colorful lights. This spectacle is a major draw for visitors in the evenings.
Chrysanthemum Show
The annual Chrysanthemum Show is a significant event held at the Terraced Garden every December. This flower festival showcases a vast variety of chrysanthemums in vibrant colors, attracting gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and tourists alike. The show features large-scale participation from residents, competitions, and exhibits that celebrate the beauty and diversity of flowers.
Garden Features
The garden itself is a natural retreat within the urban environment, featuring walking paths through its terraced levels. It is home to many plants, including seasonal flowers, shrubs, and indigenous species, making it a living repository of Chandigarh’s flora. Visitors enjoy leisurely strolls, photography, and relaxation amidst the tranquility the garden offers.
Events and Activities
Besides the Chrysanthemum Show, the Terraced Garden hosts various flower exhibitions and horticultural events throughout the year, which highlight different plants and gardening artistry. These events are popular with locals and tourists and contribute to the garden’s status as a cultural and botanical hub.
Best Times to Visit Terraced Garden
The ideal time to visit the garden is during the cooler months from October to March when Chandigarh experiences moderate temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This period coincides with the garden being in full bloom, making the visit visually captivating.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting, tourists often combine a trip to the Terraced Garden with visits to nearby attractions like Sukhna Lake and the Rock Garden, making for a full day of exploring Chandigarh’s natural and artistic beauty.
In Summary, the Terraced Garden Chandigarh offers a peaceful and picturesque environment with free entry and convenient timings from early morning to late evening. Its musical fountain, annual Chrysanthemum Show, and variety of flora make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chandigarh’s cultural and natural landmarks.
