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Get exclusive access to the otherwise restricted architectural sites - I'll arrange the passes for you
Pet friendly. My hikes with pets end at cafes that have dedicated puppy meals right at the table
We can go on a hike in a forest, with snacks and beverages for a whole day of a picnic in beautiful silence
We visit UNESCO World Heritage Site List's Open Hand monument, and then the Chandigarh museum to know the history behind it and see its original blueprints
Couple friendly, safe and I won't be third wheeling you either

2 Day Chandigarh Architecture History Tour

By Rusty
10 out of 10
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$216 per adult
Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 2d
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
  • Multiple languages
Overview

Using my decade-long experience as a journalist, & being born and raised here my whole life, we will explore culturally iconic landmarks such as the Capitol Complex, The Rock Garden, 3 different types of museums one solely dedicated to architecture and many, many more hidden gems.

You'll hear the authentic storey behind the city's construction, its socialist vision, its current state of capitalist living & its contrast with Corbusier's master plan. Hear and witness the insider stories of corruption, bureaucracy, VIP privilege & how Chandigarh still tried to remain accessible to all while seeing the open hand.

We will get exclusive inside access to public offices, buildings & different types of housing more than 45 years old designed by Pierre Jeanneret .

NRI? Foreigner? Single female traveller? Couple? Influencer? Diplomat? Official business trip? A large crowd of architectural students? Hippie backpacking through India? Awkward amount of time to kill? Family? No problem!

Activity location

  • Capitol Complex
    • Sector-1
    • Chandigarh, India

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Capitol Complex
    • Sector-1
    • Chandigarh, India

Check availability


2 Day Chandigarh Architecture History Tour
  • Activity duration is 2 days2d2d
  • English

Pickup included

Starting time: 11:00 am
Price details
AU$216.39 x 1 AdultAU$216.39

Total
Price is AU$216.39

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedParking Fees
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedWe'd be making frequent snack stops - paid by you - but they're all very cheap

Know before you book

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Transport options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Le Corbusier & Pierre Jeanneret's Architecture Guided Private Tour
  • 6 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Not included
Capitol Complex
  • 5h
• Visiting the Capitol Complex, with the Open hand monuments. Hear the REAL storey behind it - not the one the city's government wants you to hear. Know facts never found on Google. • Especially pre-arranged passes and paperwork filled already to visit the parliamentary building, also designed by Corbusier, normally not accessible to the public. • Visit the 12+ acre giant sculpture garden made entirely out of ceramic and constructional waste and hear the storey of the rogue artist hiding its origin from the government for 18 years • Lunch at an authentic 40 year Punjabi eatery serving actual authentic goat curry and chicken Korma. • Visit actual public housing still standing designed by Corbusier in his minimal style. • Visit several different types of public office buildings designed by Pierre Jeanneret. • And more!
The Rock Garden of Chandigarh
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
I'll guide you through enchanting pathways adorned with over 2,000 unique sculptures crafted from recycled materials, including broken cutlery, toilets, hardware, electrical switches, road construction material,s and more. This iconic landmark spot has won multiple "best out of the waste" awards internationally and is a huge hit for kids. Take inspiration from its founds Nek Chand's vision. You'll discover hidden waterfalls, tranquil ponds, and themed courtyards each telling a unique storey. No need to stand in line, I'd have our entry tickets already purchased included in the tour, as we explore all "phases" or portions of the park, including secret passageways and the lesser-known sculptures tucked away in secluded corners, offering perfect spots for stunning photographs and a truly immersive experience. Get ready to uncover the magic of Rock Garden like never before!
Le Corbusier Centre
  • 50m
  • Admission ticket included
Quietly tucked away in the residential sector 19, this museum / memorial centre is dedicated to the founding architect of Chandigarh, Le Corbusier. The original building still standing was used as an architecture office during its construction years to now called Le Corbusier Museum. Relax and never stand in line because I'll have already purchased tickets for us. I'll walk you through the fascinating exhibits featuring iconic photographs and original documentation that chronicle the formation of Chandigarh. You'll have the chance to see rare archives, including blueprints and sketches by Le Corbusier, offering deep insights into his revolutionary urban planning concepts. We'll explore the interactive displays and models that vividly illustrate the city's development, making your visit not only educational but also uniquely special. Get ready to immerse yourself in the legacy of one of the 20th century's greatest architects!
Gandhi Bhawan
  • 30m
  • Admission ticket included
This iconic building, one of the most recognisable structures of Chandigarh is located inside Punjab University, the whole of which is designed by the renowned architect Pierre Jeanneret. The Bhawan’s distinctive lotus-shaped structure, surrounded by a reflective pool, symbolises peace and tranquility. Inside, you'll explore the central hall, which houses a rich collection of photographs, manuscripts, and personal items of Gandhi, providing profound insights into his life and philosophy. I'll share intriguing details about Jeanneret's design principles and the building's role as a hub for academic and cultural activities. This tour will offer a unique blend of architectural brilliance and historical significance, making your visit to Gandhi Bhawan truly memorable. Sit back, relax, never stand in lines because I would have already purchased our entry tickets well in advance!
Chandigarh Architecture Museum
  • 45m
  • Admission ticket included
I'll lead you through this remarkable museum housed in a building designed by Le Corbusier himself. You'll explore original blueprints, detailed scale models, and an extensive collection of photographs documenting Chandigarh's transformation from a visionary plan to a vibrant city. Delve into personal correspondence and sketches from Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret, gaining unique insights into their creative genius. Engage with interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations that bring the city's architectural marvels to life. We see the storey of Chandiagrh written from scratch - from pre independent India to now, with its cultural iconic status. This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the meticulous planning and innovative design that make Chandigarh a global icon of modern urbanism. Relax and never stand in line because I'd have already purchased the entry tickets for us!
Museum Maison Jeanneret
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Get a rare visit to the first house constructed in Chandigarh turned museum. Originally the residence of Pierre Jeanneret for 11 years, a key collaborator of Le Corbusier, this house showcases his innovative design principles. Built-in the 1950s, Maison Jeanneret reflects the modernist architecture characteristic of Chandigarh's urban planning, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and functional design. I'll take you through the meticulously preserved interiors, where you'll find mid-century modern furniture designed by Jeanneret himself. The minimalist aesthetic and use of local materials like teak wood highlight his practical yet elegant approach. You'll also see rare photographs, sketches, and personal artefacts that provide a glimpse into Jeanneret's life & his pivotal role in shaping Chandigarh. We will get rare access to the garden and verandas which reflect his architectural philosophy of integrating indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. Tickets are already included!
Day 2: Chandigarh's Parks, food & Urban life - Hipster, Alternative fun
  • 5 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Not included
Leisure Valley
  • 40m
  • Admission ticket included
Today we will explore the "lungs" of the city- its giant interactive parks. We will see you why Chandigarh's linear park system, stretching over 8 kilometres, is the city's pride. We'll begin at the Rajendra Park, known for its lush landscapes and open spaces perfect for a morning walk or yoga. Next, we'll explore the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, home to over 1,600 varieties of roses and numerous fountains, making it a fragrant paradise. I'll take you to the Garden of Fragrance, where the aromatic flowers and plants create a sensory delight. With its blend of gardens, open spaces, and recreational areas, Leisure Valley is not just a park but a vital green artery that breathes life into Chandigarh, providing residents and tourists with a perfect escape from the urban hustle.
Chandigarh Botanical Garden & Nature Park
  • 1h
This massive green lung to the city, the 176-acre green haven was established to promote conservation and botanical education. It hosts an extensive collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. As your guide, I’ll walk you through its meticulously organised sections, each dedicated to different plant types, including medicinal plants, tropical trees, and rare herbs. You'll explore the beautiful lotus ponds, shaded walkways, and vibrant floral displays. We'll visit the conservatories housing diverse flora, including cacti and succulents, and the bamboo groves that add to the garden's charm. This garden also serves as a vital research centre, providing valuable insights into plant conservation and biodiversity. A visit here offers not just a feast for the eyes but also an educational experience about the rich plant life and ecological initiatives in Chandigarh. Interactive and kid friendly! Really wholesome fun.
Government Museum and Art Gallery
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier and inaugurated in 1968, the building itself is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. As your guide, I'll introduce you to the museum's diverse exhibits, including Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings, and a significant collection of contemporary Indian art. The unique feature of this museum is its extraordinary display of antiquities from the Indus Valley Civilisation, offering a rare glimpse into ancient history. Additionally, the museum houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, textiles, and decorative arts, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Your visit will provide a fascinating journey through India's artistic and historical evolution, set within a landmark of architectural brilliance.
Sukhna Lake
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Experience a delightful boating vibe on the calm waters of the lake. You'll enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the peaceful ambiance packed with picnic snacks for everyone, especially fun for kids and couples. After our boating adventure, we'll head to the Garden of Silence located at the backside of the lake. This tranquil garden features a large statue of Buddha, providing a perfect setting for meditation and reflection. The serene environment, with its beautifully landscaped surroundings, offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here we'll do some yoga and stretches and hear about the history of the place. Get ready to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of Sukhna Lake and the Garden of Silence!
Sector 17 Market
  • 1h
Want to shop distinct Indian / Punjabi things to gift back home like spices, artefacts, non tacky clothes or herbal ayurvedic supplements? Let me be your guide as we walk around the open air shopping centre sector designed by Corbusier as a recreational space full of brutalist architecture styled public buildings, iconic food stalls and the state library. Bask in immense pride of how much locals take pride in the city and how the well oiled machinery just works!

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIESCapitol Complex
    • Sector-1
    • Chandigarh, India

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLECapitol Complex
    • Sector-1
    • Chandigarh, India

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