Panchkula is a major district in the state of Haryana and is situated at a distance of just 10 km from the capital city of Chandigarh. Panchkula is known for its lush green atmosphere and for housing the densest forest region of Haryana. This city attracts a large number of visitors who come here to enjoy the beautiful mountain ranges that cross through it. Panchkula is also known for housing five ancient water canals and caters to the water needs of the state of Haryana. From the beautiful range of Shivaliks to ancient temples and from densely covered forests to an extremely pleasant weather, Panchkula offers you enough reasons that compel you to visit this place. Apart from the above mentioned factors, this city is also popular for its theme based clubs and lavish food joints. If you are planning to visit Panchkula, here are the top 5 places that you should definitely have in your list.
1. Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu temple and is beautifully situated in the interiors of Shivalik mountain range. This temple is about 210 years old and is one of the major centres of Himalayan faith in the entire region of Northern India. Mansa Devi Temple complex is divided into two compounds and is a beautiful amalgamation of Hindu and Mughal architecture. During the 1800s, this temple used to be a worshipping place for the Maharaja of Panchkula. The temple hosts two annual fairs for the devotees during the festival of Navaratri and receives an unprecedented number of visitors during this period. Mansa Devi Temple is the most important devotional centre in Panchkula and therefore you should not even think twice before visiting it.
2. Cactus Garden
Cactus garden houses some of the rarest varieties of cactus and succulents and is the largest outdoor cactus garden of Asia. Founded by Dr. J Sarkariya, the concept behind the establishment of this garden was to preserve the endangered cactus species. The garden houses close to 2600 species of cactus and succulents whose origin can be traced to Mexican and Arizonian countries. The most important attraction of this place is the cactus fair which is organized here during the month of March every year. This fair is a must visit for everyone who loves flora.
3. Chattbir Zoo
Chattbir Zoo is one of the largest animal reserves in Northern India and houses around 110 varieties of animals and reptiles. This place is beautifully situated next to the Ghagghar River and is spread across a vast area of 500 hectares. Few of the most important attractions of this place include rare animal species like macaques, horn antelopes and white tiger. Chattbir Zoo is a dream place for nature and wildlife enthusiasts as they can get the most real-time experience of both in this place. If you are an adventure lover who wants to go on a Lion Safari, this zoo is the perfect place for you.
4. Pinjore
Pinjore is situated at a distance of around 10 km from Panchkula and is widely known for its rich history and culture. This town was built by Mughal prince Fidaayi Khan and houses some of the most beautiful remains of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Rang Mahal or the palace of colors, Sheesh Mahal or the palace of mirror and Jal Mahal or the palace of water are three of the most breath-taking places of the town of Pinjore. Apart from the above mentioned architectural marvels, Pinjore also houses a significant number of ancient temples and is a major tourist destination.
5. Gurudwara Nada Sahib
Nada Sahib Gurudwara is situated at a distance of 5 km from the capital city of Chandigarh and is one of the most prominent centres of Sikh devotees in Northern India. This Gurudwara is situated alongside Ghagghar River and was established in the memory of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. During the war waged by Sikhs against the Mughals, the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji used to stay in this gurudwara and it is because of this fact that this place holds a tremendous value among the Sikhs. The most perfect time to visit this place is the day of Puranmaasi, which is celebrated on a monthly basis here.
Panchkula is undoubtedly one of the most pleasant tourist destinations in Haryana. Beautifully equipped with mountain ranges, forests and rivers, Panchkula is certainly the most picture perfect location around Chandigarh. If you are planning to visit this amazing place anytime soon, blindly include the above five places in your itinerary as they will give you the most memorable experience of Panchkula.
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