Recycled Masterpiece: Chandigarh’s Rock Garden

Chandigarh, India is a pleasant surprise to travelers who have braved the chaos of the country’s rickshaw-filled roads. The streets of this urban center are well-ordered with sculptures and trees throughout. The jewel of Chandigarh is Nek Chand’s Rock Garden (Map). The garden is comprised of recycled materials including ceramic pots, glass bottles, sinks, and broken plates. It is a place of inspiration for those who support a movement toward green living.
chandigarh-rock-garden Chandigarh Rock Garden © Gennaro Salamone

For those making the journey, the garden has a maze-like path that features a multitude of creative figurines ranging from animals to human forms. You’ll witness tourists and locals alike marveling at the modern wonder that was developed by Chand. On most days, locals are seen picnicking or sharing a romantic moment on the grounds (see below). To have a particularly unique experience, ask the information desk if Mr. Chand is at the garden during your visit. If so, he’ll be more than happy to visit with travelers.
chandigarh-indian-couple chandigarh-waterfall Chandigarh couple and waterfall © Gennaro Salamone

Toward the end of your walk, a lovely waterfall will appear with human figures atop it. This is a comfortable spot to relax for a few moments in shaded areas. Upon leaving the complex, it’s a short cycle rickshaw ride to the Open Hand Monument, which remains the official logo of the city.

After returning to the city-center, consider having dinner at Ghazal Restaurant (Map). Ghazal has excellent service along with classic Indian dishes. For window-seating and extra attention from the staff arrive 15-20 minutes before traditional dinner is served.

If you’re unsure about making the trip to Chandigarh consider combining it with a journey to the hill station of Shimla. Kalka, the town where the toy train to Shimla originates, is only an hour from Chandigarh.

Read about Bodh Gaya, India.
___________________________________________________________________________________
gennaroeditor.jpgGennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Feel free to contact him with questions, comments, or inquiries with reference to contributing a travel article or photograph for publication.

 

 

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42 Comments

  1. Chandigarh was so much fun when we visited it. It was truly a pleasant surprise and a change from most of India’s chaotic cities. The weather during monsoon season is a not as hot as in most parts of India because of its geographic location. The garden was an amazing experience. Be sure to visit manmade Lake Sukhna after the garden and take a boat ride.

  2. I love it. Green and beautiful.

  3. Chandigarh is definately worth a trip, but I agree that including Shimla is smart. Shimla has beautiful views and the toy train ride is fantastic.

  4. I could have used that stop on my trip to India. Looks relaxing especially after Delhi.

  5. Thanks for the comments.

    @sima
    Agreed. Taking a boat ride on the lake with local families all around is great.

    @A.T.R.
    Loved that toy train ride along with the over one hundred tunnels it goes through

  6. Missed Chandigarh on my trip a few years ago. Wish I had seen it.

  7. I’m thinking this should inspire a lot of artist to use recycled material or “garbage” for something useful.

  8. @Tim

    That would be an interesting and fun trend.

  9. When is traditional dinner served in Chandigarh?

  10. @Lisa

    Thanks for asking. 7:00pm

  11. The recycled materials are masterpiece indeed! 😉

    …Indian dishes??? I’m not fond of it as they are super spicy. 🙁

  12. @Snow

    Spicy, indeed. Though there are a few tasty exception to the rule.

  13. I have never been to India but I that looks like a lovely place to visit. I love it when beauty is created from recycled materials. I also love really spicy food so I should get myself over there.

    Here in Philadelphia, Isaiah Zagar has created a “garden” and mosaic house out of basically junk.

    Zagar’s Magic Gardens

  14. @Kim Woodbridge

    India is definately a fascinating place. Thanks for the tip on Zagar’s gardens. I will check them out next time I’m in Philly.

  15. what a lovely place!

  16. @maiylah

    No doubt. Welcome aboard.

  17. What a good idea this garden is!

    It’s glad to see more and more artists attach importance to Recycled masterpiece!

  18. @iWalk

    I agree. Novel concept and well executed.

  19. Awesome pics of rock gardens! I believe a lot of work goes into every garden! this puts our Singapore’s Botanic Garden to shame somewhat!

    Gennaro, how often do you travel? You seem so well-travelled!

  20. @kelly

    It really is a beautiful spot to travel. I liked the Singapore Botanical too. Different though. I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot. I love it and try to make it a priority in life.

  21. I wanna be in YOUR luggage bag Gennaro! haha

  22. @kelly

    Funny 🙂

  23. Beautiful rock garden. I’d love to see more of this recycling in other part of the world.

  24. Very different look that I expect from India. Love the idea of recycled rock gardens. Very cool.

  25. @Sheena

    Nek Chand did an amazing job. I agree this would be great any place.

    @John H.

    It’s definitely different than other parts of India.

  26. I’m always impressed and amused too by what people create out of daily life things. Awesome.

  27. @Maya

    Me too. So much talent to take everyday items and make art.

  28. A very special place in a fascinating country

  29. I had never heard of this rock garden. I always learn about fascinating new places from your site. Thanks!

  30. Love this garden! Happy Friday, Happy Spring, Happy~Happy Everything!

  31. @Jane

    Agree on both points.

    @Julia

    Thank you. I learned of it last year by recommendation when we were traveling in Northern India. I was pleasantly surprised.

    @Laura Ingalis Gunn

    It really is a great spot in Chandigarh. Happy Spring to you too. It’s finally here.

  32. Wow those were some fantastic photos, and something great to share with all of us!

  33. @Kristin

    Thanks. It was one of my favorite places to visit. Love rock gardens.

  34. Beautiful! Now I know what I can attempt to create with all the rock “treasures” my children bring home!

  35. @Phillips Phamily Mama

    Sounds like a great idea 🙂

  36. Wow, what a fascinating place! Thanks for sharing.

  37. @Melissa

    Thanks.