Sukhna Lake

One of the best places in Chandigarh is Sukhna Lake. It's a large man-made lake of about 3 km², created in 1958 as part of the city's water plan: it collects rainwater from the surrounding hills and works as a natural "air conditioner" for the local climate.

What makes it special:

• Jungle by the water. The shores are wrapped in dense forests of Indian rosewood (shisham) and bamboo.
• Wildlife. In the surrounding woods you'll find large nilgai antelope, sambar deer, and porcupines; leopards occasionally wander in; and there are over 130 bird species, from wild peacocks to bright river birds.
• A park for the city. Along the water runs about 5 km of walking and cycling paths, with zones for morning runs and yoga, spots for picnics and sunsets, and boat and pedal-boat rentals.

It's best to come at sunrise or sunset: that's when you understand why the city needs a lake like this.

The city's natural heart