Panchkula in Haryana offers natural scenic landscapes to its visitors. It is well-connected to places like Shimla, Delhi, Ambala and Chandigarh. It comprises the Chandigarh Tricity along with Ambala and Chandigarh. There are many exciting things to do in Panchkula, like sightseeing and giving in to the spirituality present within you. There are many places to visit in Panchkula that have a lot to offer to the large number of visitors that it witnesses. Panchkula experiences a subtropical climate and this allows for a lot of flora and fauna to flourish in this area. A lot of people travelling on the Chandigarh-Delhi highway find Panchkula to be the perfect stop.
10 Places To Visit In Panchkula
Panchkula offers a picturesque view to visitors who come to the state of Haryana. Here is a curated list of places to visit in Panchkula that you can refer to while planning your trip.
1. Ramgarh Fort
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This fort is an architectural marvel located in Panchkula, at a distance of about 21km from Nalagarh. It is believed to have been built by Chandel rulers of the Chandel Rajput dynasty, back in the 17th century. The fort is one of the many historical landmarks that the state of Haryana has to offer. Since 2003, the fort has also been functioning as a heritage luxury hotel. The gates, courtyards and ramparts have been retained by the fort. The rich cultural tapestry of the Chandels is brought alive through this hotel’s antique displays.
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Fort Of Raipur Rani
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated in the district of Panchkula, this fort lies close to Chandigarh, at a distance of about 30km. It is said to have been established under the reign of Raja Rao Rai Singh in the early 15th century. He was one of the sons of Rana Har Rai Singh, who ruled over Ajmer in Rajasthan. Until India’s independence, it was ruled by his descendants. The fort has a rustic charm about it that attracts visitors from far and wide. It is covered in climber plants and is maintained very well.
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. National Cactus Garden And Research Centre
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This place is also simply called the Cactus Garden in Panchkula. It has a wide variety of cacti and succulent plants on display. By visiting this garden, you can educate yourself further about cacti and their species. The garden was founded by J.S Sarkaria and initially was home to just 500 plants from Tarsem Lal’s collection in 2004. Over the years, the garden expanded its collection and is at present home to 3500 different species of Cactus. There are specially designed pathways for visitors to walk on and detailed descriptions are given for each plant. This place is enjoyed by both adults and children alike.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
4. Chhatbir Zoo
Photo: Theroadfiles / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, this zoo offers a diverse array of animals for visitors to see. It spans over 202 hectares and is located in the Chhatbir Protected Forest Area. Open enclosures are provided for animals, where plenty of space and natural resources are made available to animals to satisfy their biological needs. The zoo also has a lake, a Reptile House, a Nocturnal House and an Otter House. You can see the Royal Bengal Tiger, Himalayan Black Bear, Civet Cat and the Asiatic Lion at this zoo.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
5. Chokhi Dhani
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons
This place offers an immersive travelling experience and is located at the Amaravati Enclave in Panchkula. Chokhi Dhani claims to be an ethnic village which offers visitors a glimpse into Rajasthani culture. Food and cultural performances as well as activities are included in the package that visitors must choose. Chokhi Dhani is intricately decorated with Rajasthani art and the village fair at Chokhi Dhani brings to life the rich cultural heritage of the state of Rajasthan. This place also offers luxurious accommodations in a themed resort. You can also try some authentic Rajasthani dishes and shop from the vibrant bazaar set up by Chokhi Dhani.
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: ₹800 onwards
6. Yadavindra Garden
Photo: Shahnoor Habib Munmun / Wikimedia Commons
This historical garden is a beautiful verdant boulevard. It is located in the Pinjore town of Panchkula. It lies on the Chandigarh-Kalka Highway and is often visited by tourists in transit. There is a mini zoo in the garden and a nursery for visitors. This garden is also perfect for a solitary morning or evening stroll. The garden is heavily influenced by the Mughal Gardens of ancient India. The Jalmahal within the garden is used as a restaurant at present. It is believed that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata had once rested here. The garden celebrates an annual Mango Festival on a grand scale.
Timings: 7 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person
7. Panchkula Golf Club
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This verdant golf course is known for attracting a lot of visitors. It was first established in 2003 and at present, stretches over 135 acres of land. There are many species of trees bordering the golf course. The Panchkula Golf Club is run by the Haryana Government, which also offers gold courses. The fairways of this course are very well maintained and meticulously designed. The layout of the gold course has been very strategically implemented. There is a clubhouse and a restaurant for those who would choose to not play golf here. You can also get a serene view of the River Ghaggar from here.
Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM
Entry Fee: ₹800 per person
8. Morni Fort Museum
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Morni Hills of the Panchkula district in Haryana, this fort also functions as a nature museum. It is believed to be over two centuries old and has been turned into a museum through thorough renovation by the Forests Department of Haryana. It was inaugurated by Rao Narbir Singh in the year 2017. Harvansha Dua, a celebrated architect, was responsible for laying out the architectural components of this museum. There are many domes, murals and figures of wildlife on display at this museum. The 3D artwork found in this museum stands out as the main attraction.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. Gurudwara Koohni Sahib
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This Gurudwara is greatly revered by the Sikh community living in and around Panchkula. It is associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It is believed that for those who come to this Gurudwara and offer their purest devotion, their dreams will come true due to Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s blessings. There is a beautiful garden within the premises of the Gurudwara where you can sit back and relax. The langar or community lunch offered here is also great for visitors. The interior of the Gurudwara is very intricately designed and is a sight to behold.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
10. Tikkar Lake
Photo: Dr Satendra / Wikimedia Commons
This beautiful lake is one of the best places to visit in Panchkula that you can enjoy along with your friends and family. It offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Morni Hills and is very close to Chandigarh and Delhi. A lot of people come here to escape the stress that city life brings. There are paddle boats available for those who wish to enjoy the tranquillity of the lake through a water activity. The Tikkar Taal Tourist Complex offers accommodation and food to visitors who would like to enjoy the beauty of the lake for a longer time.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Panchkula offers a plethora of fun things to do to its visitors. It is full of picturesque locations that appeal to tourists from far and wide. If you are looking for places to visit in Panchkula, do not forget to plan your trip soon and be sure to use TripXL for your bookings.
Cover Photo: Owais Khursheed / Wikimedia Commons