Panchkula is a well-planned city with a systematic layout adorned with beautiful trees. It has the thickest forest cover in the entire Haryana state of India. It is also a gateway to the hills of Himachal Pradesh. Its name is derived from the five canals in the city. Many travelers visit here to witness some amazing places to visit near Panchkula. It acts as a pitstop for them as they can visit tourist places of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, both from this city.
14 Places To Visit Near Panchkula For A Weekend Getaway
Here is a list of some of the best places to visit near Panchkula for a fun weekend getaway with your friends and family :
1. Rock Garden
Photo: Antanana / Wikimedia Commons
Rock Garden is one of the most famous and most visited tourist places to see near Panchkula. It is famous for its sculptures made out of recycled waste like ceramic, bangles, bottles, industrial and home waste, etc. People from near and far come to witness this marvel and fantasyland. The garden is divided into three sections, each having its theme and color. There are terracotta warriors, animals, birds, and puppets made of recycled material. The lush green and intricate pathways and a waterfall offer true natural beauty to the place. Tourists must halt here to witness the magic of ‘Best Out of Waste’.
Distance From Panchkula: 11 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Rohtak For A Scenic Getaway In Haryana
2. Sukhna Lake

Photo: Vijendra Trighatia / Wikimedia Commons
Sukhna Lake is a beautiful, man-made lake nestled at the foothills of the Shivaliks. It offers a pretty view of the hills from a distance. Its pristine blue water and cool breeze offer a mesmerising experience to the joggers and picnickers. People enjoy boating here in the serene surroundings. It is also home to the majestic migratory birds that add a vibrant color to the lake.
Distance From Panchkula: 10 km
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
3. Rose Garden

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
The Rose Garden is another beautiful marvel to witness near Panchkula. It is a blooming exhibit that showcases a collection of over 50,000 rose bushes representing more than 1500 varieties of roses. The roses are in all shades of pastels, red, orange, yellow, etc. It is also one of the largest rose gardens in Asia and is well-maintained and preserved. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Chandigarh. Tourists must witness the vibrant beauty of this garden during their visit to Panchkula.
Distance From Panchkula: Location: 11 km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Faridabad For A Stunning Adventure
4. Chhatbir Zoo

Photo: Sunil Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Chhatbir Zoo is the biggest zoological park near Panchkula and houses more than 1000 species of birds and animals from across the world. You will find a significant number of primates, antelopes, big cats, elephants, zebras, hippopotamuses, reptiles section, etc. Exploring this zoo is one of the unique things to do in Chandigarh. It is very famous for its lion and deer safari, wherein you get up close with these animals in a safe environment. There are huge bird sections as well that have about three dozen species of indigenous and exotic birds.
Distance From Panchkula: 18 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM, (closed on Mondays)
5. Mussoorie

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Often called the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie is a charming hill station, perfect for a fun weekend getaway. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, it offers panoramic views, colonial-era architecture, and popular spots like Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Camel’s Back Road. With its cool climate, lush hills, and buzzing cafes, Mussoorie is ideal for couples, families, and friends. Mussoorie promises a refreshing escape.
Distance From Panchkula: 192 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Mussoorie
6. Timber Trail Ropeway

Photo: Giridhar Appaji Nag Y / Wikimedia Commons
Timber Trail is a resort near Panchkula that offers serene beauty, nestled in the hills. The place lies on the way from Panchkula to Shimla, on National Highway 22. It is a scenic escape with breathtaking views of the valley. This stretch of greenery lies on the majestic Shivalik Hills. The main attraction here is the cable car, called the ‘Timber Trail Ropeway’ that takes you up to resorts that are located inside the lush green hills. The breathtaking flora and fauna surround these resorts.
Distance From Panchkula: 23 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
7. Nahan

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Nahn is a quaint town away from the buzzing crowd of the city. It is a perfect getaway near Panchkula that lies on the lofty Shivalik range overlooking lush green fields and clean streets. It is an ideal holiday destination with several historical sites like Nahan Palace and Rani Tal Lake, Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaitak Fort, and other places. Its vibrant market has traditional handicrafts and local procurements. A popular pilgrimage site, The Trilokpur Temple is also situated in Nahan.
Distance From Panchkula: 76 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Nahan
8. Kasauli

Photo: Pankajchib2507 / Wikimedia Commons
Kasauli is a very pleasant and quaint hill station near Panchkula. This town and cantonment was established by the Britishers in 1842. It is one of the most visited hill stations as it has pleasant weather, picturesque spots, lush greenery, and impressive colonial architecture. Tourists can hike up to the Monkey Point and visit a Hanuman Temple. Tourists can spend a relaxing day here, around lush coniferous trees and enjoy hot chocolate from the mall shop.
Distance From Panchkula: 48 km
Best Time To Visit: April- June
9. Shimla

Photo: ShashankSharma2511 / Wikimedia Commons
Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and was declared as the Summer Capital of the British. It lies on the Himalayan foothills and is located at a very scenic location. The structures built here are of the colonial era. The Mall Road here is the most famous and most-visited tourist spot. The city also houses famous temples, palaces, and churches. Jakhoo is the highest peak of Shimla. You will find plantations of pine, oak, and deodar trees in abundance here.
Distance From Panchkula: 102 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Shimla
10. Barog

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Nestled on the Kalka–Shimla route, Barog is a peaceful hill station ideal for a quiet retreat near Panchkula. Famous for its picturesque railway tunnel and pine-covered slopes, Barog offers colonial charm, scenic hiking trails, and misty mornings. The area is less crowded, making it perfect for nature lovers. With cosy homestays, railway nostalgia, and panoramic views of the Himalayas, Barog provides a refreshing break from city life.
Distance From Panchkula: 50 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
11. Pinjore

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Pinjore is known for the beautiful Yadavindra Gardens, an iconic example of Mughal landscaping with tiered lawns, fountains, and heritage structures. Visitors can explore the adjoining mini zoo, Japanese garden, and museums within the complex. Pinjore is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts seeking a quick getaway. Seasonal festivals and light shows add extra charm to this green space. Its historical ambience and well-maintained beauty make it a must-visit destination near Panchkula.
Distance From Panchkula: 14 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Ambala For A Perfect Getaway
12. Trilokpur

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only
Trilokpur is a serene village in Himachal Pradesh famous for the revered Mata Bala Sundri Temple. Surrounded by the Shivalik Hills, the temple attracts thousands of devotees during Navratri and other religious fairs. Beyond its spiritual significance, Trilokpur offers peaceful rural landscapes and a slow-paced vibe. The drive through forested terrain and quiet countryside enhances the overall experience, making it a scenic spot near Panchkula.
Distance From Panchkula: 66 km
Best Time To Visit: February to April
13. Chail

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Chail is a scenic hill station famed for its lush pine forests, royal Chail Palace, and the world’s highest cricket ground. It offers a quiet alternative to Shimla, with fewer crowds. Visitors can enjoy forest hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and the charming palace hotel. Ideal for couples as well as families, Chail is perfect for a weekend getaway. The refreshing mountain air and serene ambience make it a delightful escape from the city.
Distance From Panchkula: 98 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chail On Your Next Himachal Pradesh Trip
14. Kurukshetra

Photo: Tsevang / Wikimedia Commons
Steeped in mythology and history, Kurukshetra is a sacred city in Haryana. Known as the battlefield of the Mahabharata, it features attractions like Brahma Sarovar, Jyotisar, and numerous temples and ghats. Visitors can explore the rich spiritual heritage, attend evening aartis, and visit museums that narrate epic stories. It’s a popular destination for religious tourism, school trips, and cultural exploration. The city’s deep-rooted connection to Indian mythology makes Kurukshetra a fascinating place to visit near Panchkula.
Distance From Panchkula: 100 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Located in Haryana, Panchkula is an ideally located city, surrounded by the hills of the Shivaliks. The city sees a lot of tourists during the holiday season as it is close to many good holiday destinations. It also offers great food and accommodation options. So, plan with TripXL and explore the places to visit near Panchkula with your friends and family, to explore some of the best attractions that lie near the city.
Cover Photo: Kash Tandon / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only