Panchkula Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Panchkula, Haryana with our comprehensive guide. Learn about the local culture and customs, food and drink scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to Panchkula

Panchkula is a city located in the Ambala Division of Haryana, India. It is also known as the ‘City Beautiful’ due to its lush green surroundings and well-planned residential and commercial areas. The city is located at the foothills of the Shivalik range, which makes it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

List of Places to Visit in Panchkula

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Panchkula has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its various museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in the city are:

  • Pinjore Gardens: One of the oldest Mughal gardens in the country, Pinjore Gardens is spread across 100 acres and features several terraces, pavilions, fountains, and colorful flower beds.
  • Cactus Garden: A unique attraction in Panchkula, the Cactus Garden is spread across 7 acres and is home to over 3,500 varieties of cacti.
  • Morni Hills: Known for its beautiful views and trekking trails, Morni Hills is a popular getaway destination for locals and tourists alike.
  • Gurudwara Nada Sahib: A holy site for Sikhs, Gurudwara Nada Sahib is believed to be the spot where Guru Gobind Singhji rested while returning from the battle of Bhangani.
  • Kali Mata Temple: Located on a hilltop, the Kali Mata Temple offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills.

Natural Attractions of Panchkula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Panchkula is blessed with natural beauty and offers several opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit in Panchkula:

  • Morni Fort: Located atop Morni Hills, the Morni Fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also a popular spot for hiking and trekking.
  • Sukhna Lake: Spread across 3 sq km, Sukhna Lake is an artificial lake that offers beautiful views and several water sport activities like boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • Kalka Shimla Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kalka Shimla Railway is a narrow gauge railway that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park: Spread over 140 acres, the zoo is home to several indigenous and exotic species of animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Panchkula

Panchkula is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with several scenic hiking and biking routes. Some of the popular routes are:

  • Morni Trek: A moderate 8 km trek that takes you to the top of Morni Hills, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kaushalya Dam: A scenic 10 km bike ride through lush green forests and hilly terrain to the beautiful Kaushalya Dam.
  • Sukhna Lake: A leisurely 6 km walk or bike ride around the stunning Sukhna Lake, offering beautiful views and a refreshing escape from the city.

Best Things to Do in Panchkula: Activities and Tours

Panchkula offers several unique and exciting activities and tours for tourists. Some of the best things to do in Panchkula are:

  • Paragliding: Soar high above the hills and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape while paragliding.
  • Heritage Walk: Discover the rich history and culture of Panchkula with a guided heritage walk that takes you to several historical sites and museums.
  • Adventure Sports: Panchkula offers several adventure sports activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining.
  • Food Tour: Experience the local cuisine of Panchkula with a guided food tour that takes you to several popular food joints and restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Panchkula

Day 1: Pinjore Gardens and Kali Mata Temple Day 2: Gurudwara Nada Sahib and Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park Day 3-4: Trekking/Hiking in Morni Hills Day 5: Sukhna Lake and Rock Garden in nearby Chandigarh Day 6-7: Adventure Sports and Exploration of Local Markets

Food and Drink Scene of Panchkula

Must-Try Dishes

Panchkula is known for its delicious and unique cuisine that is a blend of North Indian and Haryanvi flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Panchkula are:

  • Chole Bhature: A popular North Indian dish made with spicy chickpeas and fried bread.
  • Kadhi Pakora: A yogurt-based curry with deep-fried dumplings.
  • Gulab Jamun: A sweet dessert made with milk solids and soaked in sugar syrup.

Local Beverages

Panchkula has several local beverages to offer, including:

  • Buttermilk: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and spices.
  • Lassi: A popular Punjabi drink made with yogurt, water, and sugar.
  • Sugarcane Juice: A sweet and refreshing juice extracted from sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Panchkula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Panchkula has several accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the popular places to stay in Panchkula are:

  • Ramgarh Heritage, Panchkula: A heritage hotel that offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities.
  • Welcomhotel Bella Vista, Panchkula: A contemporary hotel located in the heart of Panchkula, offering comfortable rooms and suites.
  • The Fort Ramgarh, Panchkula: A 17th-century fort converted into a hotel, offering spacious rooms and suites with beautiful views.

What to Buy in Panchkula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Panchkula offers several unique and authentic souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts and keepsakes. Some of the best things to buy in Panchkula are:

  • Traditional Clothing: Panchkula is known for its beautiful traditional clothing, including Phulkari embroidery and hand-dyed fabrics.
  • Handicrafts: Panchkula is home to several skilled artisans who create beautiful handicrafts like pottery, woodwork, and hand-woven carpets.
  • Spices and Pickles: Panchkula is famous for its delicious and spicy pickles and masalas that make for great gifts and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Panchkula

Panchkula has a rich and vibrant culture that is reflected in its traditions, festivals, and cuisine. Some of the unique cultural aspects of Panchkula are:

  • Phulkari Embroidery: A traditional embroidery technique that originated in Punjab and is now popular in Panchkula.
  • Baisakhi Festival: A springtime festival celebrated in April, marking the beginning of the Sikh New Year.
  • Haryana Day: Celebrated on November 1st every year, Haryana Day is a celebration of the formation of Haryana as a separate state.

Best Time to Visit Panchkula

The best time to visit Panchkula is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Panchkula

Do:

  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and participate in cultural activities.

Don’t:

  • Hike or trek without a guide or proper equipment.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect religious sites or cultural symbols.

Safety and Health

Safety in Panchkula

Panchkula is a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take basic precautions like avoiding deserted areas and carrying identification at all times.

Health in Panchkula

Panchkula has several hospitals and medical services to ensure the health and safety of tourists. It is advisable to carry a first-aid kit and take basic precautions like drinking bottled water and avoiding street food.

Getting to Panchkula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Panchkula

The closest airport to Panchkula is the Chandigarh International Airport, which is located 12 km away.

Bus Stations Near Panchkula

Panchkula has a well-connected bus network, with several state-owned and private buses connecting it to nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Other Options

Panchkula is also well-connected by rail, with several trains connecting it to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Taxis and autos are also readily available for local transportation.

How to Get Around in Panchkula

Panchkula has several transportation options, including local buses, taxis, autos, and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Panchkula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Panchkula is surrounded by several beautiful destinations and excursion options, including:

  • Chandigarh: The capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is known for its beautiful gardens, museums, and cultural attractions.
  • Shimla: The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is a popular hill station known for its colonial architecture, scenic views, and adventure sports.
  • Kasauli: A quaint hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli is known for its tranquil environment, beautiful views, and slow pace of life.

Conclusion

Panchkula is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture that makes it a unique and exciting tourist destination. Whether you are looking for adventure sports or cultural attractions, Panchkula has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you can discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Panchkula, making it an unforgettable vacation experience.

Cactus Garden, Panchkula Cactus Garden, Panchkula