Nestled at the foot of Shivalik Hills, Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh paints a pretty picture. Stretching for a distance of 3 sq. km., Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake and is the only one of its kind in the city created in the year 1958 by damming the seasonal Sukhna Choe (Stream) that flows down the Shivalik Hills. With its pristine blue water, the lake serves as a perfect location for a stream of morning joggers and walkers who can also enjoy the fresh air. In fact, the architect of Chandigarh - India's first planned city - Le Corbusier claimed that this lake would be the centre of wellness pursuits for the residents. The promenade in front of the lake is frequented by walkers and joggers who carry out their exercise regimes here. Moreover, it also has one of the longest rowing channels in the country that host the Asian Rowing Championships.
Apart from serving as a delight for artists and photographers, the lake is also a great spot for sports activities such as rowing, trampoline jumping along with the recent addition of a Solar Cruise. It is home to several species of fish and migratory birds such as Siberian ducks and cranes. Bounded by a golf course and the famous Rose Garden, the lake offers a mesmerizing escape to its visitors at all times of the day.
Things to do at Sukhna Lake
Chandigarh and Sukhna Lake are almost synonymous. In addition to undertaking boating activities on the lake, you can now have a Shikara ride (similar to the ones at Kashmir)! There is a dedicated cafe to the lake known as CITCO cafeteria that has both indoor and outdoor seating. The area around the lake also has souvenir shops to buy little curios! If that was not enough, there is a camel outside the lake that offers tourists camel rides, right by the lake! Or, ditch everything and sit in the rock stairs of the lake with your better half, and enjoy the sunset in solitude and silence! You can also indulge in some good old boating or get a taste of the endearing cruise boat at Sukhna which is a solar-powered boat that has a seating arrangement for 25 people. Snacks are also available on - board, which make the experience even more fun. There is a trampoline jump available for kids.
How to Reach Sukhna Lake
Chandigarh has an excellent bus service managed by Chandigarh Transport Undertaking. It is a very convenient method of travelling to Sukhna Lake. If you are staying in a location close to the lake, auto rickshaws are just apt. Alternatively, the best way to reach Sukhna Lake is through a taxi.