Sukhna Lake Chandigarh

Overview

Sukhna Lake is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Chandigarh, India. It is a man-made lake that was created by damming the Sukhna Choe stream. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for boating, picnics, and jogging. It is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

 

Entry Fee

Free

Visit Timings

5:00 AM To 9:00 PM

Things To Do

  1. Boating
  2. Walking and running
  3. Birdwatching
  4. Photography
  5. Events, Shows and Performances
  6. Le Corbusier Sketches
  7. Portrait Artists
  8. CITCO cafeteria
  9. Souvenir Shops
  10. Chandigarh symbol
  11. Peepal tree at Sukhna Lake
  12. The Garden of Silence
Sukhna lake chandigarh

Overview & History

Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake located in the city of Chandigarh, India. It is a popular tourist destination and a beloved spot for locals to enjoy recreational activities and soak in the natural beauty of the area. The lake is situated at the foot of the Shivalik Hills and covers an area of approximately 3 square kilometers.

The history of Sukhna Lake dates back to the 1950s when it was created as part of the master plan for the city of Chandigarh. The lake was designed by Le Corbusier, the famous French architect who also designed much of the city. The lake was formed by damming the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream that flows through the city. It was originally intended to be a source of drinking water for the city but has since become a popular spot for recreational activities and a beloved landmark in Chandigarh.

Timings to Visit Sukhna Lake Chandigarh

It is open 365 days a year. The entry timings to visit the place is 5 in the morning till 9 in the night. If you just want to cover the whole track of the lake on foot then it may take around 2.5 hours. It is one of the best places for picnics, school trips, college trips and regular outings.

Sukhna Lake Chandigarh Entry Fee

There is no entry fee for Sukhna Lake. But yes, you need to pay for some Recreational activities at Sukhna Lake such as Boating and the Children’s park.

How To Reach Sukhna Lake?

To reach the sukhna lake, one can take a taxi or auto rickshaw from any part of the city. The lake is also easily accessible by bus, as it is a major tourist attraction in Chandigarh. The nearest railway station is the Chandigarh Railway Station, which is about 4 kilometers away from the lake. The nearest airport is the Chandigarh International Airport, which is about 10 kilometers away from the lake. One can also rent a bicycle or take a leisurely walk to the lake, as it is located in the center of the city and is easily accessible.

You can use this google map for the right direction to reach Sukhna lake, you just need to add your current location and it will show you the appropriate time and distance to Sukhna lake.

 

Things to do at Sukhna Lake

Boating on Sukhna lake chandigarh

1. Boating

Sukhna Lake is a popular spot for a wide variety of recreational activities. One of the most popular activities at the lake is boating, which is available for visitors to enjoy from sunrise to sunset. Boats can be rented from the boat club, which is located on the western shore of the lake. In addition to traditional rowboats, visitors can also rent pedal boats and electric boats.

The pricing varies for each type of boat:

Boat

Charges

Paddle Boat

The cost for two people is Rs. 250, and a security deposit of Rs. 250 is required and will be refunded upon completion of the activity. 

A refundable security fee of Rs. 500 is required for a group of four people.

Cruise Boat

The cost is 325 rupees per person for a duration of about half an hour.

Donut/Phonton Boat

Each person will be charged Rs. 450 for a 30-minute duration.

Shikara Boat

Rs 450 for two people for 30 minutes

Rs 225(Additional Person) Inc. GST

2. Walking and running

Walking and running are also popular activities at Sukhna Lake, and the lake has a 3-kilometer-long promenade that is perfect for these activities. The promenade is a popular spot for locals to take a leisurely stroll or to get in a workout. There are also designated areas for yoga and other fitness activities within the lake area.

3. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is another activity that is enjoyed by many visitors to Sukhna Lake. The lake is home to a wide variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, cormorants, and kingfishers. The lake is also a popular spot for migratory birds, and many birdwatchers come to the lake to catch a glimpse of these rare species.

Photography at Sukhna lake chandigarh

4. Photography

Sukhna Lake is also considered one of the best spots for nature photography. The lake’s beautiful surroundings and various landmarks and structures make it a great location for photography.

5. Events, Shows, and Performances

The lake hosts various events and performances throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, plays, and the IAF’s air show. 

Le Corbusier Sketches at Sukhna Lake

6. Le Corbusier Sketches

If you are a true Chandigarhian, you might know about Le Corbusier. Have you seen these sketches made by him? If you are still wondering where they are, look around to find them on your next visit and get clicked in front of these sketches.

7. Portrait Artists

Tourists who visit Sukhna lake in Chandigarh often get a portrait made. You’ll find portrait artists sitting in the front area of the lake who make live sketches. Get a sketch made by them and carry memories of the city of Chandigarh wherever you go. 

The charges for making a live sketch are Rs. 200 to Rs. 500.

CITCO cafeteria at sukhna lake chandigarh
CITCO cafeteria menu at sukhna lake chandigarh

8. CITCO cafeteria

This is the CITCO cafeteria at Sukhna Lake. There is an indoor restaurant too, but people prefer sitting outside to enjoy the view. The white tables and chairs are really heavy. Have you tried to drag them? If not, try it on your next visit. They depict the heritage of the city of Chandigarh.

Souvenir Shops at sukhna lake chandigarh
chandigarh Souvenirs shop at sukhna lake

9. Souvenir Shops

These souvenir shops are managed by Chandigarh Administration and you can find some good gift items relating to the city of Chandigarh from here. Have you been inside this shop? If not, then go inside and have a look at the things displayed.

Chandigarh symbol at sukhna lake

10. Chandigarh symbol

It says Chandigarh is the city of peace. Whenever you visit it, you’ll find people sitting inside the Chandigarh symbol to get clicked. Well, your visit to Chandigarh cannot be considered complete if you haven’t clicked a selfie with the open hand symbol.

Peepal tree at Sukhna Lake

11. Peepal tree at Sukhna Lake

The Peepal tree at Sukhna Lake is a popular destination for many visitors to the lake. The tree is believed to have spiritual significance and is often visited by those seeking blessings or seeking peace and solitude. 

The tree is located on the banks of the lake and provides a shady spot to rest and take in the beautiful surroundings. Visitors to the tree often sit under its branches or walk around it, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the sounds of the lake. 

The Peepal tree is an important part of the natural beauty of Sukhna Lake and adds to the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of the area.

The Garden of Silence at sukhna lake chandigarh
The Garden of Silence at sukhna lake

12. The Garden of Silence

The Garden of Silence is a peaceful and serene spot located at the end of Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. A garden is a place where visitors can find peace and solitude, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The garden is surrounded by beautiful trees and plants and features a large pond in the center. Visitors to the garden often sit by the pond and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or take a walk along the paths that wind through the garden. 

The Garden of Silence is a perfect place to relax and unwind and is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful respite from the stresses of daily life.

 

Nature Interpretation Centre at sukhna lake

13. Nature Interpretation Centre

The Nature Interpretation Centre at Sukhna Lake is a visitor centre that provides information about the local environment and natural history of the area. The centre offers exhibits and interactive displays that teach visitors about the flora and fauna of the lake and surrounding region. It also provides educational programs and activities for people of all ages. The centre is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and is known for its beautiful setting and commitment to environmental conservation.

 

Sukhna Lake

Interesting facts about Sukhna lake

Cultural significance of Sukhna Lake

Sukhna Lake holds great cultural significance for the people of Chandigarh. It is a popular destination for morning and evening walks, picnics, and other recreational activities. The lake is also a popular venue for cultural events and festivals, such as the Sukhna Lake Festival, which is held every year in the month of December.

The lake is also an important site for spiritual and religious ceremonies, such as the Chappar Mela, a Hindu festival held every year in honor of the god Lord Shiva. The lake is also home to several temples and shrines, including the Shivalik Temple, which is located on the banks of the lake.

 

Sukhna Lake as Bird Sanctuary

Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh is a popular bird sanctuary and is home to a variety of bird species. The lake is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by lush gardens and parks, which provide a natural habitat for many species of birds. Some of the birds that can be found at Sukhna Lake include pelicans, ducks, geese, cormorants, and herons. 

The lake is also home to a number of migratory birds, including Siberian cranes, which visit the lake every winter. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often visit Sukhna Lake to observe and photograph the various bird species that call the lake home. Sukhna Lake is a beautiful and important habitat for a wide variety of birds and is an important part of the natural beauty of Chandigarh.

 

Conservation efforts at Sukhna Lake

The lake has faced several challenges over the years, including pollution and overuse. In recent years, there have been several efforts to preserve and protect the lake, including the creation of the Sukhna Lake Development Authority (SLDA) in 2010. The SLDA is responsible for the development and maintenance of the lake and its surrounding areas.

There have also been several environmental initiatives undertaken to protect the lake, including the installation of water treatment plants, the removal of invasive plant species, and the creation of a wetland ecosystem. These efforts have helped to improve the water quality and ecology of the lake, making it a more attractive and sustainable destination for visitors.

 

Information for visitors at sukhna lake

How can Citizens help keep Sukhna Lake Clean and Safe?

Sukhna Lake is an important natural resource in Chandigarh, and as a citizen, there are several things you can do to help keep it clean and safe:

  1. Avoid littering: Do not throw trash or other materials into the lake or on its shores. Instead, properly dispose of trash in designated receptacles.
  2. Respect the environment: Do not damage plants or wildlife in the lake or its surroundings.
  3. Follow the rules: Follow any rules and regulations set by the lake authorities, such as those related to swimming or boating.
  4. Participate in clean-up efforts: Join or organize community clean-up events to help remove litter and debris from the lake and its shores.
  5. Educate others: Spread awareness about the importance of keeping the lake clean and safe, and encourage others to do their part in protecting this important natural resource.
  6. Support initiatives to protect the lake: Support efforts to protect and restore the lake, such as fundraising campaigns or advocacy efforts.

By following these guidelines, you can help keep Sukhna Lake clean and safe while also ensuring that it remains an essential community resource.

 

How can Tourists help keep Sukhna Lake Clean and Safe?

Tourists can help keep Sukhna Lake clean and safe by following the same guidelines as local citizens. Specifically, tourists can:

  1. Avoid littering: Do not throw trash or other materials into the lake or on its shores. Instead, properly dispose of trash in designated receptacles.
  2. Respect the environment: Do not damage plants or wildlife in the lake or its surroundings.
  3. Follow the rules: Follow any rules and regulations set by the lake authorities, such as those related to swimming or boating.
  4. Participate in clean-up efforts: Join or organize community clean-up events to help remove litter and debris from the lake and its shores.
  5. Educate others: Spread awareness about the importance of keeping the lake clean and safe, and encourage others to do their part in protecting this important natural resource.
  6. Support initiatives to protect the lake: support efforts to protect and restore the lake, such as fundraising campaigns or advocacy efforts.

By following these guidelines, tourists can help to preserve and protect Sukhna Lake for future generations to enjoy.

 

After Visiting Sukhna Lake, Where Can You Visit Next?

Here is a table that shows the distance from Sukhna Lake to various tourist attractions in Chandigarh.

Attraction

Distance (km)

Bird Park Chandigarh

1.1 km

Rock Garden

2.1 km

Government Museum and Art Gallery

4.2 km

Zakir Hussain Rose Garden

4.6 km

Le Corbusier Centre

4.8 km

Shanti Kunj Garden

5.6 km

ISKCON Temple

7.4 km

Terraced Garden

7.5 km

FAQs about Sukhna Lake

Sukhna is a sanctuary for many exotic migratory birds like the Siberian duck, storks and cranes, during the winter months. The lake has been declared as a protected national wetland by the Government of India.

 

Best time to visit Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh – The right time to visit the lake is between mid-January and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and ideal for boating.

 

Sukhna Lake is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Sector 1, Chandigarh, India. This route has an elevation gain of about 478.9 ft and is rated as hard.

 

It’s open all day. As early as 5:00 AM people come here for morning walk and generally people can be seen there until 9:00 PM. As regards boating, the timings are from 9.30 am to 6.00 pm.

 

During the winter, Sukhna is a safe haven for many rare migratory birds, like the Siberian duck, storks, and cranes. The Government of India has said that the lake is a national wetland that needs to be protected.

 

Sukhna Lake is a 1.5-mile (3,500-step) path in Sector 1 of Chandigarh, India. This route has an elevation gain of around 478.9 feet and is classified as difficult.

 

Sukhna Lake, Sector 1, Chandigarh 160001.

 

Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, India was built by the French architect and urban planner, Le Corbusier. He designed the city of Chandigarh, and the lake was built as part of his plan for the city. The lake was created by damming a seasonal stream and was completed in 1958.

 

 

Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, India was built by the French architect and urban planner, Le Corbusier. He designed the city of Chandigarh, and the lake was built as part of his plan for the city. The lake was created by damming a seasonal stream and was completed in 1958.

 

 

Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake in the city of Chandigarh, India. It was built by the French architect and urban planner, Le Corbusier, as part of his plan for the city. The lake was created by damming a seasonal stream and was completed in 1958.

 

Sukhna Lake is considered as one of the most beautiful and serene places in Chandigarh. It serves as a popular spot for locals and tourists alike for boating, picnicking, and bird watching. It also serves as a hub for several recreational activities such as yoga, walking, jogging and much more.

 

Sukhna Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors such as boating, picnicking, bird watching, yoga, walking, jogging, and more. It also has beautiful gardens, playgrounds and a Rock Garden nearby.

 

Swimming is not allowed in Sukhna Lake.

 

The best time to visit Sukhna Lake is during the early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler and the lake is less crowded.

 

Visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, bird watching, yoga, walking, jogging, and more at Sukhna Lake.

 

There are a number of restaurants and food options near Sukhna Lake, offering a variety of cuisines.

 

Sukhna Lake is accessible by wheel chair.

 

Boating facilities are available at Sukhna Lake, which include pedal boats, row boats and motor boats.

 

Restrooms and bathrooms are available at Sukhna Lake for the convenience of visitors.

 

There is no fee for visiting Sukhna Lake.

 

Yes, parking facilities are available at Sukhna Lake for visitors.

 

Yes, there are some rules that should be followed at Sukhna Lake such as no swimming, no littering, no smoking, no loud music, and no disturbing the wildlife.

 

Yes, visitors can take photographs at Sukhna Lake but should not use flash photography or disturb the wildlife while doing so.