How to get to Chandigarh

Are you planning a trip to Chandigarh? This amazing city in the north of India, renowned as a masterpiece of urban planning and architecture, offers tourists a unique blend of modernity and green parks. Finding out how to get to Chandigarh is effortless: thanks to its developed infrastructure, you can easily reach here by plane, train, bus, or car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to start your journey is to fly directly into Chandigarh Airport (IXC). This modern aviation hub serves regular flights from many key metropolises in the country and features convenient navigation. The terminal is located quite close to the city limits, so the transfer to your hotel or the central sectors will take very little time.

For tourists arriving from abroad, flying via Delhi (DEL) is often the optimal alternative. The Indira Gandhi International Airport in the capital is the largest nearby international hub. From Delhi, you can easily reach Chandigarh via a short domestic flight (flight time is under an hour) or by taking a high-speed train or taxi.

Traveling by rail is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the city. Unlike many neighboring regions, it has its own major railway station, Chandigarh Junction, ensuring excellent connectivity with the country's key metropolises. The station is located within the city, allowing you to quickly and affordably reach your desired sector by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

Connectivity with New Delhi is considered particularly comfortable and is in high demand. Tourists often choose the high-speed Shatabdi Express trains, which run between the capital and Chandigarh several times a day. The journey on such an express takes less than 4 hours and takes place in modern air-conditioned coaches with meals included, turning the transfer into a pleasant and tireless part of your vacation.

Bus services connect the city to neighboring regions via high-quality highways, making the trip accessible and convenient. The route from Delhi, covering about 250 km, takes approximately 5 hours. This is one of the most popular routes, so departures are regular, offering travelers a choice between budget options and comfortable Volvo-class buses with air conditioning.

The scenic journey from Shimla takes about 4 hours; convenient connections are also established with the popular resort of Manali. In Chandigarh, logistics are organized through two major bus terminals: ISBT Sector 17 and ISBT Sector 43. These terminals serve different geographical directions, allowing for efficient traffic distribution and ensuring a comfortable transfer for passengers.

Traveling to Chandigarh by car is a great opportunity to appreciate the quality of local roads and the scenic landscapes along the way. A trip from neighboring Ludhiana will take just about 2 hours, as the cities are separated by approximately 100 km. If you are coming from the mountains, the descent from Shimla, spanning about 109 km, will require around 3 hours but will gift you unforgettable views of the Himalayan foothills.

The road from Dehradun will take a bit longer: the distance of 222 km can be covered in roughly 4 hours. For those who do not plan to drive themselves, booking an intercity taxi is a convenient option. Drivers often offer fixed rates for such trips, making the transfer comfortable and the cost predictable.

Preparing for your trip to Chandigarh will help make your journey as pleasant and carefree as possible. Although this city is considered one of the most organized and clean in India, knowing local nuances will be useful for every tourist.

1. Seasonal Clothing: Summer here can be very hot, so choose loose clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen, and do not forget a head covering. In winter (November to February), evenings can be cool, so a light jacket, sweater, or shawl will be necessary.
2. City Transport: The most convenient way to get around is by using ride-hailing apps (Uber or Ola), which operate reliably here. Auto-rickshaws are also popular, but it is important to agree on the price in advance if the driver refuses to use the meter.
3. Currency and Payments: In major shopping centres (such as Elante Mall), hotels, and restaurants in Sector 17, bank cards are accepted without issues. However, for paying fares, shopping at local markets, and in small cafes, always keep Indian Rupee cash handy, preferably in smaller denominations.
4. Health and Hygiene: As elsewhere in the region, drink only bottled water and check the seal integrity upon purchase. Chandigarh is known for a good standard of medical care, and pharmacies are found frequently, but having your own basic first-aid kit will save you time.
5. Language Barrier: English is widely spoken in the city, as it is the official language of the administration. Most locals working in the service sector will understand you well. The main spoken languages are Hindi and Punjabi.
6. Cultural Norms: When visiting religious sites (temples, gurdwaras), be sure to remove your shoes and cover your head with a scarf or cloth—this rule applies to both men and women. Attire should be modest, covering shoulders and knees.
7. Strict Cleanliness Rules: Avoid littering on the streets and smoking in public places. Chandigarh is a city with very strict civic maintenance rules, and the police actively fine tourists for littering or smoking outside designated zones.
8. Navigation by Sectors: The city is designed on a grid system and divided into numbered sectors, making orientation very simple. A curious detail: you will not find Sector No. 13 here, as the architect Le Corbusier considered this number unlucky.

By following these simple recommendations, you can fully focus on exploring the unique architecture and the famous Rock Garden without being distracted by minor domestic hassles. Chandigarh is a place where traditional hospitality harmoniously combines with order and comfort.