15 kms from Chandigarh on the Chandigarh-Patiala Road.

The zoo spreads over an extensive wooded area on the banks of the Ghaggar river. More than 100 different mammals, birds and reptiles are kept at the zoo. It also has a large population of lions and tigers which can be viewed from safari vehicles.

This unique garden laid out over several acres in the heart of Panchkula contains hundreds of species of cactii and succulents -- some of them extremely rare. It draws not only tourists but botanists.

10 kms from Chandigarh in Panchkula.

These two temples were pilgrimage spots long before Chandigarh came into being. The goddess Chandi gave her name to the city. These temples are typical examples of North Indian temple architecture. Attached to the Mansa Devi temple is a large garden of sacred plants.

116 km from Chandigarh.

This is the highest dam of its kind in the world; it spans the Satluj river. The hydroelectric station here provides power not only for Chandigarh but for Delhi and many other cities. A 40 square km reservoir, the Gobind Sagar stretches out behind the dam. Restaurant, boating facilities and accommodation are available.

23 kms from Chandigarh.

This high spur of the Shivaliks is a protected forest and a favorite spot for trekkers and nature lovers. One can definitely expect to see peacocks, rhesus monkeys and langoors; take the help of a Forest Ranger to get a glimpse of nilgai and sambhar and leopards. Several hotels, including Mountain Quail run by the Haryana Tourism Corporation offer accommodations.

77 km from Chandigarh.

A hill station popular for its unspoiled charm and quiet trails. At night one gets a lovely view of the lights of Chandigarh from here. Many reputed public schools are located near Kasauli.

107 kms from Chandigarh.

Built by the Maharaja of Patiala as a summer palace, Chail is now a posh hotel. Chail boasts the world's highest cricket pitch in addition to superb views of the mountains.

107 kms from Chandigarh.

This sprawling hill town, now the capital of Himachal Pradesh, was British India's summer capital. Excellent bus service makes it easily accessible from Chandigarh or one can travel by a charming meter gauge train. Shimla's attractions include the Mall and the Ridge, scores of grand old buildings including the Vice regal Lodge (now the Institute of Advanced Studies), the Jakhoo Temple with its hordes of monkeys, the thickly wooded Glen and Chadwick Falls, Annadale grounds and the Tibetan Bazaar. It is a major tourist destination and one will find plenty of accommodation and travel services.