Introduction

Like almost of Chandigarh, Sukhna Lake too owes its origin to the French architect Le Corbusier. While designing the modern city of Chandigarh, Le Corbusier and his team dammed a season stream called Sukhna Choe near the foothills of the Shivalik range. Creating an artificial lake some 3 kilometers in wide, Sukha Choe was became a part of Chandigarh as Sukhna Lake.

A popular and scenic recreational area, the Lake is also a venue for water sports activities such as boating, sailing, kayaking and water skiing. It even hosted the Asian Rowing Championships once. The Lake is also a popular venue for cultural events. Sukhna Lake’s favorable environment provides temporary homes to exotic migrating birds like the Siberian duck, storks and cranes, during the winters. This is a treat for ardent bird watchers. And then the locals head to the Lake, for the birds and the sports and many other activities that make Sukha Lake the city’s popular picnic spot.

It is the scenic beauty of the lake that attracts the most visitors. With the Shivaliks not too far behind and the natural cooling offered by the water, the manicured lawns around are favorite among families, especially those with little children. It also has a Lake Club, membership to which allows you access an on-site gym, indoor games, swimming pool, tennis courts.

The government has taken care to protect its beauty and for that they have banned vehicular traffic and motorboats. The lake has also been declared a National Wetland Area. Even the fish population of the lake is closely monitored and the indigenous fish are not allowed to grow beyond 30 cms in length.

To the north of the Lake and in proximity is a golf course, while the iconic Rock garden is a little to its west. Located within easy reach of other attractions in the city, Sukhna Lake is an ideal place to spend an evening after a hectic day of sightseeing in Chandigarh.

Special Attributes

Scenic, man-made lake designed by the French architect Le Corbusier

Nuisance

The venue is popular with locals and tourists and large crowds can be expected.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

On foot, cab, bus, autorickshaw

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Substantial. Wear a cap, sunglasses, and carry a bottle of drinking water

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions.

Tip

Visit during early hours of the morning or in the evening, as that is when you are most likely to spot exotic birds that flock to the lake.

Type of site

Lake