Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Chandigarh: 6 unusual, must-visit places

From classic to offbeat – take in this city’s unique sights and sounds. Le Corbusier’s oasis of sweeping boulevards and grand civic buildings is also home to genuine crafts, sinful local treats and unusual outdoor experiences.
1. Kalagram
In this artisan village, find a plethora of authentic handicrafts, handlooms and other crafted accessories, picked from different corners of the country. If you visit in the evenings, you might just catch a live folk or classical music performance.Where: Manimajra, Chandigarh 02
2. Palika BazaarLocals will tell you too, that the shopkeepers are friendly and entertain haggling bids. From cotton and silk bed linen and bright patterned crockery to differentkinds of furnishings and fabrics – you will find every possible home accessory at great deals.Where: 19D, Sector 19, Chandigarh 19
3. Cactus GardenStep into the outskirts of the well structured metropolitan and discover the land of the wild. The 7 acre lawn houses nearly 3,500 kinds of endangered spiked succulents. Ideal for those who think flowers are overrated.Where: Panchkula Urban Estate, Sector 5, Panchkula, Haryana 08
4. The Hidden Valley Located just outside Chandigarh, this eco-tourism camping and adventure site will make you forget big city living for all the right reasons. Try mountain biking, bungee jumping, rope climbing and even the wildlife safaris.Where: Pama Farms, Near Mata Jainti Devi Temple, Mohali 01Tel: (0160) 2784550
5. Pal DhabaThe roadside sit-out may fool you with its typical, ramshackled appearance, but the dishes here are aromatic and lip-smacking good. As soon as you see aloo parathas drenched in desi butter, you’ll know you’re in for the real deal.Where: 165-166, Sector 28D, Chandigarh 02Tel: (0172) 5078614
6. Garg ChaatTucked in a corner of a busy lane, this stall can be easily missed, but it’s a must-visit if you are unafraid of spicy savouries. From crunchy gol gappas to crisp tikkis – it is a complete delight for evergreen street food lovers.Where: SCO 34, Sector 23, Chandigarh 22Tel: (0) 9988337676
For more secret addresses in your hometown, get our Diwali booklet that comes free with our October –November 2015 issue
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