The Rock Garden of Chandigarh is a unique sculpture garden in Chandigarh, India, also known as Nek Chand's Rock Garden after its founder Nek Chand Saini, a government official who started the garden secretly in his spare time in 1957. It is completely built of industrial and home waste and discarded items. The garden is spread over an area of 40 acres and is completely made up of recycled materials.
The Rock Garden is located in the city of Chandigarh in the Indian state of Punjab. It is situated near the Sukhna Lake in Sector 1 of Chandigarh.
Visitors can expect to see an array of sculptures made from recycled materials such as broken ceramics, glass, bangles, tiles, and waste metal wires. The garden is also adorned with man-made interlinked waterfalls, and the pathways and walls are decorated with mosaic art.
The Rock Garden is open every day. The standard visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during summers and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during winters. It is advisable to check the latest timings before planning your visit as they may vary.
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visitors to enter The Rock Garden. The fee is relatively small and goes towards the maintenance of the garden. The rates may vary for Indian nationals and foreign tourists, and there are often separate rates for adults and children.
Visitors should ideally allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore The Rock Garden thoroughly. The garden spans across a large area with numerous sculptures, waterfalls, and courtyards to see.
Yes, photography is allowed inside The Rock Garden, and it is a popular spot for photographers given its unique landscape and artistry. However, visitors might have to pay an additional fee if they are carrying professional photography equipment.
The best time to visit The Rock Garden is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the outdoor setup. Early mornings or late afternoons are generally the best times of the day to visit.
Basic facilities like drinking water, restrooms, and a small snack shop are available for visitors at The Rock Garden. There are also benches and shaded areas where visitors can rest.
The Rock Garden has pathways that may be navigable by wheelchair, but given the rustic nature of the garden with uneven surfaces and steps in certain areas, it might be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.