Rock Garden

This is the premier attraction in Chandigarh since 1958. It was created by Nek Chand Saini. This was formed out of the urban waste materials found in the city. These urban wastes include tin cans, bottles, plates, broken plugs and saucers. These materials were formed into beautiful textures and patterns. There were many materials were formed out of these wastes. The place has series of chamber but the first phase is a small canyon. The place has broken ceramics of human and animal form.

One of the most unique and spectacular attractions in Chandigarh is the Rock Garden.  It is a classic example of innovation and recycling at its best.  Designed to look like a lost kingdom, this sprawling 40 acre garden is situated between the Capitol Complex and Sukhna Lake.

Set amidst waterfalls, plazas and various sculptures, the sight is something that the world has never seen before.

What makes this garden so impressive is the fact that everything in the garden is created from industrial and home waste and items that have been discarded.

Established in the form of an open-air exhibition hall, theatre trove and a miniature maze, the Rock garden is set in large mosaic courtyards connected by walled paths. Moreover, several important performances have taken place in this small but very artistic theatre. Enter into the most breathtaking arrangement of rocks, boulders, frames, broken chinaware, metal wires, broken bangles, play marbles and much more through a modest yet classy entrance. It is truly a treat to the eyes. The layout of the garden is built around the fantasy of a lost kingdom. The Rock garden displays sculptures made from everything from clay to auto parts which have aided in creating a world of palaces, soldiers, monkeys, village life, women and temples. This garden, which is without a single flower, is also the venue of the annual Teej Festival. During this time the entire garden lights up and attains a festive look.

The Rock Garden itself has 14 different chambers housing natural rock-formations which include a musician’s chamber and the main court (Darbar) where the king’s throne is placed.

This beautiful garden also has a very interesting history behind it. It was initially started secretly by Nak Chund in 1957. He was a road inspector in the Engineering Department of the Chandigarh Capital Project at the time and spent seven years (1958-1965) collecting natural material, urban and industrial waste. However, his work as discovered by the authorities in 1975 and in 1976, it was inaugurated as a public space. It even appeared on an Indian stamp in 1983.

The garden attracts more than 12 million visitors from around the world every year and is viewed as one of the modern wonders of the world.

Summer opening hours

(1st April to 30th September)

9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Winter opening hours

(1st October to 31st March)

9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The rock garden is open all seven days of a week.

Entry prices:
Rs. 5 for adults
Rs. 3 for children.