**Q:** When is the best time to visit Chandigarh? **A:** The best time is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
**Q:** Is Chandigarh in Punjab or Haryana? **A:** Neither. It is a Union Territory that serves as the shared capital of both states.
**Q:** Who designed the city? **A:** The master plan and major architectural works were designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.
**Q:** What is the Rock Garden? **A:** It is a massive sculpture garden created by Nek Chand out of recycled industrial, urban, and domestic waste.
**Q:** Does Chandigarh have an airport? **A:** Yes, Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport handles domestic and limited international flights.
**Q:** Is there a Metro train system in Chandigarh? **A:** Not currently, though a Mass Rapid Transit System is in the planning and approval stages.
**Q:** Is Chandigarh safe for tourists? **A:** Yes, it is considered one of the safest and best-policed cities in India.
**Q:** Why is there no Sector 13 in Chandigarh? **A:** Le Corbusier considered the number 13 unlucky. However, in 2020, the administration renamed the Manimajra area as Sector 13.
**Q:** What is the Open Hand Monument? **A:** Designed by Le Corbusier, it is a giant metal hand that rotates with the wind, symbolizing peace.
**Q:** Can you boat on Sukhna Lake? **A:** Yes, pedal and rowing boats are available for hire, though motorized boats are banned to protect the ecosystem.
**Q:** What is the "Tricity"? **A:** The Tricity refers to the contiguous urban area of Chandigarh, Mohali (Punjab), and Panchkula (Haryana).
**Q:** What language is spoken in Chandigarh? **A:** Hindi, Punjabi, and English are widely spoken and understood.
**Q:** Are traffic rules really that strict? **A:** Yes. Chandigarh Police strictly enforce speed limits, helmet laws, and zebra crossing rules. Fines are issued promptly.
**Q:** Where is the main shopping district? **A:** Sector 17 Plaza is the traditional high-street hub, while Elante Mall in the Industrial Area is the largest modern shopping mall.
**Q:** Can I visit the Capitol Complex? **A:** Yes, but because it houses high-security government buildings, you need to obtain a tourist permit, which is available online or at the tourist center.
**Q:** Does it snow in Chandigarh? **A:** No, Chandigarh does not receive snow, though nearby Himalayan foothills (like Shimla) do.
**Q:** What is the food culture like? **A:** It is heavily influenced by Punjabi cuisine—expect excellent Chole Bhature, Butter Chicken, and stuffed Parathas.
**Q:** Is tap water safe to drink? **A:** While the municipality supplies clean water, it is highly recommended for visitors to drink filtered or bottled water.
**Q:** Are there good medical facilities? **A:** Yes, Chandigarh is home to PGIMER, one of India’s top medical research institutes, along with numerous excellent private hospitals.
**Q:** What is the famous festival held in February? **A:** The Festival of Gardens (formerly the Rose Festival), held at the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, showcasing thousands of blooming flowers.
