A grand modern and well planned vision for independent India, the city was built in the 50s and 60s. You visit the Capitol Complex, the innovative Rock Gardens created out of scrap by Nek Chand, the Sukhna Lake and the Shopping Plaza in Sector 17. Lunch will be served some kilometres out of Chandigarh at the Mughal style seven-terrace Yadvindra Gardens at Pinjore, or at the Timber Trail Resort at Parwanoo which lies in the Himalayan foothills. By the enchanting railcar or by road, you proceed to Kandaghat, the bifurcation point to Chail . The night halt is at Chail's Palace Hotel, where a cultural programme offers a window into Himachal's culture.
Dinner is served here.
A Georgian mansion with spectacular views, the Palace Hotel was built as a summer retreat by the flamboyant Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh in the late 19th century. You can stroll through thick cedar forests - including the game sanctuary which has a variety of deer and pheasants. Or at 2444m check out the world's highest cricket pitch and polo ground. Then by luxury coach, along a well wooded highway, you drive 45 km to Shimla . Enroute you visit the Shilon Resort and the Kufri Nature Park.