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Kasauli
Kasauli (77 km from Chandigarh)
For people sick of the hum-drum life of the city and looking for a
peaceful weekend, the best place to head for is Kasauli. A charming little
hill station, situated at a height of 1928 metres, Kasauli is visible from
any part in Chandigarh. With hardly any traffic, Kasauli is one of the
quietest hill stations in India, and it this quietude that makes a serene,
soothing weekend possible. Densely covered with pine and oak trees, this
picturesque town rejuvenate one's spirits fully.
Pinjore
Yadavindra Gardens
(20 kms from Chandigarh on the Pinjore Kalka Road) 
This is a traditional Mughal garden, created in the 17th century by Nawab
Fidal Khan, architect to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. According to Hindu
mythology, the Pandava brothers rested at this place during their exile.
The gardens are laid out over more than 100 acres on a sloping site with
fountains and pavilions. It is open on all days and accommodation is
available at Rang Mahal and Sheesh Mahal.
Bhima Devi Temple
(22 kms from Chandigarh on the Pinjore Kalka Road)
The shrine, a part of the Panchayatan group of temples, dates back to the
11th and 14th centuries. Ancient idols unearthed from this spot are on
display.
Chattbir Zoo
(15 kms from Chandigarh on the Chandigarh-Patiala Road)
The zoo spreads over an extensive wooded area on the banks of the Ghaggar
river. More than 100 different types of mammals, birds and reptiles are
kept at the zoo. It also has a large population of lions and tigers, which
can be viewed from safari vehicles.
Cactus Garden
This unique garden laid out over several acres in the heart of Panchkula
contains hundreds of species of cacti and succulents, some of which are
extremely rare. The garden attracts not only tourists but also botanists.
Mansa
Devi & Chandi Mandir
(10 kms from Chandigarh in Panchkula)
These two temples were pilgrimage spots long before Chandigarh came into
being. These temples are typical examples of North Indian temple
architecture. Attached to the Mansa Devi Temple is a large garden of
sacred plants.
Bhakra-Nangal
(116 km from Chandigarh) Built over the Satluj River, it is the highest
dam of its kind in the world. The hydroelectric station here provides
power not only for Chandigarh but also for Delhi and many other cities. A
40 square km reservoir, the Gobind Sagar stretches out behind the dam.
Restaurant, boating facilities and accommodation are available.
Morni
Hills 
(23 kms from Chandigarh)
This high spur of the Shivaliks is a protected forest and a favourite
spot for trekkers and nature lovers. One can definitely expect to see
peacocks, rhesus monkeys and langoors. Take the help of a Forest Ranger to
get a glimpse of Nilgai and Sambhar and Leopards. Several hotels,
including Mountain Quail run by the Haryana Tourism Corporation offer
accommodation.
Chail
(107 kms from Chandigarh)
Built by the Maharaja of Patiala as a summer palace, Chail is now a posh
hotel. Chail boasts of the world's highest cricket pitch in addition to
superb views of the mountains.
Shimla
(107 kms from Chandigarh)
This sprawling hill town, now the capital of Himachal Pradesh, was
British India's summer capital. Excellent bus service makes it easily
accessible from Chandigarh or one can travel by a charming metre gauge
train. Shimla's attractions include the Mall, the Ridge, scores of grand
old buildings including the Vice regal Lodge (now the Institute of
Advanced Studies), the Jakhoo Temple with its hordes of monkeys, the
thickly wooded Glen and Chadwick Falls, Annadale grounds and the Tibetan
Bazaar. It is a major tourist destination and one will find plenty of
accommodation and travel services.