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The manmade picturesque Sukhna lake in the foothills of
Shivalik range is an idyllic place for quiet communion with nature and for
offering water sports activities such as boating, yachting, water skiing,
etc. The creation of Lake was one of the greatest gifts from Le Corbusier
and P. L. Varma, the Chief Engineer. To preserve its tranquility Corbusier
insisted that it be forbidden to motor boats and the top of the promenade
prohibited to vehicular traffic.
The
roof of the elegantly landscaped dam has become a favourite promenade.
Serious 'walkers' pursue an exercise regime, families enjoy an evening
stroll and nature lovers mingle with children on roller skates, to partake
of this extraordinary amenity.
Beauty Captured
Photographers and painters love to capture its scenic beauty of the
setting sun, or the heavily clouded monsoon sky, or the early morning mist
in winter set amidst the tranquility of the lake. Even anglers do not
leave unrewarded.
The evenings see Sukhna again coming alive with tourists, and families
thronging the promenade, the Chef Lakeview, Citco's fast food joint, shops
and of course the jetty for a boat ride. For children there are a number
of joy rides and a mini train. As night descends, the lights from the hill
resort of Kasauli reflect in the lake and present a bewitching sight.
Bird's Paradise
Sukhna is a sanctuary for many exotic migratory birds like the Siberian
duck, Storks and Cranes, during the winter months. The Lake has been
declared as a protected national wetland by the Government of India.
Venue For Activities
Sukhna Lake has played host to many festive celebrations too. The most
popular is the Mango Festival
held during the monsoons when scores of varieties of mangoes are on
display. From time-to-time other food festivals, featuring specialities
from different Indian
States , are also held here, alongwith cultural performances.
The Lake, which was the venue for the Asian Rowing Championships, has the
longest channel for rowing and yachting events in Asia. It also has
facilities for other water sports like water surfing, skiing etc.
How To Get There
Air: Chandigarh
is linked to Delhi by
twice weekly (Wednesday and Friday ). Indian Airlines flights from Delhi
and to Amritsar. The airport is 11kms from downtown. Taxis are available
for airport transfer.
Rail: Chandigarh is linked with its principal gateway city,
Delhi .
Road: Chandigarh is well connected by road and buses provide an
important transport link. There are services from various states such as-
Haryana. Punjab, Himachal, Delhi and Chandigarh.
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