Chandigarh has unveiled a transformative tourism plan aimed at enhancing its global appeal. The initiative includes iconic projects like the Museum of Knowledge and a world-class concert centre, designed to celebrate the city’s rich heritage, architectural legacy, and natural beauty. These projects will position Chandigarh as a cultural and educational hub, attracting international visitors and boosting India’s tourism footprint.
Chandigarh’s tourism sector is set to undergo a significant transformation with the announcement of several key projects in the city’s Tourism Master Plan. The plan includes the revival of iconic structures and the development of new, world-class attractions aimed at enhancing the city’s cultural, educational, and natural heritage. Among the major initiatives are the establishment of the ‘Museum of Knowledge’ at the Capitol Complex, a state-of-the-art concert centre at Sarangpur, a Digital Museum showcasing Chandigarh’s history and Le Corbusier’s work, and major upgrades to the Natural History Museum in Sector 10, alongside enhancements to Rock Garden and key city parks.
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The Chandigarh Tourism Department, under the leadership of the UT Home Secretary and Secretary of Tourism, presented the comprehensive plan before the Governor of Punjab and UT Administrator at Punjab Raj Bhawan. The ambitious vision seeks to preserve and showcase Chandigarh’s unique identity while integrating modern, sustainable tourist experiences.
Revival of Le Corbusier’s Vision: The ‘Museum of Knowledge’
One of the most exciting aspects of the plan is the revival of the ‘Museum of Knowledge’, an idea originally conceived by the renowned architect Le Corbusier. Although the museum was never built, it was meant to be an integral part of the Capitol Complex, situated between the Legislative Assembly, Secretariat, and High Court. The museum was designed to serve as a hub for innovation, research, and global knowledge exchange, combining heritage with futuristic learning spaces.
The revived project will adhere to Le Corbusier’s original design, and experts such as architects, art historians, and other professionals will be involved to ensure the museum’s authenticity and relevance in the modern era. This long-term project will be submitted for UNESCO’s approval due to its location within the Capitol Complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The development of the museum will be a significant step in not only honoring the legacy of Le Corbusier but also offering a platform for intellectual and cultural exchange.
Concert Centre in Sarangpur: A New Cultural Landmark
Another significant project outlined in the Master Plan is the creation of a world-class concert centre in Sarangpur. Spread across 25 acres, the venue is designed to host large-scale concerts and international events, attracting both local and global audiences. The facility will feature a stage with a ramp, surrounded by audience space on three sides, and a fan pit. With a capacity of 35,000 people, the concert centre will also include parking space for up to 6,300 cars. The estimated cost for the project is Rs 35 crore, with construction expected to begin in the next financial year. This addition aims to establish Chandigarh as a prime destination for music and cultural events, further enriching the city’s tourism offerings.
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Upgrading the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in Sector 10 is set for a major overhaul to transform it into a modern and interactive educational experience. The upgraded museum will showcase India’s rich biodiversity, the evolution of life, geology, and environmental sciences. A highlight of the new museum will be a 7D-360-degree experience, offering visitors an immersive journey through Earth’s history, including a helicopter simulator that allows users to experience the world of dinosaurs from above.
The museum’s design will prioritize interactivity and family-friendly features, including dedicated children’s discovery zones and various scientific installations. The static museum exhibitions will be relocated to the second floor, allowing for an expansive, interactive experience on the ground level. The upgrade aims to make the museum a popular educational and tourist attraction for all age groups.
Digital Museum to Celebrate Le Corbusier’s Legacy
A Digital Museum dedicated to Le Corbusier’s work and the architectural heritage of Chandigarh is also in the pipeline. Located at the Le Corbusier Centre in Sector 19, this museum will integrate modern technology such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) to create an immersive experience. The museum will highlight Le Corbusier’s contributions to the city’s design and architecture while offering visitors a deeper understanding of Chandigarh’s rich history.
The project, which is estimated to cost Rs 15 crore, has already submitted its detailed project report for approval from the central government. Once approved, the development will begin, allowing Chandigarh to further solidify its position as a hub for architectural tourism.
Enhancing Rock Garden and Major Parks
In addition to these new projects, the Chandigarh Tourism Master Plan outlines significant improvements to existing attractions such as Rock Garden and Dhanas Lake. These enhancements aim to boost the visitor experience by providing better amenities and more comfortable spaces.
At Rock Garden, plans include beautifying the entry area, adding new signage, and establishing a theme-based café to enhance the overall visitor experience. Dhanas Lake will undergo beautification, with new pathways, parking facilities, and sitting arrangements being added to make it a more inviting and accessible location for tourists and locals alike.
Promoting Eco-Tourism and Cultural Circuits
The Tourism Master Plan also focuses on promoting eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism within and around Chandigarh. By integrating heritage, nature, and modern attractions, the plan envisions creating cultural circuits that will attract tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. These circuits will highlight the city’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance, making Chandigarh an even more attractive destination for global travelers.
With these visionary projects, Chandigarh aims to strengthen its position as a prominent tourist destination, celebrating its unique heritage while embracing modernity and sustainability. The master plan’s emphasis on education, culture, and innovation will undoubtedly transform the city’s tourism landscape for years to come.
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