Chandigarh Explored

Places to Stay

The Kaptan's Retreat, Sector 35 B
The fact that this hotel with 10 rooms is partly owned by the city's best known resident, Kapil Dev is reason enough for some people to stay here. With cricketing memorabilia strewn all over the place, this one will be of special interest to those who love the game. You have the chance to sleep in rooms named after Kapil's individual cricketing achievements such as 432(His test Wickets, once a world record). At the smart multi-cuisine restaurant called Elevens, neighbours and arch rivals in the game India and Pakistan try to outdo each other even here, in the kebabs and meat varieites. The Lahori Boti Kebabs, nawabi shola and dahi kebabs take the match away ...

The Kaptan's Retreat,SCO 304 & 305

Tel (0172) 500 5599.

North Park,Panchkula
You may have not heard of this one, and the reason is that few people who frequent this hotel keep it a well guarded secret. Situated in a idyllic location, removed from the bustle of the city, North Park is a charming and quite getway. A great favourite with those who know its somewhat out of the way location, peace and tranquilty is very much a part of the package,as nothing but the birdsong and the gush of Ghaggar river flowing by disturbs the calm. Rooms are basic but offer all amenities ; and the service is as good as it gets.

Near Ghaggar Bridge,Panchkula
Tel(0172) 256 0205.

Food and Beverage Options

Hot Millions, Sector 17
One of the most popular restaurants in the city, this place has defined food dining in Chandigarh for decades. The food and service are both excellent and their pub Down Under captures some of the changes as a younger generation seeks to shed the city's image as a home for pensioners.

Tel (0172) 272 3333

Khyber, Sector 35
One of the best restaurants in the city, Khyber serves finger-licking good indian cuisine. The ambience is rustic, keeping with the ruggedness of the terrain it is named after, and the food is straight off the fire,without fancy garnishes. A variety of kebabs and innovative non veg dishes spice up the menu. The malai tangri kebab and palak paneer are highly recommended.

Tel( 0172) 260 7728.

Punjabi Dhabas
Pal and Swaran Dhabas top the list for some great non veg fare,especially the mutton apart from the standard dhaba dishes such as dal makhani. Another must try out is the Tehsil Singh Ka Dhaba, a favourite with the locals.

Pal Dhaba Sector 27.

Noodle Bar, Sector 26
This new restaurant is soon becoming everyone's favourite for Oriental food. Try out the many different types of noodles they can make, or simply order the plain old chilly chicken, its all guaranteed to be delicious. Watch out for the special food festivals.

SCO 47,Sector 26.