Le Corbusier & Pierre Jeanneret’s Architecture Guided Private Tour

Capitol Complex - • Explore the Capitol Complex, featuring the Open Hand monuments. Discover the true story behind it, not the version promoted by the city’s government. Learn facts that aren’t available on Google.
• Enjoy pre-arranged passes and completed paperwork to visit the parliamentary building, also designed by Corbusier, which is typically off-limits to the public.
• Visit the expansive 12+ acre sculpture garden made entirely from ceramic and construction waste, and hear the tale of the rogue artist who kept its origins hidden from the government for 18 years.
• Dine at a 40-year-old Punjabi eatery known for its authentic goat curry and chicken korma.
• See public housing still standing, designed by Corbusier in his minimalist style.
• Explore various public office buildings designed by Pierre Jeanneret.
• And more!

Le Corbusier Centre - Nestled in the residential sector 19, this museum/memorial center is dedicated to Chandigarh’s founding architect, Le Corbusier. The original building, once an architecture office, is now the Le Corbusier Museum.
Enjoy a hassle-free visit with pre-purchased tickets. The tour includes fascinating exhibits with iconic photographs and original documentation chronicling Chandigarh’s formation. View rare archives, including blueprints and sketches by Le Corbusier, offering deep insights into his revolutionary urban planning concepts. Explore interactive displays and models that vividly illustrate the city’s development, making your visit both educational and uniquely special. Immerse yourself in the legacy of one of the 20th century’s greatest architects!

Gandhi Bhawan - This iconic building, one of Chandigarh’s most recognizable structures, is located within Punjab University, entirely designed by the renowned architect Pierre Jeanneret. The Bhawan’s distinctive lotus-shaped structure, surrounded by a reflective pool, symbolizes peace and tranquility. Inside, explore the central hall, which houses a rich collection of photographs, manuscripts, and personal items of Gandhi, providing profound insights into his life and philosophy. Discover intriguing details about Jeanneret’s design principles and the building’s role as a hub for academic and cultural activities. This tour offers a unique blend of architectural brilliance and historical significance, making your visit to Gandhi Bhawan truly memorable.

Relax and enjoy a seamless experience with pre-purchased entry tickets!

Chandigarh Architecture Museum - Experience this remarkable museum housed in a building designed by Le Corbusier himself. Explore original blueprints, detailed scale models, and an extensive collection of photographs documenting Chandigarh’s transformation from a visionary plan to a vibrant city. Delve into personal correspondence and sketches from Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret, gaining unique insights into their creative genius. Engage with interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations that bring the city’s architectural marvels to life. Witness the story of Chandigarh written from scratch—from pre-independent India to its current cultural iconic status. This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the meticulous planning and innovative design that make Chandigarh a global icon of modern urbanism.

Enjoy a hassle-free visit with pre-purchased entry tickets!

Museum Maison Jeanneret - Enjoy a rare visit to the first house constructed in Chandigarh, now a museum. Originally the residence of Pierre Jeanneret for 11 years, a key collaborator of Le Corbusier, this house showcases his innovative design principles. Built in the 1950s, Maison Jeanneret reflects the modernist architecture characteristic of Chandigarh’s urban planning, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and functional design.
Explore the meticulously preserved interiors, where you’ll find mid-century modern furniture designed by Jeanneret himself. The minimalist aesthetic and use of local materials like teak wood highlight his practical yet elegant approach. Discover rare photographs, sketches, and personal artifacts that provide a glimpse into Jeanneret’s life and his pivotal role in shaping Chandigarh.
Gain rare access to the garden and verandas, reflecting his architectural philosophy of seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces. Tickets are already included!

Open Hand Monument - Gain insider access to the crowning jewel symbol of Chandigarh, a symbol of peace and unity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about Le Corbusier’s vision, and if you’re lucky on a windy day, see the hand gently sway with the wind, embodying flexibility and openness.
Capture photos and give a speech in the assembly pit, next to the judiciary and the legislation of Chandigarh.
Discover the real story behind this site—is it still used for its original purpose?

Chandigarh’s Parks, Food & Urban Life - Hipster, Alternative Fun

Leisure Valley - Today, explore the “lungs” of the city—its expansive interactive parks. Discover why Chandigarh’s linear park system, stretching over 8 kilometers, is the city’s pride. Begin at Rajendra Park, known for its lush landscapes and open spaces perfect for a morning walk or yoga. Next, explore the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, home to over 1,600 varieties of roses and numerous fountains, creating a fragrant paradise. Visit the Garden of Fragrance, where aromatic flowers and plants create a sensory delight.

With its blend of gardens, open spaces, and recreational areas, Leisure Valley is not just a park but a vital green artery that breathes life into Chandigarh, providing residents and tourists with a perfect escape from the urban hustle.

Government Museum and Art Gallery - Designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier and inaugurated in 1968, the building itself is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. As your guide, explore the museum’s diverse exhibits, including Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings, and a significant collection of contemporary Indian art. The museum’s unique feature is its extraordinary display of antiquities from the Indus Valley Civilization, offering a rare glimpse into ancient history. Additionally, the museum houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, textiles, and decorative arts, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Your visit will provide a fascinating journey through India’s artistic and historical evolution, set within a landmark of architectural brilliance.

Sukhna Lake - Experience a delightful boating vibe on the calm waters of the lake. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills and the peaceful ambiance, complete with picnic snacks for everyone, especially fun for kids and couples.
After the boating adventure, head to the Garden of Silence located at the backside of the lake. This tranquil garden features a large statue of Buddha, providing a perfect setting for meditation and reflection. The serene environment, with its beautifully landscaped surroundings, offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Engage in yoga and stretches while learning about the history of the place. Get ready to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of Sukhna Lake and the Garden of Silence!

Sector 17 Market - Looking to shop for unique Indian/Punjabi items to gift back home, like spices, artifacts, non-tacky clothes, or herbal Ayurvedic supplements? Let the guide lead you through the open-air shopping mall sector designed by Corbusier as a recreational space filled with brutalist architecture-styled public buildings, iconic food stalls, and the state library.
Experience the immense pride locals have in the city and how the well-oiled machinery just works!

The Rock Garden of Chandigarh - Be guided through enchanting pathways adorned with over 2,000 unique sculptures crafted from recycled materials, including broken cutlery, toilets, hardware, electrical switches, road construction materials, and more. This iconic landmark has won multiple “best out of the waste” awards internationally and is a huge hit for kids. Take inspiration from its founder Nek Chand’s vision. Discover hidden waterfalls, tranquil ponds, and themed courtyards, each telling a unique story. No need to stand in line, as entry tickets are already purchased and included in the tour. Explore all “phases” or portions of the park, including secret passageways and lesser-known sculptures tucked away in secluded corners, offering perfect spots for stunning photographs and a truly immersive experience.
Get ready to uncover the magic of Rock Garden like never before!

• Parking fees included

• We’d be making frequent snack stops - paid by you - but they’re all very cheap

The operator has been a journalist for 11 years and is a third-generation citizen in this area.

They spent 24 years living in Corbus’s public social housing, studied in schools designed by Piere, and worked in offices designed by Maxwell Fry – truly embodying the spirit of Chandigarh.

Later, they applied their journalism expertise to investigate how the government allocates public funds. If you enjoy stories, you’ll appreciate the many they have to share!

On a personal note, they have traveled to numerous countries and backpacked across India extensively in their 20s. They enjoy cooking, and their cat finds them quite amusing. They lead a non-traditional lifestyle.

Their guests include architects, urban planners, diplomats, foreign dignitaries, students, senior citizens, children, couples, and hippies – they accommodate everyone. This is a CUSTOM tour – the day’s itinerary will be tailored to your personal interests!

Caring for the individual needs of their guests is a responsibility they hold dear.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.