Sukhna Lake

Sukhna Lake also known as Sookhna Lake, is an artificial, manmade lake. Spreading over an area of 2600 hectares, is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Chandigarh. The lake is surrounded by a golf course to the south, and Nek Chand's famous Rock Garden of Chandigarh to its west.

The lake which is the spot for many festive celebrations has been declared as a protected national wet land by the Government of India.

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, the lake was created by the architect Le Corbusier and Chief Engineer P.L.Verma in 1958 by diverting the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream that flows down the Shivalik mountain ranges. To preserve its tranquility Corbusier suggested that, motor boats are not allowed in the river and vehicle transportation on top of the dam where there is a beautiful viewpoint.

The tree-shaded shores is a favorite spot for strolling and bird watching. As night descends, lights reflect in the lake from the hill resort nearby presenting a bewitching sight.

The sanctuary is home to many exotic migratory birds and from December through February, one can see many species of aquatic birds from Central Asia and Siberia.

A popular and scenic recreational area, the lake offers a lot of aquatic sports like sailing, rowing, sculling, sailing, windsurfing and sailing, all which can be experienced in Sukhna throughout the season. The Lake, which was once the venue for the Asian Rowing Championships, has the longest channel for rowing and yachting events in Asia.

The lake attracts more than 150 varieties of birds including aquatic birds. Some of the other interesting birds in the sanctuary include Red jungle fowl, Grey partridge, Cuckoos, Night jars, Golden Oriole, Kingfisher, Swifts, Hoopoes, Hornbills, Barbets, Woodpeckers, Rollers, Barn owls, Parrots, Doves, Jacanas, Plovers, Coots, Hawks, Geese, Swan, Ducks, Grebes, Black drongo, Tree pie, Jungle crow, Bulbul, Hill myna, Koel, Bee-eater, Common Myna etc.

Sukhna also has a membership based Lake Club with open lawns, a gym, indoor games, swimming pool and tennis courts with both synthetic and grass courts

The lake is open to public on all days.

Parking fee is Rs.50/- per school bus and Rs.200/- per private bus.
Timings: sunrise to sunset. Closed on Wednesday and on public holidays.