Top 5 Places In Chandigarh To Enjoy The View This Monsoon

The rains, though a tad late, have finally arrived in Chandigarh. One of the greenest cities in the country, Chandigarh also boasts of verdant views. Nothing compares to watching the rains, sipping on a warm cup of coffee (or tea if you would like) and tucking into a lip-smacking meal. While building bylaws don’t allow skyscrapers here, you could make the most of the views at restaurants and cafes around the town that offer cosy, window views.

Here are some of our favourites:
 

Round the Clock, Hotel Mountview: This 24-hour coffee shop in Hotel Mountview has always been popular for its cold coffee, pav bhaji and of course the view.  The seamless glass panes offer uninterrupted views of the green lawns and the pool. A good choice if you are looking for long conversations as the music is always mellow here.

 
Cloud 9, Hotel Shivalikview: This restaurant tucked away on the sixth floor of Hotel Shivalikview has the advantage of location. The multi-cuisine restaurant overlooks the cricket stadium on one side and Sectors 22 and 17 on the other. The buffet is popular and we would recommend you make it during lunch hours. The view of the huge roundabout and the landscaping is worth admiring.

Upstairs Club: Welcomhotel Bella Vista, Panchkula: True to its name, the Upstairs Club housed in Welcomhotel Bella Vista in Panchkula offers panoramic views of not just the city but of the Shivalik range. The rooftop restaurant and bar – it’s on the sixth floor - has ample seating both outdoors and indoors. There’s no compromise on the view even if you are inside. Popular for their weekly events and musical gigs, the menu brings in popular favourites across cuisines. You can also choose your own coffee beans for a fresh brew. 

Elante Courtyard: The Elante Mall is undoubtedly a popular hangout all through the week. While there are many restaurants within the mall, it’s the Courtyard here that we choose when it’s a pitter-patter scene outside. The outdoor seating under the umbrellas, English-style benches and tables are a perfect setting. You can order from any of one of the umpteen cafes lined up – Brooklyn Central, Backpackers, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Chaayos et al – and watch the world go by. The ‘I Love Chandigarh’ signage here makes for Instagram-friendly photos too.

 
Sukhna Lake: It might be the most-touristy place in town but it also offers comfort food and a stunning view of the hills and the city’s lake. The food court tucked away in the Sukhna Lake compound is best known for its Channa Bhatura and Masala Dosa.  The hot coffee is perfect on a rain-drenched day.