YADAVINDRA GARDENS

Nawab Fadai Khan, a talented architect and the brother-in-law of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, designed these gardens in the ^17th century. He supervised the construction of the different palaces: the Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace), the Rang Mahal (Painted Palace) and the Jal Mahal (Water Palace). After the departure of the Mughals, the garden was abandoned and the vegetation gradually invaded it. Later, Maharaja Yavindra Singh of Patiala had the monument restored. That is why it bears his name. According to the mythology, it would be the place where the Pandavas, heroes of the Mahabharata, resided after twelve years of exile.

The seven floors of terraces connected by canals are the originality of the place. It is ideal for a picnic with family, friends or couples and will delight the children. On the horizon, in the distance, you can see the Himalayas.

Every year in early October, the Pinjore Heritage Festival is held in this same garden. For three days, the crowd gathers to attend dance and music performances. Exhibition and sale of local crafts.

Transportation. From the Chandigarh bus station, many buses serve Pinjore (regular departures, 45 minutes journey, 20 Rs).

It is possible to spend the night in one of the hotels: we recommend the Budgerigar Motel, Tel: +91 1733 23 18 77. Dormitory from 400 Rs, 1 200 Rs for a single room and 1 400 Rs for a double room. Clean rooms and restaurant on site. Free access to the garden.