Secretariat Chandigarh
A monumental Le Corbusier masterpiece in Chandigarh's Capitol Complex, this raw concrete structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Secretariat Chandigarh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Le Corbusier masterpiece in Chandigarh's Capitol Complex, this raw concrete structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"A polarizing Le Corbusier design: some see a soul-less concrete giant, others an architectural marvel."
🎯 Get Your Entry Pass
You'll need a valid ID and a reason to enter. Passes are issued from the backside. :admission_tickets:
📱 Leave Your Phone Behind
Mobile phones are generally not allowed for the public inside the Secretariat building. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Le Corbusier's Architectural Vision
Capitol Complex
Experience the raw concrete, modernist design of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Capitol Complex Panorama
Terrace Garden View
Enjoy a unique view of the Capitol Complex, including the Legislative Assembly and High Court.
Open Hand Monument
Capitol Complex
A symbol of peace and reconciliation, this monumental sculpture is a must-see within the complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understanding the Secretariat's Design
Access and Security Protocols
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get Your Entry Pass
You'll need a valid ID and a reason to enter. Passes are issued from the backside. :admission_tickets:
📱 Leave Your Phone Behind
Mobile phones are generally not allowed for the public inside the Secretariat building. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore the Capitol Complex
Don't miss the surrounding buildings and monuments designed by Le Corbusier. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the complex. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Your Entry Pass
You'll need a valid ID and a reason to enter. Passes are issued from the backside. :admission_tickets:
📱 Leave Your Phone Behind
Mobile phones are generally not allowed for the public inside the Secretariat building. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore the Capitol Complex
Don't miss the surrounding buildings and monuments designed by Le Corbusier. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the complex. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respect Photography Rules
Check specific rules for photography inside the building; exterior shots are usually fine. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Secretariat Chandigarh are highly divided. Many find its raw concrete, modernist design to be stark, unappealing, and lacking in aesthetics or cultural representation. Others, however, recognize its significance as a Le Corbusier masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site, appreciating its architectural boldness and historical importance.
"It is probably among the most ugliest looking buildings in the world. No form, no colours no sense or aesthetics, just raw concrete and straight lines. Basically a lifeless building built for lifeless machines, not alive human beings. Totally soul-less design that doesn't blend well with the environment nor does it represent the culture of the people.
Compare this building with the majestic Vidhan Soudha (Bangalore Secretariat), The Delhi secretariat (North Block-South Block complex), the Sikkim secretariat, Bihar Secretariat, UP Secretariat, Hyderabad Secretariat, etc. This building is the most forgettable building of all. Either it is completely forgettable or you will remember it for its ugliest. It is just NOT loveable."
वि रे श
"Great place love it"
Kamaldeep Sharma
"This is a Le Corbusier designed building which was built in 1953. It is the part of Heritage Capitol Complex. This is generally called as Punjab’s Main Secretariat and there is a Mini-Secretariat as well in Sector 9.
There is only Pass entry in this building. You can make a Pass from the back side of this building. For this you’ll need a valid ID and reason to enter. Mobile phones are not permitted inside this building for general public. This place has a wheelchair entrance as well."
Pj Dhaliwal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Secretariat is located in Sector 1 of Chandigarh, as part of the Capitol Complex. You can reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus. Parking is available nearby, but be prepared for security checks.
Yes, Chandigarh has a good public bus network. You can take a bus to Sector 1 and then it's a short walk to the Capitol Complex.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and convenient for traveling between the Secretariat and other sectors of Chandigarh.
The Secretariat is centrally located within the Capitol Complex in Sector 1. Follow signs for the Capitol Complex upon entering Sector 1.
The Secretariat is part of the Capitol Complex, which includes the Legislative Assembly, High Court, and the Open Hand Monument.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to visit the Secretariat building itself, but you do need to obtain an entry pass.
Entry passes are issued from the backside of the building. You will need a valid ID and a legitimate reason for your visit.
Visiting hours can vary, but generally, passes are issued during regular government working hours on weekdays. It's best to check locally or arrive earlier in the day.
Yes, mobile phones are generally not permitted for the general public inside the building. Large bags may also be subject to inspection.
The Capitol Complex itself is generally accessible, but specific buildings like the Secretariat have entry pass requirements. There is no general admission fee for the complex.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Secretariat is a prime example of modernist architecture, designed by Le Corbusier, characterized by its raw concrete (béton brut) and functionalist design.
Photography rules can be strict. While exterior shots are usually fine, interior photography might be restricted or require special permission.
The building's imposing structure and Le Corbusier's design are the main attractions. The views from certain vantage points, like the terrace garden, are also notable.
Yes, the building has a wheelchair entrance, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
It's a key component of the UNESCO World Heritage Capitol Complex, representing Chandigarh's planned urban development and modernist architectural heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the building, especially its imposing concrete facade, offers great photographic opportunities. The view from the Terrace Garden overlooking the Capitol Complex is also popular. 
Drone photography is generally prohibited in and around government buildings and sensitive areas due to security regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the building's textures. Midday sun can be harsh.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the building's scale and geometric forms. Capturing the surrounding greenery against the concrete can also be striking.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare on the concrete.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the architectural aspects and the scale of the buildings. You can explain it as a very important office building where decisions are made for the state. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the immediate Secretariat building might be limited for visitors.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Take time to appreciate the Capitol Complex as a whole, understanding how the Secretariat, Legislative Assembly, and High Court interact. The views from the Secretariat's terrace garden offer a unique vantage point to study the complex's layout and the relationship between its components.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to convey the building's immensity. The surrounding greenery and the sky can provide a striking contrast to the concrete. Remember to check photography regulations, especially if you plan to shoot inside. The views from the terrace garden are also a popular subject.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Genius of Le Corbusier
Le Corbusier's design for the Secretariat is monumental, intended to house the administrative functions of the Punjab government. The building's scale and imposing presence are deliberate, reflecting the power and order of governance. While some find its raw concrete and lack of ornamentation unappealing, others appreciate its bold simplicity and its place in architectural history.
Visitors often remark on the building's unique character, with some describing it as 'lifeless' or 'soul-less' due to its utilitarian design, while others are captivated by its sheer architectural impact. Understanding its context within modernist urban planning and Le Corbusier's broader body of work enhances the appreciation of this significant structure.
Navigating Entry and Security
Once you have your pass, be aware that mobile phones are generally not permitted for the general public inside the building. This is a common security measure in government facilities. It's advisable to leave your phone in your vehicle or with a companion if you cannot enter without it.
For those with mobility challenges, the Secretariat is equipped with a wheelchair entrance, ensuring a degree of accessibility. Planning your visit during weekday working hours is recommended for the smoothest entry process.
The Capitol Complex: A UNESCO Gem
Beyond the buildings, the complex features significant monuments like the Open Hand Monument, a symbol of peace and reconciliation, and the Tower of Shadows, which demonstrates Le Corbusier's studies of sunlight and shade. Exploring these elements provides a comprehensive understanding of his vision for Chandigarh.
Views from the terrace garden of the Secretariat offer a unique perspective of the entire Capitol Complex, allowing visitors to appreciate the spatial arrangement and the interplay of forms. This area is a must-visit for anyone interested in modern architecture and urban design.
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