Chandigarh: To promote night tourism in
the city, the local administration has planned to illuminate
the world-famous Rock Garden.
"We propose to illuminate the Rock Garden so as to make
it a special attraction for the tourists to promote night
tourism in the city and to increase the average stay of
tourists in Chandigarh," Tourism Secretary of Chandigarh Ram
Niwas said.
The unique art work and figurines of the Garden shall be
highlighted through special lighting effects, he said, adding,
the Union Ministry of Tourism has given Rs 5 crore grant to
illuminate the garden located in Sector-1 here.
The Rock Garden, spread over 20 acres and situated close
to Sukhna Lake was created by a local resident Nek Chand over
three decades ago. It showcases art objects, made from
industrial and urban waste.
Each year, a large number of domestic and foreign
tourists visit Chandigarh, especially to see Rock Garden, he
said.
Famous for its many theme based gardens, the local
administration is also planning new gardens in the city to
attract more tourists, which includes setting up of Garden
of Spring and Japanese Garden here in Sector 53 and Sector 31
respectively.
Meanwhile, in 2010, the number of foreign tourists
visiting Chandigarh has recorded an increase. 39,330 foreign
visitors arrived in the city last year against 37,967 figures
of 2009 and 34,000 a year before.
PTI
First Published: Sunday, January 30, 2011, 23:48