Picturesque Pinjore, the ancient town perched on the foothills of Shivaliks is famous for the Yadavindra gardens. It is believed that the Pandavas came here during their exile and the place came to be known as Panchpura.
Yadavindra Gardens: The famous garden of Pinjore is the oldest surviving Mughal gardens in India. It was built in the 17th century by Nawab Fidai Khan, a famous architect, and builder, who was appointed as the Governor of Punjab by Aurangzeb. He adopted the concept of descent into the vista of beauty, unlike the famous Shalimar and Nishat gardens of Kashmir, where one ascends the steps, one terrace after another. The ornamental waterway in the center with fine fountains is flanked by the traditional palm, cypress, and magnolia trees and well said out lawns and flower beds. After the death of Nawab Fidai Khan, the garden was ignored and abandoned. Later on, the royalty of Patiala revived the garden. Finally, Haryana Tourism fully recovered the pristine glory of the garden and re-named it in honor of late Lieut. Gen. Yadavindra Singh, the erstwhile Maharaja of Patiala. Mango groves, orchards of citrus fruits, and litchi are maintained in the inner gardens. Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Jal Mahal, the original palaces over here have also been opened for the tourists. The Budgerigar Motel run by Haryana Tourism is excellent. There are also facilities of restaurant, bar, conference hall and Oasis fast food. The Fountain and Light display during evenings on the weekends, Baisakhi and Mango Mela is a big tourist attraction. The beautifully illuminated garden, shopping arcade, arcade gift shops, etc. are added attractions for the tourist. Other attractions are a Mini zoo, a Japanese Garden, and Bhima Devi Temple.
Around Pinjore
Kalka (5 kms.)
Famous for the sacred shrine of Goddess Kali, one of the ‘Shakti Peeths’ and Railway Station building built during the British time. The popular toy train to Shimla originates from here.
Mansa Devi Temple
The sacred ‘Siddh Peeth’ of goddess Mansa Devi lies 8 kms. from the Chandigarh bus stand and 3 kms. from Mani Majra. A large number of devotees visit the shrine.
