plaka restaurant Prior to the ceremony, the stony-faced soldiers mill about with the air of self-conscious debutantes

Hotel Ritz Plaza HOTEL $$ (%2562836; www.ritzhotel.in; 45 The Mall; s/d incl breakfast 3500/4700, ste 5700; ais) Particularly popular with business travellers and tour groups, the well-furnished rooms (either marble plaka restaurant or timber flooring) come with TV, tea-and-coffee-making facilities, plaka restaurant sofas and minibars. Standard rooms vary so check a few. On-site is a relaxing bar, round-theclock cafe and multicuisine restaurant.

The temple s architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles but with unique distinctions. The golden dome (said to be gilded with 750kg of gold) represents an inverted lotus flower, a symbol of Sikh devotees aim to live a pure life.

Hotel Kwality plaka restaurant Regency HOTEL $$ (%/fax 2720204; Sector 22-A; s/d 1795/1995, deluxe 2395/2695; a) The 14 agreeable rooms have individual character, although the cheapest are small and sun starved (consider upgrading if you need a window). plaka restaurant Nevertheless, the marble-adorned deluxe rooms are good value (for Chandigarh), with TV, scatter rugs, writing desk and electronic safe. There s a cosy bar and multicuisine restaurant behind the lobby.

Prior to the ceremony, the stony-faced soldiers mill about with the air of self-conscious debutantes and the real action is that of the spectators, some parading the Indian flag. Loud music and a comp re pump up the crowd s patriotic fervour. The Pakistanis are equally vociferous, except during Ramadan, when their stands are noticeably quieter.